LG Electronics LGxxxA1C-B3 User Manual

Perfect

TM

AC

The Difference is in the Detail

Module

Troubleshooting Guide

LGxxxA1C-B3

2

Product Specifications

AC module

DC Input

Parameter Section Value

Power

Voltage

Current

Efciency

Note : Rated electrical characteristics are within 10 percent of above figures.
PV module was measured at STC (Standard Test Condition : Irradiation 1,000W/m2, Cell temp. 77°F(25°C), 1,5AM)

Parameter Section 240VAC 208VAC

Power

Voltage Rated 240V (211 ~ 264 V) 208V (187 ~ 229V)

Current

Efciency

CEC Weighted Efciency

(California Energy Commission)

Max. Number of AC Modules 12 ea 11ea

Ground Fault Detection and Interrupt (GFDI) Applied

Over Current Protection Device (OCPD) 20A

Relative Reduction < 2.0%

Power Factor > 0.95

CAUTION : FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST THE RISK OF FIRE,

Max. 295 W 300W 305W

Tolerance 3 % 3 % 3 %

Open Circuit 39.7 V 39.8 V 40.0 V

Max. Power Point 31.8 V 32.0 V 32.1 V

Short Circuit 9.85 A 9.98 A 10.10 A

Max. Power Point 9.28 A 9.40 A 9.52 A

Note : *Relative efciency reduction in respect to irradiance

AC Output

AC Continuous

Inverter Rated Continuous 305W 300W

Rated 1.27A 1.44A

Max. Fault Current 77A

Nominal 60 Hz (59.3 ~ 60.5 Hz)

Extended 57.0 Hz ~ 60.5 Hz

1)

Pmax (AC) = Max. Input DC Power x CEC Efciency

Fuse 2A

REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING OF FUSE

1)

Protection

280W (@DC Module 295W) / 285W (@DC Module

300W) / 290W (@DC Module 305W)

96.5% 96.0%

3

AC module

Mechanical Data

Micro Inverter Model (Utility Interactive) LM305UE-G1

Enclosure Rating Type 6

Operating Ambient Temperature - 40 ~ 65 °C (-40 ~ 145°F)

Operating Temperature (internal) - 40 ~ 90 °C (-40 ~ 194°F)

Storage Temperature - 40 ~ 90 °C (-40 ~ 194°F)

Weight 18.0 kg

Certication

UL 1703, IEC 61215 Ed 2, IEC 61730 Safety Class II, CE, ISO9001

UL1741 / IEEE1547 CSA 22.2 No. 107.1-01

FCC Part 15 Class B

Dimension

Unit: mm / in.

Cross-sectional Drawings

Short Side Frame

Long side frame

4

Response to Abnormal Conditions

IEEE 1547 (Default)

Parameter Range Clearing Time (s)

Phase Voltage V < 60V <0.16

60V ≤ V < 106V < 2.00

Voltage

132 ≤ V < 144V < 1.00

V ≥ 144V < 0.16 (< 0.016, Hawaii mode - TOV)

1)

> 60.5Hz < 0.16

Frequency

< 59.3Hz (< 57 Hz,

Hawaii mode)

1)

< 0.16

Note 1 : This test is performed in nominal conditions, except for test parameter
Note 2 : After clearing, if grid returns to the normal state, it takes up to 5 minutes for operation of AC module

Dedicated Cables

Trunk

Type TC-ER sunlight resistant

Max. Voltage 600V

Cable

Max. Current 20A

Size 12AWG

Max. Voltage 300V

Connector

Max. Current 20A

Drop

Type TC-ER sunlight resistant

Cable

Connector

Max. Voltage 600V

Max. Current 5A

Size 18AWG

Max. Voltage 300V

Max. Current 5A

Certication

UL9703, UL6703A

Dimensions

400 mm

(95.75 inch)

53 mm

(2.09 inch)

31.5 mm

(1.24 inch)

122 mm

(4.80 inch)

