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Xantrex Technology GT 2.5-DE, GT 3.8-DE, GT 2.8-SP, GT 3.8-SP User Manual

Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

GT 2.5-DE GT 3.8-DE GT 2.8-SP GT 3.8-SP
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.
Noti ce of Copyrig ht
Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter Owner’s Manual © August 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
August 2005 Revision A
Pa rt Number
975-0253-01-01
Contact Information
Telephone: 34 93 470 5330 Fax: 34 93 473 6093 Email: support.europe@xantrex.com Web: www.xantrex.com

About This Manual

The purpose of this Owner’s M anual is to provide explanations and procedures for installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter™.

Scope

The manual provides safety guideline s, detailed planning and setup informa tion. 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. Y ou 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, ensure your PV array provides necessary power , and find a suitable location for installation.
Chapter 3, “Wiring the Inverter”, provides procedures for making DC and AC wiring connections for single and multiple inverter installations. This chapter also includes information about communications wiring and using GT-View monitoring software.
Chapter 4, “Star ting the Inver ter”, contains information on starting up the Xa ntrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter and performing a functional test.
Chapter 5, “M onitoring the Inverter”, contains information for understanding the LCD s creens and the LED indicators.
Cha pter 6, “M ain tena nc e and T roubleshooting”, contains inform a tion ab out how to provide gener al main tena nce fo r the Xan trex Grid Tie Solar Inverter . It also provide s inform a tion ab out tr ouble sh ootin g the unit.
Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains information about the ele ctrical and environmental specifications of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
975-0253-01-01 iii
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.

Abbreviations Used

GT Grid Tie LCD Liquid Crystal Display LED Light Emitting Diode MPPT Maximum Power Point Tracking P
MAX
P
NOM
PC Personal Computer PV Photovoltaic STC Standard Test Condition Vac Volts AC Vdc Volts DC V
MP
V
OC
These notes describe things that are important for you to know, but not as
Maximum Output Power Nominal Output Power
Voltage at Maximum Power Open Circuit Voltage
V
SC
U
PV
iv 975-0253-01-01
Short Circuit V ol tage PV Array DC Voltage

Symb ols Used

About This Manual
 
 

Relat ed Informat ion

You can find more inf ormation about Xantrex Technology Inc. as well as its products and services at www.xantrex.com
Alternating Current (AC) Direct Current (DC)
In this guide: Important information, warnings, or cautions. On the product: Important information, warnings or cautions with further explanation in the product guide.
Caution, risk of electric shock.
FOR AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL: Before opening cover, disconnect DC and AC power and wait 30 minutes to allow internal voltages to reach safe levels. NOTE: there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Refer to the operating instructions.
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vi

Important Safety Instructions

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS—This manual contains important instructions that shall be f ollowed during the installation and maintenance of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
1. Before installing and using the G T Inverter, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the inverter and in 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 2–12. Do not install the GT Inverter 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 unders ized. Do not operate the G T Inverter with damaged or substandard wiring.
6. Do not operate the GT 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. D o n ot d isassemble the GT Inverter. It contains no u se r -s er v iceab l e parts. See War ra nty for instr uct i on s 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 elec trical shock, disconnect both AC a nd DC power from the GT Inverter before attempting any maintena nce or cleaning or working on any circuits connected to the inverter. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors remain charged for up to 30 minutes after disconnecting all source s of power.
9. The GT Inverter must be provided with an equipment-grounding conductor connect ed to the AC ground.
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Safety

