Loss of life. This product is not intended to
be used in a critical life support application.
Failure to adhere to this warning could result
in death or serious injury.
Generac PV Link™ and SnapRS™
006087
010023
Register your Generac product at:
https://pwrfleet.generac.com
1-888-GENERAC
(888-436-3722)
Para español, visita: http://www.generac.com/service-support/product-support-lookup
Pour le français, visiter: h
Use this page to record important information about your Generac Product
(000393a)
WARNING
CANCER AND REPRODUCTIVE HARM
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Record PV Link™ and SnapRS™ information
for your PWRcell
®
system on this page.
When contacting a Generac Products
Authorized Service Dealer (ASD) about parts
and service, always supply complete model
number and serial number information.
Operation and Maintenance: Proper
maintenance and care of the energy storage
system ensures a minimum number of
problems and keeps operating expenses at a
minimum. It is the operator’s responsibility to
perform all safety checks, to verify that all
maintenance for safe operation is performed
promptly, and to have the equipment checked
periodically by an ASD. Normal maintenance,
service and replacement of parts are the
responsibility of the owner/operator and, as
such, are not considered defects in materials
or workmanship within the terms of the
warranty. Individual operating habits and
usage may contribute to the need for
additional maintenance or service.
Table 1 : PV Link and SnapRS Important Information
Service ...........................................21
Section 8 Troubleshooting .........23
Page 4
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Page 5
Section 1 Introduction and Safety
(000100a)
Consult Manual. Read and understand manual
completely before using product. Failure to
completely understand manual and product
could result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
(000001)
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
(000002)
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
(000003)
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a Generac PWR-
®
cell
product.
This manual provides instructions for installing
PV Link and SnapsRS devices. Consult the
installation and operation manuals for other
Generac PWRcell system components, as
applicable.
The information in this manual is accurate
based on products produced at the time of
publication. The manufacturer reserves the
right to make technical updates, corrections,
and product revisions at any time without
notice.
If any section of this manual is not understood,
contact the nearest Independent Authorized
Service Dealer (IASD) or Generac Customer
Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or visit www.generac.com for assistance. The owner is responsible for correct
maintenance and safe use of the unit.
This manual must be used in conjunction with
all other supporting product documentation
supplied with the product.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS for future reference. This manual contains important
instructions that must be followed during
placement, operation, and maintenance of the
unit and its components. Always supply this
manual to any individual that will use this unit,
and instruct them on how to correctly start,
operate, and stop the unit in case of emergency.
Safety Rules
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every
possible circumstance that might involve a
hazard. The alerts in this manual, and on tags
and decals affixed to the unit, are not all inclusive. If using a procedure, work method, or
operating technique that the manufacturer
does not specifically recommend, verify that it
is safe for others and does not render the
equipment unsafe.
Throughout this publication, and on tags and
decals affixed to the unit, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE blocks are used to
alert personnel to special instructions about a
particular operation that may be hazardous if
performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe
them carefully. Alert definitions are as follows:
NOTE: Notes contain additional information
important to a procedure and will be found
within the regular text of this manual.
These safety alerts cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate. Common sense and
strict compliance with the special instructions
while performing the action or service are
essential to preventing accidents.
How to Obtain Service
For assistance, contact the nearest Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD) or
Generac Customer Service at 1-888-GENERAC (1-888-436-3722), or visit
www.generac.com.
When contacting Generac Customer Service,
always supply the complete model and serial
number of the unit as given on its data decal
located on the unit. Record the model and
serial numbers in the spaces provided on the
front cover of this manual.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS 1
Page 6
General Hazards
(000191)
DANGER
Automatic start-up. Disconnect utility power and
render unit inoperable before working on unit.
Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Risk of injury. Do not operate or service this machine
if not fully alert. Fatigue can impair the ability to
operate or service this equipment and could result in
death or serious injury.
(000215a)
WARNING
(000209b)
WARNING
Loss of life. This product is not intended to
be used in a critical life support application.
Failure to adhere to this warning could result
in death or serious injury.
(000670)
WARNING
Hot surfaces. Locate and install the PV Link so as to avoid
inadvertant contact. When operating in hot weather the
optimizer will become hot and could result in personal injury.
(000155a)
WARNING
Electric shock. Only a trained and licensed electrician
should perform wiring and connections to unit. Failure to
follow proper installation requirements could result in death,
serious injury, and equipment or property damage.
(000182a)
WARNING
Equipment damage. Only qualified service personnel may
install, operate, and maintain this equipment. Failure to
follow proper installation requirements could result in death,
serious injury, and equipment or property damage.
Equipment damage. Never open the PV Link. The
optimizer is factory-sealed and contains no field
serviceable parts. Opening the optimizer could result
in equipment damage.
(000655a)
CAUTION
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Never operate PV Link in
ambient temperatures greater than 158 °F (70 °C).
Doing so will result in equipment damage.
Equipment damage. Connect only to REbus-compatible
devices to the DC bus. Never connect to any other DC
power source. Connecting to other DC power sources
could result in equipment damage.
(000598a)
CAUTION
(000669a)
• Connecting Generac PWRcell to the elec-
tric utility grid must only be done after
receiving prior approval from the utility
company.
• Only competent, qualified personnel should
install, operate, and service this equipment.
Strictly comply to local, state, and national
electrical and building codes. When using
this equipment, comply with regulations
established by the National Electrical Code
(NEC), CSA Standard; the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA),
or the local agency for workplace health
and safety.
