TS4-A-F/2F with Rapid
Shutdown System (RSS)
Transmitters
Installation Manual
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Version
Date
Changes
1.0
n/a
Initial version
2.0
20221020
Added RSS Tx PST content and updated TS4 offerings
3.0
20230120
Complete reformatting, all topics updated
3.1
20230216
Added certification statement and corrected TS4-A-2F voltage error
4.0
20230922
Changed title, added Document Revision History (front matter),
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability
The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety disclosures in this document are
based on Tigo Energy, Inc.’s (“Tigo”) experience and judgment and may not cover all
contingencies. If further information is required, consult a Tigo representative. Sale of the
product shown in this document is subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Tigo’s Limited
Warranty, Terms and Conditions, and any other contractual agreements between Tigo and the
purchaser.
THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS, WARRANTIES,
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY, OTHER THAN THOSE
SPECIFICALLY SET OUT IN ANY EXISTING CONTRACT BETWEEN THE
PARTIES. ANY SUCH CONTRACT STATES THE ENTIRE OBLIGATION OF
TIGO. THE CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT SHALL NOT BECOME PART OF,
OR MODIFY ANY CONTRACT BETWEEN, THE PARTIES.
In no event will Tigo be responsible to the purchaser or user in contract, in tort (including
negligence), strict liability or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, exemplary, reliance
or consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to injury to persons,
damage or loss of use of property, equipment or power systems, loss of profit, cost of capital,
loss of power, additional expenses in the use of existing power facilities, or claims against the
purchaser or user by its customers resulting from the use of the information, recommendations
and descriptions contained herein. The information contained in this document is subject to
change in Tigo’s sole discretion and without notice.
Document Revision History
(p. 18)
removed legacy (pre-PST) transmitter content, added commissioning,
testing, and troubleshooting content and Crosstalk appendix.
©20230922 Tigo Energy Inc. 002-00118-00 4.0
Contents
Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 1
This Manual ............................................................................................................................... 1
Important Safety Instructions ......................................................................................................... 2
PV Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity ................................................................................. 5
Required Practices...................................................................................................................... 5
Install TS4s ................................................................................................................................... 6
Install Transmitters ..................................................................................................................... 10
Install an Enclosure .................................................................................................................. 10
Connect Power Supplies............................................................................................................ 12
Connect a Core ........................................................................................................................ 14
Connect Two Cores ............................................................................................................... 15
Connect Signal Wiring .............................................................................................................. 16
Transmitter Status LEDs ........................................................................................................... 16
Testing and Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................ 17
Measurements Table Preparation ............................................................................................... 17
Unpowered String Measurements – Safety Voltage ..................................................................... 18
Test Safety Voltages ............................................................................................................. 18
Resolve Safety Voltage Errors ................................................................................................ 18
Powered String Measurements .................................................................................................. 19
Measure Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) ........................................................................................ 19
Resolve VOC Errors ................................................................................................................ 20
Test Current Direction ........................................................................................................... 21
Resolve Current Direction Errors............................................................................................. 21
Crosstalk Measurements ........................................................................................................... 22
Test for Crosstalk .................................................................................................................. 22
Resolve Crosstalk Problems ................................................................................................... 24
Resolve Transmitter Errors .................................................................................................... 24
RSS Signal Detection ................................................................................................................ 25
Commissioning Checklist .............................................................................................................. 26
Energize RSS Transmitters ........................................................................................................ 26
De-Energize RSS Transmitters ................................................................................................... 27
Partial Site Shutdown ............................................................................................................... 27
Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 28
Warranty .................................................................................................................................... 28
Support ...................................................................................................................................... 28
Appendix A – Crosstalk ................................................................................................................ 29
What Is Crosstalk? ................................................................................................................... 29
What Causes Crosstalk? ............................................................................................................ 29
Overview
A
A
An important operational note.
Overview
Tigo TS4-A-F/2F MLPE and RSS transmitter components enable a UL-certified and NECcompliant PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) for new and existing PV systems. Upon
shutdown, the components, applicable for residential through large commercial systems, reduce
voltage to 0.6 V per TS4 resulting in a string voltage of less than 30 V.
• A TS4-A-F can control power production from one module while a TS4-A-2F controls two
• The TS4-A-F/2Fs rely on a continuous power-line communication (PLC) keep-alive signal
This Manual
This manual provides instructions for installing, testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning the
following Tigo components of a rapid shutdown system:
modules. They are otherwise identical in function and may be used interchangeably in a
string.
from an RSS transmitter to enable module output. Upon signal loss, module and string
voltages drop to safe levels.
