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SOLAR I-V
User Manual
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HT instruments SOLAR I-V User Manual

User manual
I-V400 - SOLAR I-V
Copyright HT ITALIA 2012 Release EN 1.05 - 28/05/2012
Table of contents:
1.SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES .......................................................... 3
1.1. Preliminary instructions ..................................................................................................... 3
1.2. During use ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.3. After use ............................................................................................................................ 4
1.4. Overvoltage categories - Definitions ................................................................................. 4
2.GENERAL DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................... 5
2.1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 5
2.2. Instrument features ........................................................................................................... 5
3.PREPARATION FOR USE ........................................................................................... 6
3.1. Initial checks ...................................................................................................................... 6
3.2. Instrument power supply ................................................................................................... 6
3.3. Calibration ......................................................................................................................... 6
3.4. Storage .............................................................................................................................. 6
4.DESCRIPTION OF PARTS .......................................................................................... 7
4.1. Instrument description ....................................................................................................... 7
4.2. Keyboard description ......................................................................................................... 8
4.3. Display description ............................................................................................................ 8
4.4. Initial screen ...................................................................................................................... 8
5.MAIN MENU ................................................................................................................. 9
5.1. SET – Instrument settings ................................................................................................. 9
5.1.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 9
5.1.2. Measurement units ................................................................................................................ 10
5.1.3. Date/Time ............................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.4. Remote unit ............................................................................................................................ 11
5.1.5. Irradiance ............................................................................................................................... 12
5.1.6. DC Clamp (only SOLAR I-V) ................................................................................................. 12
5.2. EFF – SETTINGS FOR TESTING PV SYSTEMS (ONLY SOLAR I-V) ........................... 13
5.2.1. Settings for PV systems with single-MPPT inverter - single-phase AC output ..................... 13
5.2.1.1. Instrument settings ........................................................................................................................... 13
5.2.1.2. PV plant parameters ........................................................................................................................ 14
5.2.2. Settings for PV with single/multi MPPT inverter – single/three phase AC output .......................... 15
5.2.2.1. Instrument settings ........................................................................................................................... 15
5.2.2.2. PV plant parameters ........................................................................................................................ 16
5.2.2.3. MPP300 status ................................................................................................................................ 17
5.2.3. Selection of the compensation relationship of temperature effects ....................................... 18
5.3. DB – Module database .................................................................................................... 19
5.3.1. How to define a new PV module ............................................................................................ 20
5.3.2. How to modify a PV module ................................................................................................... 21
5.3.3. How to delete a PV module ................................................................................................... 21
6.HOW TO OPERATE ................................................................................................... 22
6.1. Testing PV systems (only SOLAR I-V) ............................................................................ 22
6.1.1. Testing of PV systems with single-MPPT inverter - single-phase AC output ........................ 23
6.1.2. Test PV systems with single/multi-MPPT inverter – single/three-phase AC output ................... 27
6.2. I-V curve measurement ................................................................................................... 33
6.2.1. I-V curve measurement by use of instrument ........................................................................ 33
6.2.2. I-V curve measurement by use of remote unit SOLAR-02 .................................................... 37
6.2.2.1. I-V curve test by remote unit SOLAR-02 in RF connection .............................................................. 37
6.2.2.2. I-V curve test by remote unit SOLAR-02 in synchro recording ......................................................... 41
6.2.3. Meaning of measurement results .......................................................................................... 46
6.2.4. Serial resistance Rs ............................................................................................................... 47
6.2.4.1. Serial resistance Rs measurement .................................................................................................. 47
6.3. Quick Check on PV modules and strings (IVCK) ............................................................ 50
6.3.1. General information ............................................................................................................... 50
6.3.2. Preliminary settings ................................................................................................................ 51
6.3.3. Fast check IVCK without irradiance measurement ................................................................ 52
6.3.4. Fast check IVCK with irradiance measurement ..................................................................... 54
6.3.5. Reset Media ........................................................................................................................... 56
6.4. List of display messages ................................................................................................. 57
EN - 1
7.STORING DATA ......................................................................................................... 58
7.1. Saving test results of PV checks (only SOLAR I-V) ........................................................ 58
7.2. Saving test results of I-V curve test ................................................................................. 58
7.3. Managing the results ....................................................................................................... 59
