SMA SC 500U Installation

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Central Inverter

SUNNY CENTRAL 500U

Installation Guide

SC500U-IUS093411 | 98-4014611 | Version 1.1

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SMA Solar Technology AG

or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic, magnetic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SMA America, Inc.

SMA America makes no representations, express or implied, with respect to this documentation or any of the equipment and/or software it may describe, including (with no limitation) any implied warranties of utility, merchantability, or fitness for any particular purpose. All such warranties are expressly disclaimed. Neither SMA America nor its distributors or dealers shall be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages under any circumstances.

(The exclusion of implied warranties may not apply in all cases under some statutes, and thus the above exclusion may not apply.)

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Every attempt has been made to make this document complete, accurate and up-to-date. Readers are cautioned, however, that SMA America reserves the right to make changes without notice and shall not be responsible for any damages, including indirect, incidental or consequential damages, caused by reliance on the material presented, including, but not limited to, omissions, typographical errors, arithmetical errors or listing errors in the content material.

SMA America, Incorporated

4031 Alvis Court

Rocklin, California 95677-4011

Tel 916.625.0870

Fax 916.625.0871

www.sma-america.com

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SMA Solar Technology AG

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This manual contains important instructions for Models SC 500U PV INVERTERS, that shall be followed during installation and maintenance of the inverter.

The Sunny Central is designed and tested according to international safety requirements, but as with all electrical and electronic equipment, certain precautions must be observed when installing and/or operating the Sunny Central. To reduce the risk of personal injury and to ensure the safe installation and operation of the Sunny Central, you must carefully read and follow all instructions, cautions and warnings in this Installation Guide.

Warnings

A Warning describes a hazard to equipment or personnel. It calls attention to a procedure or practice, which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction of part or all of the SMA equipment and/or other equipment connected to the SMA equipment or personal injury.

DANGER

DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE

NOTICE indicates a situation that can result in property damage if not avoided.

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Other Symbols

In addition to the safety and hazard symbols described on the previous pages, the following symbol is also used in this Installation Guide:

Information

This symbol accompanies notes that call attention to supplementary information that you should know and use to ensure optimal operation of the system.

Markings on this Product

The following symbols are used as markings on this product with the following meanings.

Warning regarding dangerous voltage The product works with high voltages. All work on the product may only be done as

described in its documentation.

Beware of hot surface The product can become hot during operation. Avoid coming into contact with the

product during operation.

Observe the operating instructions Read the product’s documentation before working on it. Follow all safety precautions

and instructions as described in the documentation.

DC current

Earth Ground

AC current

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General Warnings

Al l el ectrical ins talla tio ns m ust be done in accor dan ce w ith the local and National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70.

The Sunny Central contains no user-serviceable parts. For all repair and maintenance always contact an authorized SMA Service Center.

Before installing or using the Sunny Central, read all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings on the Sunny Central, the PV array, in this Installation Guide and in User Manual.

Before connecting the Sunny Central to the electrical utility grid, contact the local utility company. This connection must be made only by qualified personnel.

PV arrays produce electrical energy when exposed to light and thus can create an electrical shock hazard. Wiring of the PV-arrays shall only be performed by qualified personnel.

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SMA Solar Technology AG Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1 Notes on this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.1 Target Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.2 Validity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1.3 Structure of this Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

2.1 Appropriate Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

2.2 Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3 The Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.2 The Sunny Central's Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.3 Location of the Safety Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.4 Identifying the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

3.5 Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.2 Scope of Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.3 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

5 Transport and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.1 Choosing the Installation Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.1.1 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.1.2 Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.1.3 Ambient Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5.1.4 Minimum Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

5.1.5 Characteristics of the Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

5.2 Preparation of the Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5.2.1 Position of the Mounting Holes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

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5.2.2 Size of the Mounting Holes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5.2.3 Drilling Holes into the Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5.3 Transporting the Sunny Central. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5.3.1 Equipment for Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5.3.2 Center of Gravity of the Sunny Central. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

5.4 Installing the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

5.4.1 Removing the Kick Plates from the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

5.4.2 Inserting the Cables into the Cabinets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.4.3 Connect the Cables in the Magnetics Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.4.4 Connecting the Cables in the Control Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

5.4.5 Attach the Sunny Central to the base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.4.6 Install the Cover Between the Cabinets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.4.7 Install Ventilation Plates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.4.8 Attaching the Kick Plates to the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

5.4.9 Remove Transport Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

6 Attaching the Conduits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

6.1 Insert cables from the right into the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . 35

6.2 Insert cables from below into the Sunny Central. . . . . . . . . . . . 36

7 Connecting Optional Communication Devices . . . . . . . . 38

7.1 Position of the Communication Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

7.2 Connecting the Sunny SensorBox (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

7.2.1 Connecting the Data Cable of the Sunny SensorBox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

7.3 Sunny WebBox (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

7.3.1 Installing the WebBox in the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

7.3.2 Connecting the Sunny WebBox in the Sunny Central. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

7.3.3 Connecting the Cable to the Sunny WebBox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

7.3.4 Termination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

8 Electrical Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

8.1 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

8.2 Connection Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

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8.3 Connection Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

8.3.1 Grid Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

8.3.2 DC Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

8.3.3 Grounding the PV modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

8.4 Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

8.4.1 Prepare Cables for Connecting to Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

8.5 Connection of the PV Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

8.5.1 Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

8.5.2 Connecting the PV Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

8.6 AC Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

8.6.1 Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

8.6.2 Connecting AC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

9 Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

9.1 Visual Inspection of the Sunny Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

9.2 Switching the Sunny Central On. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

9.3 Check the Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

10 Opening the Sunny Central. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

10.1 Opening the Control Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

10.2 Opening the Interface Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

10.3 Opening the Magnetics Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

11 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

11.1 Sunny Central Maintenance Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

11.2 Replace DC fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

12 Parameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

12.1 Parameter Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

12.2 Changing Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

13 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

13.1 Measurement Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

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14 Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

15 Appendix - Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion. . . . . . . . . . 73

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1 Notes on this Manual

This manual describes the installation and the commissioning of a Sunny Central 500U with 6, 7, 8 and 9 DC fuses. This manual does not cover any details concerning PV modules. Information concerning the PV modules is available from the manufacturer of the PV modules.

1.1 Target Group

This manual is for qualified personnel. Qualified personnel has received training and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the construction and operation of the device. Qualified personnel is trained to deal with the dangers and hazards in-raumvolved in installing electric devices.

1.2 Validity

This manual is valid for the Sunny Central 500U. In this manual the Sunny Central 500U is referred to as "Sunny Central".

1.3 Structure of this Documentation

The Sunny Central's installation comprises several steps. Here we will describe the contents you will find in the sections of the installation instructions.

The instructions are divided into the following sections:

Section 2: Safety

In this section you will find general safety directions which you must observe throughout the entire installation process. Pay special attention to this section, so as to avoid personal and material damages.

Section 3: The Sunny Central

In this section you will see how one can identify the Sunny Central. A short description of the Sunny Central's design and functions are given here.

Section 4: Unpacking

This section describes what to look out for upon receiving your Sunny Central, and who to turn to if your Sunny Central is damaged.

Section 5: Transport and Installation

This section shows you how to find the best installation site for your Sunny Central. It provides stepby-step instructions on how to transport and install the Sunny Central and connect the cabinets with each other electrically. Observe all safety precautions in this section to avoid material and personal damages.

Section 6: Attaching the Conduits

This section describes where to insert the cables in the Sunny Central and where to punch the holes for the conduits.

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Section 7: Connecting the Sunny WebBox

The Sunny Central can be equipped with a Sunny WebBox and/or a Sunny SensorBox. This section explains how the Sunny WebBox and the Sunny Sensor Box in the Sunny Central is connected.

Section 8: Electrical Connection

This section describes how the Sunny Central is connected to the grid and to the PV modules, and what precautions must be observed in order to avoid material and personal damages. It provides information on the necessary cable sizes and the magnitude of the torque for the cable connection.

Section 9: Commissioning

This section explains, step-by-step, how to put the Sunny Central into operation, and how you can determine that the commissioning was successful.

Section 10: Opening the Sunny Central

Th is s ect ion de scr ibe s ho w to op en t he S unn y Central and wh at p recautions must be observed in order to avoid personal damages.

Section 11: Maintenance

The Sunny Central inverter must be maintained at regular intervals. This section describes which works are included in maintenance and in which intervalls the maintenance works have to be done.

Section 12: Parameter

This section provides an overview of the parameters of the Sunny Central and their respective threshold values.

Section 13: Technical Data

In this section you will find the technical data for the Sunny Central's operation, the norms to which it conforms and the required cables and torques.

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2 Safety

2.1 Appropriate Usage

The Sunny Central is a MPPT (maximum power point tracker) PV inverter that converts the DC energy from PV modules to AC energy. This energy is then fed to the public grid. The Sunny Central 500U is designed for indoor and outdoor installation.