• TS4-A-F
• TS4-A-2F
• RSS transmitter (with PST, part numbers 490-00000-51/52)
These safety symbols may appear in the manual:
hazardous situation which could result in serious injury or loss of life.
hazardous situation which could result in injury or damage to the product.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
LETHAL VOLTAGE MAY BE PRESENT IN ANY PV INSTALLATION
WARNING - THIS PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN EQUIPMENT (PVRSE) DOES NOT
PERFORM ALL OF THE FUNCTIONS OF A COMPLETE PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN
SYSTEM (PVRSS). THIS PVRSE MUST BE INSTALLED WITH OTHER EQUIPMENT TO FORM A
COMPLETE PVRSS THAT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF NEC (NFPA 70) SECTION 690.12 FOR
CONTROLLED CONDUCTORS OUTSIDE THE ARRAY. OTHER EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN OR ON
THIS PV SYSTEM MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE PVRSS. IT IS THE
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSTALLER TO ENSURE THAT THE COMPLETED PV SYSTEM MEETS
THE RAPID SHUTDOWN FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
INSTALLED ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.
• This manual contains important instructions for installation and maintenance of the Tigo
product models TS4-F, TS4-A-F, TS4-A-2F, and the RSS transmitter.
• Risk of electric shock: do not remove cover, disassemble, or repair. There are no user
serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
• Before installing or using the Tigo System, please read all instructions and warning
markings on the Tigo products, appropriate sections of your inverter manual,
photovoltaic (PV) module installation manual, and other available safety guides.
• All equipment shall be installed and operated in an environment within the ratings and
limitations of the equipment as published in the installation manual.
• To reduce risk of fire and shock hazard, install this device with strict adherence to
National Electric Code (NEC) ANSI/NFPA 70 and/or local electrical codes. When the
photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies a DC voltage to the Tigo TS4 units and
the output voltage may be as high as the PV module open circuit voltage (V
) when
OC
connected to the module. The installer should use the same caution when handling
electrical cables from a PV module with or without the TS4 units attached.
• TS4-A-F and TS4-A-2F products are shipped in the OFF position and will measure 0.6V
at the output when the keep-alive signal is not present.
• Installation must be performed by trained professionals only. Tigo does not assume
liability for loss or damage resulting from improper handling, installation, or misuse of
products.
• Remove all metallic jewelry prior to installing the Tigo TS4 units to reduce the risk of
contacting live circuitry. Do not attempt to install in inclement weather.
• Do not operate the Tigo TS4 units if they have been physically damaged. Check existing
cables and connectors, ensuring they are in good condition and appropriate in rating. Do
not operate Tigo TS4 units with damaged or substandard wiring or connectors. Tigo TS4
units must be mounted on the high end of the PV module backsheet or racking system,
and in any case above ground.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Do not connect or disconnect under load. Turning off the inverter and/or the Tigo
products may not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors within the inverter can remain
charged for several minutes after disconnecting all power sources. Verify capacitors
have discharged by measuring voltage across inverter terminals prior to disconnecting
wiring if service is required. Wait 30 seconds after rapid shutdown activation before
disconnecting DC cables or turning off DC disconnect.
• Connectors from different manufacturers cannot be mated with each other.
• The transmitter control power supply MUST be on the same AC branch circuit as the
inverter to meet rapid shutdown requirements.
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES
UNE TENSION MORTELLE PEUT ÊTRE PRÉSENTE
CONSERVEZ CES INSTRUCTIONS
DANS TOUTE INSTALLATION PV
AVERTISSEMENT - CET ÉQUIPEMENT D'ARRÊT RAPIDE PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE (PVRSE) N'EXÉCUTE PAS
TOUTES LES FONCTIONS D'UN SYSTÈME D'ARRÊT RAPIDE PHOTOVOLTAÏQUE COMPLET (PVRSS). CE
PVRSE DOIT ÊTRE INSTALLÉ AVEC D'AUTRES ÉQUIPEMENTS POUR FORMER UN PVRSS COMPLET QUI
RÉPOND AUX EXIGENCES DE LA SECTION 690.12 DE NEC (NFPA 70) POUR LES CONDUCTEURS
CONTRÔLÉS EN DEHORS DU SYSTÈME. D'AUTRES ÉQUIPEMENTS INSTALLÉS DANS OU SUR CE
SYSTÈME PV PEUVENT AFFECTER LE FONCTIONNEMENT DU PVRSS. IL EST DE LA RESPONSABILITÉ
DE L'INSTALLATEUR DE S'ASSURER QUE LE SYSTÈME PV TERMINÉ RÉPOND AUX EXIGENCES
FONCTIONNELLES D'ARRÊT RAPIDE. CET ÉQUIPEMENT DOIT ÊTRE INSTALLÉ SELON LES
INSTRUCTIONS D'INSTALLATION DU FABRICANT.
• Ce manuel contient des instructions importantes pour l'installation et la maintenance des
modèles de produits Tigo TS4-F, TS4-A-F, TS4-A-2F et du transmetteur RSS.
• Risque de choc électrique, ne retirez pas le couvercle, ne démontez pas et ne réparez pas,
aucune pièce réparable par l'utilisateur à l'intérieur. Confiez l'entretien à du personnel
d'entretien qualifié.
• Avant d'installer ou d'utiliser le système Tigo, veuillez lire toutes les instructions et les
avertissements sur les produits Tigo, les sections appropriées du manuel de votre onduleur, le
manuel d'installation du module photovoltaïque (PV) et les autres guides de sécurité
disponibles.