7.3.1. Recall data of PV checks at display (solo SOLAR I-V) .......................................................... 59
7.3.2. Recall data of I-V curve tests at display ................................................................................. 60
7.3.2.1. View data – Numerical screens ........................................................................................................ 61
7.3.2.2. View data – Graphic screens of I-V curve ........................................................................................ 62
7.3.2.3. View data – Graphic screens of power ............................................................................................. 63
7.3.3. Delete data ............................................................................................................................. 64
8.CONNECTING THE INSTRUMENT TO A PC ............................................................ 65
9.MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................................... 66
9.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 66
9.2. Battery replacement ........................................................................................................ 66
9.3. Instrument cleaning ......................................................................................................... 66
9.4. End of life ........................................................................................................................ 66
10.TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................. 67
10.1.Yield test technical feratures (only SOLAR I-V) .............................................................. 67
10.2.I-V test technical features (I-V and IVCK) ....................................................................... 68
10.3.Safety specifications ........................................................................................................ 68
10.3.1. General .................................................................................................................................. 68
10.4.General characteristics .................................................................................................... 69
10.5.Environment conditions ................................................................................................... 69
10.6.Accessories ..................................................................................................................... 69
11.APPENDIX ................................................................................................................. 70
11.1.Testing photovoltaic systems .......................................................................................... 70
11.2.Notes on MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracker) .......................................................... 71
11.3.Theoretical aspects of the I-V curve measurement ......................................................... 72
11.3.1. Theoretical aspects of Rs measurement ............................................................................... 72
12.SERVICE .................................................................................................................... 73
12.1.Warranty conditions ......................................................................................................... 73
12.2.Service ............................................................................................................................ 73
EN - 2
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES
The word “instrument” in this manual means generically both the model I-V400 and the model SOLAR I-V except notation specifically indicated. This instrument has been designed in compliance with directives IEC/EN61010-1 regarding electronic measuring instruments. Before and while measuring, carefully follow the instructions below:
Do not perform voltage or current measurements in humid environments Do not perform measurements near explosive gas or material and fuels or in dusty
environments
Avoid contact with the circuit tested if no measurement is being performed Avoid contact with exposed metal part s, test terminals not in use, circuit s, etc. Do not perform any measurement if instrument anomalies are detected, such as
deformations, breaks, leakage of substances, no display reading, etc.
Only use original HT accessories In this manual, following symbols are used:
CAUTION: Follow the instructions given in this manual; improper use may damage the instrument, its components or create dangerous situations for the operator
High voltage: risk of electrical shock
Double insulation
DC voltage or current AC voltage or current
Ground reference
1.1. PRELIMINARY INSTRUCTIONS
This instrument has been designed for use in the environmental conditions specified in
§ 10.5. Do not use in different environmental conditions.
The instrument may be used for measuring of VOLTAGE and CURRENT in CAT II
1000V DC or CAT III 300V to ground. Do not use on systems exceeding the limit values specified in § 10.1 and § 10.2
We recommend to follow the ordinary safety rules aimed at: your protection against
dangerous currents, the instrument’s protection against improper use.
Only the accessories provided with the instrument guarantee compliance with safety
standards. They must be in good conditions and must be replaced, if necessary, with identical models.
Check that batteries are correctly inserted. Before connecting the test cables to the circuit being tested, check that the desired
function has been selected.
EN - 3
1.2. DURING USE
We recommend to carefully read the following recommendations and instructions:
CAUTION
Failure to comply with the CAUTIONs and/or instructions may damage the
instrument and/or its components or cause dangers to the operator.
The symbol “ ” indicates the charge level. When there are five bars, it
means that batteries are fully charged; a decrease in the number of bars down to “ ” indicates that the batteries are almost low. In this case, interrupt tests and replace the batteries according to the indications given in § 9.2. The instrument is capable of keeping data stored even
without batteries.
1.3. AFTER USE
When measuring operations are completed, turn off the instrument by pressing and holding the ON/OFF key for a few seconds. Should the instrument remain unused for a long time, remove batteries and follow the indications given in § 3.4.
1.4. OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORIES - DEFINITIONS
Standard IEC/EN61010-1 (Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use, Part 1: General requirements) defines what a measurement category (usually called “overvoltage category”) is. At § 6.7.4: Measuring circuits it quotes:
Circuits are divided into the following measurement categories: Measurement category IV is for measurements performed at the source of the low-
voltage installation.
Examples are electricity meters and measurements on primary overcurrent protection devices and ripple control units.
Measurement category III is for measurements performed in the building installation.
Examples are measurements on distribution boards, circuit breakers, wiring, including cables, bus-bars, junction boxes, switches, socket-outlets in the fixed installation, and equipment for industrial use and some other equipment, for example, stationary motors with permanent connection to fixed installation.
Measurement category II is for measurements performed on circuits directly
connected to the low voltage installation.
Examples are measurements on household appliances, portable tools and similar equipment.
Measurement category I is for measurements performed on circuits not directly
connected to MAINS.
Examples are measurements on circuits not derived from MAINS, and specially protected (internal) MAINS-derived circuits. In the latter case, transient stresses are variable; for that reason, the norm requires that the transient withstand capability of the equipment is made known to the user.