1,200 mm

(47.24 inch)

66 mm

(2.60 inch)

5

Table of Contents

Product Specifications 2

1 Safety 6

2 Messages and Alerts

1-1 APP Messages 8
Notice #1 and #2 AC Voltage High/ Low 9
Notice #3 AC Frequency Changing Too Fast 11
Notice #4, #5 AC Frequency High/ Low 11
Error #1 DC Voltage High 12
Error #2 DC Current High 12
Error #3 AC Current High 13
Error #4 Inverter Failure 13

Error #5 Temperature Protection 14

Alert GFDI 14

3

Gateway and Communication Issues

3-1 Power Line Communication Issues 15
3-1-1 Factors that Affect Power Line Communication 15
3-1-2 Cautions during Gateway Installation 16
3-1-3 Problems Checking AC Module through the Smartphone App 16
3-1-4 Discrepancy of Installed AC Module Quantity on Smartphone App 16
3-1-5 Number of Registered AC Modules Fluctuating on Smartphone App 16
3-1-6 Checking for Interferences to the Power Line Communication 17
3-1-7 Connecting the Gateway to a Remote Router 18
3-1-8 Solving Connection Issues in the Gateway 18
3-1-9 Registering Additional AC Modules to the Gateway 19
3-1-10 Changing the EnerBox 19
3-1-11 Registering a Replacement AC Module to the Gateway 20
3-1-12 Relocating a Gateway with Completed AC Module Registration 20

4 Gateway and Communication Issues

4-1 Network Configuration Troubleshooting 21

6

1 Safety

Note and comply with the safety guidelines of this manual while handling AC modules. Failure to comply may
result in severe damage to the equipment and/or fatal injuries.

1-1 Safety Symbols

Safety symbols are used to minimize loss and injury during handling and operation of the equipment specified in
this manual.

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

Failure to comply with the instructions may cause fatal injuries or immediate death.

Failure to comply with the instructions may cause severe injuries or death.

Failure to comply with the instructions may cause injuries or damage to property.

Failure to comply with the instructions may cause severe injuries or immediate death
by overvoltage.

Failure to comply with the instructions may cause injuries or damage to property by fire.

AC Module

DANGER

• To prevent the risk of electric shock, stay away from current-carrying terminals during operation. And, allow
several minutes after the circuit breaker has been turned off. It may be energized in the open position.

• To prevent the risk of overvoltage, do not disconnect the cable connector during operation.

WARNING

• To prevent the risk of burns, do not touch metal parts during operation.

• For safety, only qualified persons should service modules.

• To prevent the risk of electric shock, stay away from damaged module(s). Do not use module(s) with broken
glass or torn backsheets.

• Damaged modules must be handled with proper safety equipment. Failure to comply may result in serious bodily
injury or death.

• For proper operation, make sure to use exclusively cables, connectors and accessories provided by LG
Electronics. Parts that are not listed may cause critical danger.

• For proper operation, the AC Module shall be connected only to a dedicated branch circuit.

• To prevent the risk of fire, do not connect any device between the AC module and circuit breaker. Circuit breaker
may not work properly.

• Before installation, make sure to check that the area of location meets the required environment specified in
Chapter 6. Product Specification (Voltage, frequency, temperature, number of AC modules, overcurrent
device).

CAUTION

• Use proper equipment, connectors, wires and buttresses for the installation of the module. Failure to comply may
result in product damage, product failure and/or bodily injury.

• To reduce the risk of accidents, do not install during inclement weather.

• To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not touch the glass surface or frame of the solar module after installation.

• To prevent the risk of injury, do not apply pressure on the module (ex. placing heavy objects or stepping on the
module).

• To prevent the risk of injury, do not drop the module; modules must be gently handled and placed down.

• For proper operation, do not scratch the coating surface of the frame. It may increase the corrosion of the frame.

• For proper operation, do not concentrate sunlight on the module surface.