• Protection against lightning surges in
accordance with local electric codes is the
responsibility of the installer.
NOTE: Lightning damage is not covered by
warranty.
• If working on this equipment while standing
on metal or concrete, place insulative mats
over a dry wood platform. Work on this
equipment only while standing on such
insulative mats.
• Never work on this equipment while physically or mentally fatigued.
• Any voltage measurements should be performed with a meter that meets UL3111
safety standards, and meets or exceeds
overvoltage class CAT III.
PVRSE Warning
NOTE: SnapRS devices must be used in con-
junction with Generac S2502 PV link to form a
complete PVRSS per NEC 690.12
This Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Equipment
(PVRSE) does not perform all of the functions
of a complete Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown
System (PVRSS). This PVRSE must be
installed with other equipment to form a complete PVRSS that meets the requirements of
NEC (NFPA 70) section 690.12 for controlled
conductors outside the array. Other equipment
installed in or on this PV system may
adversely affect the operation of the PVRSS.
It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure
the completed PV system meets the rapid
shutdown functional requirements. This equipment must be installed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
2Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 7
Electrical Hazards
(000104)
DANGER
Electrocution. Water contact with a power
source, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury.
(000145)
DANGER
Electrocution. In the event of electrical accident,
immediately shut power OFF. Use non-conductive
implements to free victim from live conductor. Apply
first aid and get medical help. Failure to do so will
result in death or serious injury.
(000599)
Electrocution. Turn battery disconnect OFF and
de-energize REbus before touching terminals.
Failure to do so will result in death, serious injury,
equipment and property damage.
DANGER
(000152)
DANGER
Electrocution. Verify electrical system is
properly grounded before applying power.
Failure to do so will result in death or serious
injury.
(000188)
DANGER
Electrocution. Do not wear jewelry while
working on this equipment. Doing so will
result in death or serious injury.
Electric shock. Avoid contact with DC conductors. DC
conductors of this photovoltaic system are ungrounded and
may be energized regardless of sun exposure. Contact with
conductors will result in death or serious injury.
DANGER
(000187)
WARNING
Electrocution. Potentially lethal voltages are generated
by this equipment. Render the equipment safe before
attempting repairs or maintenance. Failure to do so
could result in death or serious injury.
Operating temperature rangeºF (ºC)-40 (-40) to 158 (70)
Enclosure -UL Type 4X
Weightlb (kg)7.3 (3.3)
Certifications-UL 1741, UL 1699B, CSA 22.2 #107.1
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Refer to the product specification sheet for complete list.
ºF (ºC)
SnapRS Specifications
DescriptionUnitsRS801RS802
PV module maximum VOCV7580
Maximum number of PV modules per
substring
Typical power loss at maximum input current
Maximum input currentA1315
Shutdown timeSec< 10< 10
Enclosure rating-NEMA Type 6PNEMA Type 6P
Operating temperature rangeºF (ºC)-40 (-40) to 158 (70)-40 (-40) to 158 (70)
Certifications-UL 1741, CSA 22.2
Weightoz (g)2.7 (76.5)2.7 (76.5)
* 1 SnapRS per PV module.
-10*10*
W1.31.35
#107.1
13 @ 122 (50)
(type 1), PVRSE
UL 1741, CSA 22.2
#107.1
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS5
Page 10
Important Product Information
r
B
A
A
C
B
PV Link Serial Number Location
See Figure 2-1. Serial number tag (A) includes a
removable layer that can be peeled off leaving the
underlying label in place. Adhere the removable
layer to the inside cover of this manual and record
the information from this tag in Table 1 : PV Link
and SnapRS Important Information.
A
010021
Figure 2-1. Serial Number Location
Unit Dimensions
PV Link Dimensions
010024
Figure 2-2. Unit Dimensions
A
B*
C
*18-1/8 in (460 mm) with PV wire bend
radius
9-9/16 in (243 mm)
15-1/2 in (390 mm)
2-1/16 in (53 mm)
SnapRS Dimensions
010051
Figure 2-3. Unit Dimensions
A
B
C
7/8 in (22 mm)
7 in (178 mm)
1 in (25 mm)
About PV Link
The PV Link is a nonisolated, interleaved DCDC converter that boosts PV input to a higher
voltage and outputs it to REbus™, Generac’s
regulated 380 VDC bus. The PV Link provides
droop-mode power management, enabling
multiple optimizers to connect in parallel on a
common bus. Its DC output carries a bidirectional power line communication (PLC) protocol for communicating with inverters and other
devices on REbus.
PV Link is intended for use with 60-cell, 72cell, or 96-cell residential DC solar modules.
Solar modules must not require positive or
negative grounding as this would interfere with
PLC communications.
NOTE: Other solar modules may be suitable
for use with PV Link, contact Generac for
more information.
The PV Link is sealed in a type 4X enclosure
at the factory and is designed for attachment
to standard PV racking. Safety features
include ground fault detection and interruption
(GFDI), arc fault detection, circuit interruption
(AFCI), and rapid shutdown capability.
About Generac SnapRS
SnapRS is an inline PV rapid shutdown device
that satisfies 2017 and 2020 NEC 690.12 PV
rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) requirements. When used with PV Link, SnapRS
devices limit all controlled conductors within
an array’s 1 ft (305 mm) boundary to 80 VDC
or less within 30 seconds of rapid shutdown
initiation.