Principle of a PV Power System with a Sunny Central

CD F

S t o p S t a r t

Position Description

APV modules B DC distribution with DC fuses (e.g., Sunny Central String-Monitor) CDC disconnect DSunny Central EAC fuse F AC disconnect GPublic grid

Any other application of the Sunny Central or installation of components and modifications which are not explicitly allowed endanger the safety and void the warranty as well as the operation permit.

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It is prohibited:

• to use the Sunny central for purposes other than those described here.

• to connect voltage sources to the Sunny Central other than those consisting of PV modules.

• to modify the Sunny Central or to install components that are not explicitly recommended by SMA America or sold by SMA America for this purpose.

2.2 Safety Instructions

DANGER

High voltages are present in the live components of the low voltage grid Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

• Do not touch the live components of the Sunny Central or low-voltage grid.

• Pay close attention to all safety precaution measures regarding the low voltage grid.

DANGER

During operation, high voltages are present in the Sunny Central. Death resulting from electric shock.

• Do not operate the Sunny Central with doors open.

DANGER

During operation, high voltages are present in the Sunny Central. Death resulting from electric shock. Before commencing work on the Sunny Central:

• Disconnect completely.

• Ensure that the device cannot be reconnected.

• Ensure that no voltage is present.

• Ground and short-circuit.

• Cover any nearby live parts.

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DANGER

Normally grounded conductors may be ungrounded and energized when a ground-fault is indicated.

Risk of electric shock.

•Test before touching.

• Work on the Sunny Central must be carried out by qualified personnel.

WARNING

Fa ilu re t o fo llo w the m anu al, the ope rat ing ins tru ction s an d th e saf ety pr eca uti ons may lea d to severe injury from electric shock.

• All work on the Sunny Central shall only be done as described in this manual.

• Pay attention to all safety instructions.

• Follow all operating instructions.

• If problems occur when performing the work described here, contact SMA America.

WARNING

Operating a damaged Sunny Central may cause severe injury from electric shock.

• The Sunny Central shall only be used when it is technically faultless and safe to operate.

• Operate the Sunny Central only if there are no visible damages.

• Regularly check the Sunny Central for visible damage.

• Ensure that all safety features are accessible at all times and that their correct operation is tested regularly.

CAUTION

Cuts and scratches due to sharp edges inside the Sunny Central.

• When working on the Sunny Central wear protective gloves.

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NOTICE

The components in the Sunny Central can be damaged by electrostatic discharge.

• Whe n workin g on the S unny Central and when han dling th e compon ents observe all ESD safety regulations.

• Discharge electrostatic charge by touching the grounded Sunny Central enclosure.

Storage of handbooks

Keep this documentation in the immediate vicinity of the Sunny Central. It must be accessible to service and maintenance personnel at any time.

Do not store the documentation or any other papers in the Sunny Central.

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3 The Sunny Central

In this section you will see how one can identify the Sunny Central. A short description of the Sunny Central's design and functions are given here.

3.1 System Overview

The Sunny Central is an inverter for indoor and outdoor. The enclosure is made of steel which has been zinc plated and coated and which conforms to the NEMA 3R protection rating. NEMA 3R means that the Sunny Central is protected against dust and water and chemical aggressiv environment when it is closed.

Operating Principles

The PV modules convert a portion of sunlight into electrical energy (direct current). The Sunny Central then converts the direct current into alternating current and feeds it into the public grid. This current can be used directly, or it can be sold to your energy provider.

3.2 The Sunny Central's Design

The Sunny Central is divided into three sections.

A B

Position Description

A Magnetics Cabinet: The Sunny Central's transformer is contained in the

Magnetics Cabinet.

B Control Cabinet: The control cabinet contains the system control, the Sunny

Display, the stop/start switch and the power units for converting direct current to alternating current.

C Interface Cabinet: All AC, DC and data cables are connected in the interface

cabinet (see also Section 8.2 "Connection Area" (page45)).

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3.3 Location of the Safety Notices

The figure to the right shows the location of the safety notices on the Sunny Central.

Position Description

A Magnetics Cabinet door

General Warnings.

B Control Cabinet door and Interface

Cabinet door Warning regarding high voltages in the

Sunny Central.

C Open Magnetics Cabinet, capacitor

Warning regarding high voltages. Capacitor and plate are not grounded.

D Open Magnetices Cabinet

Beware of hot surfaces.

E Open Magnetices Cabinet

Type plate

F Control Cabinet left door

Maximum ambient temperature.

G Control Cabinet left door

Warning regarding ground-fault.

H Open Interface Cabinet, left side

Type plate

I Open Interface Cabinet

Beware of hot surfaces.

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3.4 Identifying the Sunny Central

You can identify the Sunny Central using the type plate (see figure at right). The type plate is on the inside of the Interface Cabinet.

Position Description

A Type description of the Sunny Central B Serial number of the Sunny Central C Fabrication Version D Fabrication Date

3.5 Firmware

The Sunny Central's firmware, and that of the display, are shown on the display of the Sunny Central.

The Sunny Central’s user manual describes how to obtain the firmware version.

SMA Solar Technology AG www.sma-america.com

SUNNY CENTRAL

Model: SC500U 0180100000

Fabrication Version:

Fabrication Date:

Max. Continuous output Power*

Operating voltage range (Vac 3-Phase)*

Min

422

Operating frequency range (Hz)*

Min

59.3

Max. continuous output current*

Output power factor

Range of input operating voltage

MPPT Range of operating DC voltage*

Max. operating current*

The unit contains DC-Ground and Fault Detector and Interruptor

ENCLOSURE

*For more details and for tightening torque, allowable wire size and type see the Operator’s Manual

Utility interactive inverter LISTED UL 1741 36AN

Serial No.:

P02

08/2009

Nominal Max

480 522

Nominal Max

60.0 60.5

300 - 600 Vdc

Type 3R (IP54)

Utility Interactive 3-Phase Inverter

FOR HOME AND OFFICE USE

290 - 600 Vdc

Tested To Comply

With FCC Standards

500kWac

601,4Aac

0.99-1,0

1600 Adc

B C D

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4 Unpacking

This section describes what to look out for upon receiving your Sunny Central, and who to turn to if your Sunny Central is damaged.

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection

All SMA Sunny Centrals are thoroughly checked before they are packaged and shipped. Although they are shipped in sturdy packaging, damage can still occur during shipping and delivery. It is important to carefully inspect the shipping container and contents prior to installation. If you detect any external damage after unpacking, report the damage immediately to your SMA dealer and shipping company that delivered the unit. If it becomes necessary to return the Sunny Central, use the original packing material.

If you need assistance with a damaged Sunny Central, contact your SMA dealer or SMA America. Contact information for SMA America is provided below.

SMA America, Incorporated

4031 Alvis Court

Rocklin, California 95677-4011

Tel.: 916-625-0870 Fax: 916-625-0871

www.sma-america.com

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Central Inverter

250U

Installation Guide

SUNNY C

ENTRAL

SMA

Centra

l Inverter

250U

Installation Guide

SUNNY CENTRAL

SMA

Central Inverter

250U

Installation Guide

SUNNY CENTRAL

SMA

Central Inverter

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Installation Guide

SUNNY CENTRAL

SMA

4.2 Scope of Delivery

S t o p S t a

r t

Central Inverter

SUNNY CENTRA

Installati

on Guide

CDE

250U

Central In

SUNNY CENTRAL

verter

Installation G

S M

uide

250U

Central Inverter

SUNNY CENTRAL

Installation Guide

S M

250U

Central Inverter

SUNNY CENTRAL

Installation Guide

250U

Position Description

A Magnetics Cabinet B Interface and Control Cabinet C Cover for the cables between the cabinets of the Sunny Central and screws D Condensate drain E Installation Guide, User Manual, Circuit Diagram, Test Report F Torx screwdriver GSealing splints H U-shaped plate I Ventilation plate with air filters for installation in the base of the Sunny Central J Non-woven abrasive K Allen key

4.3 Storage

NOTICE

Improper storage can cause moisture to seep into the Sunny Central. Damage to the Sunny Central.

• The Sunny Central must be closed during storage.

• If stored for 6 months or longer, make sure the storage area is dry.

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5 Transport and Installation

5.1 Choosing the Installation Site

5.1.1 Dimensions

S t o p S t a

79.8 in.

139.2 in.

36.6 in.

5.1.2 Weight

Position Cabinet Weight

A Magnetics Cabinet 4,740 lbs.

(2,150 kg)

B Control and Interface

Cabinet

2,425 lbs. (1,100 kg)

C Sunny Central 7,165 lbs.

(3,250 kg)

5.1.3 Ambient Conditions

• The installation location must be accessible at all times.

• The ambient temperature must be between -13 °F and +122 °F (–25 °C and +50 °C).

• Direct PV irradiation reduces the output power of the Sunny Central.