• Tout l'équipement doit être installé et utilisé dans un environnement respectant les valeurs
nominales et les limites de l'équipement telles que publiées dans le manuel d'installation.
• Pour réduire les risques d'incendie et d'électrocution, installez cet appareil en respectant
strictement le Code national de l'électricité (NEC) ANSI/NFPA 70 et/ou les codes électriques
locaux. Lorsque le générateur photovoltaïque est exposé à la lumière, il fournit une tension
continue aux unités Tigo TS4 et la tension de sortie peut être aussi élevée que la tension de
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
circuit ouvert (VOC) du module PV lorsqu'il est connecté au module. L'installateur doit faire
preuve de la même prudence lors de la manipulation des câbles électriques d'un module PV
avec ou sans les unités TS4 attachées.
• TS4-A-F et TS4-A-2F sont expédiés en position OFF et mesureront 0,6 V à la sortie lorsque le
signal d'entretien n'est pas présent.
• L'installation doit être effectuée uniquement par des professionnels qualifiés. Tigo n'assume
aucune responsabilité pour les pertes ou dommages résultant d'une mauvaise manipulation,
installation ou mauvaise utilisation des produits.
• Retirez tous les bijoux métalliques avant d'installer les unités Tigo TS4 pour réduire le risque de
contact avec les circuits sous tension. N'essayez pas d'installer par mauvais temps.
• N'utilisez pas les unités Tigo TS4 si elles ont été physiquement endommagées. Vérifiez les
câbles et les connecteurs existants, en vous assurant qu'ils sont en bon état et qu'ils sont
appropriés. Ne faites pas fonctionner les unités Tigo TS4 avec un câblage ou des connecteurs
endommagés ou de qualité inférieure. Les unités Tigo TS4 doivent être montées sur l'extrémité
supérieure de la feuille de fond du module PV ou du système de rayonnage, et dans tous les
cas au-dessus du sol.
• Ne pas connecter ou déconnecter sous charge. L'arrêt de l'onduleur et/ou des produits Tigo
peut ne pas réduire ce risque. Les condensateurs internes de l'onduleur peuvent rester chargés
pendant plusieurs minutes après avoir déconnecté toutes les sources d'alimentation. Vérifiez
que les condensateurs se sont déchargés en mesurant la tension aux bornes de l'onduleur
avant de déconnecter le câblage si un entretien est nécessaire. Attendez 30 secondes après
l'activation de l'arrêt rapide avant de débrancher les câbles CC ou de désactiver la déconnexion
CC.
• Les connecteurs homologues de différents fabricants ne peuvent pas être accouplés les uns aux
autres.
• L'alimentation de commande de l'émetteur DOIT être sur le même circuit de dérivation CA que
l'onduleur pour répondre aux exigences d'arrêt rapide.
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PV Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity
Tigo RSS transmitters must be installed in accordance with the following
required practices.
system failure causing equipment
PV Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity
Tigo RSS transmitters use power-line communications (PLC) over PV conductors to
communicate with TS4-A-F/2Fs. Electromagnetic interference (crosstalk) from improper PV
conductor layouts can compromise RSS signal integrity and result in TS4-A-F/2Fs being turned
off or on inappropriately.
Required Practices
To maintain RSS signal strength and integrity:
• Limit the round-trip (positive-to-negative) length of a PV conductor to 300 m (985 ft.).
Runs up to 500 m (1640 ft.) may be possible using two cores – contact Tigo
Engineering.
• Do not cross current-carrying conductors over any PV conductor used in the RSS.
• Run all conductors that use the same transmitter together in one conduit.
• Maintain at least 20 cm (8 in.) between conductors that use different transmitters.
• Keep individual +/– conductors within 25 mm (1 in.) of one another except when the
negative conductor passes through a core.
Failure to apply required practices may result in
and infrastructure damage.
Sales
• Use separate cable trays for conductors using different transmitters with a minimum 20
cm (8 in.) spacing between trays. Open cable trays do not protect signals from crosstalk.
• Trim excess home run conductors such as spools or piles of cable to avoid crosstalk.
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Install TS4s
• Do not install TS4s if they have been physically damaged or with damaged or
•
•
Install TS4s
TS4-A-F and TS4-A-2F devices have identical functionality, however the TS4-A-F controls one
solar module while TS4-A-2F controls two modules. Each module in a string must have its own
TS4-A-F or share a TS4-A-2F with another module. You may connect a TS4-A-2F to a single
module if needed by connecting the unused second set of input cables.
substandard wiring or connectors.
Do not connect or disconnect TS4s under load.
Do not apply an external voltage source to a module/string equipped with TS4s.
TS4s mount directly onto module frames with spring clips. If using frameless modules, remove
the clips and bolt the TS4 directly to the PV rail with M8 bolts and torque to 10.2 Nm.
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Install TS4s
You must connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the
connecting to neighboring TS4s. Failure to do
To install a TS4-A-F:
1. Attach the TS4 to the top portion of the solar module frame with the cable glands facing
down. The TS4 and its cables, cable glands (where the cable enters the TS4), and
connectors must not touch the roof surface.