GFDI Information
The PV Link’s internal ground fault detector
and interrupter (GFDI) is designed to trip at
240 mA (± 40 mA) of PV DC voltage ground
6Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
current. Ground faults are displayed on the
Page 11
PWRcell Inverter control panel. The PV Link
meets the ground fault protection requirements in NEC Article 690.41(B).
AFCI Information
The PV Link is a Photovoltaic DC Arc Fault
Circuit Protection Type 1 device that incorporates an internal arc fault circuit interrupter
(AFCI) and meets the arc fault circuit protection requirement in NEC Article 690.11.
Component Locations
PV Link Component Locations
A
B
PVRSS Information
PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) requirements have evolved over time and are defined
by the National Electrical Code (NEC) in conjunction with UL 1741. Determine what level of
rapid PV shutdown is required for your jurisdiction.
• The 2011 NEC and older editions do not
require PVRSS capability.
• The 2014 NEC requires rapid shutdown
only on the conductors leaving the PV
array.
• The 2017 and 2020 NEC require rapid
shutdown at the PV module level and on
the conductors leaving array.
PV Link is a PV rapid shutdown system equipment (PVRSE) component within a PVRSS. It
provides rapid shutdown for the conductors
leaving the array. SnapRS devices are
required for PV module level rapid shutdown
withing the array. See PVRSS Compliance
Guidelines for more information.
C
D
G
Figure 2-4. Component Locations
AAttachment Flange Slots
BGrounding Terminals (sized for 1/4 in hard-
ware)
CREBus DC Nanogrid Output Negative (-)
Lead
DREBus DC Nanogrid Output Positive (+)
Lead
EPV Substring Input Negative (-) Lead
FPV Substring Input Positive (+) Lead
GMC4 Connectors
E
F
010023
SnapRS Component Locations
B
A
010050
Figure 2-5. Component Locations
APositive PV Connector
BNegative PV Connector
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS7
Page 12
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8Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 13
Section 3 Installation Design
Installation Design Worksheet
Use this worksheet to determine the maximum
number of PV modules of a given type that
can be connected to a PV Link.
NOTE: Fewer PV modules can be used as
long as the minimum MPPT input voltage is
met.
1. Calculate an adjusted open circuit voltage
(Voc) for the module being installed using
the applicable NEC cold factor from
Table 3-1: NEC Cold Factor.
NOTE: The temperature correction factor
listed on the module nameplate can be used if
available.
Panel
Voc
2. Divide the PV Link Max Voc by the
Adjusted Voc from step 1 and round down
to determine the number of panels that
can be connected in series to the PV Link
without exceeding the open-circuit voltage
limit.
X
NEC Cold
Factor
=
Adjusted
Voc
PV Link
Max Voc
X
Adjusted
Voc
=
Voc Limit
Result
420 V
3. Divide the PV Link Vmp (Voltage at Maxi-
mum Power) by the panel Vmp and round
down to determine the number of panels
that can be connected in series to the PV
Link without exceeding maximum power
voltage.
PV Link
Max Vmp
Panel
Vmp
÷
Vmp
Limit
=
360 V
4. Compare the results from step 2 and step
3 and choose the smaller number. Round
down to the nearest integer and record it
below. This is the maximum number of
modules of this type that can be connected to the PV Link given the specified
NEC cold factor.
Maximum Panels per Substring
Table 3-1. NEC Cold Factor
Minimum Temperature (°F)NEC Cold
Factor
49 to 411.089 to 5
40 to 321.104 to 0
31 to 231.12-1 to -5
22 to 141.14-6 to -10
13 to 51.16-11 to -15
4 to -41.18-16 to -20
-5 to -131.20-21 to -25
-14 to -221.21-26 to -30
-23 to -311.23-31 to -35
-32 and below1.25-36 and below
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS9
Minimum Temperature (°C)
Page 14
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10Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 15
Section 4 PVRSS Compliance Guidelines
2011 NEC and Older Editions
2011 NEC and older editions do not require
PVRSS compliance.
NOTE: The PV Link will still provide 2014
NEC compliant PV Rapid Shutdown.
2014 NEC
The 2014 NEC 690.12 introduced a new
requirement for PV systems that is commonly
referred to as PV rapid shutdown.
To meet 2014 NEC compliance:
1. Install the PWRcell Inverter as specified in
the Generac PWRcell Inverter Installation
Manual.
2. Install the PV Link as specified in this manual.
3. The DC disconnect under the PWRcell
Inverter cover labeled PV by the installer
can be used as the PVRSS initiation
device. See Rapid Shutdown in the Generac PWRcell Inverter Installation and
Owner’s Manual for more information.
4. The Remote STOP terminals under the
PWRcell Inverter cover labeled “STOP”
can be used for PVRSS initiation. If the
PWRcell system includes PWRcell Battery/ies, the battery/ies must have a battery management unit (BMU) with optional
STOP terminal hardware. See Generac
PWRcell Battery Installation and Owner's
Manual for instructions. An external actuator must be provided by the installer.
Appropriate signage, in compliance with
the NEC must be provided by the installer
indicating the function of the external actuator.
Rapid shutdown response time is less than 10
seconds.
2017 and 2020 NEC
The 2017 and 2020 NEC have PVRSS
requirements mandating the need to reduce
voltages of controlled conductors to less than
80 VDC within the array, and less than 30
VDC outside the array, as well as some specification for the location of the PVRSS initiator
and its labeling.
To meet 2017 and 2020 compliance:
1. The 2017 and 2020 NEC requires the
PVRSS initiator be located at a readily
accessible location outside the building.