• Addition of holes in the frame or glass of the module may decrease the strength and integrity of the frame or
glass.

• Do not remove warning labels.

• Store the module in its original package until installation.

7

Gateway

WARNING

• EnerBox warranty void if cover removed. No serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

• To avoid communication interference, do not connect the product to power strips, surge protectors, or surge
protector-embedded power strips. It is recommended to directly connect the gateway to a120VAC outlet.

CAUTION

• Only certified installers should enter the installer mode.PV system may malfunction.

• Set the grid configuration to best suit the installation area. PV system may malfunction.

8

2 Messages and Alerts

The app shows real time status of the AC modules under AC Module Status and System Status, as well as Array
View and Events through the monitoring web server. Please refer AC module System Installation Instruction
and AC Module Web Server Manual for further details.

Ex) App Messages Screen

1

1 2 3

Date

2

AC module ID

3

Message type

Ex) Web Array View Screen

1

Select monitoring levels. (ex. Full System, by Gateway or individual AC Module)

2

Set the monitoring period. (Today, Past 7 Days, Month, etc.)

3

Installer scan zoom in or out of the screen.

4

If the module is red, maintenance is required.

Click the red module to see more details.

5

Installer can check today’s production information in this area.
(System Energy, Peak Power and Latest Power)

9

Ex) Web Event Screen

1

Current Issues : Provides the current conditions of the system.

2

Event History : Provides the event records for aspecified period.

3

Click the device in the query results to check the “Issue Details”. A pop-up window will appear.

Issue Details : Shows the following information:
Affected devices, alert type, alert duration and detailed descriptions.

Notice #1 and #2 AC Voltage High/ Low

• It occurs when the system voltage is lower or higher than the operational threshold. Due to a problem of the
power company, it can temporarily happen or and it is automatically adjusted by the power company. If the
problem persists, check the followings.

Nominal Voltage 240 Volt AC Nominal Voltage 208 Volt AC

L1, L2 to neutral 106 to 132 Vac L1, L2, L3 to neutral 106 to 132 Vac

L1 to L2 211 to 264 Vac L1 to L2 to L3 183 to 229 Vac

Ex) Voltage Low Screen

App Message Screen Web Event Screen

• Check the voltage at terminals in the distribution panel,sub-panel, AC junctionbox and transformer between the
grid and the AC module system. Otherwise, the grid may be unstable or there may be a problem with the
maximum capacity of the transformer. There is also a possibility of short circuits arising between two conductors.

10

The below diagram illustrates an example of checking the voltages.

00000

NL1L2

G

Voltage

Measurement

2-pole

( Determined
2-pole
20A

according to
the total
current)

X12

[An array of AC modules] [AC junction box] [Distribution panel]

• Check the wirings to see if the connection is ok. The conductors in the cables may have been damaged or cut.

• Check if the connector connection is ok. The connector may be broken or connected improperly.

• Check that there is not discrepancy between the real grid voltage and the voltage setting in the installation app.

• Check that the permissible current of the circuit breaker is 20A.

• Check if the cables are for outdoor usage.

• Check the size of the cables. If the size of the cables is smaller than 12AWG, the flowing current in cables may be
limited and the voltage may rise.

11

Notice #3 AC Frequency Changing Too Fast

• Occurs if system voltage is lower or higher than the operational threshold. It is usually caused by a problem with
the energy company. It may be a temporary problem, and is automatically corrected by the energy company. If
the problem persists, check the following:

Ex) Frequency Changing Too Fast Screen

App Message Screen

• Check if there other any other alerts from the app.

• Check the system voltage.

• Inquire to the power company after closing the circuit breaker.

Web Event Screen

Notice #4, #5 AC Frequency High/ Low

• Occurs if system voltage is lower or higher than the operational threshold. It is usually caused by a problem with
the energy company. It may be a temporary problem, and is automatically corrected by the energy company. If
the problem persists, check the following:

Nominal Frequency 60Hz 59.3 to 60.5Hz

Hawaii 57 to 60.5Hz

Ex) AC Frequency Low

App Message Screen

• If you receive a message regarding low AC Voltage, please check the circuit breaker.

