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GT 3.3
Owners Manual
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Xantrex GT 3.3 Owners Manual

Grid Tie Solar Inverter
Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter
GT2.5-NA GT3.0-NA GT3.3-NA
Owner’s Manual
Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter
Owner’s Manual
About Xantrex
Trademarks
Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex and Xanbus are registered trademarks of Xantrex International.
Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and product names are the property of their respective owners and are used herein for identification purposes only.
Notice of Copyright
Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter Owner’s Manual © October 2005 Xantrex International. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”) (a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY
TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION. (b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT,
INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Date and Revision
October 2005 Revision C
Part Number
975-0245-01-01
Contact Information
Telephone: 1 800 670 0707 (toll free North America)
1 360 925 5097 (direct) Fax: 1 360 925 5143 (direct) Email: customerservice@xantrex.com Web: www.xantrex.com

About This Manual

The purpose of this Owner’s Manual is to provide expl anations and procedures for installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Xantrex Grid T ie Solar Inverter™.

Scope

The manual provides safety guidelin es, detailed planning and setup informatio n. It provides procedures for installing the inverter and information about operating and troubleshooting the unit. It does not provide details about particular brands of photovoltaic (PV) panels. You need to consult individual PV manufacturers for this information.

Audience

The manual is intended for anyone who needs to install and operate the GT Inverter. Installers should be fully educated on the hazards of installing electrical equipment. Certified electricians or technicians are recommended.

Organization

This manual is organized into 6 chapters and an appendix. Chapter 1, “Introduction”, contains information about the features and functions
of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter. Chapter 2, “Installation”, provides information about planning for and installing
the GT Inverter. It contains information to help you plan wire routes, AC and DC connections, and find a suitable location for installation. It also discusses requirements for grounding the GT Inverter and your PVarray.
Chapter 3, “Wiring the Inverter”, provides procedures for making DC and AC wiring connections, and grounding the GT Inverter and the PV array. Instructions for wiring multiple inverters are also provided.
Chapter 4, “Starting the Inverter”, contains information on starting up the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter and performing a Functional Test.
Chapter 5, “Monitoring the Inverter”, contains information for understanding the LCD screens and the LED indicators.
Chapter 6, “Maintenance and Troubleshooting”, contains information about how to provide general maintenance for the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter. It also provides information about troubleshooting the unit.
Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains information about the electrical and environmental specifications of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
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About This Manual

Conventions Used

The following conventions are used in this guide.
WARNING
Warnings identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.
CAUTION
Cautions identify conditions or practices that could result in damage to the unit or other equipment.
Important:
serious as a caution or warning.
These notes describe things which are important for you to know, but not as

Abbreviations and Acronyms

AC Alternating Current CEC California Energy Commission CSA Canadian Standards Association DC Direct Current GT Grid Tie GUI Graphical User Interface LCD Liquid Crystal Display LED Light Emitting Diode MPPT Maximum Power Point Tracking NEC US National Electrical Code NFPA-70 PC Personal Computer PV Photovoltaic PVGFP PV Ground Fault Protection PWM Pulse Width Modu lation STC Standard Test Condition UL Underwriters Laboratories Vac Volts AC Vdc Volts DC V
MP
V
OC
iv 975-0245-01-01
Voltage at Maximum Power Open Circuit Voltage

Related Information

You can find more information about Xantrex Technology Inc. as well as its products and services at www.xantrex.com.
About This Manual
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vi

Important Safety Instructions

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS—This manual contains important instructions that shall be followed during the installation and maintenance of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
1. Before installing and using the GT Inverter, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the inverter, wiring box, and all appropriate sections of this guide.
2. To reduce risk of fire hazard, do not cover or obstruct the heat sink.
3. Observe the clearance recommendations as described on page 2–18. Do not install the G T In verter in a zero-clearance or non-ventilated compartment. Overheating may result.
4. Use only accessories recommended or sold by the manufacturer. Doing otherwise may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
5. To avoid a risk of fire and electric shock, make sure that existing wiring is in good condition and that wire is not undersized. Do not operate the GT Inverter with damaged or substandard wiring.
6. Do not operate the G T Inverter if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. If the GT Inverter is damaged, see the Warranty section.
7. Do not disassemble the G T Inverter. It contains no user -serviceable parts. See Warranty for instructions on obtaining service. Attempting to service the GT Inverter yourself may result in a risk of electrical shock or fire and will void the factory warranty.
8. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, disconnect both AC and DC power from the GT Inverter before attempting any maintenance or cleaning or working on any circuits connected to the inverter. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors remain charged for 5 minutes after disconnecting all sources of power.
9. The GT Inverter must be connected to an equipment-groun din g conductor directly or via the AC ground.
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Safety