– The DC disconnect under the PWRcell
Inverter cover labeled PV by the
installer can be used as the PVRSS initiation device.
– An external actuator, connected by the
installer to the PWRcell Inverter's
STOP terminals can be used as the
PVRSS initiation device. If the PWRcell
system includes PWRcell Battery/ies,
the battery/ies must have a battery
management unit (BMU) with optional
STOP terminal hardware. See Generac
PWRcell Battery Installation and
Owner's Manual for instructions.
NOTE: Provide signage indicating the PVRSS
initiation device is the REbus PV DC disconnect located under the front cover of the
inverter, or the external actuator connected to
the STOP terminals.
– An externally mounted PVRSS initia-
tion device is required to be installed at
a readily accessible location when the
PWRcell Inverter is installed within a
one- or two-family dwelling unit.
NOTE: Provide signage indicating where
PVRSS initiation devices are located. Note
that if the inverter is installed in the appropriate outdoor location it may satisfy this requirement.
2. Provide signage complying with section
690.56(C) of the NEC (NFPA 70), stating
all conductors are controlled.
NOTE: Install one SnapRS to the negative
whip (-) of each PV module connected to the
PV Link.
3. Install the PV Link. See Installation Guide-
lines for more information.
Upon initiation of rapid shutdown, both inputs
and outputs of the PV Link are controlled to be
less than 80 VDC. PV Link outputs are further
controlled to be less than 30 VDC. Rapid shutdown response time is less than 30 seconds
in accordance with section 690.12 of the NEC
(NFPA 70).
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS11
Page 16
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12Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 17
Section 5 Mounting and Connecting
WARNING
Hot surfaces. Locate and install the PV Link so as to avoid
inadvertant contact. When operating in hot weather the
optimizer will become hot and could result in personal injury.
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Never leave the PV Link MC4
connectors open and exposed to the atmosphere
overnight or during rain. Doing so could cause
equipment failure.
WARNING:ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD - THE DC CONDUCTORS OF THIS PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM ARE UNGROUNDED AND MAY BE ENERGIZED. ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD - DC OUTPUT CONDUCTORS MAY BE ENERGIZED REGARDLESS OF SUN EXPOSURE.
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - WHEN THE PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY IS EXPOSED TO LIGHT, IT SUPPLIES A DC VOLTAGE TO EQUIPMENT. COVER PV MODULE IN OPAQUE MATERIAL BEFORE CONNECTING OR DISCONNECTING THIS OPTIMIZER. DURING FAULT, ZERO CURRENT IS
SOURCED INTO DC ARRAY BY THIS CONVERTER. INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL LOCAL ORDINANCES. HOT SURFACE - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BURNS-DO NOT TOUCH. RAPID SHUTDOWN: DEVICE AUTOMATICALLY DISCONNECTS PV ARRAY - LOSS OF GRID, MANUAL SHUTDOWN FROM
CONTROLLER, OR ANY FAULT ON REBUS™ DC NANOGRID WILL AUTOMATICALLY DISCONNECT ARRAY FROM GRID.
AVERTISSEMENT: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - LES CONDUCTEURS DC DE CE SYSTÈME PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE NE SONT PAS RELIÉS À LA TERRE ET POURRAIENT ÉTRE SOUS TENSION. RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - LES CONDUCTEURS À SORTIE DC POURRAIENT ÊTRE SOUS
TENSION INDÉPENDAMMENT DE LEURS EXPOSITIONS AU SOLEIL.
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - LORSQUE LE GÉNÉRATEUR PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE EST EXPOSÉ À LA LUMIÈRE, IL FOURNIT UNE TENSION CONTINUE À L'APPAREIL. COUVREZ LE MODULE PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE D'UN MATÉRIAU OPAQUE AVANT DE BRANCHER OU DE
DÉBRANCHER CET OPTIMISEUR. EN CAS DE DÉFAUT, IL N'EXISTE AUCUN COURANT ENTRE CE CONVERTISSEUR ET LE GÉNÉRATEUR CONTINU. INSTALLEZ EN CONCORDANCE AVEC TOUS LES RÈGLEMENTS LOCAUX. SURFACE CHAUDE - AFIN DE REDUIRE LE RISQUE DE BRÛLURES, NE TOUCHEZ
PAS. SYSTÈME D'ARRÊT RAPIDE: L'APPAREIL SE DECONNECTE AUTOMATIQUEMENT DU GÉNÉRATEUR PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE - EN CAS DE PERTE DE RÉSEAU, D'ARRÊT MANUEL DE COMMANDE ÉLECTRIQUE, OU DE DEFAILLANCE DU SYSTEME "REBUS™ DC NANOGRID," LE GÉNÉRATEUR SE
MAX CONT. OUTPUT POWER 2500 W
STANDBY POWER <1 W
RATED POWER INPUT VOLTAGE 200-360 VDC
MPPT INPUT VOLTAGE 60-360 VDC
MAX INPUT VOLTAGE 420 V
MAX OUTPUT VOLTAGE 420 V
OUTPUT REbus™ DC Nanogrid
MAX AMBIENT TEMP 70° C
MAX OUTPUT OVERCURRENT PROTECTION 30 A
MAX INPUT CURRENT (OPERATING) 13 A @ 50ºC, 10 A @ 70ºC
MAX INPUT CURRENT (SHORT CIRCUIT) 18 A
MAX OUTPUT CURRENT (CONTINUOUS) 8 A
MAX OUTPUT CURRENT (FAULT) 10 A
ENCLOSURE TYPE 3R
TOPOLOGY BOOST CONVERTER
PROTECTIONS GFCI, Photovoltaic DC Arc-Fault
Circuit-Protection, Type 1,
PVRSS Controlled Conductor Connection Port
Refer to instructions for conditions of use
REbus DC Nanogrid
OUTPUT
PVRSS Controlled Conductor Connection Port
Refer to instructions for conditions of usee
PV Substring
INPUT
Input:
Max 420V temperature corrected V
oc
.