• If frame thickness is ≤35 mm (1.4 in.), install the TS4 with the label facing the
solar module.
• For adequate ventilation, no portion of the TS4 may be ≤12.7 mm (.5 in.) from
the solar module substrate.
• Check solar module instructions for restrictions on mounting devices under the
module.
2. Connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the solar module.
so can damage the TS4 units.
solar modules before
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Install TS4s
You must connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the
connec
To install a TS4-A-2F:
3. Connect the longer set of TS4 output cables to the neighboring TS4 to create a string.
1. Attach a TS4-A-2F to the top of a solar module frame with the cable glands facing down.
The TS4 and its cables, cable glands, and connectors must not touch a roof surface.
• If frame thickness is ≤35 mm (1.4 in.), install the TS4 with the label facing the
solar module.
• No portion of the TS4 may be ≤12.7 mm (.5 in.) from the module substrate.
• Check solar module instructions for restrictions on mounting devices under the
module.
2. Connect the shorter TS4 input leads to two solar modules.
solar modules before
ting to neighboring TS4s. Failure to do so can damage the TS4 units.
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Install TS4s
Always assume that TS4 units are in an ON state.
3. Connect the longer set of TS4 output cables to the next TS4-A-2F in the string.
4. If connecting a TS4-A-2F to a single solar module, connect the unused second set of
input cables.
To disconnect a TS4:
• Activate rapid shutdown by turning off the RSS transmitter and inverter or by using the
designated PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) initiator.
• Wait 30 seconds after a rapid shutdown activation before disconnecting DC cables.
• Disconnect individual TS4 cables to a string before disconnecting the TS4 input cables
from the solar module junction box.
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Install Transmitters
1. Core 1 terminals
Install Transmitters
An RSS transmitter:
2. Signal status LEDs
3. Core 2 terminals
4. IN Rx/COM receive terminals
5. OUT Tx/COM transmit
terminals
6. Power (– and +12 V)
terminals
To install one or more RSS transmitters, you will:
Install an Enclosure
Transmitters are NEMA 1 (indoor) rated and require an enclosure with a 35 mm DIN rail and 12
V power supply. Tigo kits include NEMA 4-rated enclosures, transmitters, and power supplies.
After installing TS4s and transmitters, place an RSS label within 1 m (3 ft.) of the RSS initiator
(Refer to NEC 690.12(C)).
• Install an Enclosure (optional)
• Connect a Power Supply
• Connect a Core
• Connect Signal Wiring
• Transmitter power supplies must be installed on the same AC branch circuit as the
inverter.
• Multiple-transmitter systems will require conduit for signal conductors between
transmitters.
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Install Transmitters
If installing a Tigo enclosure, use the diagrams below for locating conduit openings.
For 21 mm (0.75 in.) conduit:
For 27 mm (1 in.) conduit:
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Install Transmitters
All transmitters in a group should be energized and de-energized at the same
time. One way to do
transmitter
Connect Power Supplies
You may use one standard, 100-240 V 12 V/1 A power supply per transmitter or connect one
commercial, 180-550 V/10 A power supply to up to ten transmitters with parallel connections.
To connect a standard 100-240 V 12 V/1 A power supply to a transmitter:
1. Turn off all AC power sources.
2. Connect a ground wire to the power supply V– output terminal.
Tigo power supplies include a DIN rail ground.
3. Connect AC conductors.
4. Use ferruled leads to connect 12 V output to the transmitter PWR terminals.
this is to install a single AC breaker that powers all the
group power supplies.
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Install Transmitters
Ensure
commercial power supplies reliably output
recommended. Do not use a 24
To connect a commercial 180-550 V /10 A power supply to a transmitter:
1. Turn off all AC power sources.
2. Connect ground, L2, and L1 AC conductors.
The power supply cover is metal and grounds via the DIN rail.
3. Use ferruled leads to connect 12 V output to the transmitter PWR terminals.
4. If connecting multiple transmitters, use parallel connections between all PWR terminals.
standard power supplies reliably output 12 V (±2%) 1 A current and
12 V (±2%) 10 A current. Fusing is
V power supply designed for the Tigo CCA.
Tigo power supplies meet ride-through interconnection requirements such as California’s
Electric Rule 21.
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Install Transmitters
Do not modify or extend
To PV array
To inverter
Connect a Core
You may connect one or two cores to a single transmitter. To connect a core to the transmitter:
1. Insert the core wire with a white ferrule into the transmitter white
Torque to 0.5 Nm.
2. Insert the core wire with the black ferrule into the black terminal. Torque to 0.5 Nm.
3. Repeat the procedure at the
Core 2
the wires between a transmitter and its core.
output for two-core applications.
Core 1
terminal.
To route PV conductors:
1. Route PV conductors into the enclosure.
Ensure PV conductors are installed in accordance with required practices listed in the
Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity section of this manual.
2. Pass up to ten negative conductors through a transmitter core.
PV
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Install Transmitters
PV array
Core
Inverter
To PV array
To inverter
The black side of the core must face the PV array.