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• For installing the Sunny Central in closed rooms an air supply of 2090 CFM (3,550 m³ /h) is needed.

• For more information see section 13 "Technical Data" (page69).

5.1.4 Minimum Clearance

Observe the specified minimum clearances for the cables, ventilation and for opening the doors. For installing the Sunny Central in closed rooms an air supply of 2090 CFM (3,550 m³ /h) is needed.

16 in.

S t o p S t a

r t

6 in.

47 in.

6 in.

47 in.

Position Cables inserted from ... Minimum clearance

A below 6 in. (15 cm) B the side 47 in. (120 cm)

5.1.5 Characteristics of the Base

• The foundation must be made of concrete.

• The mounting surface must be level and strong enough to support the weight of the inverter. The

S t o p S t a

evenness of the foundation must be less than

0.25 %.

• T he wid th a nd dep th o f the b ase must b e at lea st the same size as the Sunny Central.

• To insert the cables from below, the cable conduits must be laid in the foundation (see section

6.2 "Insert cables from below into the Sunny Central" (page36)).

min. 145 in.

min. 40 in.

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5.2 Preparation of the Base

The inverter must be secured to the foundation per local building codes. At the bottom of the Sunny Central there are 12 mounting holes for anchoring it to its base.

5.2.1 Position of the Mounting Holes

7.9 in.

31.1 in.

40.3 in.

12.5 in.

5.2.2 Size of the Mounting Holes

0.5 in.

1.4 in.

5.2.3 Drilling Holes into the Base

DANGER

Drilling into live wires. Death resulting from electric shock.

• Check the installation location for electric cables laid in the base.

47.1 in.

4.1 in.

29.4 in.

1. Measure the distances for the holes.

2. Mark the positions of the holes.

3. Drill the holes into the base on marked positions.

4. Put anchor studs into the drill holes.

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5.3 Transporting the Sunny Central

Remove the kick plates before transporting the Sunny Central (see section 5.4.1 "Removing the Kick Plates from the Sunny Central" (page26)).

WARNING

Sunny Central may tip over if improperly transported. Bruises and fractures.

• Pay attention to the center of gravity of the Sunny Central (see section 5.3.2 "Center of Gravity of the Sunny Central" (page26)).

• Transport the Sunny Central only as described in this manual.

• Any equipment used for the transport of the Sunny Central must be suitable for the weight of the Sunny Central.

• Do not tilt the Sunny Central during transport.

5.3.1 Equipment for Transport

The Sunny Central is shipped in two parts. The following equipment can be used for the transport of the Sunny Central:

• Crane with an according fork (A) for the transport of the Sunny Central.

• Forklift or pallet truck (B).

Example of Transporting the Sunny Central Cabinet

S t o p S t a

r t

An y eq uip men t us ed f or t he t ran spo rt o f th e Su nny Cen tra l mu st be suitable for the weight of the Sunny Central. The left cabinet (Magnetics Cabinet) of the Sunny Central weighs approx. 4,740 lbs. (2,150 kg) and the right cabinet (Control and Interface Cabinet) weighs approx. 2,425 lbs. (1,100 kg).

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5.3.2 Center of Gravity of the Sunny Central

The center of gravity of the Sunny Central is marked on the packaging with the symbol on the right.

The center of gravity is not in the middle of the Sunny Central.

5.4 Installing the Sunny Central

5.4.1 Removing the Kick Plates from the Sunny Central

Kick plates are located on the front and back of the Sunny Central. The position of the kick plates is shown in the figure to the right.

S t o p S t a r t

The kick plates are mounted on the cabinets of the Sunny Central with screws.

A Magnetics Cabinet front side

4 screws in total. 2 screws on the right and 2 screws on the left.

B Control Cabinet front side

4 s cre ws i n tota l. 2 scr ews on t he r ight, 2 sc rew s on the left.

C Interface Cabinet front side

4 s cre ws i n tota l. 2 scr ews on t he r ight, 2 sc rew s on the left.

D Interface Cabinet rear side

4 s cre ws i n tota l. 2 scr ews on t he r ight, 2 sc rew s on the left.

E Control Cabinet rear side

4 s cre ws i n tota l. 2 scr ews on t he r ight, 2 sc rew s on the left.

F Magnetics Cabinet rear side

4 screws in total. 2 screws on the right and 2 screws on the left.

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1. Remove kick plates on the front and on the rear of both cabinets of the Sunny Central using a torx screwdriver.

2. Remove the kick plates by pulling them toward you (see figure on the right).

3. Load the cabinets on a forklift or a crane fork from the front (see section 5.3.1 "Equipment for Transport" (page25)).

S t o p S t a r t

4. Transport the cabinets to the installation site. During transport, be sure to follow all the instructions provided in section 5.3 "Transporting the Sunny Central" (page25).

5. Place the Control and Interface Cabinet of the Sunny Central on the base. The holes in the Sunny Central and the anchor studs in the base must fit.

6. Install the Magnetics Cabinet with a clearance (A) of

about 20 inches (50 cm).

7. Open the Control Cabinet as described in section 10.1 "Opening the Control Cabinet" (page60).

8. Open the Magnetics Cabinet as described in section 10.3 "Opening the Magnetics Cabinet" (page62) .

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5.4.2 Inserting the Cables into the Cabinets

This section shows you how to connect the two cabinets of the Sunny Central with each other electrically. Cables are attached on the left side of the Control Cabinet and the right side of the Magnetics Cabinets, each of which you connect to the opposite cabinet. The position of the cable openings in the Magnetics Cabinet (A) and the Control Cabinet (B) is shown in the figure below.

S t o p S t a

r t

1. Feed the 6 AC cables from the rear of the control ca bin et int o the c orr esp ondin g ho le at t he fro nt o f the

Control Cabinet

magnetics cabinet (figure to the right, position A).

2. Fe ed t he 6 AC c abl es a nd t he g rou nd c abl e fr om t he Magnetics Cabinet into the corresponding hole in

the Control Cabinet (figure to the right, position B).

3. Feed the 2 sockets containing signal cables from the

Control Cabinet into the Magnetics Cabinet (figure to the right, position C).

Magnetics Cabinet

4. Place t he Magne tics Cab inet t o the des ired loc ation of the ba se. The holes in the Sunny Central and the anchor studs in the base must fit.

5. Pull all the cables into the Magnetics Cabinet as far as they will go.

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5.4.3 Connect the Cables in the Magnetics Cabinet

This section shows you how to connect cables W53, W53.1, W54, W54.1, W55 and W55.1 to the rails under the transformers in the magnetics cabinet.

Figure to the right: Layout for connecting a cable lug to the rail in the Control Cabinet.

ANut BLock washer CCable lug DRail E Screw head

NOTICE

When transporting and storing the Sunny Central, oxide layers may form on the contact surfaces of the cable connection.

Yield loss due to poor electrical conductivity.

1. Before connecting the cables, clean the contact surfaces.

2. Use only the non-woven abrasive delivered with the Sunny Central. Do not clean the surfaces with sandpaper.

3. Do not touch the contact surfaces after they have been cleaned.

4. Place the cable gland with the 6 AC cables and the ground cable on the opening of the magnetics cabinet.

5. Attach and tighten the four screws on each side.

6. Connect cable W53 and W53.1 to rail A.

7. Connect cable W54 and W54.1 to rail B.

8. Connect cable W55 and W55.1 to rail C.

9. Tighten all terminal connection bolts with a torque wrench to 230 in-lbs (26 Nm).

S t o p S

t a r t

A B C

ABC

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12 13 14 15

18 19

208

1 3 4 5 6

1 2 13 1 4 1 5 16

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 9

1 7 18 1 9 2 08

1 0

7 9

1 3

4 5 6

1 0

7 98

1 3 4

5 6

1 0

12 1 3 14 15 16

7 1 8 1 9 2 0

1 3 4 5 6

1 0

1 3 14 1 5 16

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 9

18 19 20

1 0

7 9

1 3 4 5

2 7

3 4 5 6

10 . Conne ct t he 4 pl ugs of the signa l ca bles t o th e sock et

Z52-52 into the pin order 1 to 16 in the Magnetics Cabinet.

1 0

1 2 1 3 1 4 1 5 1 6 1 7 1 8

1 9 2 0

10 1 2 13 1 4 15

1 8

1 0

11. Place the cable gland on the opening.

12. Attach and tighten the four nuts.

13. Connect the ground cable to the bolt in the Magnetics Cabinet and tighten it with a torque wrench to 230 in-lbs (26 Nm).

1 0

1 2 1 3 1 4 1 5

1 6 1 7 1 8 1 9 2 0

1 0 1 2 13 1 4 1

5 1 6 1 7 18

9 2 0

1 0

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5.4.4 Connecting the Cables in the Control Cabinet

This section shows you how to connect cables W50, W50.1, W51, W51.1, W52 and W52.1 to the rails under the power units in the control cabinet.