Regulatory Compliance

The GT Inverter has complete on-board over-current, over-temperature and anti-islanding protection, and meets U.S., Canadian and international safety operating standards and code requirements:
• UL 1741 1st Edition – Standard for Inverters, Converters, and Controllers for Use in Independent Power Systems
• CSA C22.2 No. 107.1-01 General Use Power Supplies
• IEEE C62.41 Recommended Practice on Surge Voltages in Low-Voltage AC Power Circuits (Location Category B3).
To locate the firmware version number
The firmware version number for the protection processor is visible on a screen that appears when the unit starts up or is powered up after switching the DC/AC Disconnect switch to “on.” The screen reads:
Flash = 01.01
ROM = 01.01
The number appearing after “ROM” is the firmware version number for the protection processor.

FCC Information to the User

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
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Safety

Verification and Commissioning Test

Purpose
This procedure is designed to verify correct operation of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter both on initial operation and periodically through its life as required by the utilities.
Commissioning Test
Follow the startup and monitoring procedures as documented in Chapters 4 and 5. When operation of the inverter has been verified and the unit is producing power, run the disconnect test as
described in this section.
Verification Test
Periodically run the disconnect test. The inverter must respond within the 2-second limit for compliance and then hold off on producing power for the required delay (default value of 5 minutes).
Disconnect Test
This test requires that the AC circuit for the inverter be switched off. This can be accomplished by switching the breaker on the main panel that feeds the inverter(s). As an alternate, the disconnect for the home or business may be used as well. Have someone watch the front panel of the inverter. Within 2 seconds of switching the breaker, the green light on the front of the inverter must go out. The display will respond with an AC Fault display, indicating that the AC is out of the operating range.
Re-energize the breaker to the inverter. The unit will respond by beginning its countdown. The green light will be off during this time. Five minutes after applying AC (default value), the green light will turn on and the inverter will begin to push power to the grid. The display will then return to its on-line display showing the power being produced along with the total kWh p r oduced to date.
Note: The default voltage, frequency and reconnect delay values as defined by UL1741 and CSA 107.1 -01 are programmed into the unit at time of shipment from the factory. No changes to these settings can be made in the field by the user. Only authorized personnel with the utility’s permission may change these settings. Contact Xantrex Technology to gain permission and the procedure/equipment to make these changes.
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Contents

Important Safety Instructions
Regulatory Compliance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - viii FCC Information to the User - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - viii Verification and Commissioning Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ix
1
Introduction
About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Standard Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3 Front Panel Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4 Wiring/Disconnect Box - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4 Safety and Standards - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6
2
Installation
Installation Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Single Inverter Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2 Multiple Inverter Installations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Planning the Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Inverter Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4 PV Array Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5 Grounding Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8 Routing the Wires - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11
Preparing for the Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12
Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13 Circuit Breakers and Disconnect Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13 Other Materials Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14 Equipment Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14
Mounting the Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15
Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Preparing to Mount the Unit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16 Installing the Mounting Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17 Mounting the Inverter on the Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–22
3
Wiring the Inverter
Accessing the Wiring Terminals - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Connecting the DC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4 Connecting the AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
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Contents
Connecting Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9
DC and AC Wiring for Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–10
Communications Wiring for Multiple Inverters- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–12
Xanbus Network Technology - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12 Guidelines for Routing the Network Cables - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–15 Connecting Network Cable Between Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–16 Communications Wiring for Monitoring a Single Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–18
4
Starting the Inverter
Startup Procedure- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2
Checking the PV Array DC Voltage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2 Checking the AC Utility Voltage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2
Replacing the Wiring/Disconnect Box Cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
Starting up the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4 Commissioning Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4
Disconnect Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–6
5
Monitoring the Inverter
Monitoring the Front Panel Display- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Front Panel Display Screens and What They Mean - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3
Startup Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Normal Operation Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Offline Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Fault Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–7 Special Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9 Custom Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9
Status Indicator Lights- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10
6
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Factors Affecting GT Inverter Performance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2
PV Array Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2
Other Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3 Performing General Maintenance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3 Replacing Parts - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3
Replacing the Ground Fault Protection Fuse - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–4
Replacing the Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–6 Identifying Error/Fault Conditions and Solutions- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–9
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Contents
A
Specifications
Electrical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2
Input - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Output - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Adjustable Disconnect Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3 Efficiency - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5
Environmental Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–6
User Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–6
Mechanical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–6
Warranty and Return Information - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WA–1 Index- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -IX–1
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Figures

Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2 Figure 1-2 Main Features of the GT Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4 Figure 1-3 Wiring Box and Removable Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–5 Figure 1-4 Safety and Data Label Locations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6 Figure 2-1 Installation Options Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3 Figure 2-2 Basic Grounding Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9 Figure 2-3 Long Distance Grounding Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10 Figure 2-4 Grounding With Extra Lightning Protection Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Figure 2-5 Conduit Hole and Knockout Locations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Figure 2-6 Installation Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Figure 2-7 Dimensions of GT Inverter and Knockout Locations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17 Figure 2-8 Mounting Bracket and GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18 Figure 2-9 Examples of Mounting on a Pole or Rails - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–20 Figure 2-10 Installing the Mounting Bracket using Plywood Support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–21 Figure 2-11 Proper Placement of the Inverter on the Mounting Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–22 Figure 3-1 Removing the Wiring Box Cover- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Figure 3-2 AC and DC Terminal Block Location in the Wiring Box- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3 Figure 3-3 DC/AC Disconnect Switch Positions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4 Figure 3-4 DC Connections for Multiple PV Strings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6 Figure 3-5 AC Connections from GT Inverter to Utility Service Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8 Figure 3-6 Improper Multiple Inverter Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9 Figure 3-7 DC and AC Wiring With Multiple GT Inverters- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11 Figure 3-8 Daisy Chain Layout- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–12 Figure 3-9 Male Network Terminator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13 Figure 3-10 Xanbus RJ45 Ports in the GT Inverter Wiring Box - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13 Figure 3-11 RJ45 Connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14 Figure 3-12 Communications Wiring for Multiple GT Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–17 Figure 3-13 GT-View Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19 Figure 3-14 GT-View Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19 Figure 4-1 DC/AC Disconnect Switch Positions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4 Figure 4-2 Commissioning Sequence for Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–5 Figure 5-1 Front Panel LCD Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Figure 5-2 Location of Status Indicator Lights - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10 Figure 6-1 Location of Fuse, Front Panel Cover Removed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–5 Figure 6-2 Display Front Panel Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–5 Figure 6-3 Wiring/Disconnect Box and Removable Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–7 Figure 6-4 Inverter and Wiring/Disconnect Box Sections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–8 Figure A-1 Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature at Various DC Voltages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–4 Figure A-2 Typical Efficiency- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5
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Tables

Table 2-1 MPPT Operational Window - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6 Table 2-2 Inverter Clearance Requirements- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18 Table 3-1 Torque Values for Wires* - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5 Table 3-2 T568A Standard Wiring- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14 Table 3-3 Network Components and Part Numbers- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–15 Table 5-1 Startup Screens on GT Inverter Front Panel Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Table 5-2 Normal Operation Default Screen - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-3 Normal Operation Screens for All GT Inverter Units - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-4 Additional Normal Operation Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit in a Multiple Unit System
5–5 Table 5-5 Offline Mode Default Display- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Table 5-6 Offline Mode Screens for All GT Inverter Units- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6 Table 5-7 Additional Offline Mode Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit in a Multiple Unit System - 5–6 Table 5-8 Fault Message Screens- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–7 Table 5-9 Additional Fault Mode Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Table 5-10 Special Message Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9 Table 5-11 Status Indicator LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10 Table 6-1 Troubleshooting the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–9
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1

Introduction

Chapter 1, “Introduction”, contains information about the features and functions of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:
• “Standard Features” on page 1–3
• “Safety and Standards” on page 1–6
Introduction