Connect Two Cores
Two cores may be used in series to amplify the signal from a single transmitter. This may be
appropriate with home run strings between 300 m (1000 ft.) and 500 m (1650 ft.), if
conductors have a large outside diameter (cannot fit 10 conductors in a single core), and in
other special cases. Contact Tigo Sales Engineering
for more information.
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Install Transmitters
Leader
Follower #1
Follower #2
Follower #9
Check that signal (
Connect Signal Wiring
To connect signal wiring between multiple transmitters in a group, use 14 – 22 AWG wire.
Torque all terminals to 0.4 Nm.
The first transmitter in a group is the “leader.” Subsequent transmitters are “followers.”
To connect signal wiring between multiple transmitters:
1. Turn off all AC power sources.
2. Connect the leader
The leader
3. Connect the leader
4. Connect the follower
5. Connect the follower
6. Repeat the connections as needed.
The last follower
IN
OUT Tx
terminals should always be unconnected.
OUT COM
OUT
terminal to the follower
terminal to the follower #1
OUT Tx
OUT COM
terminals should always be unconnected.
terminal to the next follower
terminal to the next follower
IN Rx
terminal.
IN COM
IN Rx
terminal.
IN COM
terminal.
terminal.
Transmitter Status LEDs
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Tx/Rx
) wires never connect to
If connected correctly:
• The leader transmitter displays a continuous red LED and a blinking green LED.
• Follower transmitter LEDs blink green simultaneously with no red.
COM
terminals.
Testing and Troubleshooting
Testing and Troubleshooting
Properly commissioning and optimizing site performance requires thorough, systematic testing.
This section includes:
• Measurements Table Preparation
• Unpowered String Measurements – Safety Voltage
• Powered String Measurements
• Crosstalk Measurements
• RSS Signal Detection
Measurements Table Preparation
Prepare a table for recording all test measurements similar to the following:
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Testing and Troubleshooting
Unpowered String Measurements – Safety Voltage
A TS4-A-F/2F connected to one or two solar modules produces 0.6 V when there are no keepalive signals. This is referred to as a safety voltage because a string will never exceed 30 V,
which is safe for humans. The expected safety voltage of a string of TS4s is:
<number of TS4-A-F/2Fs in the string> x 0.6 V
Test Safety Voltages
Before testing, make sure each inverter, MPPT, and physical string is properly labeled to match
their “As Built” plan numbers.
To test a string’s safety voltage:
1. Power-off all transmitters using PLC.
Programmatically disable any SMA transmitters per the SMA instruction manual.
2. Switch off each inverter’s AC and DC sides.
3. Open or remove the fuse used for each string input to the inverter.
If the inverter has no fuses, disconnect each string from the MPPT inputs for direct
measurement.
4. Record
measurements table.
5. Measure and record
6. Compare the recorded safety voltage to the expected safety voltage.
The string’s actual voltage should be within 1% of the expected safety voltage. If not,
mark the table’s
the inverter #, MPPT #, string #, and expected safety voltage in the
the string’s actual safety voltage in the measurements table.
Error?
column.
Resolve Safety Voltage Errors
Resolve all errors marked in the table before proceeding to powered string measurements.
If the measured safety voltage doesn’t match the expected voltage, make sure that:
• If the measured safety voltage is 0 V, the string’s fuse is open: the TS4s must be
unloaded to produce 0.6 V. Make sure all fuses of adjacent strings in the MPPT are
open.
• All TS4 input cables are connected to solar modules and not strings.
• If using a TS4-A-2F with a single solar module, input #1 cables are connected to the
module and input #2 cables are connected to each other.
• TS4 output cables are properly connected to each other.
• The string is properly crimped and connected to the first and last TS4s.
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Testing and Troubleshooting
Resolve all unpowered string issues before powering up the rapid shutdown system and
performing powered measurements. Powering on
damage equipment and invalidate MLPE and inverter warranties.
If the measured safety voltage exceeds the expected voltage:
• Make sure that all fuses in the MPPT are open to ensure that various string safety
voltages are not connected in parallel with each other.
• If the safety voltage is >30 V, make sure that a solar module is not connected directly
to a string without using a TS4.
Powered String Measurements
For powered string measurements, use a voltmeter rated for 1,000 V for commercial rooftop
installations and a 1,500 V rating for commercial ground mount installations.
Measure Open Circuit Voltage (VOC)
Use VOC measurements to check for reasonable operation. Irradiance and temperature greatly
affect results. Measuring the V
testing will be more accurate than using the module’s V
average module V
from a string of modules is also useful.
OC
OC
a miswired or defective system may
of a solar module disconnected from a TS4 at the time of
rating from a datasheet. Taking the
OC
The expected V
of a string is:
OC
<number of modules in the string> x <single module’s V
To setup V
measurement:
OC
1. Open all string fuses of all MPPTs for all inverters.
If there are no fuses, ensure all strings are labeled and disconnect them from all
inverters.
2. Turn on the DC side of an inverter.
3. Turn on the inverter’s RSS transmitter(s) by activating the AC initiator or by turning on
the AC side of the inverter.