Figure to the right: Layout for connecting a cable lug to the rail in the control cabinet.

ANut BLock washer CCable lug DRail E Screw head

D B E

NOTICE

When transporting and storing the Sunny Central, oxide layers may form on the contact surfaces of the cable connection.

Yield loss due to poor electrical conductivity.

1. Before connecting the cables, clean the contact surfaces.

2. Use only the non-woven abrasive delivered with the Sunny Central. Do not clean the surfaces with sandpaper.

3. Do not touch the contact surfaces after they have been cleaned.

4. Place the cable gland with the 6 AC cables on the opening of the control cabinet.

5. Attach and tighten the four screws on each side.

6. Remove the two screws of the transparent cover in front of the rails U, V, W.

7. Remove the transparent cover.

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L+

8. Connect cable W50 and W 50.1 to rail U.

9. Connect cable W51 and W 51.1 to rail V.

10. Connect cable W52 and W 52.1 to rail W.

11. Tighten all terminal connection bolts with a torque

L-

wrench to 230 in-lbs (26 Nm).

12. Attach the transparent cover.

13. Tighten the screws clockwise.

UVW

5.4.5 Attach the Sunny Central to the base

The mounting holes (A) are located on the inside of the Sunny Central's stands.

The holes for mounting the Sunny Central to the base are

1.34 in. x 0.55 in. (34 mm x 14 mm). Use appropriate mounting material.

Figure to the right: Mounting hole in the front left stand of the magnetics cabinet.

S t o p S t a r t

1. Insert screws in all 12 mounting holes of the Sunny Central (for the position of the mounting holes, refer to section 5.2 "Preparation of the Base" (page24)).

2. Tighten screws.

5.4.6 Install the Cover Between the Cabinets

The cover between the two cabinets is attached using a total of 12 screws. 4 screws on the front, 4 screws on the back and 4 screws on the top of the cover. A bolt is available on the inside. This bolt is used in order to ground the cover.

1. Place the cover between the Magnetics Cabinet and th e Co ntrol Cab ine t. T he bol t mu st b e in th e fr ont sid e of the Sunny Central.

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2. Connect the grounding cable with the bolt. Fasten tightly with the provided nut.

3. Tighten all 12 screws with a torx screwdriver.

S t o p S t a

r t

5.4.7 Install Ventilation Plates

Rails for installing the ventilation plates are located on the stands of the Control Cabinet.

1. Place the ventilation plate (A) onto the rails in the Control Cabinet and push it into the Sunny Central. The grille in the ventilation plate must be in the back.

If properly installed, the ventilation plate should not protrude from the cabinet.

Tip: If a ventilation plate gets stuck when pushing it into the Sunny Central, hold it from the bottom and press the middle area upwards while pushing it in.

Moisture that may have seeped in can be removed via the condensate drain in the base of the control cabinet. Install the condensate drain as described here.

Figure to the right: Layout of the condensate drain in the base of the Control Cabinet.

S t o p

S ta r t

A Top cover of the condensate drain B Base and ventilation plate of the Control

Cabinet C Bottom cover of the condensate drain DScrew

2. Insert the top cover of the condens ate drai n into the hole in the base of the Control Cabinet.

3. Connect the bottom cover of the condensate drain with the top cover of the condensate drain from the bottom through the ventilation plate.

4. Use the screw to secure the covers of the condensate drain.

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5.4.8 Attaching the Kick Plates to the Sunny Central

1. Attach the kick plates to front and back of the Sunny Central.

2. Tighten the screws on the kick plates with a torx screwdriver.

S t o p S t a r t

5.4.9 Remove Transport Locks

The transformer and choke in the magnetics cabinet are secured for transport with transport locks (A) on the cabinet. A transport lock is located on both the right and left side of the bottom transformer block and two transport locks are located on the front of the top choke bloc k. Each t ranspor t lock is at tached u sing a to tal of fo ur screws.

Right figure: position of the transport locks (A)

1. Loosen the screws of the transport locks.

2. Remove the screws and the transport locks.

3. Close the doors of the Sunny Central.

S t o p S t a r

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6 Attaching the Conduits

This section describes where to insert the cables in the Sunny Central and where to punch the holes for the conduits.

NOTICE

Moisture can seep through incorrect conduits and conduit hubs. Damage to the electronics of the Sunny Central.

• For conduit hubs, use only UL Listed rainproof or wet location hubs complying with UL 514B for entry into the enclosure.

• Adjust the diameter of the conduit hubs to match the diameter of the conduits.

The PV panel cables, the AC cables and the communication cables can be routed into the Sunny Central's interface cabinet from the right or from below. The two options are described below.

6.1 Insert cables from the right into the Sunny Central

Insert the PV generator cables, the AC cables and the data cables into the Sunny Central from the right. A metal sheet is attached to the Sunny Central for this purpose.

1. Remove the plate screws.

2. Put the screws and washers aside.

3. Remove plate.

S t o p

S t a r t

4. Mark all the holes for the conduits. You need one conduit for the AC cables, one conduit for the communication cables and nine conduits for the DC cables (one conduit for each DC input).

Example for a plate prepared for the connection of 9 DC strings.

– A: Conduit for DC cable (3 in. / 7.6 cm). – B: Conduit for AC cable (4 in. / 10 cm).

AAA

– C: Conduit for communication cable

(2 in. / 5 cm).

5. Punch holes for the conduits.

6. Check the seal of the plate.

7. Attach the plate to the Sunny Central.

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8. Attach the screws and washers and tighten with a torque of 31 in-lbs (3.5 Nm).

9. Insert the conduits into the openings.

10. Attach the conduits with the appropriate hubs.

6.2 Insert cables from below into the Sunny Central

Insert the PV generator cables, the AC cables and the data cables into the Sunny Central from the bottom through the foundation.

1. Remove the ground cable (A) from the plate at the bottom of the Interface Cabinet.

2. Loosen the 18 screws on the plate at the bottom of the Interface Cabinet by turning them counterclockwise.

3. Remove the screws and the plate. The screws will be used again. The cable tunnel is encased in 2 u-shaped metal

plates.

4. Place a u-shaped plate in the rear portion of the cable tunnel.

The holes in the narrow edge of the u-shaped plate must be over the holes in the Interface Cabinet.

5. Place a u-shaped plate in the front portion of the cable tunnel.

The holes in the narrow edge of the u-shaped plate must be over the holes in the Interface Cabinet.

6. Place 18 screws in the holes.

7. Tighten the screws evenly.

S to p S t a

r t

S to p S t a r t

S t o p S

t a r t

S t o p

S t a r t

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8. Place the sealing splints on the middle holes on the right and left of the cable tunnels.

S t o p

S t a r t

9. Place 4 screws in each of the holes.

10. Tighten the screws evenly.

S t o p S

t a r t

11. Connect the ground cable to the cable tunnel.

12. Seal the cable tunnel down to the foundation. ☑ The cable tunnel is encased.

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7 Connecting Optional Communication Devices

The Sunny Central can be equipped with a Sunny WebBox and/or a Sunny SensorBox. This section explains how the Sunny WebBox and the Sunny Sensor Box in the Sunny Central is connected.

NOTICE

The components in the Sunny Central can be damaged by electrostatic discharge!

• Whe n workin g on the S unny Central and when han dling th e compon ents observe all ESD safety regulations.

• Discharge electrostatic charge by touching the grounded Sunny Central enclosure.

NOTICE

Seeping moisture during installation of the Sunny Central. Damage to the electronics of the Sunny Central.

• Do not open the Sunny Central when it is raining or when a high humidity is present (> 95 %).

• For conduit hubs, use only UL Listed rainproof, or wet location hubs complying with UL 514B for entry into the enclosure.

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7.1 Position of the Communication Devices

The Sunny WebBox is located on the inside of the Interface Cabinet's door.

A B

SUNNYWEBBOX

SUNNY SENSOR 485HUB

S t o p S t a

r t

Position Description

A Sunny Sensor 485Hub (see section 7.2 "Connecting the Sunny SensorBox

(optional)" (page39)).

B Sunny WebBox (see section 7.3 "Sunny WebBox (optional)" (page41)).

7.2 Connecting the Sunny SensorBox (optional)

Th is S ect ion descr ibe s ho w to co nne ct t he S unn y Sens orB ox t o th e Sunny Sen sor 485 Hub in the Sun ny Central.

Data cable

The data cable for the connection of the Sunny SensorBox to the Sunny Sensor 485Hub must meet the following requirements:

• The data cable must not be longer than 4,000 ft. (1,200 m)

•Use: – cables with a section of 2 x 2 x AWG 24 – shielded twisted pair cables

Data Cable Recommendation

SMA also provides data cables. Please contact your electrician or wholesaler.

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+12 V GND D + D -

F1: IN

F2: OUT

RS485

D + D -

7.2.1 Connecting the Data Cable of the Sunny SensorBox

Connect the data cable to the socket (A) on the bottom of the Sunny Sensor 485Hub.