SINGLE STRING INPUT.
Dual string input requires approval.
Output:
Connect PV Links to inverter REbus
terminals in parallel.
ENCLOSURE MUST BE GROUNDED
for REbus communication
ENCLOSURE MUST BE GROUNDED
for REbus communication
IMPORTANT INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Made in the USA
Conforms to UL1741, UL1699B
Certified to CSA C22.2 #107.1
≤ 420Voc
≤ 420Voc
PV Link / S2502
SnapRS™ compatible substring optimizer
PV rapid shutdown system equiptment
Installation Guidelines
(000670)
• Install PV Links close to the edge of the
array for best cooling and easier service
access.
• Calculate maximum substring length using
the Installation Design Worksheet in Sec-
tion 3 of this manual.
• The modules within each substring must be
the same type, and all should be mounted
at the same pitch and orientation for optimal performance.
• When installing a system with multiple PV
Links, it is not necessary to match the number of modules, roof pitch, or orientation
across all substrings in an array.
• Ensure at least a 1 in (25.4 mm) clearance
between the heatsink fins and adjacent surfaces to allow sufficient air flow for cooling.
• The PV Link can be installed in any orientation. Cooling is most effective if fins are oriented vertically and facing away from the
PV panel.
• Mount the optimizer at least 3 ft (0.9 m)
from the ground.
• Review the PV module instructions to
determine if any restrictions for mounting
devices under the module exist as part of
the PV module listing.
Attachment and Grounding
• Use a grounding washer (E) between the
rail and attachment flange to penetrate the
rail’s anodized coating.
• Torque fasteners according to the clip manufacturer’s instructions.
D
E
010026
Figure 5-1. Attaching to a Grounded Metal Rail
Installing to Nonmetallic or
Ungrounded Structures
• Use two fasteners appropriate for the structure.
• See Figure 5-2. Fasten the equipment
grounding conductor to grounding terminal
(C) using a field supplied lug.
• Use listed bonding hardware only.
• Size equipment grounding conductor per
NEC requirements and torque per manufacturer specifications.
B
C
NOTE: Proper grounding is necessary for
REbus communication.
Installing to Metallic or Grounded
Structures
See Figure 5-2.If mounting PV Link under-
neath an array to metallic PV racking, install
the PV Link with label (A) facing up. Attachment flange slots (B) accept fasteners up to
M8 or 5/16” in diameter.
Installing to a Grounded Rail
• See Figure 5-1. Use two rail-compatible
fasteners (D) to secure the PV Link to the
grounded rail.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS13
(000657)
A
Figure 5-2. Grounding Terminal Location
010025
Installing to Rail-less Racking
1. Select mounting structures that allow for
PV Link to be installed adhering to installation guidelines.
2. Use two fasteners compatible with the
mounting structure.
Page 18
3. See Figure 5-3. Fasten the equipment
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Connect the PV Link output to a
REbus-compatible device (± 190 VDC nominal regulated
DC bus) only. Connecting to conventional PV inverters or
any other device could cause equipment damage.
+_+
_
+_+
_
+
_
+
_
_
+
_
+
_
+
. .
_
+
_
+
_
+
. .
_
+
_
+
_
+
. .
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Never leave the PV Link MC4
connectors open and exposed to the atmosphere
overnight or during rain. Doing so could cause
equipment failure.
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Never connect PV Link to any other
power source. The optimizer is designed to work with series
connected PV modules only. Connecting the optimizer to any
other power source could cause equipment damage.
grounding conductor to grounding terminal
(C) using a field supplied lug.
NOTE: For PV Link model S2502, attachment
flange slots (B) may be widened using tooling,
such as a drill and bit, where the rail-less racking mount bolt needs to fit for mounting.
012922
Figure 5-3. Installing to rail-less Racking
4. Use listed bonding hardware only.
5. Size equipment grounding conductor per
NEC requirements and torque per manufacturer specifications.
the wire used, including appropriate NEC
derating factors.
NOTE: The maximum number of PV Links
that may be wired in parallel back to the
inverter is three.
NOTE: Multiple home-runs will be necessary
in larger systems.
• Connect field wiring to the PV Link with
Staubli MC4 PV connectors only.
• Mark positive REbus field wiring leads with
red insulation or flagging.
• Mark negative REbus field wiring leads with
blue insulation or flagging.
• Connect multiple optimizers in parallel,
using MC4 branch connectors or a combiner box.
Connecting PV Modules
Connecting to Inverter
See
Figure 5-4. Connect each PV Link output
to the REbus DC nanogrid and inverter
Figure 5-4. Connecting PV Link Optimizer
When connecting optimizers to the inverter:
• Do not reverse the input and output or
cross-wire polarity. To avoid confusion,
complete the wiring of the PV Link output
before installing PV modules.
• Do not connect PV Link optimizers in
series.
• Connect multiple PV Link outputs in parallel. To connect PV Links in parallel:
– Connect all negative (RE-) PV Link
outputs on a home run together.