Inverters will not draw current from an MPPT for the first few minutes after initiating
operation.
4. If the inverter begins power production, restart the inverter’s AC side until all V
measurements are complete.
The open circuit string voltage (V
producing power.
measurement or rating>
OC
OC
) can be measured only before the inverter starts
OC
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Testing and Troubleshooting
To measure string VOC:
1. If fused, close one string fuse per MPPT and measure the string V
on the fuse terminal
OC
block.
If non-fused, connect a Y-branch connector to the MPPT and measure the string V
the unoccupied Y-branch input.
Measure voltage with the negative voltmeter probe attached to the negative string
terminal to check polarity.
2. Record the inverter #, MPPT #, string #, solar module count, and measured V
Note whether the V
is negative or positive.
OC
OC
3. Turn off the AC side of the inverter to restart the power production delay.
4. Open the fuse that was closed and then close the next string fuse in the MPPT.
5. Turn on the AC side of the inverter.
6. Repeat this process until all inverter strings are measured and recorded.
7. Turn off the AC side of the inverter and repeat the process with the remaining inverters.
To determine problematic V
1. Check for negative V
measurements:
OC
measurements and mark them as errors.
OC
2. For each inverter, compare the measurements of strings that have the same number of
solar modules.
.
OC
at
If strings have different solar module counts, determine the V
per module and multiply
OC
that by the typical number of solar module counts.
3. Taking into account different temperature and light conditions when the strings were
measured, identify strings that have significantly different measurements and mark
them as errors.
Examining one inverter at a time limits time and temperature differences between string
V
measurements.
OC
Resolve VOC Errors
1. If V
is 0 V, make sure the fuse has not blown and is closed.
OC
2. If the VOC measurement is negative, cut the connectors off the home run and recrimp with the opposite polarity.
3. If the VOC is higher than expected:
• Make sure all other strings connected to the MPPT have open fuses or are
disconnected so that a string’s VOC is isolated from parallel strings.
• Physically count the solar modules in the string and verify they match the As
Built plan. Update the plan if needed.
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Testing and Troubleshooting
Measure and resolve all
polarity must be correct before measuring
4. If V
is lower than expected:
OC
1. Check for proper TS4-to-module connections.
2. If using a TS4-A-2F with a single solar module, ensure input #1 cables are
connected to the module and input #2 cables are connected to each other.
3. Test and replace each TS4 as needed.
Improperly connected TS4s that have been powered on may be damaged. Refer to
the Help Center Testing Methods for Tigo Flex MLPE Systems
article for details.
Test Current Direction
VOC errors before proceeding with current measurements. VOC
current direction.
Test if all strings have the same current polarity. Reversed current may indicate improper
wiring, damaged TS4s, mismatched solar modules, poor RSS signal strength, crosstalk, etc.
To test current direction:
1. Turn off the inverter’s AC and DC sides and power-off any transmitters using PLC.
2. Close all string fuses.
3. Switch on the AC and DC sides to the inverter and power-up the transmitter.
4. Wait for the inverter to start producing power.
5. Clamp an amp/current meter on a positive home run string with the display facing away
from the inverter.
Make sure the current meter is clamped consistently with the same orientation for each
string.
6. Measure and record the measured current in the measurement table.
Note if the current is positive or negative.
7. When all measurements are complete, switch off the AC and DC sides of the inverter.
Measurements should all be similar in polarity and magnitude. If 5 strings show 10 A and one
shows 5 A, mark this as an error. If a string shows a negative current, mark this as a current
polarity error.
Resolve Current Direction Errors
1. Ensure only one RSS transmitter is producing an RSS signal by turning off all other
transmitters.
If this remedies the problem, make sure positive and negative string conductors are within
2.54 cm (1 in.) of each other. A home run conductor must be adjacent TS4 output cables as
they are daisy-chained together.
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Testing and Troubleshooting
2. Using a handheld temperature gun, measure the temperature of a TS4 that is close to a
nearby string that does not have
3.
4. Using this temperature as a baseline, measure the temperature of each TS4 in the string
with reverse current.
5. Replace any TS4s that have a significantly higher temperature.
reverse current.
6. Using the RSS Signal Detector
If absent:
• Make sure the transmitter voltage is 12 V.
• Check the polarity of the cores.
• If the home run length is greater than 300 m and less than 500 m, use two cores.
• Make sure positive and negative string conductors are within 2.54 cm (1 in.) of each
other. A home run conductor must be adjacent TS4 output cables as they are daisychained together.
Crosstalk Measurements
Crosstalk can interfere with the keep-alive signals received by a TS4-A-F/2F. Crosstalk should
always be addressed to minimize the risk of substantial power loss, especially if one or more
transmitters on an installation aren’t synchronized with the others. For more information about
this kind of interference, refer to Appendix A – Crosstalk
The effects of crosstalk will differ throughout various times of the day. If inverter monitoring
shows abrupt power fluctuations, this is likely a symptom of crosstalk.
You may test for crosstalk in parallel with V
, check for a signal at each TS4.
.
tests.