Regulatory Compliance

The GT Inverter is CE Marked for the following Directives and standards:
• Low Voltage Directive 73/23/E EC, per EN50178 “Electronic Equipment for Use in Power Installations”.
• EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, per:
• EN61000-6-3 “Emission Standard for Residential, Commercial, and Light-Industrial
Environments”
• EN61000-6-1 “Immunity for Residential, Commercial, and Light-Industrial Environments”
• EN61000-3-2 “Limits for Harmonic Current Emissions”
• EN61000-3-3 “Limitations of Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker”.
The GT Inverter is designed for utility interactive operation. It has complete on-board over-current, over­temperature and anti-islanding protection. It monitors voltage and frequency of the utility grid and automatically stops supplying power whenever conditions on the utility grid deviate from standard levels (see Specifications) .
The GT Inverter is equipped with a high frequency transformer that assures galvanic isolation between the DC side and the utility power grid.
German models have an integrated ENS and comply with the VDE 0126 regulations for supplementary grid connection, especially to the “regulation for the supplementary grid feeding with photovoltaic electricity producing facilities to the low voltage power supply grid” issued by the VDEW.
Spanish models comply with Royal Decree 1663/2000, dated on September 29, regarding the connection of photovoltaic installations to the low tension network.
viii 975-0253-01-01
Contents
Important Safety Instructions
Regulatory Compliance viii
1
Introduction
About the Xa ntr ex Grid Tie Solar Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Standard Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
2
Installation
Installation Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Single Inverter Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2 Multiple Inverter Installat ions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Plann in g the Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Invert e r Loc a t io n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4 PV Array R equirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5 Grounding Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–7 Routing the Wires - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8
Prepa rin g fo r t he Inst a ll a ti on - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9
Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9 AC Circuit Breaker Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9 AC and DC Disc on n e c ts - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9
Mounting the Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10
Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10 Tools and Materials Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Dimensions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Installing the Mounting Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Mounting the Inverter on the Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -vii
3
Wiring the Invert er
Connec t in g t h e DC Wiri n g - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Equipment Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Connecting the PV Array - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Connec t in g t h e AC Wiri n g - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5
Making AC Connections Using Quick C onnects - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5 Connecting Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3 –7 Communications Wiring for Multiple Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Xanbus Network Technology - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Guidelines for Routing the Network Cables - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11
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Contents
Connecting Network Cable between Inverters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12 Communications Wiring for Monitoring a Single Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12
4
Starting the Inverter
Commissioning Procedure - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2 Disconnect Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
5
Monito ring 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 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Custom Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9
Status Indicator Lights- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -5–10
6
Maintenance and Troubleshoo ting
Factors Affecting GT Inverter Performance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2
PV Array Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2
Other Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3 Perf o rmin g G ene ra l Ma in te n a n ce - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6– 3 Identifying Error/Fault Conditions and Solutions- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–4
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 Index
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - IX–1
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–1
x 975-0253-01-01

Figures

Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2 Figure 1-2 Main Fe atures of t he GT In ve rt e r- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3 Figure 2-1 Installation Options Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3 Figure 2-2 GT Inv e rte r m ou n tin g ori e n ta ti o n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2– 5 Figure 2-3 Installation Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10 Figure 2-4 GT Inverter Dimensions- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Figure 2-5 M ounting Bracket and GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Figure 2-6 E xamples of Mounting on a Pole or Rails - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14 Figure 2-7 Installing the Mounting Bracket using Plywood Support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Figure 2-8 Proper Placement of the Inverte r on the Mounting Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16 Figure 3-1 PV Quick Connect Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Figure 3-2 DC Connections for a Two-String PV Array - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4 Figure 3-3 AC Connector (female) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6 Figure 3-4 AC Connector Terminals - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6 Figure 3-5 Improper multiple inv e rte r connecti on s- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3– 7 Figure 3-6 Daisy Chain Layout- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8 Figure 3-7 Male Netw o rk Te rminator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3– 9 Figure 3-8 Location of Xa nbus RJ45 Ports - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9 Figure 3-9 RJ45 Connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–10 Figure 3-10 Replacing the Comm Port Cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–12 Figure 3-11 GT-View Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13 Figure 3-12 GT-View Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14 Figure 5-1 Front Panel LCD Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Figure 5-2 L ocation of Status Indicator Lights - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10 Figure A-1 Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–4 Figure A- 2 Typica l Eff i ci enc y- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A –5
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xii

Tables

Table 2-1 MPPT Operational Window - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6 Table 2-2 Inverter Clearance Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Table 3-1 T568A Standard Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–10 Table 3-2 Network Components and Part Numbers- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11 Table 5-1 Startup Screens on GT Inverter Front Panel Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Table 5-2 N o rma l Opera t io n D e fault Scr een - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-3 N orm a l Ope ra t io n Sc reens for A ll G T Inver ters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-4 Additional Normal Operation Screens for Each GT Inverter in a Multiple Unit System - 5–5 Table 5-5 Offline Mode Default Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Table 5-6 O ffline Mode Sc re ens fo r Al l GT Inverter s - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6 Table 5-7 Additional Offline Mode Screens for Each GT Inverter 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 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Table 5-11 Status Indicator LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10 Table 6-1 Troubleshooting the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–4
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xiv
1

