Solar Tech PV Logic User Manual

The Solar Tech PV Logic is an advanced photovoltaic monitoring and control system designed for residential and commercial solar installations. It features real-time power monitoring, performance analytics, fault detection, remote control capabilities, grid integration, battery management, and comprehensive reporting. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Monitoring & Analytics 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main Control Unit, PV String Monitoring Modules, Communication Gateway, Display Panel, Remote Control, Grid Interface, Battery Management System.

FeatureDescription
Real-time MonitoringContinuous tracking of PV array performance and power output
Fault DetectionAutomatic identification of string faults, shading issues, and component failures
Remote AccessWeb portal and mobile app for system monitoring and control
Grid IntegrationSeamless connection to utility grid with anti-islanding protection
Battery ManagementOptimized charging/discharging for battery storage systems
Data LoggingHistorical performance data storage and trend analysis
Weather IntegrationLocal weather data correlation with system performance
Alarm SystemVisual and audible alerts for critical system events
Energy ReportingDaily, monthly, and annual energy production reports
Expandable ArchitectureSupports up to 32 PV strings and multiple inverters

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure proper mounting location.

  1. Mount Control Unit: Install in dry, ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  2. Connect PV Strings: Attach monitoring modules to each PV string with proper polarity.
  3. Install Communication Gateway: Connect to router for network access.
  4. Connect to Inverter: Use provided communication cables to interface with solar inverter.
  5. Connect to Grid: Follow local electrical codes for grid interconnection.
  6. Power Up: Connect to AC power source and verify all connections.

WARNING! Installation must be performed by qualified personnel only. Disconnect all power sources before installation.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow initialization wizard.

  1. System Configuration: Enter number of PV strings, inverter specifications, battery capacity.
  2. Network Setup: Connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet network for remote access.
  3. Calibration: Perform sensor calibration for accurate measurements.
  4. User Accounts: Create administrator and user accounts with appropriate permissions.
  5. Alert Configuration: Set up notification preferences for system events.
  6. Initial Test: Verify all components are communicating properly.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around control unit. Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access interface via touchscreen display or remote web portal.

Front Panel: POWER, MENU, NAVIGATION buttons, ALARM RESET, DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS.

Touchscreen Interface: Dashboard view, System Status, Configuration, Reports, Alarms.

System Settings: PV array configuration, inverter parameters, battery settings, grid connection. Monitoring: Real-time power flow, energy production, efficiency metrics, string performance. Alerts: Threshold settings for voltage, current, temperature, power deviations. Reports: Customizable reporting periods, export formats (PDF, CSV).

Connecting Devices

PV Strings: Via monitoring modules. Inverter: Communication cable. Network: Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Battery: BMS communication port.

  1. Ensure system is powered off before making connections.
  2. Use only manufacturer-provided cables and connectors.
  3. Verify polarity for all DC connections.
  4. Test communication after each device connection.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Monitoring & Analytics

Real-time monitoring of system performance and detailed analytics.

  1. Dashboard: View current power production, consumption, battery status.
  2. String Monitoring: Individual string voltage, current, power, and temperature.
  3. Performance Ratio: Calculate actual vs. expected performance.
  4. Fault Analysis: Identify underperforming strings or components.
  5. Historical Data: Review past performance by hour, day, month, year.
  6. Comparative Analysis: Compare performance across different time periods.
  7. Weather Correlation: Analyze impact of weather conditions on production.
  8. Export Reports: Generate and export detailed performance reports.

WARNING! Do not modify monitoring thresholds without understanding system implications.

Safety Features

Automatic Shutdown: Rapid shutdown compliant with NEC 2017. Arc Fault Detection: Continuous monitoring for DC arc faults. Ground Fault Protection: Detection of ground faults in PV system. Anti-Islanding: Grid-tie protection to prevent islanding conditions. Temperature Monitoring: Over-temperature protection for all components.

Care & Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning recommended for optimal performance.

  1. Monthly: Check all connections for tightness and corrosion.
  2. Quarterly: Clean monitoring sensors and ventilation openings.
  3. Annually: Perform comprehensive system check and calibration.
  4. Software: Keep firmware updated to latest version.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before performing any maintenance. Use only dry cloth for cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; may cause interference in residential areas. UL 1741 certified for grid interconnection. IEEE 1547 compliant for distributed resources. Copyright © 2025 Solar Tech Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.solartechsupport.com or contact 1-800-555-1234.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No communication with inverterCable/configurationCheck communication cable; verify inverter address in configuration.
String showing zero powerConnection/fuseCheck string connections; verify fuse not blown; inspect monitoring module.
System not connecting to networkNetwork settingsVerify network credentials; check router settings; restart communication gateway.
False alarm triggersThreshold settingsReview and adjust alarm thresholds; check sensor calibration.
Display not respondingPower/softwareCheck power supply; restart system; update firmware if available.
Data not loggingStorage/memoryCheck available storage; format memory card; verify logging settings.

Reset: System > Maintenance > Factory Reset (requires administrator password).

Service: 1-800-555-1234; www.solartechsupport.com

Solar Tech PV Logic User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025