• Problem may occur due to instability of the utility service.

Web Event Screen

12

Error #1 DC Voltage High

• Occurs if the AC module DC input voltage is higher than 50V.

DC Voltage Operation Range 20 to 45 VDC

Ex) DC Voltage High Screen

App Message Screen

• Check for possible damages in the module and microinverter.

• If problem persists, request for a replacement AC module.

Web Event Screen

Error #2 DC Current High

• Occurs if the AC module input current is higher than the limit.

Max. Input Operating DC current 12 ADC

Ex) DC Current High Screen

App Message Screen

• Using a multimeter, check the voltage of the input terminal.

• Check for other messages.

• If problem persists, request for a replacement micro inverter.

Web Event Screen

13

Error #3 AC Current High

• Occurs if the AC module output current exceeds the operational threshold.

Nominal Voltage 240 Volt AC Nominal Voltage 208 Volt AC

Max. Output AC current 1.27A AC Max. Output AC current 1.44A AC

Ex) AC Current High Screen

App Message Screen

• Check for other messages.

• Problem may stem from instability of the utility service.

• Check that proper cables are used for the system and that the AC connector is connected correctly.

Web Event Screen

Error #4 Inverter Failure

• Occurs if AC module malfunctions..

Ex) Inverter Failure Screen

App Message Screen

• Check for other messages.

• Problem may stem from instability of the system.

• Check that proper cables are used for the system and that the AC connector is connected correctly.

Web Event Screen

14

Error #5 Temperature Protection

• Occurs if the internal temperature of the inverter is outside of the operation range; operation will automatically be
stopped.

Operating Temperature (Internal) -40 ~ + 90°C (-40 ~ +194°F)

Ex) Temperature Protection Screen

App Message Screen

• Check that the operational ambient temperature is within the operational range.
If the ambient temperature is above 65°C (145°F), the internal temperature of the micro inverter may exceed 90°C
(194°F).

• Operation will resume automatically when the ambient temperature returns within the operational range.

Web Event Screen

Alert GFDI

• Occurs if the system current leakage exceeds the limit.

Ex) GFDI Screen

App Message Screen

• Check for other error messages.
In case of a GFDI error, the system will automatically reset within 1 minute.

• If problem persists, check all connections.
Check that the wirings status is ok. The insulators (or jackets) of the cables may be worn out or cut.

What is GFDI(Ground Fault Detector/Interrupter)?

Ground fault is when currents flowing through the cable leak through an exposed conductor and touches the
ground. The GFDI(Ground Fault Detector/Interrupter) function detects events of ground fault and automatically
stops operation of the AC module.

Web Event Screen

15

3 Gateway and Communication Issues

3-1 Power Line Communication Issues

• The micro inverter has a built-in power line communication module to support communication with the gateway.
The gateway includes the same module to communicate with the microinverter. LG AC module monitoring system
is designed to automatically achieve power line communication without additional configuration.
However, the gateway and microinverter are commonly connected to the same power source in a home or
building. As a result, other devices can affect the communication between the gateway and micro inverter, and
vice versa. This interference can lead to communication issues.

1. AC Module

Power
Communication

2. Communication
Gateway

Server

Router

3. Monitoring

PC

Smartphone

Gird

Distribution

board

Meter

Smartphone
(Installation

App)

3-1-1 Factors that Affect Power Line Communication

• Power strips or surge protectors in the same circuit.

• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) or Battery backup units in the same circuit.

• Lamp dimming switches.

• Power line communication-based home networks or home automation devices.

• Sensor lamps

• Battery Chargers (Cell phone and laptop charger)

• AC Adapters

• Heavy rotating motors (fans, refrigerators, freezers, water pumps, etc.)