EN - 4
2. GENERAL DESCRIPTION
2.1. INTRODUCTION
The instrument was designed to perform complete yield test on single-phase (and three­phase if combined with optional accessory MPP300) PV installations with calculations of efficiencies (only SOLAR I-V) and to perform all I-V curve tests on single m odules (panels) or complete strings of photovoltaic (PV) plants in order to verify the reference parameters given by the manufacturers. Therefore, the meter is an ideal solution for troubleshooting any PV installation
2.2. INSTRUMENT FEATURES
The instrument can perform the following tests: Check on Single phase PV installations (EFF - only SOLAR I-V)
DC/AC TRMS voltage and current measurements DC/AC power measurement Solar irradiation [W/m Module and environ. temp. measurement by means of probe connect to SOLAR-02 Use of compensation relationships on PDC measurements Immediate evaluation of result OK/NO of a test Checks with programmable IP from 5s to 60min
Testing of single/three-phase PV systems (MPP – only SOLAR I-V + opt. acc. MPP300)
Measurement of 3 DC voltages and currents Measurement of DC string power and total DC power Measurement of 3 AC TRMS voltages and currents Measurement of total AC power Measurement of irradiation [W/m2] by means of a reference cell connected to unit SOLAR-
02
Module and environ. temp. measurement by means of probe connect to SOLAR-02 Application of compensation relationships to DC efficiency. Immediate evaluation of result OK/NO of a test Parameter recording of a PV system with 5s to 60min programmable IP
I-V Curve measurement
Voltage, current, power measurement of PV module/string up to 1000V DC, 10 A DC PV module/string temperature measurement Irradiance measurement [W/m2] by using reference cell  Numerical and graphical results of I-V curve with 4-wire method Comparison of results with standard conditions (STC) and OK/NO final response Serial resistance measurement of PV module Internal customizable database for definition up to 30 PV modules Internal memory for saving test and Optical/USB interface for PC connection
Quick Check (IVCK)
Fast test on PV modules and strings of voltage and current up to 1000V DC, 10A Immediate evaluation (OK/NO) of test results
The instrument has an innovative electronic function selector to simply set operations with internal parameters, a backlit display, the contrast adjustment and a HELP key in order to give a valid help to the operator during the meter’s connection to the plants. An enable/disable AutoPowerOFF feature is available after about 5 minutes of idleness.
2
] measurement by use of reference cell connected to unit SOLAR-02
EN - 5
3. PREPARATION FOR USE
3.1. INITIAL CHECKS
Before shipment, the instrument’s electronics and mechanics have been carefully checked. All possible precautions have been taken to have the instrument delivered under optimal conditions. However, we recommend to rapidly check the instrument in order to detect possible damage occurred during transport. Should you detect anomalies, please immediately contact the dealer.
It is also recommended to check that the package contains all parts indicated in § 10.6. In case of discrepancies, please contact the dealer. Should it be necessary to return the instrument, please follow the instructions given in § 12.
3.2. INSTRUMENT POWER SUPPLY
The instrument is battery supplied. For battery type and life, see § 10.4. The symbol “ ” indicates the charge level. When there are five bars next to the battery
symbol, it means that batteries are fully charged; a decrease in the number of bars down to “ ” indicates that the batteries are almost low. In this case, interrupt tests and replace the batteries according to the indications given in § 9.2.
The instrument is capable of keeping data stored even without batteries.
The instrument is provided with advanced algorithms to maximize the batteries’ life.
During instrument operation, a further short pressing of the key turns on the display’s backlighting (if battery voltage level is high enough). In order to save battery efficiency, backlighting automatically turns off after approx. 30 seconds.
A frequent use of back lighting reduces the batteries’ life
3.3. CALIBRATION
The instrument’s technical specifications are those described in this manual. Its performance is warranted for one year (12 months) from the date of purchase.
3.4. STORAGE
In order to guarantee precise measurements, after a long period of the instrument’s storage under extreme environmental conditions, wait until it recovers its normal conditions (see the environmental specifications listed in § 10.5).