1. Open the Interface Cabinet as described in section

10.2 "Opening the Interface Cabinet" (page61).

2. Route the data cables separately from AC and DC cables. Draw the data cable into the Sunny Central (see section 6 "Attaching the Conduits" (page35)).

A c

tiv

ity

SSB

+12V

GND

D+

D–

SUNNY SENSOR

485HUB

Communication

c tiv

ity

Powe

3. Remove the insu lation o f the dat a cable b y approx .

2.4 in. (60 mm) and uncover the shield.

4. Uncover the wires about 1.8 in. (45 mm).

5. Strip the wires about 0.2 in. (5 mm).

6. Connect the wires to the connector as shown in the figure on the right.

A Sunny Sensor 485Hub socket BPlug C Sunny SensorBox

7. Note down the wire color:

+12 V GND D+ D–

8. Insert the plugs into the socket on the bottom of the Sunny Sensor 485Hub.

9. Close the Sunny Central.

The operating manual of the Sunny SensorBox shows you how t o connec t the data c able in the SensorBox and how to connect the sensors to the Sunny SensorBox.

2.4 in.

0.6 in.

+12V

GND

D+

1.6 in.

D-

0.2 in

+12V

GND

D+

D-

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7.3 Sunny WebBox (optional)

For more information on the Sunny WebBox (e.g., operation) see its technical description. The technical description is included in the scope of delivery and is available for download at www.smaamerica.com.

The communication between the Sunny WebBox and the PC or the network is conducted via Ethernet. The Sunny WebBox is equipped with an integrated network connection, which enables it to be connected to any Ethernet network. The connection supports Ethernet and Fast-Ethernet networks. The speed adapts automatically to the connected switch, router or PC.

Sunny WebBox in a Network

The Sunny WebBox can be integrated into a network via a router or a switch. If the Sunny WebBox is permanently integrated into a network with internet access, it can automatically transmit the data of your PV system to Sunny Portal.

S U

E B

M O

M C B S

T E

SYS

O P

Position Description

A Switch or router

Data cable

The data cable for the connection of the Sunny WebBox to a network must meet the following requirements:

• The data cable must not be longer than 330 ft. (100 m)

•Use: – high-quality, straight-through patch cables – shielded twisted pair cables – category 5 (CAT 5) or higher

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Sunny WebBox Connected to a PC / Laptop

To read out the data, the Sunny WebBox can be connected to a PC or Laptop. This connection should not be made long-term; it only serves the purpose of reading the data.

S U

E B

M O

M C B S

T E

SYS

O P

Cable

The cable for the connection of the Sunny WebBox to a PC / Laptop must meet the following requirements:

• The cable must not be longer than 330 ft. (100 m)

•Use: – high quality crossover cable – shielded twisted pair cables – category 5 (CAT 5) or higher

7.3.1 Installing the WebBox in the Sunny Central

1. Open the Interface Cabinet as described in section 10.2 "Opening the Interface Cabinet" (page61).

2. Hook both lower brackets of the Sunny WebBox under the lower edge of the top hat rail.

3. Press the Sunny WebBox upwards

4. Snap the top edge of the mounting rail into the top mounting brackets of the Sunny WebBox.

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7.3.2 Connecting the Sunny WebBox in the Sunny Central

1. Plug the W215 connector into the SMA COM socket (B) of the Sunny WebBox.

2. Insert the power supply plug into socket (A) of the Sunny WebBox.

A B

7.3.3 Connecting the Cable to the Sunny WebBox

The network connection on the Sunny WebBox is marked as displayed on the adjacent graphic. The same marking for the network connections is usually to be found on your switch, router, PC or Laptop. If this is not the case, please refer to the switch, router, PC or Laptop manual.

1. Route the cables separately from AC and DC cables. Draw the cable into the Sunny Central (see section 6 "Attaching the Conduits" (page35)).

2. Plug the cable into the Sunny WebBox's socket.

3. Plug the cable into the socket of the switch, router, PC or Laptop.

4. Close the Interface Cabinet of the Sunny Central.

7.3.4 Termination

To ensure sufficient signal quality of the RS485 data bus, it must be terminated on both ends.

The Sunny WebBox is located at one of the end points of the RS485 data bus.

• Mount jumper to J1A.

The jumper is mounted upon delivery.

Signal biasing (jumper J1B and jumper J1C)

To ensure sufficient signal quality of the RS485 communication bus, a bias must be connected to the WebBox.

• Connect jumper to J1B and J1C.

Both jumpers are mounted upon delivery.

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8 Electrical Connection

8.1 Safety

DANGER

Normally grounded conductors may be ungrounded and energized when a ground-fault is indicated.

Risk of electric shock.

•Test before touching.

• Work on the Sunny Central must be carried out by qualified personnel.

NOTICE

Seeping moisture during installation of the Sunny Central. Damage to the electronics of the Sunny Central.

• Do not open the Sunny Central when it is raining or when a high humidity is present (> 95 %).

• For conduit hubs, use only UL Listed rainproof, or wet location hubs complying with UL 514B for entry into the enclosure.

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8.2 Connection Area

The cables of the PV modules and the public grid are connected in the Interface Cabinet.

Sunny Central for the connection of 9 DC strings

Left side

Middle Right side

Base

Position Description

A Grounded DC connection (in figure above DC– connection) B Ungrounded DC connection (in figure above DC+ connection) CAC connection DGround connection

Door

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8.3 Connection Options

There are various options for connecting the Sunny Central to the public grid and the PV modules. When placing your order these options will enable you to adapt the Sunny Central connection area to the characteristics of the PV modules and the grid. This section demonstrates the various connection options.

8.3.1 Grid Types

DANGER

During operation, high voltages are present in the Sunny Central. Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

• The cofiguration of the Sunny Central for another grid may only be maintained by SMA service personnel. Contact the SMA Serviceline for support (see section 14 "Contact" (page72)).

The Sunny Central can be connected to the following grids:

• 480 Delta:277 WYE (preset)

• 480 Delta

The figure below illustrates the grid types.

480 V480 V

480 V

480 V 480 V277 V

277 V

480 V

277 V

8.3.2 DC Fuses

The Sunny Central can be delivered with 6, 7, 8 or 9 DC fuses. Every fuse has a sep arate ra il to whi ch 1 or 2 DC strings can be connected.

8.3.3 Grounding the PV modules

Depending on the configuration option, you can connect positive or negative grounded PV modules to the Sunny Central.

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8.4 Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails

In order to connect the cables to the rails of the Sunny Central, you will need cable lugs. Use the following cable lugs:

•UL listed

• Two-hole cable lug, space between holes 1.75 in. (44.5 mm)

• Use 1/2 in. or M12 bolt, nut and washer

Attach the cable lug to the cable according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Connecting 1 Cable to a Rail

Figure to the right: Layout for connecting a cable lug to the rail in the interface cabinet.

A Screw head BLock washer CRail DCable lug ENut

CBA

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Connecting 2 Cables to a Rail

Figure to the right: Layout for connecting a cable lug to the rail in the Control Cabinet.

A Screw head BLock washer CCable lug DRail ENut

8.4.1 Prepare Cables for Connecting to Rails

NOTICE

When transporting and storing the Sunny Central, oxide layers may form on the contact surfaces of the cable connection.

Yield loss due to poor electrical conductivity.

1. Before connecting the cables, clean the contact surfaces.

2. Use only the non-woven abrasive delivered with the Sunny Central. Do not clean the surfaces with sandpaper.

3. Do not touch the contact surfaces after they have been cleaned.

☑ The cable/s are connected to the rail.

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8.5 Connection of the PV Modules

8.5.1 Requirements

Do not connect the PV modules until the optional communication cables have been connected (see section 7 "Connecting Optional Communication Devices" (page38)). DC distribution boxes (e.g. Sunny Central String-Monitor) must be installed between the PV modules and the Sunny Central, where the PV module cables are gathered and led to the Sunny Central.

The Photovoltaic System Grounding must be installed per the requirements of Sections 690.41 through 690.47 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 and is the responsibility of the installer.

Technical Data for the Connection of the PV Modules

Number of strings 6 (12), 7 (14), 8 (16) or 9 (18) DC input voltage 330 - 600 V DC Max. DC current 1600 A

Torques and Cable Sizes for DC+, DC– and PE

Copper conductors only - use solid, or stranded copper only. The Sunny Central can be delivered with 6, 7, 8 or 9 DC fuses. Every fuse has a sep arate ra il to whi ch

1 or 2 DC strings can be connected. Below you find the cable sizes and torques for the connection of the strings.