•

Home Appliances including but not limited to washing machines and dryers, vacuums, hair dryers, electric drills,

etc.

• Electricity powered insect repellants.

• Other electronic devices.

- Please designate a power outlet for the sole use of the gateway.

16

3-1-2 Cautions during Gateway Installation

• Power strips, surge protectors and outlet adapters can interfere with power line communication. Be sure to plug
the gateway directly to a power outlet.

• A lamp or light switch can contribute unwanted noise to the communication. Be sure to dedicate a power outlet for
the sole use of the gateway.

• Existing home appliances and other electronics can interfere with the gateway’s power line communication.

3-1-3 Problems Checking AC Module through the Smartphone App

• If AC modules registered to a gateway cannot be accessed through the smart phone app, there is a

communication problem between the gateway and AC module.

• This could be a problem with the current outlet. Try to connect the gateway to a different outlet.

• Though the maximum communication distance range is 328 yds. (under optimal conditions), it is recommended to

install the gateway within 109 yds. (100m) of the AC modules.

• It is strongly recommended to have a dedicated outlet between the gateway and AC module. Appliances and

devices using the same outlet will disrupt communication.

3-1-4 Discrepancy of Installed AC Module Quantity on Smart phone App

• If the number of AC module on the app does not correctly reflect the number of installed modules, it is a possibility

that the AC modules are not fully operational due to insufficient power supply for communication. After checking
that energy is being generated in the modules, try scanning for the missing modules on the app.

• Scan for the AC modules during the day when they are generating energy.

• If the error continues, there is a problem with the communication connection. Please refer to 3-1-1 Factors that

Affect Power Line Communication.

3-1-5 Number of Registered AC Modules Fluctuating on Smart phone App

• The number of registered AC modules can change on the app for two reasons.

• The built-in power line communication module is powered through the micro inverter. Depending on the level of

solar power generation, the communication module might not receive sufficient power to communicate normally
with the gateway. Refresh the app during a different time.

• Communication errors can arise from the use of certain household devices. Please try again after powering off the

devices suspected of causing the problem.If the error persists, please refer to 3-1-1 Factors that Affect Power

Line Communication.

17

3-1-6 Checking for Interferences to the Power Line Communication

00000

NL1L2

G

• If there is still a problem with the connection between the gateway and the AC module, it is necessary to check
the factors causing interference.

• First, connect the gateway directly to the AC module. This will eliminate any potential interference caused by other
devices; normal communication should be achieved and the AC modules should be detectable by the smart

phone app.

If the AC modules are still not detected on the app, there could be a communication problem between the smart
phone/tablet and the gateway. If you suspect that there is a problem with the gateway, please request for a

replacement unit.

It is recommended to install the gateway as illustrated in the figure below to prevent communication interferences.

PV Rack

AC Module

Installation App

Trunk Cable

Equipment
Grounding
Conductor

120VAC

Transition Cable

AC Junction Box

General AC
Cable

Communication

Gateway

Sub Panel

Meter

Distribution Panel

• If normal communication between the gateway and the AC module is established, close all the circuit breakers
except for that of the gateway and the AC module. Disconnect the gateway from the AC module and re-install it
indoors.

• Verify that the connection between the gateway and AC module is maintained after the second installation. The
correct number of AC modules should now be visible from the app.

• Turn on one of the circuit breakers and wait 10 to 15 minutes. Scan for the AC modules through the app. If
successful, turn on another circuit breaker and scan for the AC modules. Repeat until all circuit breakers are back
on. If you encounter an error while scanning, the last circuit breaker is interfering with the communication.

18

3-1-7 Connecting the Gateway to a Remote Router

If the gateway cannot detect the installed AC modules, it is recommended to move the gateway near the
distribution panel for more reliable communication. To do so, the gateway needs to be connected to a remote
router via PLC Bridge as illustrated below.

Power Line

4

Adapter

Broadband

PLC Bridge

Power Line Adapter

3

2

1

router

Server

1

Connect the AC adapter from Power Port (12V/1A) of the gateway to a dedicated 120VAC outlet.