EN - 6
4. DESCRIPTION OF PARTS
4.1. INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
CAPTION:
1. Inputs
2. Display
3. Connector for opto insulated cable
4. Arrows/ENTER key
5. GO/STOP key
6. SAVE key
7. ON/OFF key
8. HELP / key
9. ESC/MENU key
Fig. 1: Description of the front part of the instrument
CAPTION:
1. Input for irradiance probe (I-V) / DC transducer clamp (EFF – only SOLAR I-V)
2. Input for auxiliary temperature probe (I-V) / AC transducer clamp (EFF – only SOLAR I-V)
3. C1, C2 inputs for current measurement (I-V) / voltage measurement (EFF – only SOLAR I­V)
4. P1, P2 inputs for voltage measurement (I-V) / AC voltage (EFF – only SOLAR I-V)
Fig. 2: Description of the upper part of the instrument
CAPTION:
1. Connector for opto insulated cable connection
Fig. 3: Description of the instrument’s side
EN - 7
4.2. KEYBOARD DESCRIPTION
The keyboard includes following keys:
ON/OFF key to switch on/off the instrument ESC/MENU key to exit the selected menu without confirming and to activate
menu management     keys to move the cursor through the different screens in order to
select the desired programming parameters ENTER key to confirm the modifications and the selected programming parameters and to select the function from the menu
GO/STOP key to start measurements
SAVE key to save the measured values HELP key (long pressure) to display an indicative outline of the connections
between the instrument and the system being tested in the function set
key (short pressure) to turn on the display’s backlighting
4.3. DISPLAY DESCRIPTION
The display is a graphic module with a resolution of 128 x 128 dots. The display’s first line indicates the system date/hour and the battery charge indicator. In the bottom part the functionality of ENTER key and the active mode is displayed
The symbol indicates the presence of an active radio connection with the selected remote unit (SOLAR-02 or MPP300).
The flashing symbol indicates that the instrument is currently searching for a radio connection with the selected remote unit (SOLAR-02 or MPP300).
4.4. INITIAL SCREEN
When turning on the instrument, the instrument displays the initial screen for a few seconds. It displays the following:
The instrument’s model (I-V 400 or SOLAR I-V) The manufacturer’s name Internal module for RF connection is activated (RF) (only
I-V400)
The serial number (SN:) of the instrument The firmware version (FW:) in the instrument's memory The date of the last calibration (Calibration date:)
Then, the instrument switches to the last function selected.
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Selection
I – V
SOLAR
I-V
HT
RF SN: 12345678
FW: 5.03
Calibration date:
09/05/2011
EN - 8
5. MAIN MENU
Pressing the MENU/ESC key in any allowable condition of the instrument displays the main menu screen, in which the instrument may be set, the saved measures can be displayed and the desired measuring function may be set (item EFF only appears for instrument SOLAR I-V).
Select by cursor the desired options and confirm by pressing
ENTER
5.1. SET – INSTRUMENT SETTINGS
Move the cursor to SET by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. Subsequently, the displays shows the screen which provides access to the various instrument’s settings.
The settings will remain valid also after switching off the instrument
5.1.1. General
1. Move the cursor to “General” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER
2. The displays shows the screen which allows:
Setting the instrument language Setting the enable/disable of auto power off Adjusting the contrast of display Enabling the acoustic signal when pressing a key.
3. By means of the arrow keys (,) and select the desired option by means of the arrow keys (,)
4. Confirm with SAVE and the “Data saved” message is displayed for a while. Press the ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen
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I - V
I-V Test
EFF Yield Test
SET
Settings
DB
Modules
MEM
Data Recall
PC
PC connection
ENTER to select.
MENU
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General
Meas. Unit Date and Time Remote Unit/Solarim.
Irradiance DC Clamp
ENTER to select.
SET
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Language : English
Autopoweroff :NO Contrast :10 Key Beep :NO
SAVE to store data
SET
EN - 9
5.1.2. Measurement units
This § allows setting the default measurement units of some internal parameters included in the database (DB) for the management of PV modules (§ 5.3)
1. Move the cursor to “Meas. Unit” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER.
2. The display shows the screen which allows selecting the measurement units of parameters shown by the meter.
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Parameter
3. Press ESC/MENU to exit without saving any setting.
4. Move the cursor to “Parameter” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER.
5. The display shows the screen which allows selecting the measurement units of typical parameters of the modules:
Alpha possible selection: “%/°C” and “mA/°C” Beta possible selection: “%/°C” and “mV/°C” Gamma possible selection: “%/°C” and “W/°C” Tolerance possible selection: “%” and “W”
6. Set the desired units by means of the arrow keys (,).
7. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen.
5.1.3. Date/Time
1. Move the cursor to “Date/Time” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER
2. The display shows the screen which allows setting the system date/time both in the European (EU) or USA (US) format.
3. Set the values by means of the arrow keys (,).
4. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen.
ENTER to select
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Alpha
Beta Gamma Tolerance
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Year
Month Day Hour Minute Format
:mA/°C
: mV/°C : W/°C : %
SAVE to store data
:2009
: 06 : 15 : 09 : 53 : EU
SAVE to store data
MENU
SET
SET
EN - 10
Alp
5.1.4. Remote unit
This section allows selecting the type of remote unit to be used (if available) and setting the values of typical parameters (Sensitivity and Alpha) of the reference irradiance cell supplied with the meter. The values of these parameters, which are printed on the
back label of the cell, depend on the type of PV modules on test.