OC
Test for Crosstalk
To test for crosstalk with transmitters directly powered by the inverter:
1. Power-off all RSS transmitters, close all DC fuses (if used), and turn on the DC side of all
inverters.
This will power-off all RSS transmitters. In the absence of crosstalk, TS4s will produce a
safety voltage that is shorted out to 0 V by the inverter.
2. Power-on one of the RSS transmitters.
3. Check the MPPT voltage (either V
verify proper operation.
It can take several minutes before an inverter scans the MPPT and begins producing
power.
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 22
or VMP) for strings that should have an RSS signal to
OC
Testing and Troubleshooting
4. To speed up the process, check the inverter’s power production.
• If it is 0 kW, move to the next inverter.
• If it is >0 kW, look for the MPPTs producing power and then narrow the search
to individual string power production by measuring V
Time must be given for inverters to scan their MPPTs. It’s preferable to do this test
when the solar panels can produce enough current for the inverter to produce power.
5. Measure the voltage of each MPPT in inverters with unpowered transmitters.
If there is a measurable voltage, mark the source and destination inverter #s and MPPT
#s as experiencing crosstalk in the error column of the measurement table.
6. Switch off the AC side of the inverter along with its RSS transmitter and then switch on
the AC side of the next inverter in the sequence along with its associated RSS
transmitter.
Make sure that only one inverter has the AC side and transmitter on at a time.
7. Repeat the process until all strings are tested.
MP
.
To test for crosstalk with transmitters powered independently of the inverter:
1. Turn on the AC side of all site inverters, close all DC fuses (if used), and turn on the DC
side of all inverters.
2. Turn on a single transmitter for the first inverter.
3. Check the MPPT voltages (either Voc or V
) for strings that should have an RSS signal
MP
to verify proper operation.
4. It can take several minutes before an inverter scans the MPPT and begins producing
power.
5. Measure the voltage of each MPPT in inverters with unpowered transmitters.
If there is a measurable voltage, record the source and destination inverter #s, MPPT #
as crosstalk in the error column of the measurement table. This can be done via a power
production display, access point, or cloud-based website.
6. To speed up the process, check the power production of the inverter.
If it is 0 kW, move to the next inverter. If it is >0 kW, look for the MPPTs producing
power and then string power production.
Note that time must be given for inverters to scan their MPPTs. It is preferable to do this
test when the solar modules can produce enough current for the inverter to produce
power.
It is also possible for crosstalk from transmitter A to affect inverter B while transmitter B
may not affect inverter A.
7. Power off the RSS transmitter and power up the next RSS transmitter in the sequence.
Make sure only one transmitter is powered at time.
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Testing and Troubleshooting
8. Repeat the process until all strings are tested.
Resolve Crosstalk Problems
1. Check that all RSS transmitter cores:
• Have only the negative home run conductor passing through them.
• Are properly aligned with the white side facing the inverter and the black side facing
the array.
• Have correct wire polarity with the white wire connecting to the white terminal.
2. Check that strings:
• <300 m long have only one transmitter core driving them.
• >300 m and <500 m long have two properly aligned cores.
• No strings are longer than 500m.
3. Adjust the geometry of each string so that:
• Positive and negative home run conductors are always within 2.54 cm (1in.) of each
other. A home run conductor must be adjacent TS4 output cables as they are daisychained together.
• Home run conductors do not form a large loop.
• Conduits do not contain home runs from different transmitters.
• Conductors powered by different transmitters are at least 200 mm (8 in). apart.
• Excess home run wire is trimmed and not spooled or wound up into a pile.
4. If transmitter A is causing inverter B to produce power, reduce the input voltage of
transmitter A. If the crosstalk disappears on inverter B, double check the signal strength
of every TS4 associated with inverter A to make sure there are no issues with signal
strength.
Resolve Transmitter Errors
RSS transmitters use Tigo Pure Signal™ technology to mitigate crosstalk by synchronizing RSS
signals in a fashion that enhances signal strength.
Carefully check that all transmitters are connected correctly according to the
Wiring section in this manual. If problems persist, visit the Tigo Help Center.
Connect Signal
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 24
Testing and Troubleshooting
RSS Signal Detection
You can check the strength of RSS keep-alive signals with the Tigo RSS Signal Detector (Tigo
Part #400-00900-00) that senses an RSS signal on a home run, at a transmitter core, or at a
TS4.
To check for an RSS signal:
1. Turn on the detector.
2. Place the detector sensor area within 5 cm (2 in.) of a TS4.
• If the detector senses a keep-alive signal at the TS4, the LED will change from blue
to yellow and emit an audible alert.
• If it detects no signal, the LED will remain blue and there will be no sound.
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 25
Commissioning Checklist
All transmitters in a group should be energized and de-energized at the same
time. One way to do this is to install a single AC breaker that powers all the
transmitter group power supplies.
Commissioning Checklist
Before energizing a transmitter group, first ensure all of the following conditions are met:
• All solar modules are connected to a TS4-A-F/2F.
• The black sides of all RSS cores face the PV array.
• Only negative conductors run through an RSS core.