About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

The Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter (GT Inverter) is designed to convert solar electric (photovoltaic or PV) power into utility-grade electricity that can be used by the home or sold to the local power company.
Installing the GT Inverter consists of mounting it to the wall and connecting the DC input to a PV array and the AC output to the utility. See Figure 1-1 for a simple diagram of a typical installation.
In order to operate, the GT Inverter must have grid power available and connected. It will not provide backup power if the AC grid fails.
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels - PV Array
Harvested
solar energy
Grid Tie Inverter
Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview
DC converted
to AC
Xantrex
GT Inverter
Utility Meter
Utility Grid
Surplus power
route d to Utility Grid
Powe r ro ute d
to loads
Main Utility
Service Panel
Loads
1–2 975-0245-01-01
About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter
PV compatibility The G T Invert er is designed to take advantage of solar modules configured as high
voltage PV string arrays—single crystalline, poly crystalline, or thin film—with a 195 to 550 Vdc input voltage Maximum Power Point range.
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
The GT Inverter uses Xantrex proprietary Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to harvest the maximum amount of energy from the solar array. Xantrex MPPT learns your array’s specific characteristics, maximizing its output at all times.
High efficiency The high-frequency, solid-state design of the GT Inverter is extremely efficient—
up to 95%.
Expandable Multiple GT Inverters may be networked together for increased net metering
capacity or future system growth.
Communications protocol
The GT Inverter uses the Xanbus communicate with multiple units connected within the system. For more
®
Communications protocol, enabling it to
information, see “Xanbus Network Technology” on page 3–12.

Standard Features

The GT Inverter has the following standard features:
• Sealed inverter section protecting power electronic components;
• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) providing easy-to-read system status and daily cumulative energy production information;
• Two LED indicator lights providing status and ground fault indication;
• Wiring/disconnect box providing protection for all AC and DC connections and eliminating exposed “live” wiring if the inverter is removed.
WARNING: Shock hazard
The 600 volt DC/AC disconnect in the wiring/disconnect box meets NEC Article 690. It is a non-serviceable component and shall remain in place. Removal can expose energized conductors.
975-0245-01-01 1–3
Introduction

Front Panel Features

Heat Sink
LCD
LED Indicator Lights
Grid Tie Solar Inverter

Wiring/Disconnect Box

Figure 1-2
Wiring/Disconnect Box
The wiring/disconnect box is standard for all North American models of the GT Inverter.
The wiring/disconnect box provides a location for making AC, DC and ground connections. It also contains the DC/AC (PV array/Utility) disconnect switch.
Although the GT Inverter is shipped as a complete system, it is essentially two separable products: a PV inverter and a wiring/disconnect box. The manual disconnect switch in the wiring box allows easy access and a quick one-turn disconnect for both AC and DC inputs. It has been designed to be physically mated to the electronics section of the GT Inverter at the factory, but remains in place as a non-serviceable item in the event that the inverter electronics section is ever required to be removed. When used with the GT Inverter, the DC/AC disconnect switch is 600V AC and DC rated and also is identified on the outside by an illustration showing the open and closed switch positions. The DC/AC
DC/AC Disconnect Switch
Mounting Slots
Main Features of the GT Inverter
1–4 975-0245-01-01
AC Disconnect
About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter
wiring/disconnect box is an NEMA 3R enclosure to allow outdoor installation and is clearly marked as a PV system disconnect. The lockable switch meets NEC section 690 requirements as a means of disconnect.
In some jurisdictions, where the local utility requires that the AC disconnect be capable of being locked in the open position by its service personnel, this disconnect switch can also serve as a lockable and visible break isolating device.
Important:
electrical code requirement. It must be attached during operation. Check with your local authorities before removing the GT Inverter wiring/disconnect box.
DC Connect holes
In North America and other locations the wiring/disconnect box is an
Removable inverter (for servicing, if required)
Control Board Connect hole
AC Connect hole
Wiring/Disconnect Box Front Cover
DC/AC Disconnect Switch
Figure 1-3
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Wiring Box and Removable Inverter
27 mm (1”) threaded conduit holes
Introduction

Safety and Standards

The GT Inverter has complete on-board over-current, over-temperature and anti­islanding protection, and meets U.S. and Canadian safety operating standards and code requirements:
• UL 1741 – Standard for Inverters, Converters, and Controllers for Use in
• CSA C22.2 No. 107.1-01 General Use Power Supplies. Figure 1-4 shows the location of the safety label and the data label with model,
serial and part number information.
Safety Label
Location
Independent Power Systems
Data Label
Location
Figure 1-4
1–6 975-0245-01-01
Safety and Data Label Locations
2

Installation

Chapter 2, “Installation”, provides information about planning for and installing the GT Inverter. It contains information to help you plan wire routes, AC and DC connections, and find a suitable location for installation. It also discusses requirements for grounding the GT Inverter and your PVarray.
Procedures are provided for installing the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:
• “Installation Options” on page 2–2
• “Planning the Installation” on page 2–2
• “Preparing for the Installation” on page 2–12
• “Mounting the Inverter” on page 2–15
Installation

Installation Options

The GT Inverter may be installed as a single inverter for a single PV array of one or two PV strings, or in a multiple inverter configuration for multiple PV arrays (see Figure 2-1 for diagrams of both options).