1. Move the cursor to “Remote unit” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER
2. The display shows the screen which allows: Select the type of remote unit to be used for testing PV
systems (only for SOLAR I- V):
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Remote U EFF MPP300 Remote U I-V: : NO
Sens. :31.0mV/kW/m2
ha : 0.060 %/°C
o NO: Remote unit disabled o SOLAR: Use of SOLAR-02 o MPP300: Use of MPP300 (optional)
Enable/disable the use of the remote unit SOLAR-02 for
I-V measurements (opt. for I-V 400). In case the use of
SAVE to store data
SET
the remote unit has not been enabled, it will be possible to set the sensitivity values (sens.) of the reference cell provided, expressed in “mV/kW*m-2”, and of the Alpha parameter.
3. Set the value by means of the arrow keys (,)
4. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen
CAUTION
For EFF measurements (testing of PV systems – only SOLAR I-V), disabling the remote unit entails:
The impossibility of carrying out Irradiation and Temperature
measurements by means of unit SOLAR-02
The impossibility of using the unit MPP300 (if available) Consequently, it will be impossible to obtain a result for the test carried out.
EN - 11
5.1.5. Irradiance
1. Move the cursor to “Irradiance” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER.
2. The display shows the screen with the options: “ Irr min IV” which allows to set the minimum threshold of
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Irr min IV
Irr min EFF
:0W/m2
:600W/m2
measured irradiance expressed in W/m2, used by meter as reference during the I-V curve measurements and “Irr min EFF” (only SOLAR I-V) which allows to set the minimum threshold of measured irradiance expressed in W/m2, used by meter as reference during the check PV efficiency measurements
SAVE to store data
SET
3. Set the value by means of the arrow keys (,). The accuracy indicated in this manual is granted under condition indicated in § 10.1 and § 10.2. In I-V curve measurement the value is set within the 0 800 W/m interval while 400 800 W/m2 for the PV check
2
operations (only SOLAR I-V)
4. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen.
CAUTION
The “0 W/m2” setting for parameter “Min Irr IV” allows carrying out I-V measurements without the following conditions being checked:
Connection of reference cell to input IRR of the instrument Unsteady irradiation values Number of modules consistent with the measured open circuit voltage
5.1.6. DC Clamp (only SOLAR I-V)
This option allows setting a possible correction factor K for the DC clamp, in order to improve current measurement. If present, the correction factor is indicated on the rear label of the clamp itself, indicated as:
K= X.xxx
In case no label is present, set k = 1.000
1. Move the cursor to “DC Clamp” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER
2. The item: “DC clamp k” is shown at display to set the corrective factor in a interval within 0.950 and 1.050. Set
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DC clamp k
:1.000
the value by means of the arrow keys (, )
3. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen
SAVE to store data
SET
EN - 12
5.2. EFF – SETTINGS FOR TESTING PV SYSTEMS (ONLY SOLAR I-V)
Further in this manual, the acronym MPPT (Multiple Power Point Tracker) shall indicate the characteristic of the DC/AC converter (inverter), capable of maximizing the DC power which can be taken from the photovoltaic field. See § 11.2 for further details.
5.2.1. Settings for PV systems with single-MPPT inverter - single-phase AC output
Check beforehand the settings made in MENUSETRemote Unit and check that you have selected “SOLAR” as setting for parameter “R. unit”.
5.2.1.1. Instrument settings
1. Press MENU key, move the cursor to “EFF” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The screen with the values of electrical parameters relative to PV generator is displayed
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Prp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 0.000 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc 0.0 kW Vdc 0.000 V Idc 0.0 A ndc - - -
GO – Start rec
Select
EFF
2. Press ENTER key. The options Set PV plant and Set Instrum. are displayed
3. By means of the arrow keys (,) to select Set Instrum. and confirm with ENTER. The herewith screen is shown:
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PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 0.000 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc 0.0 kW Vdc 0.000 V Idc 0.0 A ndc - - -
Set PV plant
Set Instrum. Select
EFF
4. By means of the arrow keys (,) the herewith parameters are set: IP (integration period) used by meter during yield test
recording. The values I 5s, 10s, 30s, 60s, 120s, 300s, 600s, 900s, 1800s, 3600s are selectable
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IP
FS DC clamp FS AC clamp
: 5s
: 1000 A
: 1000 A
The full scale (FS) of DC clamp used on DC current
measurement with selectable value within 1A 3000A
The full scale (FS) of AC clamp used on AC current
measurement with selectable value within 1A 3000A
5. Press the SAVE key to save the settings made; the
SAVE to store data
EFF
message “Data saved” will be displayed for a few seconds. Press the ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and go back to the previous screen.
EN - 13
5.2.1.2. PV plant parameters
1. Press MENU key, move the cursor onto EFF by using the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The display shows the values of the output electrical parameters of the photovoltaic generator (DC side).