– Connect all positive RE (+) outputs
• Current adds when connecting optimizers
14Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
on a home run together.
in parallel. The maximum output current of
each PV Link is 8 A. When wiring PV Link
outputs to the inverter, observe temperature ratings and current-carrying capacity of
(000657)
(000659)
(000661)
NOTE: Warranty does not cover water ingress
through wiring from external connections due
to poor wiring practices.
2014 NEC and Earlier Editions
For NEC 2014 compliant systems, connect
the substring PV modules in series.
NOTE: See Figure 5-6. Not not all PV modules
012923
can be wired in series to PV Link. Parallel
series substrings are necessary for high voltage modules.
To install PV modules in series to PV Link:
1. Connect the negative lead of the first module in the string to the PV Link at the location marked PV Substring Input (-). See
Component Locations for PV Input loca-
tion.
2. Connect the first module’s positive lead to
the second module’s negative lead.
3. Continue connecting the substring module
leads in series until the last module is
reached.
4. Connect the positive lead of the last module in the substring to the PV Link at the
location marked PV Substring Input (+)
using an appropriate field installed jumper
as necessary. See Component Locations
for PV input location.
Page 19
5. Make a substring map using the serial
number stickers and record in Table 1 :
PV Link and SnapRS Important Information the following information:
– Each PV Link serial number
– Each PV Link RCP number
– Number of substrings in parallel.
2017 and 2020 NEC Compliant Systems
For NEC 2017 and 2020 compliant systems,
connect the substring PV modules in series
using one SnapRS device in between each
module.
Installing SnapRS Devices
NOTE: Pre-install SnapRS devices to each
PV modules negative (-) whip to ensure a 1:1
ratio.
When installing SnapRS devices consider the
following:
• Each PV Link can control a connected sub-
string of PV modules with a cumulative voltage between 60 – 420 VDC. For substring
sizing guidance, see Installation Design
Worksheet.
• The positive (+) end of one (1) SnapRS
device must be installed to the negative (-)
lead of each PV module in the array.
• PV modules require Staubli (Multi-Contact)
MC4 connectors. Brands other than Staubli
MC4 connectors are not recommended.
NOTE: MC connectors are not watertight
unless mated. Never leave this system partially assembled.
• See Figure 5-5. PV modules are installed in
series with SnapRS devices connected
inline between each module.
• See Figure 5-6. High voltage modules can
be configured in using parallel substrings to
the input of the PV Link.
NOTE: Install SnapRS devices prior to securing PV modules to the racking.
To install SnapRS devices:
1. See Figure 5-5. For each PV module in the
PV string, connect the positive (+) end of
one SnapRS device (C) to the negative (-)
whip of the PV Module (D).
2. Connect the negative (-) end of each
SnapRS device to the positive (+) whip of
the next PV module in the series.
3. Connect the PV string positive lead to PV
Link (B) at the location marked PV Substring Input + (F). See Component Loca-
tions for more information.
4. Connect the PV string negative lead with
its connected SnapRS device to PV Link
(B) at the location marked PV Substring
Input - (E). See Component Locations for
more information.
5. Secure the SnapRS devices to the racking
or module frame using zip ties or a similar
fastener.
NOTE: When connecting the PV substring to
the PV Link, the PV Link MC4 connector labeling will indicate the same polarity as the PV
substring connector (ex. PV Link positive (+)
will connect to the (+) whip of the first PV module in the substring). This will also be true with
SnapRS installed on the negative (-) whip.
This is intentional and differs from the connection method for combining PV modules
together with SnapRS..
6. Make a substring map using the PV Link
peel-and-stick serial number stickers and
record in Table 1 : PV Link and SnapRS
Important Information the following infor-
mation:
– Each PV Link serial number
– Each PV Link RCP number
– Number of substrings in parallel
– SnapRS devices per substring
– SnapRS date of manufacture.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS15
Page 20
A
B
E
C
G
F
D
G
H
011990
Figure 5-5. Single PV Substring with SnapRS Devices
APWRcell InverterEPV Substring Input -
BRebus HomerunFPV Substring Input +
CRebus Output -GSnapRS Device
DREbus Output +HPV Panel
NOTE: See Figure 5-6. When two smaller series substrings are connected in parallel for high volt-
age PV modules, each series substring must use the same number and type of PV modules, and
there must be one SnapRS device for each module in the array. Additionally, the 'String Count' setting on the PV Link device page must be set to '2.'
A
C
B
D
F
D
E
010029
Figure 5-6. Single PV Substring with Parallel Series Inputs and SnapRS Devices
APWRcell InverterDMC4 Branch Connector
BREbus HomerunESnapRS Device
CPV LinkFPV Panel
16Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 21
Section 6 Operating Instructions
REbusInverter
Internet
Shutdown
(hold)
Disable
PV Link S2502Menu
Mod. Settings
RCPn: 00010003XXXX
< EXIT SCROLL > NEXT • SELECT
Enable w/PVRSS
Disable
PV Link S2502Menu
Mod. Settings
Enable w/PVRSS
RCPn: 00010003XXXX
< EXIT SCROLL > NEXT • SELECT
User Interface via Inverter
PV Link Information and control features are
available on the PWRcell Inverter control
panel when REbus is energized. See the Generac PWRcell Inverter Owner’s Manual for
more information.