Introduction

Chapter 1, “Introduction”, contains information about the features and functions of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.
Introduction

Abou t the Xa ntrex Grid Ti e S ol a r I nv e rter

The Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter (GT Inverter) is de signed 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 c onnec ting 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 installatio n.
In order to operate, the GT Inverter mus t have gr id power a vailable and connected. It will not provide backup power if the AC grid fails.
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels—
Ph otovoltaic (PV )
PV Array
Panel s – PV Ar ray
Harvested solar
energy
Harvested solar energy
DC converted to
DC converted to AC
Grid Tie Solar Inverter
Xantrex GT Inverter
X a ntrex G T Inve rter
Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview
AC
Main Utility
M ain Utility
Service Panel
Service Panel
Surplus power route d
Utility
to Utility Grid
Meter
Utility Meter
Surplus power routed to
Power routed to loads
Utility Grid
Utility Grid
Utili ty Gri d
Loads
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About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inve rter
PV compatibility The G T Inverter is des igned to take a dvantage of solar modules configur ed 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 ene rgy from the solar array. 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 3–8.
Sta ndar d F eat u res
The GT Inverter has the following standard features:
• Sealed inverter (IP54) and external heat sink to pr otect power electronic components
• Quick-connect AC and DC connections
• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) to provide easy-to-read system status and daily cumulative energy production information
• Two LED indicator lights to provide status and ground fault indication.
Heat sink
LCD
LED indicator lights
DC and AC quick-connects Communication ports cover
Mounting slots (five in total)
Figure 1-2
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Main Features of the GT Inverter
1–4
2

Installati on

Chapter 2, “Installation”, provides information about planning for and installing the GT Inverter. It contains information to help you plan wire routes, ensure your PV array provides necessary power, and find a suitable location for installation.
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 2–9
• “Mounting the Inverter” on page 2–10.
Installation

Installation Options

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

Single I nve rter Inst all ation

In this configuration, a single inverter collects the harvested solar energy and routes the power to the main utility service panel and the utility grid.

Mult iple Inver t er Ins ta lla ti o n s

If multiple inverters are used, each inverter must be wired to an independent PV array. In this configuration, each inver ter collects the harvested solar energy from a separate PV array and routes the power to the main utility service panel and the utility grid.
Communications between inverters is optional, but can be ena bled by installing communications cabling to t he inverter RJ45 ports. See “Connecting Network Cable between Inverters” on page 3–12.

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 2–7
• “Routing the Wire s ” on page 2–8. Ensure that you have obtained all permits required by local authorities or utilities
before commencing installa tion.
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Utility Grid
Photovoltaic Panels - PV Array
PV String #1
Harvested solar energy
Single Inverter Installation
Xant rex
GT I nv ert er
DC converted to AC
Main Utility Ser v ic e
Panel
Planning the Installati on
Surplus power routed
Utility
to Utility Grid
Meter
Utility Grid
Surpl us power routed to
Utility Meter
Util it y Grid
Loads
PV String #2
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels— PV Array
PV Array #2
PV Ar ray #1
Harvested sol ar
ene rgy
Photovoltaic Panels:
Multiple PV Arrays
Photovoltaic Panels— Multiple PV Arrays
Harvested sol ar energy
Harvested solar energy
GT Inverter #1 GT Inverter #2
PV Array #1
PV Arr ay #2
Harvested sol ar energy
Harvested solar energy
Xa ntrex GT Inverte rs
Grid T ie Solar Inverter
GT Inverter #1
DC convert ed
Grid Tie Solar In verter
to A C
Xantrex GT Inverter
Multiple Inverter Installation
DC converted to AC
DC convert ed
to A C
Grid Tie Solar Inverter
GT Inverter #2
DC converted to AC
DC converted to AC
Main Utility Service Panel
Ma in U tility S e r vic e
Panel
Power routed t o loads
Main Utility Service Panel
Power routed t o loads
Surplus power routed
Utility
to Utility Grid
Meter
Surplus power routed to
Utility Meter
Utility Grid
Utility Grid
Utility Grid
Loads
Figure 2-1
Installation Options Overview
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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 that 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 w ill void the inverter warr anty. Consider the following when determining where to install the inverter.
Fire Safety
Indoor/ Outdoor
Orientation
Temperature
Ground Clearance
Distance
• Do not install anywhere near combustible or flammable materials such as wooden cabinets and furniture, or stored fuels and solvents.
• The GT Inverter can be mounted indoors or outdoors. When installed outdoors, the GT Inverter must be mounted in a vertical orientation.
• In outdoor installations the GT Inverter should be located away from lawn sprinklers and other sources of spray.
• The GT Inverter must be mounted vertically (with DC and AC connectors facing down) on a wall or pole. See Figure 2-2.
• Ensure that the GT Inverter is mounted in a location where the ambient temperature range is -25 to 65 °C (-13 to 149 °F).
• At extreme hot or cold temperatures, the front panel LCD may not function normally. At higher temperatures, the unit may derate power . See “Environmental Specifications” on page A–6 and “Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature” on page A–4.
• Outdoors, the GT Inverter requires at least 100 cm (39 inches) of clearance between the bottom of the unit and the ground. This clearance helps prevent water from splashing onto the bottom of the unit.
• Indoors, it is recommended to use the same clearance to ensure visibility of the LCD.
• 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.
Debris free
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• Excessive debris (such as dust, leaves, and cobwebs) can accumulate on the unit, interfering with wiring connections and ventilation. Do not install in a location where debris can accumulate (such as under a tree).
Planning the Installati on
Figure 2-2
GT Inverter mounting orientation