2. Press the ENTER key. The instrument shows the following options: “Set PV plant“ and “Set Instrum“.
3. Use the arrow keys (,) to select “Set PV plant” and confirm with ENTER. The instrument shows the following screen:
4. By means arrow keys ( , ) the herewith parameters are set: Pmax maximum nominal power of the PV
installation expressed in kW
Gamma coefficient of variation of power with the
temperature, standard parameter of PV module (range: -0.3 -0.5%/°C typical)
Noct nominal working temperature of a PV cell,
standard parameter of PV module (range: 42 48°C typical)
Te, Tc set of default values of environmental
temperature and PV module temperature. These values are considered by the meter only without the auxiliary probe connected to emote unit SOLAR-02
Corr. Type set the corrective term Ptpv for DC
efficiency calculation and for maximum DC efficiency visualization (see § 5.2.3)
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PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 0.000 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc 0.0 kW Vdc 0.000 V Idc 0.0 A ndc - - -
GO – start rec
Select
EFF
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Prp - - - W/m2 Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 0.000 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc 0.0 kW Vdc 0.000 V Idc 0.0 A ndc - - -
Set PV plant
Set Instrument
Select
EFF
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Pmax
:3.500kW
Gamma Noct Te Tc
Corr. Type
: 0.45 %/°C
: 45 °C
: 40 °C : 45 °C
:
T. Env
SAVE to store data
EFF
EN - 14
5.2.2. Settings for PV with single/multi MPPT inverter – single/three phase AC output
See § 11.2 for further details about the meaning of MPPT. This mode requires unsing the remote unit MPP300 (optional). Check beforehand the settings made in MENUSETRemote Unit and check that you have selected “MPP300” as setting for parameter “R. unit”.
5.2.2.1. Instrument settings
1. Press the MENU key, position the cursor onto EFF by using the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The display shows the screen here to the side, which contains the global parameters of the system.
15/05/10 15:34:26
PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 150.0 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc - - - kW Pac - - - kW ndc - - - nac - - -
GO - start Rec
Select
MPP
2. Press the ENTER key. The instrument shows the following options: MPP300 status, System Par. and Instrument settings.
3. Use the arrow keys (,) to select “Instrument settings” and confirm with ENTER. The instrument shows the following screen:
15/05/10 15:34:26
PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 150.0 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc - - - kW Pac - - - kW ndc - - - nac - - -
MPP300 Status Set PV plant
Set Instrum. Select
MPP
4. By using the arrow keys ( , ) it is possible to set: the integration period (IP) which can be used by the
instrument when testing the parameters of a PV system. The following values can be selected: 5s, 10s, 30s, 60s, 120s, 300s, 600s, 900s, 1800s, 3600s
The FS of the DC clamp used for measuring DC
current with value selectable between 1A 3000A
15/05/10 15:34:26
IP
FS DC clamp: FS AC clamp: Clamp Type: Dc inputs Ac sytem
: 5s
1000 A
1000 A STD 1+2+3 3phase
The FS of the AC clamp used for measuring AC
current with value selectable between 1A 3000A
The type of AC clamp used: STD (standard) or FLEX
(flexible clamp)
The number of DC inputs to be used for measuring:
SAVE to store data
MPP
1, 1+2, 1+2+3
The type of AC electrical system: SINGLE, 4 wires
5. Press the SAVE key to save the settings made; the message “Data saved” will be displayed for a few seconds. Press the ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and go back to the previous screen.
EN - 15
C
5.2.2.2. PV plant parameters
1. Press MENU key, position the cursor onto EFF by using the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The display shows the screen here to the side, which contains the global parameters of the system.
2. Press the ENTER key. The instrument shows the following options: MPP300 status, Set PV plant. and Set Instrum.
3. Use the arrow keys (,) to select “Set PV plant” and confirm with ENTER. The instrument shows the following screen:
4. By using the arrow keys ( , ) it is possible to set: Pmax maximum rated power of PV installation
expressed in kW
Range coefficient of power variation with
temperature, characteristic parameter of PV modules (typically in range: -0.3 -0.5%/C)
Noct rated operating temperature of the cell,
characteristic parameter of PV modules (typically in range: 42 48°C)
Te, Tc setting of default values of environmental
and PV module temperatures. These values are taken into consideration by the instrument only when probe is not connected to unit SOLAR-02
Corr. Type Setting of the compensation
relationship on the calculation of Pdc power and the maximization of DC performance (see § 5.2.3)
15/05/10 15:34:26
PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 150.0 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc - - - kW Pac - - - kW ndc - - - nac - - -
GO – start rec.
Select
MPP
15/05/10 15:34:26
PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 0.000 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc 0.0 kW Vdc 0.000 V Idc 0.0 A ndc - - -
MPP300 status
Set PV plant
Set instrum.