2

Connect the PLC cable from PLC IN Port of the gateway to a dedicated 120VAC outlet.

3

Connect one of the power line adapters from the LAN Port of the gateway to a 120VAC outlet.

4

Connect the other power line adapter from a spare port on the broadband router to a 120VAC outlet.

3-1-8 Solving Connection Issues in the Gateway

If connection problems occur on the gateway, please check the LED status located on the back of the gateway
and follow the troubleshooting table below. If the problem persists, please turn off the system circuit breaker and
contact the service center (1-888-865-3026, [e-mail])

LED status Troubleshooting

AC Adapter may be incorrectly connected.

Power LED(No Light)

GFDI ON

(Red)

PLC ON

(Red)

Wireless LAN ON

(Red)

Check the AC Adapter and outlet in use; if power still does not come on, contact your
electricity provider for possible power grid problems.

Possible wiring problems within the system.
Turn off then on using the system circuit breaker, and wait 10 minutes.

Connection between AC cable and outlet or system and power grid may be interrupted.
Reconnect the AC cable; if light does not change to green, try other outlets.

Possible problem with the wireless module inside the gateway.
Contact the service center.

19

3-1-9 Registering Additional AC Modules to the Gateway

If you hit the Registration button before listing all AC modules, or you need
to add the unlisted AC module, follow steps below.

1

Enter LGElectronics (initial password) on the blank box in figure and

press EnerBoxGroupchage button toreturn the gateway to the initial
condition. Check PLC LED. It should turn red.

2

Press the Back button. Wait for a minute and check that the PLC LED

has changed green.Then, press MAC Address List and check if the
additional AC modules have been listed.

 If you can’t check the additional AC modules, connect the gateway to

another outlet near the distribution panel and search for the unlisted AC
modules.

3

Press Registration button to finish.

LGElectronics

3-1-10 Changing the EnerBox

ex) 1121408000322

If the EnerBox is not working correctly, follow steps below to troubleshoot.

1

After connecting a new EnerBox, enter the serial number of the failed

EnerBox on the blank and press EnerBox Group change button.

2

Compare MAC addresses listed in App and web server.

3

If matching, press Registration button to finish.

20

3-1-11 Registering a Replacement AC Module to the Gateway

If you need toexchange an AC module, follow the steps below.

1

Enter LGElectronics (initial password) on the blank box in the figure and

press the EnerBox Group chage button to return the gateway to the

initial condition.

Check that the PLC LED has turned red.

2

Press Back button. Wait for a minute and check that PLC LED is now

turned to green. Then. press MAC Address List and check if the
additional AC modules have been listed.

 If you can’t see the additional AC modules, connect the gateway to

another outlet near the distribution panel and search for the unlisted AC
modules.

3

Press Delete button to delete the exchanging AC module MAC address.

4

Press Registration button to finish.

LGElectronics

3-1-12 Relocating a Gateway with Completed AC Module Registration

After the EnerBox is connected to a 120VAC outlet of the new location,
enter into AC Module Status and check that all previously registered MAC
addresses colors are shown in black.

 MAC address color is red : Unreliable link detection.

If some MAC addresses colors are red, the EnerBox must be connected

to a different AC outlet.

21

4 Gateway and Communication Issues

4-1 Network Configuration Troubleshooting

Web Server Communication Errors

• Check the LAN cable connection to the wired LAN port. If necessary, reconnect.

• Check the hub or router settings.

• Check the smart phone app settings.

• Check that the server IP and domain are listed correctly on the app.

• Reset the power of the Gateway.

• Check that the network is stable with your service provider.

22

Memo

23

Memo

This document is subject to change without notice.
LG, LG logo and Life's Good are trademarks of LG Electronics, Inc. worldwide. Trademarks and
intellectual properties of LG Electronics, Inc. are protected by international copyright laws.