DC fuses Number of DC

Strings

6 6 800 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper

12 350 kcmil

7 7 600 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper

14 300 kcmil

8 8 500 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper

16 4/0 AWG

9 9 400 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper

18 4/0 AWG

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Cable Size Torque max. DC fuse

rating

450 A

wire, 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm)

tightening torque

400 A

wire, 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm)

tightening torque

350 A

wire, 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm)

tightening torque

300 A

wire, 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm)

tightening torque

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8.5.2 Connecting the PV Modules

The illustrations in this chapter show a Sunny Central which is equipped for connection to 9 or 18 DC strings.

1. Open the Sunny Central as described in chapter 10 "Opening the Sunny Central" (page60).

DANGER

Voltage is present in PV modules exposed to light. Death resulting from electric shock.

2. Cover the PV modules.

3. Switch off the fuses in the DC distribution boxes (e.g. Sunny Central String-Monitor) and secure them against reconnection.

4. Follow all safety precautions of the module manufacturer.

5. Lead the cables into the Sunny Central, as described in Section 6 "Attaching the Conduits" (page35).

6. Co nne ct g rou nd c abl es t o th e te rmi nal blo cks at t he bottom right of the Sunny Central (see also Section

8.4 "Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails" (page47)).

S t o p S t a r t

7. Open the screw terminal completely.

8. Plug the copper inner conductor of the cable into the

screw terminal.

9. Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

10. Connect all grounding cables of the modules as

described above.

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Negative Grounding

1. Connect the DC– cables to the grounded rails on the left wall of the interface cabinet (see also Section 8.4 "Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails" (page47)). The rail is marked "DC–".

2. Tighten the 2 screws of each cable lug in clockwise direction using a torque of 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm).

☑ The DC– cables are now connected.

3. Connect the DC+ cables to the non-grounded rails on the rear wall of the interface cabinet (see also Section 8.4 "Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails" (page47)). The rail is marked "DC+".

4. Tighten the 2 screws of each cable lug in clockwise direction using a torque of 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm).

☑ The DC+ cables are now connected.

Positive Grounding

1. Connect the DC+ cables to the grounded rails on the left wall of the interface cabinet (see also Section 8.4 "Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails" (page47)). The rail is marked "DC+".

2. Tighten the 2 screws of each cable lug in clockwise direction using a torque of 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm).

☑ The DC+ cables are now connected.

3. Connect the DC– cables to the non-grounded rails on the rear wall of the interface cabinet (see also Section 8.4 "Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails" (page47)). The rail is marked "DC–".

4. Tighten the 2 screws of each cable lug in clockwise direction using a torque of 55 ft-lbs (75 Nm).

☑ The DC– cables are now connected.

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8.6 AC Connection

8.6.1 Requirements

CAUTION

Improper connection to the public grid may cause a fire. Burns from fire. To reduce the risk of fire,

• connect only to a circuit provided with 900 amperes maximum branch-circuit overcurrent protection in accordance with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA

70.

• do not connect to an AC load center (circuit breaker panel) having multiwire branch circuits connected.

The AC input and AC output circuits are isolated from the enclosure and the system grounding, if required by Section 250 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, is the responsibility of the installer.

Technical Data for the AC Connection

Nominal AC voltage 480 V AC Max. AC current 601.4 A

Connection to the AC Grid

Number of AC

Cables

A, B, C 6 400 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper wire,

(only for 480

Delta:277

WYE)

PE 1 3/0 AWG –

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1 or 2 4 AWG – 600 kcmil All 194 °F (90 °C) copper wire,

Cable Size Torque

42 ft-lbs (57 Nm) tightening torque

42 ft-lbs (57 Nm)

600 kcmil

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8.6.2 Connecting AC

DANGER

High voltages are present in the live components of the low voltage grid. Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

1. Pay close attention to all safety precaution measures regarding the low voltage grid.

2. Switch off the AC disconnect and secure it against accidental switching on.

3. Ensure that no voltage is present.

4. Open the Sunny Central as described in Section 10 "Opening the Sunny Central" (page60).

5. Lead the cables into the Sunny Central as described in Section 6 "Attaching the Conduits" (page35).

6. Co nne ct g rou nd c abl es t o th e te rmi nal blo cks at t he bottom right of the Sunny Central.

7. Open the screw terminal completely.

8. Plug the copper inner conductor of the cable into the screw terminal.

9. Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

10. Connect all grounding cables of the modules as described above.

S t o p S t a r t

11. Open the AC terminals completely.

12. Connect phase A to the terminal marked "A". Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

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13. Connect phase B to the terminal marked "B". Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

14. Connect phase C to the terminal marked "C". Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

15. For 480 Delta:277 WYE connect cable N to the terminal marked "N" . Tighten the screw terminal using an Allen key. The required torque is 42 ft-lbs (57 Nm).

For 480 Delta do NOT connect a neutral cable. In this case, rail N is not used.

☑ The AC cables are now connected.

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9 Commissioning

This section explains, step-by-step, how to put the Sunny Central into operation, and how you can determine that the commissioning was successful.

DANGER

Electric shock due to improper startup of the Sunny Central! Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

• All procedures described in this Section shall only be conducted by qualified personnel.

• If problems occur when performing the work described here, contact SMA America.

Application to Energy Supply Company

Before you commission the Sunny Central, inform the relevant energy provider. You must submit the following information:

• Date of commissioning.

• Technical data of the plant.

9.1 Visual Inspection of the Sunny Central

1. Ensure that all AC and DC voltages are not connected to the inverter.

2. Wait 8 minutes for all internal power supplies to discharge.

3. Check voltage in order to ensure that all voltages have been removed

4. Inspect all large power cables and bus connections throughout the inverter to verify that they are tight.

5. Verify that all PV wires are connected with the proper polarity.

6. Verify that all PV wires are tightened to the proper torque specification.

7. Verify that the PV ground wires are connected to ground and are isolated from PV+ or PV–.

8. Verify that the AC neutral wire is connected to the AC Neutral terminal (only for 480 Delta:277 WYE).

9. Verify that the AC phase wires are connected correctly.

10. Verify that all AC phase wires are tightened to the proper torque specification.

11. Verify that the AC ground wire is connected correctly.

12. Inspect the interior of the Magnetics Cabinet and insure that it is free of any tools, foreign objects, water, debris or documents.

13. Verify that the side panels of the Magnetics Cabinet are closed securely and latched.

14. Leave Control Cabinet and Interface Cabinet open for measurement purposes.

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15. Inspect the interior of the Control Cabinet and Interface Cabinet to insure that they are free of any tools, foreign objects, water, debris or documents.

16. Ensure that the area around the Sunny Central is clear of any tools, foreign objects or debris.

17. Check the AC connection for a possible clockwise phase sequence. For this purpose, hold the terminals of the phase sequence indicator onto the three phases of the AC connection in the Sunny Central. The indicator shows you whether there is clockwise phase sequence.

9.2 Switching the Sunny Central On

DANGER

During operation, high voltages are present in the Sunny Central. Death resulting from electric shock.

• Do not operate the Sunny Central with doors open.

Below, on the door of the Interface Cabinet there is a door stay (A).

1. To unlock the door stay (A) push upwards.

2. Close the door of the Interface Cabinet.

3. Attach the plate to the Magnetics Cabinet and tighten the screws.

4. Close the right door of the Control Cabinet.

5. Inside of the door is a handle. Pull the handle downwards to lock the door.

6. Turn on the automatic circuit-breaker on the inside of the Control Cabinet’s door.

7. Shut the Control Cabinet door immediately.

8. Push the handle down toward the Sunny Central. – When the handle has been pushed down, the

Sunny Central is closed.

S t o p S t a

r t

S t o p S t a r t

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9. Turn the stop/start switch on the Control Cabinet's door to the right until it reaches the start position.

Stop Start

DANGER

During operation, high voltages are present in the Sunny Central. The key left in the lock allows unauthorized personnel to open the Sunny Central.

Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

• Remove the keys from the locks of the door and from the lock of the stop/start switch.

• Keep the key in a safe place.

10. Switch on the fuses in the DC distribution boxes (e.g., Sunny Central String-Monitor).

11. Remove the cover of the PV modules in the array.

12. Switch on the AC disconnect.

13. If there is enough radiation, the DC and AC switches switch on audibly.

14. The display shows the power of the Sunny Central (A) and the switch symbol (B) is closed.

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9.3 Check the Ventilation

In ope rat ion the Sunny C ent ral is cool ed b y fa ns i n ca se the t emperature exceeds a defined threshold.

Position Description

A In the Magnetics Cabinet, the air is sucked up from below in the front and expelled

at the top in the back and front of the Sunny Central.

B In the Control Cabinet, the air is sucked in from the top front and expelled at the

bottom in the back.

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Check the ventilation air flow using a sheet of paper.

1. Hold the piece of paper in front of the air shafts.

2. Check to see whether the sheet is blown away from or sucked toward the inverter.

3. Compare the air circulation with what is described in this section.

Result 1

The Sunny Central sucks in air and blows it out as described in this section. Commissioning has been successfully completed.