Select
MPP
15/05/10 15:34:26
Pmax
Gamma Noct Te Tc
orr.Type.
: 0.45 %/°C
:3.500kW
: 45 °C
: 40 °C : 45 °C
:
T. Env
SAVE to store data
MPP
EN - 16
5.2.2.3. MPP300 status
If SOLAR I-V is near MPP300, the general parameters of MPP300 may be displayed.
1. Position the cursor onto EFF by using the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The display shows the screen here to the side, which contains the global parameters of the system.
15/05/10 15:34:26
PRp - - - Irr - - - W/m2
Pnom 150.0 kW Tc - - - °C
Te - - - °C Pdc - - - kW Pac - - - kW ndc - - - nac - - -
GO – start rec.
Select
MPP
2. Press the ENTER key. The instrument shows the following options: MPP300 status, Set PV plant and Set Instrum.
3. Use the arrow keys (,) to select “MPP300 status” and confirm with ENTER. The instrument shows the screen here to the side, which indicates the main general parameters of the instrument.
15/05/10 15:34:26
Power supply P.Sup. Battery In use Charge 99%
SOLAR-02 detected Version 1.01 SN 11010030
MPP300 status
SI
Set PV plant Set instrum.
Select
MENU
EN - 17
5.2.3. Selection of the compensation relationship of temperature effects
This option allows selecting the relationship to be used to correct the measurements performed according to the modules’ temperature. The following correction modes are available:
- T.mod.: Correction factor Rfv2 related to PV module Temp. (Italian guideline CEI-82-25)
- T.env: Correction factor Rfv2 related to environment Temp. (Italian guideline CEI-82-25)
- ndc: PRp (Performance ratio for active power) corrected by PV module Temp.
CAUTION
If it’s performed a test according to Italian guideline it is recommended to select
Corr. Type
T.mod.
T.amb.
“T.env.” correction
Temperature (Tcel) PRp calculation Ref.
 
 

asTmodule_MeTcel
R
Irr
20TambTcel NOCT
800
 
fv2
 
 
PRp
40)-(Tcel- 1
 
Rfv
-
2
100
G
P
ca
G
p
STC
P
n
C)40Tcel (if 1
C)40Tcel (if
CEI
82-25
25
P
ca
P
n
W/m
W/m
kW
kW
- - -
2
2
 
C%/
C%/
G
dc
where:
Symbol Description Meas. unit
G
p
G
STC
P
n
P
ca
NOCT Normal Operating Cell Temperature (@ 800W/m2, 20°C, AM=1.5, vel. Aria =1m/s).
Irradiance on PV module surface
Standard Irradiance = 1000 Nominal Power = sum of all power module (Pmax ) included in the part of PV plant under test
AC Active Power measured
Thermal Coefficient factor
2Rfv
Absolute value of Pmax thermal coefficient
asTmodule_MeTcel
PRp
G
STC
p
1
100

T
cel
For further details see § 11.1
EN - 18
5.3. DB – MODULE DATABASE
The meter allows defining up to 30 different PV modules, further to a DEFAULT situation (not editable and not erasable) which can be used as reference case when no piece of information about the module under test is available.
The parameters which can be set, with reference to 1 module, are described below in Table 1 together with their range, resolution and validity condition.
Symbol Description Range Resolution Condition
Nms Number of modules for string
Pmax Maximum nominal power of module
Voc Open voltage
Vmpp Voltage on point of maximum power
Isc Short circuit current
Impp Current on point of maximum power
Toll -
Toll +
Alpha Isc temperature coefficient
Beta Voc temperature coefficient
Gamma Pmax temperature coefficient
NOCT Nominal working temperature of cell
Tech. Effects due to PV technology
Rs Internal serial resistance
Negative tolerance for Pmax provided
by the module manufacturer
Positive tolerance for Pmax provided
by the module manufacturer
1 50
50 3200W
15.00 99.99V
100.0 320.0V
15.00 99.99V
100.0 320.0V
0.5 9.99A
0.5 9.99A
0% 25.0%
0 99W 0 25% 0 99W
-0.1000.100%/°C
-9.99 9.99mA/°C
-0.99  -0.01%/°C
-0.999 0.001V/°C
-0.99  -0.01%/°C 0 100°C
STD (standard)
CAP(capacitive eff.)