See Figure 6-1.To access the device page for
each PV Link, use left or right arrow buttons
(A) on the inverter control panel to scroll
through the pages. When on a PV Link device
page, press center button (B) to enable or disable the device or to modify settings. The disabled/enabled state does not affect
communication with the inverter.
NOTE: The PV Link only produces power after
the REbus DC nanogrid has been established
and the device has been enabled.
A
Figure 6-1. Inverter Control Panel
Commissioning PV Link
The PV Link ships from the factory in a disabled state. Each unit must be enabled from
the PWRcell Inverter control panel. Once the
inverter is enabled and REbus voltage is present at the PV Link, the PV Link will be able to
communicate on the system. After properly
enabling the PV Link, it will detect the REbus
nanogrid and begin exporting power based on
the system mode and settings selected.
See the PWRcell Inverter Installation and
Owner's Manual for more information on system modes and commissioning.
To enable and commission PV Link:
– Ensure REbus +/- are connected with
correct polarity to each PV Link.
– Ensure each PV Link has a low resis-
tance ground connection to the inverter
ground bar.
– Ensure PWRcell Inverter DC Discon-
nect(s) are in the ON position for each
PV Link.
– Ensure inverter is enabled.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS17
B
009894
Commissioning with SnapRS
Devices for PVRSS
To enable PV Link to work as a PVRSS with
SnapRS devices:
1. Press the right arrow button on the control
panel until the PV Link device page
appears.
NOTE: The device page should read Disabled. If it does not read Disabled, press the
center button and disable the device.
2. Record the RCPn in Table 1: PV Link and
SnapRS Important Information, found on
the front cover of this manual.
Figure 6-2. Enable w/PVRSS
3. See Figure 6-2. Press the center button
and select Enable w/PVRSS to enter the
Testing PVRSS state.
4. See Figure 6-3.Press the center button
and select Mod. Settings to access Device
Settings and Options.
5. See Figure 6-4. If installing parallel series
substrings for high voltage modules, select
Mod. Setting and update the string count
value to 2.
Figure 6-3. PVRSS Commissioning (1 of 3)
010032
010030
Page 22
PLM Channel:
Vin Startup:
String Count:
CancelCommit
1
135.0V
2
Enable PVRSS:on
012924
Photovoltaics
PWRcell X7602
59.0kWh
115v
0W
-xx
testing PVRSS
Power:
PV Voltage:
E-total:
SnapRSInstalld:
SnapRSDetected:
Override PVRSS:
CancelCommit
7
7
off
Figure 6-4. PVRSS Commissioning (2 of 3)
6. See Figure 6-5. The LCD will display Test-
ing PRVSS during the testing process.
Upon completion, the LCD will read Low
Sun or Making Power, depending upon
available PV voltage.
7. Complete steps 1 – 6 for each PV link in
the system.
Figure 6-6. SnapRS Check
NOTE: To verify a PV Link is working properly,
navigate to the Mod.Settings page and confirm the SnapRSInstalld value matches the
number of SnapRSDetected.
012943
Figure 6-5. PVRSS Commissioning (3 of 3)
SetpointRangeDefaultDe scription
PLM Channel1-121
Vin Strartup60-135 Volts135V
String Count1-21
Enable PVRSSon /offoff
SnapRSInstalled
SnapRSDetected
Override
PVRSS
18Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
0-100
0-100
on/offoff
010033
Channel for REbus communications. All devices in a system must use the same channel (except REbus Beacon).
Minimum input voltage from the PV substring for the PV
Link to make power.
Number of substrings plugged into the input of a PV Link.
Set to a value of 2 if paralleling two series substrings for
high voltage, 96 cell solar panels.
Enables the photovoltaic rapid shutdown system
(PVRSS). Turn this setting 'on' by selecting to 'Enable w/
PVRSS' if SnapRS are installed.
This is the number of SnapRS that are counted and
stored upon the first successful count of SnapRS.
This is the number of SnapRS that are detected after
each subsequent count. Counts occur daily.
This setting overrides a key feature of the PVRSS, closing the SnapRS devices without requiring a count. Do not
leave override 'on.' Use only for temporary troubleshooting purposes.
Page 23
Disabling PV Link
NOTE: Disabling a PV Link does NOT power
down the PV array if SnapRS devices are not
installed. If SnapRS devices are installed,
array voltages are limited to less than 80 VDC
once PV Link is disabled or its DC disconnect
is opened.
NOTE: Disabling PV Link does not power
down Rebus if other devices are providing
power to the DC bus.
NOTE: The disabled/enabled state of each PV
Link persists through AC power outages and
DC bus power cycling.
To disable a PV Link:
1. On the PWRcell Inverter control panel, use
the left or right arrows to scroll to the page
for the desired PV Link.
2. Press the center button to enter device
settings.
3. Use the up and down arrows to highlight
Disable and press the center button to
select.
4. Arrow right and press the center button to
Confirm.
5. Repeat steps 1 – 4 to disable any additional optimizers in the system.
NOTE: Repeat the process to re-enable each
optimizer.
AFD Self-Test
NOTE: Arc fault detection is always enabled.
Performing an arc fault detection (AFD) selftest confirms arc fault detection functionality is
working properly. When an arc fault is
detected, the status message reads Arc Fault.
To conduct an AFD test:
1. On the PWRcell Inverter control panel, use
the left or right arrows to scroll to the page
for the desired PV Link.
2. Press the center button to enter device
settings.
3. Use the up and down arrows to highlight
Test AFD and press the center button to
enter the test state.