• PV conductor home run length is ≤300 m (985 ft.) with one core or between 300 m
(985 ft.) and 500 m (1650 ft.) using two cores.
• Signal wires between multiple transmitters are between
transmitter and connections are secure.
• Power supplies are wired correctly.
• All conduit attachments are secure.
• Measured string safety voltage should be 0.6V x the number of TS4-A-F/2Fs in the string
±1% the total expected string safety voltage. If any string has greater or less than
expected safety voltage, de-energize the system and correct the issue before continuing.
OUT
and IN terminals on each
• The PVRSS label is within 914 mm (3 ft.) of the Tigo E-Stop switch or other rapid
shutdown initiation device.
• There is a common system wide actuator/switch that turns off all inverters and all
transmitters simultaneously.
• Any built-in inverter PLC transmitters that are not used by the Tigo RSS system must be
disabled.
Energize RSS Transmitters
For each transmitter group:
1. Turn on AC power to all transmitters and/or inverters in the group.
2. Verify transmitter LEDs:
• The leader transmitter displays a continuous red LED and a blinking green LED.
• Follower transmitter LEDs blink green simultaneously with no red.
3. Close all DC string fuses (if equipped).
4. Close all AC switches for inverters in the group.
5. Close all DC switches on inverters in the group.
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Commissioning Checklist
De-Energize RSS Transmitters
For each transmitter group:
1. Turn off the AC breaker to transmitters and/or inverters in the group.
2. Turn off AC switches on each inverter in the group.
3. Wait at least 30 seconds for the inverters to discharge.
4. Open all DC switches on inverters in the group.
5. Open all DC string fuses (if equipped).
Partial Site Shutdown
To temporarily shut down a portion of a site for testing or maintenance:
1. Turn off all associated RSS transmitters.
2. Turn off the AC and DC sides of all inverters to be shut down.
3. Wait at least 30 sec.
4. Open all string fuses, if equipped, for all MPPTs of all affected inverters.
5. If no fuses exist, disconnect the negative MPPT input for each string of every affected
inverter.
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 27
Specifications
Australia
+61 413 251-081
China
+86 512 6587-4600
Europe WhatsApp
(English, Italian, Spanish)
+39 342 67 92 285
Japan
+81 3 4567-6199
Middle East WhatsApp
(English, Hebrew)
+972 50 687-8618
North America
+1 480 402-0802 ext. 4
South America
+55 21-991045050
Taiwan
+866 919 743-749
Specifications
Download comprehensive specifications for all Tigo products from the Tigoenergy.com
Downloads (www.tigoenergy.com/downloads
Warranty
Download comprehensive warranty information from the Tigoenergy.com Downloads
(www.tigoenergy.com/downloads) page. Con
Support
If you have any questions about installing Tigo products, please contact a Tigo sales
engineering team:
) page.
If an issue persists after following the troubleshooting steps listed in this manual, visit the
Help Center. If you open a support ticket, include the following information:
• A summary of tests you’ve performed
• System name or ID, owner, address, and installer
• Serial number(s) of the affected MLPE/transmitters.
• Number of strings per inverter MPPT
• Number of modules per string
• Length of each string from the positive to the negative home run at the inverter
• If available, inverter production, current, and voltage graphs
If a TS4 or transmitter appears damaged, please take pictures of the unit showing damage and
a legible serial number.
Tigo
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 28
Appendix A – Crosstalk
Appendix A – Crosstalk
What Is Crosstalk?
Crosstalk is a phenomenon that involves the unwanted transfer of signals between cables or
wires. Crosstalk can cause issues in any PV system that uses power-line communication (PLC).
TS4s rely on the absence of keep-alive signals sent by an RSS transmitter via PLC to initiate a
rapid shutdown response. If the RSS signal is compromised by crosstalk, power production will
be affected when certain TS4s miss the keep-alive signal and stop producing power. Or, a TS4
that should be shut off may be turned on by crosstalk.
What Causes Crosstalk?
Electrical signals that pass through wires, junctions, or hardware generate electromagnetic
fields. These fields can create and/or are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from
other signal-emitting sources. This type of interference can either amplify or nullify an RSS
signal.
If crosstalk is present, it will come and go at various times during power production. The
chances of crosstalk increase with the number of installed RSS transmitters at a solar
installation.
There are three different kinds of crosstalk:
• Inductive – Separate, competing home runs are very close to each other and their
respective magnetic fields induce a current in the adjacent home run. The length of the
home run affects the crosstalk exposure. Two home runs spaced 3 cm apart for 1 m
have far less effect than the same home runs running for 100 m with 3 cm spacing.
• Capacitive – Separate home runs are farther away from each other, and their respective
electric fields induce a changing voltage in their adjacent home run. This is generally not
as significant as inductive crosstalk.
• Radio frequency (RF) – If a string’s home run forms a large loop, it becomes an effective
transmitting and receiving antenna. This can cause crosstalk over larger distances. This
kind of crosstalk is significant, yet it is also the easiest to mitigate.
TS4-A-F/2F with RSS Transmitters Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 29
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