Result 2

The Sunny Central does not suck air in, nor does it blow it out as described in this section. – Shut down the Sunny Central. – Contact SMA America (see Section 14 "Contact" (page72)).

Result 3

The Sunny Central does not suck air in nor does it blow it out, at all. – Check to see whether the Sunny Central is in operation. – If the Sunny Central is in operation, shut it down. – Contact SMA America (see section 14 "Contact" (page72)).

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10 Opening the Sunny Central

DANGER

Electric shock due to improper opening of the Sunny Central! Death resulting from burning and electric shock.

• All procedures described in this Section shall only be conducted by qualified personnel.

• Observe the sequence described here when opening the Sunny Central.

• If problems occur when performing the work described here, contact SMA America.

10.1 Opening the Control Cabinet

1. Turn the stop/start switch on the Control Cabinet's door to the left until it reaches the stop position.

Stop Start

2. The AC and DC switches in the Sunny Central switch off audibly.

3. Switch off the AC disconnect in the array and secure it against accidental switching on. ☑ When the Sunny Central is disconnected, the display turns off.

4. Cover the PV modules.

5. Switch off the fuses in the DC distribution boxes (e.g. Sunny Central String-Monitor) and secure them against reconnection.

6. Wait 8 minutes When the Sunny Central is switched off, voltage will remain in the internal capacitors for

another 8 minutes. ☑ The Sunny Central is deactivated and can be opened.

7. Put the key into the Control Cabinet's lock and open it.

☑ The handle flips up.

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8. Grasp the handle from below and pull it up. ☑ The door's catch is released and the left door of

the Control Cabinet can be opened.

9. Open the left door of the Control Cabinet.

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r t

10. Inside of the right door is a handle. Push the handle upwards.

☑ The door‘s cat ch is rel eased and t he right door of

the Control Cabinet can be opened.

11. Open the right door of the Control Cabinet.

10.2 Opening the Interface Cabinet

12. Switch off the Sunny Central as described in section 10.1 "Opening the Control Cabinet" (page60).

13. Put the key into the Interface Cabinet's lock and open it.

☑ The handle flips up.

S t o p S t a r t

14. Grasp the handle from below and pull it up. ☑ The door's catch is released and the door can be

opened.

S t o p

S t a r

15. Open the door.

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CAUTION

The DC fuses in the Interface Cabinet become hot during operation. Danger of burn injury due to hot components.

When working on the Sunny Central wear protective gloves.

16. Verify the absence of voltage with respect to ground at the AC clamp with an appropriate meter.

☑ If there is a voltage present, the installation must be checked.

17. Verify the absence of voltage with respect to ground at the DC clamp with an appropriate meter.

☑ If there is a voltage present, the installation must be checked.

10.3 Opening the Magnetics Cabinet

18. Switch off the Sunny Central as described in section 10.1 "Opening the Control Cabinet" (page60).

19. Make sure that no voltage is present as described in section 10.2 "Opening the Interface Cabinet" (page61).

20. Remove the 8 screws from the front of the magnetics cabinet with a torx screwdriver.

21. Remove the wall by pulling it forward.

S t

o p S t a r t

CAUTION

The transformers in the magnetics cabinet become hot during operation. Danger of burn injury due to hot components.

• When working on the Sunny Central wear protective gloves.

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11 Maintenance

The Sunny Central inverter must be maintained at regular intervals. Maintenanc e includes cleaning of cabinet interior, if necessary.

The maintenance interval depends on the location and the ambient conditions.

11.1 Sunny Central Maintenance Work

Maintenance work Maintenance interval

(recommended)

Check the screens at the air inlets and outlets and clean them if necessary. 6 months * Check the fans. 6 months * Check the air filters of the ventilation plate. 6 months *

* The maintenance interval may need to be shortened, depending on the location or ambient conditions.

11.2 Replace DC fuse

1. Open the Interface Cabinet as described in section

10.2 "Opening the Interface Cabinet" (page61). The DC fuses are fastened with 2 screws each.

2. Remove the 2 screws of each DC fuse.

3. Remove the DC fuses.

L+

4. Mount fuses vertically (spacer).

5. Attach the 2 screws of each DC fuse.

6. Tighten afterwards. Use the torque of 44 ft-lbs (60 Nm).

L+

7. Close the Interface Cabinet.

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12 Parameter

This section provides an overview of the parameters of the Sunny Central and their respective threshold values.

12.1 Parameter Description

The following table shows the parameters that are visible in the user and installer levels. Grayed out parameters are only displayed in installer mode.

Parameter name Range Default Parameter Description

Ackn –––, Ackn,

NoAckn

CardFunc –––, ForcedWrite,

StoEvtHis,

StoFailHis ChkGdFrqLo 57 ... 59.8 Hz 59.3 Hz Minimum frequency for Sunny Central ChkGdFrqLoT 160 ... 300000 ms 160 ms

ChkGdFrqMax 60.5 ... 64.5 Hz 60.5 Hz Maximum frequency for Sunny Central

ChkGdFrqMin 57 ... 59.8 Hz 57 Hz Minimum frequency for Sunny Central

ChkGdVtgHi 288 ... 321.3 Vrms 304.7 Vrms Maximum voltage for Sunny Central

––– Ackowledge an error manually

An error can be acknowledged remotely. See the Sunny Central's user manual.

––– Saving ring memory with errors and

events on SD card.

operation. If the frequency drops below the value

given in ChkGdFrqLo, the Sunny Central will shut down after the time period given in ChkGdFrqLoT.

operation. If the frequency exceeds the value given

in ChkGdFrqMax, the Sunny Central shuts down immediately.

operation. If the frequency drops below the value

given in ChkGdFrqMin, the Sunny Central shuts down immediately.

operation. The Sunny Central shuts down within 1

second in case the voltage exceeds the value defined in ChkGdVtgHi.

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Parameter name Range Default Parameter Description

ChkGdVtgLo 149.6 ... 265.9

Vrms

243.8 Vrms Minimum voltage for Sunny Central operation.

The Sunny Central shuts down within 2 seconds in case the voltage exceeds the value defined in ChkGdVtgLo.

ChkGdVtgMax 288 ... 332,4 Vrms 332,4 Vrms Maximum voltage for Sunny Central

operation. If the voltage exceeds the value defined

in ChkGdVtgMax, the Sunny Central shuts down immediately.

ChkGdVtgMin 138,5 ... 265,9 Hz 138,5 Hz Minimum voltage for Sunny Central

operation. If the voltage drops below the value

defined at ChkGdVtgMin, the Sunny Central shuts down immediately.

ChkGnFrqLo Sunny Central operation with a ChkGnFrqLoT ChkGnFrqMax ChkGnFrqMin ChkGnVtgHi ChkGnVtgLo

generator. More information on parameter settings

and operating the Sunny Central with a generator can be obtained from SMA America.

ChkGnVtgMax ChkGnVtgMin CtlExtPwrKi

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Parameter name Range Default Parameter Description

CntRs –––,

FanHsCnt, FanTrf1Cnt, FanTrf2Cnt, FanCab1Cnt, FanCab2Cnt, GDCtcCut, PvCtcCnt

––– Resetting the hours of operation.

Individual meters can be reset (for example after having mounted a new fan).

FanHsCnt: Deletes the total running time of the heatsink fan.

FanTrf1Cnt: Deletes the total running time of the transformer fan 1.

FanTrf2Cnt: Deletes the total running time of the transformer fan 2.

FanCab1Cnt: Deletes the total running time of the interior fan 1.

FanCab2Cnt: Deletes the total running time of the interior fan 2.

PvCtcCnt: The Sunny Central's DC contactor total number of switching operation

Dt yyyymmdd Current Date.

Here you can set the current date.

Ofs_E-Total 0 ... 214748364

kWh

0 kWh The Sunny Central's total energy yield.

The change of the Ofs_E-Total parameter may be necessary when you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_FanCab1Cnt 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h Total operating time of fan 1 in the

Control Cabinet. The change of the Ofs_FanCab1Cnt

parameter may be necessary if you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_FanCab2Cnt 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h Total operating time of fan 2 in the

Control Cabinet. The change of the Ofs_FanCab2Cnt

parameter may be necessary if you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

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Parameter name Range Default Parameter Description

Ofs_FanHsCnt 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h Total operating time of the heat sink fan

in the Control Cabinet. The change of the Ofs_FanHsCnt

parameter may be necessary if you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_FanTrf1Cnt 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h Total operating time of transformer fan 1.

The change of the Ofs_FanTrf1Cnt parameter may be necessary if you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_GdCtcCnt The Sunny Central's grid contactor total

number of switching operation. The change of the Ofs_GdCtcCnt

parameter may be necessary when you exchange the main circuit board of your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old one.

Ofs_h_On 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h The Sunny Central's total number of

hours of operation. The change of the Ofs_h_On parameter

may be necessary when you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_h_Total 0 ... 2147483 h 0 h Total number of operational hours with

grid feeding. The change of the Ofs_h_Total

parameter may be necessary when you exchange your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old device.

