SolarEdge Optimizer tool?

[arf88]

Got some new panels, trying to use the Layout editor to add them in. I added the new panels but when I go back to the Admin>Logical Layout and open the new string and module, the Model is blank and I can't add anything in there.

The Layout editor shows the new panels but the Optimizer model shows up as "Unknown" not sure how i can set them to P400 like the older panels. I can wait until monday when SolarEdge opens but if anyone has any tips its appreciated. My solar company monitoring team member is out of the country i'm sure he would know.

[arf88]

Forgot to add, in the Layout editor in "Stringing Mode" at the top it says "Double click to edit string length. Use Optimizer tool to change optimizer. Use Delete to remove string."

What is "Optimizer tool" exactly. again not sure where I can set them to P400 specifically .thanks

[heimdm]

Have you tried connecting directly to the inverter by using the setapp app on your mobile device? I believe to get new optimizers to be paired you have to use the setapp and put the inverter into pairing mode.

[arf88]

I'm pairing it now, b/c it was not producing anything at all even on the older panels. hopefully that is it.

[arf88]

Just finished Pairing, the original panels are now producing, but the new panels are still zero production. Also not all the new optimizer are recognized in the status area PO_ok.

[heimdm]

Is this a new string or are you expanding the existing strings?

[arf88]

It is a new string. The old panels and old string were setup again in Layout editor, the new optimizer serial numbers and panels were setup and new string created but this new string no production what so ever and the recognition of the optimizers are puzzling.

[arf88]

In Electrical design all the new panels show up fine so I'm at a loss. Any tips or suggestions

[arf88]

Just not sure why it behaves this way

[heimdm]

When you updated the layout did you remember to hit publish? Have you double checked the connectors on the new string? Do you have a multimeter that you can clamp onto that ne string to see how many volts? In safe mode, you should get 1V for each optimizer.

[arf88]

Yes, it is published for sure, otherwise the new string would not show up in the Admin logical/physical or just the Layout page. I do have a DMM but have not checked the wiring as I assumed the crew is capable of wiring two cables to the inverter which I witness them do.

What i find odd is in the Layout Editor the 3rd string is 1.3 but in the Admin console it show sup at 1.4 (possibly a solaredge back end issue?) not sure will have to get in touch with them Monday but was hoping there is a smoking gun causing all this.

[arf88]

My frustrations level is mounting up.

They did not install the optimizers per my contract, but after a call with SolarEdge it appears unless there is 8 optimizers on a string it will not produce. So these "engineers" at the solar company are either not aware you need 8 minimum or they believe it can work without 8 on a string.

This is a problem bc my old panels are older model and not as large as these new ones so I don't believe you can mix smaller and larger size panels on the same string without negative effects on production on the larger panels being limited to the maximum output of the smaller panels. Does that make sense?

[heimdm]

The spec's for Solar Edge string legnth and voltage limitations is found here: https://www.solaredge.com/sites/defa..._sizing_na.pdf. It looks like 8 is the minimum unless you are using the p405 inverter. As far as combining different panel types I think the preference is not to mix/match more from a management/engineering OCD perspective. I did find this article from awhile back (2015) on this forum about mixing panels (https://www.solarpaneltalk.com/forum...with-solaredge). Some folks on here understand the electrical stuff better than me, but because the optimizers (dc-dc converters) are going to adjust the voltage to 380v or 400v depending on your inverter (SE uses a fixed voltage design), the properties of a panels are largely hidden/abstracted from the inverter.

Are your new optimizers the same model as the previous? I know there are limitations as far as which ones play nice with each other.

[arf88]

They are going to put in the p405 which I had called out on the design and contract. Hopefully this will fix everything.

My understanding was when you mix and match the panels it can cause issues with production being limited to the lowest wattage of the panel in the string.

Thanks for your help

[heimdm]

Sounds like the p405 will do the trick. I originally tried to get p405's earlier this year for my project, but I beliee they are discontinued or maybe just hard to get. I ended up with p485's. However, that doesn't help you in your case.

On the whole module thing... Solar Edge's marketing off there website states, "The MPPT per module allows for flexible installation design with multiple orientations, tilts and module types in the same string. When working with SolarEdge inverters, the Power Optimizers automatically maintain a fixed string voltage, allowing installers even greater flexibility with longer strings and strings of different lengths in order to design optimal PV systems. The SolarEdge Power Optimizers are compatible with c-Si, thin-film, and high current modules and have a 25-year warranty."

The solar edge design tool has been my dear friend throughout my design and installation. Usually prevents me from doing stupid things.. or at least understanding the impact of my decisions.