Single Inverter Installation

In this configuration, a single inverter collects the harvested solar energy and routes the power to the main utility service panel to be used by the loads. Any surplus power not used by the loads will be directed to the utility grid.

Multiple Inverter Installations

If multiple inverters are used, each inverter must be wired to an independent PV array . In this configuration, each inverter collects the harvested solar energy from a separate PV array and routes the power to the main utility service panel to be used by the loads. Any surplus power not used by the loads will be directed to the utility grid.
Communications between inverters can be enabled by installing network cabling to the inverter RJ45 ports. See “Connecting Network Cable Between Multiple Inverters” on page 3–16.

Planning the Installation

The following issues need to be considered when planning for an installation using the GT Inverter. See the specified sections for more information.
• “Inverter Location” on page 2–4
• “PV Array Requirements” on page 2–5
• “Grounding Requirements” on page 2–8
• “Routing the Wires” on page 2–11. Ensure that you have obtained all permits required by local authorities or utilities
before commencing installation.
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Single Inverter Installation
Planning the Installation
Utility Grid
Photovoltaic Panels - PV Array
PV String #1
PV String #2
PV Array #1
#2
Harvested solar energy
Multiple Inverter Installation
Xantrex
GT Inverter
Grid Tie Inverter
DC
converted
to AC
Main Utility
Service Panel
Power route d
to loads
Utility Meter
Surplus power
routed to Utility Grid
Loads
Utility Grid
Utility Meter
Surplus power
routed to Utility Grid
Loads
Powe r route d
to loads
Photovoltaic Panels:
Multiple PV Array s
Figure 2-1
solar energy
Harvested
solar energy
PV Array #2
Harvested
#1
Xantrex GT I nv ert ers
GT Inverter #1
Installation Options Overview
Main Utility
Service Panel
DC
converted
to AC
Grid Tie InverterGrid Tie Inverter
GT Inverter #2
DC converted to AC
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Installation

Inverter Location

WARNING: Burn hazard
Do not install in a location where people can accidentally come into contact with the front of the inverter. High temperatures can be present on the face of the inverter, causing a potential burn hazard.
In extreme conditions, the GT Inverter chassis can reach temperatures over 70° C (158° F), which can cause skin burns if accidentally touched. Ensure that the GT Inverter is located away from normal traffic areas.
Inverter failure due to improper installation will void the inverter warranty. Consider the following when determining where to install the inverter.
Fire Safety Indoor/Outdoor
Orientation
Temperature
Ground Clearance
• Do not install anywhere near combustible or flammable materials.
• The GT Inverter uses a Type 3R-rated enclosure (vertical mount only) that can be mounted indoors or outdoors. (Type 3R enclosures are intended for outdoor use primarily to provide a degree of protection against falling rain; and to be undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure.)
• While the 3R-rated enclosure protects the GT Inverter from moisture, outdoor installations should be located away from lawn sprinklers and other sources of spray.
• The GT Inverter must be mounted vertically on a wall or pole.
• Do not mount the GT Inverter horizontally.
• Ensure that the GT Inverter is mounted in a location where the ambient temperature range is
• At extreme hot or cold temperatures, the front panel LCD may not function normally.
• At higher temperatures, the GT Inverter may derate power. See“Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature at Various DC Voltages” on page A–4 and “Environmental Specifications” on page A–6.
• Outdoors, the GT Inverter requires at least 100 cm (39 inches) of clearance between the bottom of the unit and the ground.
• Indoors, it is recommended that the same clearance between the bottom of the unit and the floor be used.
-25° to +65° C (-13° to +149° F).
Distance
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• To minimize copper losses, ensure that wire lengths between the PV array and the GT Inverter and between the inverter and the Main Utility Service Panel are kept to a minimum.
• Maximum distances will depend on wire gauges used and PV array output voltages.
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