Ofs_PVCtcCnt The Sunny Central's DC contactor total

number of switching operation. The change of the Ofs_PvCtcCnt

parameter may be necessary when you exchange the main circuit board of your Sunny Central and want to use the data from the old one.

ParaLod –––, Set1, Set2,

Factory

––– Loading parameters from SD card.

Factory: Factory parameter settings are being loaded.

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Parameter name Range Default Parameter Description

ParaSto –––, Set1, Set2 ––– Saving parameter on SD card. Plimit 0 ... 1000 kW 500 kW Upper limit for AC output power

This parameter cannot be changed.

Pmax 0 ... 500 kW 500 kW Output limit of the Sunny Central

Changing the parameter can reduce the output power of the Sunny Central.

PVPwrMinTr 0 ... 1200 kW 10 kW MPP tracking PVPwrMinTrT 1 ... 1800 s 600 s

If the output exceeds the value PVPwrMinTr, the Sunny Central will wait for a period of time set in PVPwrMinTrT before it begins to seek the Maximum Power Point.

PVStrT 1 ... 1800 s 90 s Initial voltage of the Sunny Central. PVVtgStr 0 ... 1200 V 400 V

If the vol tag e in cre ases o ver the val ue s et at PVVtgStr, the Sunny Central will start after waiting for a period of time set at PVStrT.

Serial Number Serial number of the Sunny Central.

This parameter cannot be changed.

SpntGnMod Sunny Central operation with a SpntGnPwrMin

generator. These parameters are for operation with

a generator. Contact SMA America if you have questions regarding the operation of the Sunny Central with a generator.

SpntRemEna ---, Off, On On Shutting down the Sunny Central.

With these parameters the Sunny Central can be shut down remotely.

Tm hhmmss Current Time.

Here you can set the current time.

12.2 Changing Parameters

The changing of the parameters itself is described in the Sunny Central’s User Manual.

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13 Technical Data

In this section you will find the technical data for the Sunny Central's operation, the norms to which it conforms and the required cables and torques.

PV Generator Connection Data

DC input voltage 300 ... 600 V DC Input voltage, MPP range 330 ... 600 V DC DC starting voltage 400 V DC (adjustable) Max. input current 1,600 A DC voltage ripple (peak to peak) < 3 %

Grid Connection Data

Nominal output power (at 77 °F (25 °C)) 500 kW Nominal output power (at 113 °F (45 °C)) 500 kW Output power at 300 V DC 460 kW Nominal AC voltage Operating range AC nominal frequency Operating range Max. AC current 601.4 A AC (at 480 V AC)

480 V AC 422 ... 528 V AC 60 Hz

59.3 ... 60.5 Hz

General Data

Inverter technology True sine wave, current source, high frequency

PWM with galvanic insulation

Max. operating altitude 13,000 ft. (4,000 m) above sea level

Power Reduction: The Sunny Central can function without power

reduction up to 3,300 feet (1,000 m) above sea level. At higher altitudes the power is reduced by 5 % per 3,300 ft (1,000 m).

Ambient temperatures -13 °F ...113 °F (-25 °C ... 45 °C) (without

power reduction)

-13 °F ... 122 °F (-25 °C ... 50 °C) (with power reduction)

Output power at 122 °F (50 °C) = approx. 347 kW

Cooling Temperature-controlled fans for cooling. Easily

removable filters, easily accessible.

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Dimensions W x H x D, including roof approx. 139.2 in. x 79.8 in. x 36.6 in.

(3,535 mm x 2,027 mm x 930 mm)

Weight Total: approx. 7,165 lbs. (3,250 kg)

Magnetics Cabinet: approx. 4,740 lbs. (2,150 kg)

Control and interface cabinet: approx.

2,425 lbs. (1,100 kg) Enclosure rating NEMA 3R, zinc-plated and coated steel Current THD < 5 % (with respect to IEEE 1547) Power factor > 0.99 at nominal power Internal consumption <100 W Standby, <1,800 W with fans

Efficiency

Maximum efficiency 97.37 % (330 V), 97.25 % (370 V), 96.94 %

(480 V) CEC efficiency 97 %

Efficiency curve

330 V

480 V

Overall efficiency [%]

10 20 30 40 50 60 8070 10090

Output power [%]

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13.1 Measurement Accuracy

The Sunny Central is not equipped with a calibrated meter. The display values may deviate from the actual values and must not be used as a basis for invoicing. The Sunny Central’s measured values are required for the system management and to control the current to be fed to the grid.

Deviation

Voltage measurement: +/–5.6 V Frequency measurement: +/–0.1 Hz Disconnect time: +/–3 %

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14 Contact

If you have technical problems concerning our products, contact your ins tal ler or t he S MA S erv ice lin e. We require the following information in order to provide you with the necessary assistance:

• Inverter type

• Type and number of modules connected

•Communication method

• Serial number of the Sunny Central

• Failure or warning number of the Sunny Central

• Display of the Sunny Central

SMA America, Incorporated

4031 Alvis Court Rocklin, CA 95677, USA Tel. +1 916 625 0870 Fax +1 916 625 0871 Service@SMA-America.com www.SMA-America.com

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15 Appendix - Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion

The Sunny Central measures temperature in degrees Celsius (e.g., set external temperature for derating).

Conversion from Degrees Celsius to Degrees Fahrenheit

•Formula: F = (C * 9/5) +32 F: Degrees Fahrenheit, C: Degrees Celsius.

• Example for 30 °C F = (30 *9/5) +32 F = (54) + 32 F = 86 °F

Conversion from Degrees Fahrenheit to Degrees Celsius

•Formula: C = (F - 32) * 5/9 F: Degrees Fahrenheit, C: Degrees Celsius.

• Example for 86 °F C = (86 - 32) * 5/9 C = (54) *5/9 C = 30 °C

Diagram

°C

-10

-20

-10

0 102030 5040 60 70 9080 100 110 120 130

°F

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SMA SC 500U Installation

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

1 Notes on this Manual

1.1 Target Group

1.2 Validity

1.3 Structure of this Documentation

2 Safety

2.1 Appropriate Usage

2.2 Safety Instructions

3 The Sunny Central

3.1 System Overview

3.2 The Sunny Central's Design

3.3 Location of the Safety Notices

3.4 Identifying the Sunny Central

3.5 Firmware

4 Unpacking

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection

4.2 Scope of Delivery

4.3 Storage

5 Transport and Installation

5.1 Choosing the Installation Site

5.1.1 Dimensions

5.1.2 Weight

5.1.3 Ambient Conditions

5.1.4 Minimum Clearance

5.1.5 Characteristics of the Base

5.2 Preparation of the Base

5.2.1 Position of the Mounting Holes

5.2.2 Size of the Mounting Holes

5.2.3 Drilling Holes into the Base

5.3 Transporting the Sunny Central

5.3.1 Equipment for Transport

5.3.2 Center of Gravity of the Sunny Central

5.4 Installing the Sunny Central

5.4.1 Removing the Kick Plates from the Sunny Central

5.4.2 Inserting the Cables into the Cabinets

5.4.3 Connect the Cables in the Magnetics Cabinet

5.4.4 Connecting the Cables in the Control Cabinet

5.4.5 Attach the Sunny Central to the base

5.4.6 Install the Cover Between the Cabinets

5.4.7 Install Ventilation Plates

5.4.8 Attaching the Kick Plates to the Sunny Central

5.4.9 Remove Transport Locks

6 Attaching the Conduits

6.1 Insert cables from the right into the Sunny Central

6.2 Insert cables from below into the Sunny Central

7 Connecting Optional Communication Devices

7.1 Position of the Communication Devices

7.2 Connecting the Sunny SensorBox (optional)

7.2.1 Connecting the Data Cable of the Sunny SensorBox

7.3 Sunny WebBox (optional)

7.3.1 Installing the WebBox in the Sunny Central

7.3.2 Connecting the Sunny WebBox in the Sunny Central

7.3.3 Connecting the Cable to the Sunny WebBox

7.3.4 Termination

8 Electrical Connection

8.1 Safety

8.2 Connection Area

8.3 Connection Options

8.3.1 Grid Types

8.3.2 DC Fuses

8.3.3 Grounding the PV modules

8.4 Requirements for Connecting cables to Rails

8.4.1 Prepare Cables for Connecting to Rails

8.5 Connection of the PV Modules

8.5.1 Requirements

8.5.2 Connecting the PV Modules

8.6 AC Connection

8.6.1 Requirements

8.6.2 Connecting AC

9 Commissioning

9.1 Visual Inspection of the Sunny Central

9.2 Switching the Sunny Central On

9.3 Check the Ventilation

10 Opening the Sunny Central

10.1 Opening the Control Cabinet

10.2 Opening the Interface Cabinet

10.3 Opening the Magnetics Cabinet