0.00 10.00 0.01
1
1W
0.01V
0.1V
0.01V
0.1V
0.01A
0.01A
0.1% 1
0.1% 1
0.001%/°C
0.01mA/°C
0.01%/°C
0.001V/°C
0.01%/°C 1°C
max
100*Tol-/Pnom< 25
100*Tol+/Pnom< 25
0.1*Alpha / Isc 0.1
100*Beta/Voc 0.999
IVP
mppmpp
P
max
Voc Vmpp
Voc Vmpp
Isc Impp Isc Impp
01.0
Table 1: Typical parameters of PV modules
CAUTION
The “Tech” item is referred to the choose of the technology of the module
on test. Select the “STD” option for test on “STANDARD” PV modules or the “CAP” option for test on higher capacitive effects PV modules (e.g. HIT/HIP technology)
A wrong choose of the type of technology can lead to a negative outcome of
the final test
EN - 19
5.3.1. How to define a new PV module
1. Move the cursor to “DB” by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER. The display shows the screen with:
The type of selected module The parameter associated to the module (see Table 1)
2. Select the “DEFAULT” module by means of the arrow keys (,) and confirm with ENTER.
3. Press ENTER, select the “New” command and confirm again with ENTER. Use the arrow keys (,) to scroll all internal parameters.
4. By using the internal virtual keyboard it is possible to define the name of the module (ex: SUNPOWER 210) by means the arrow keys (,,,). Press ENTER to digit the characters of the desired name.
5. Press the SAVE key to save the inserted name of the module as defined or ESC/MENU key to exit without saving.
6. Digit the value of each parameter of the defined module (see Table 1) based on the manufacturer’s data sheet. Move the cursor to the row of the parameter by means of the arrow keys (,) and set the value by means of the arrow keys (,). Press and hold (,) for a quick setting of values.
7. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen.
CAUTION
If the value of any parameter is unknown press and hold the HELP key for
some seconds to set the default values
After pressing the SAVE key, the meter checks all the conditions shown in
Table 1 and, if one or more of these conditions do not occur, some error messages are shown by the display (§ 6.5) and the meter does not save the configuration before any error is solved. Solve the error condition before saving.
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type : DEFAULT
Pmax = 185 W Voc = 44.5 V
Vmpp = 37.5 V Isc = 5.40 A Impp = 4.95 A Toll- = 0 %
Select
DB
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type : DEFAULT
Pmax = 185 W Voc = 44.5 V
Vmpp = 37.5 V Isc = 5.40 A Impp = 4.95 A Toll- = 0 %
New Select
DB
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type :
Pmax = 185 W Voc = 44.5 V
KEYBOARD
SUNPOWER 210
ABCDEFGHI J KLMNOP QRST UVWXYZ- +0 123 4 5 6 7 8 9 SPACE DEL
15/05/10 15:34:26 Type : SUNPOWER 210
Pmax =  0 W
Voc = 0.0 V Vmpp = 0.0 V Isc = 0.00 A Impp = 0.00 A Toll- = 0 %
DB
EN - 20
S
210
5.3.2. How to modify a PV module
1. Select the PV module to be modified from the internal database by means of arrow keys (,).
2. Press the ENTER key and select the “Modify” command by means the arrow key ().
3. Confirm the selection with ENTER.
4. By using the internal virtual keyboard it is possible to define a different name of the module by means of arrow keys (,,,). Press ENTER to digit any character of the desired name.
5. Press the SAVE key to save the new name of the module as defined or to access the new setting of parameters.
6. Select the desired parameter s to be modified by means of arrow keys (,) and change values by means of arrow keys (,). Press and hold the (,) for a quick setting of values. If the value of any parameter is unknown, press and hold the HELP key for some seconds to set the default values.
7. Confirm with SAVE and the “Saved data” message is displayed for a while. Press ESC/MENU key to exit without saving and to go back to the previous screen.
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type:SUNPOWER210
Pmax = 210 W Voc = 47.70 V
Vmpp = 40.00 V Isc = 5.75 A
New
Modify
Delete Del. All
Select
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type:SUNPOWER210
Pmax = 185 W Voc = 44.5 V
KEYBOARD
UNPOWER
ABCDEFGHI J KLMNOP QRST UVWXYZ- +0 123 4 5 6 7 8 9 SPACE DEL
SAVE/ESC
15/05/10 15:34:26 Type : SUNPOWER 210
Pmax = 210 W
Voc = 47.70 V Vmpp = 40.00 V Isc = 5.75 A Impp = 5.25 A Toll- = 5 %
DB
DB
5.3.3. How to delete a PV module
1. Select the PV module to be deleted from the internal database by means of arrow keys (,).
2. Press the ENTER key and select “Delete” command by means of arrow key () to delete the selected module.
3. Press the ENTER key and select “Del. All” command by means of arrow key () to delete all modules in the database (except for “DEFAULT”).
4. Confirm the selection with ENTER or press ESC/MENU to exit
CAUTION
It is not possible to modify or delete the “DEFAULT” PV module which is the standard reference factory module.
EN - 21
15/05/10 15:34:26
Type:SUNPOWER210
Pmax = 210 W Voc = 47.70 V
Vmpp = 40.00 V Isc = 5.75 A
New Modify
Delete
Del. All
Select
DB
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