4. Arrow right and press the center button to
Confirm
Upon test completion, the control panel will
display a result of Test Success or Test Failure. After a few seconds, the AFD test will
automatically clear.
PVRSS Self-Test
After commissioning, you can verify proper
function and configuration of the PVRSS system at any time by manually running the PV
Link PVRSS self-test.
To run the PVRSS self-test:
1. On the PWRcell Inverter control panel
press the right arrow button repeatedly
until the first PV Link device page appears.
NOTE: The device page display should read
Disabled. If it does read not Disabled, press
the center button and Disable the PV Link.
2. Press the center button and select Test
PVRSS. to enter the Testing PVRSS state.
The display indicates Testing PVRSS during
the test process, which can take up to three
minutes. Upon successful completion, the display will read: Test Success. The PV Link (s)
will automatically re-enable.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS19
Page 24
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20Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 25
Section 7 Maintenance
Equipment damage. Never open the PV Link. The
optimizer is factory-sealed and contains no field
serviceable parts. Opening the optimizer could result
in equipment damage.
CAUTION
(000655a)
Maintenance
See Figure 7-1. To ensure maximum perfor-
mance, keep heatsink fins (A) free of leaves
and other debris.
A
000102
Figure 7-1. Heatsink Fins
The PV Link does not require regular maintenance and contains no user-serviceable parts.
Service
If the PV Link is not operating as expected, or
if a PV Link error message appears on the
Generac PWRcell Inverter control panel LCD
display, contact the nearest Independent
Authorized Service Dealer (IASD) or Generac
Customer Service at 1-888-GENERAC (1888-436-3722), or visit www.generac.com for
assistance.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS21
Page 26
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22Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS
Page 27
Section 8 Troubleshooting
(000659)
CAUTION
Equipment damage. Connect the PV Link output to a
REbus-compatible device (± 190 VDC nominal regulated
DC bus) only. Connecting to conventional PV inverters or
any other device could cause equipment damage.
Table 8-1. PV Link Troubleshooting
ProblemCauseSolution
Low Sun w/out SnapRS
Low Sun w/ SnapRS
No PV Link Device Comms• DC Disconnects are OFF for PV
Known PV Link 'Offline'A PV Link that has communicated with
PVRSS fail: high input
PVRSS not configured
PVRSS count mismatch
PVRSS fail: low inputThe panel output voltage is too low to
PV Link does not have adequate input
voltage.
PV Links will show 'low sun' every night
when the sun goes down or if solar
panels are covered. Low sun when the
sun is shining indicates a problem w/
PV wiring. This is not a REbus wiring
issue.
PV Link does not have a dequate input
voltage.
PV Links will show 'low sun' every night
when the sun goes down or if solar
panels are covered. Lo w sun when the
sun is shining indicates a problem w/
PV wiring. Th is is not a REbus wiring
issue.
Links.
• Polarity is incorrect for REbus (+/-)
between the PV Link and the
inverter.
• PV Link has a poor ground connection to the inverter.
• One or more REbus DC fuse s are
blown at the inverter.
the inverter previously show s 'offline' at
its device page when it's connection to
the inverter has been disrupted by:
• Opening the PV Link DC Disconnect
• Changing the PLM Channel on the
PV Link so that it does no t match
the inverter.
• compromising REbus wiring (+ / - /
ground)
The voltage detected with SnapRS
devices installed is higher than
expected.
PVRSS is enabled on the PV Link, but
the SnapRSInstalld setting indicates no
SnapRS devices are installed.
The number of SnapRS devices listed
in the SnapRSInstalld does not match
the number of SnapRSDetected.
accurately count the SnapRS devices.
• If few panels are installed and sub-
string v oltage is lower than 135 V,
adjust Vin Startup value in mod. settings.
• Check PV Link Settings
• Measure Substring Voltage
• Check PV Wiring
• Ensure PV Link was enabled w/
PVRSS.
• If few panels are installed and substring v oltage is lower than 135 V,
adjust Vin Startup value in mod. settings
• Check PV Link Settings
• Measure Substring Voltage w/SnapRS
• Check PV Wiring
• SnapRS Health Check
• Ensure DC Disconnect is ON.
• Check REbus Wiring Polarity.
• Check REbus Wiring Ground.
May Need to:
• Check REbus Fuses.
• Ensure DC Disconnect is ON
• Check PV Link Settings
• Check REbus Wiring
May need to:
• Check REbus Fuses
• Verify the SnapRS devices are
installed correctly.
• Run the PVRSS self-test.
• SnapRS devices have not been
installed or have failed.
Follow the instructions in the PVRSS
Commissioning with SnapRS Devices
section. See Commissioning with SnapRS
Devices for PVRSS.
Check the Mod. Settings and update the
SnapRSInstalld value to reflect the number of installed SnapRS devices.
If the failure occurs with normal exposure
to sunlight, contact the nearest Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD) or
Generac Customer Service at 1-888-4363722 (1-888-GENERAC), or visit
www.generac.com for assistance.
If the failure persists, contact the nearest Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD) or Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or visit www.generac.com for
assistance.
Installation Manual for PV Link and SnapRS23
Page 28
SnapRS Health Check
There are no functional tests that can be performed on SnapRS devices in the field. However,
some simple digital multimeter (DMM) checks can confirm the general health of a SnapRS device.
DMM Red to SnapRS +, DMM Black to SnapRS –
Resistance reads ~ 300 kΩ to 350 kΩ
Diode check reads ~ 0.45 V to 0.55 V