PV Array Requirements

WARNING: Shock hazard
Whenever a PV array is exposed to sunlight, a shock hazard exists at the output wires or exposed terminals. To reduce the risk of shock during installation, cover the array with an opaque (dark) material before making any connections.
General Recom men dations
It is important that the PV array is installed correc tly to the manufacturer’s specifications and to local code requirements.
Equipment and Installation Recommendations
Important:
small obstructions such as antennas, chimneys, and power lines. As well, be aware of potential obstructions from growing trees and neighboring buildings. A small amount of shade can have a disproportionately high impact on system performance.
The PV array should be free of shade. This requirement includes even
Equipment recommendations
• All electrical equipment should be approved for the voltage and current ratings necessary for the application.
• All wiring should be sized correctly to minimize voltage drop.
• All exposed wires or conduits should be sunlight resistant.
• All required overcurrent protections should be included in the system and acces si bl e f or mai nt en ance.
Installation recommendations
• All electrical te rmi nations should be fully tightened, secured, and st rain relieved as appr opriate.
• All mounting equipment should be installed accordi ng to the ma nu fa ct ure r’ s specifications.
• All wires, conduit, exposed conductors and electrical boxe s should be s ecured and supported according to code requirements.
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Installation
Voltage and MPPT Requirem ents
MPPT operational window
Voltage requirements
The MPPT software maximizes the output ener gy of solar arrays as long as the operating voltage is within the MPP T operational window. Ensure that the PV array used in the system operates within the MPPT operational window.
Effects of array voltages outside of the MPPT operational window are shown in Table 2-1.
T able 2-1
V oltage Effect of Array Voltag e Inverter Mode
< 195 Vdc Operating voltage will be shifted to 195 Vdc;
195 to 550 Vdc Maximum harvest of solar energy MPPT window 550 to 600 Vdc Will not allow maximum harvest of solar
> 600 Will shut down and may cause damage to the
MPPT Operational Window
Low power the array will not be at its maximum power point
Power derating energy
Shutdown inverter; stops selling surplus energy
The maximum power point volt age of a s tring connected t o the GT Inverter shoul d be a minimum of 195 Vdc. If it is less than 195 Vdc, the inverter will continue to operate, but it will regulate the PV voltage to 195 V. Because th e ar r ay w il l not b e operating at its maximum power point, this may result in lower than expected energy harvest.
Maximum PV Power
The solar array should be sized such that its maximum power output does not exceed the limits of the MPP T operational window (195 to 550 Vdc). See “Guidelines for Matching PV Array Size to Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter Input”.
The array voltage should never exceed 600 V
(open circuit voltage) under any
OC
thermal condition. Likew ise, en sur e t hat the Isc (sh ort circui t curren t) rating of the arr ay at any
temper at ur e d oes no t ex ceed t he sho r t cir cui t cu rren t ra ting of the in ver te r.
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