AIMS Power PIGRID250 User manual

MICRO-INVERTER
PIGRID250
250W MICRO GRID TIED INVERTER
208, 220, 230, 240VAC

TECHNICAL MANUAL
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3
SAFETY------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 4
SYMBOL ILLUSTRATION -------------------------------------------------------------- 4
INSTALLATION WARNINGS----------------------------------------------------------- 4
PREPARE FOR INSTALLING------------------------------------------------------------- 6
TRANSPORTIONAND INSPECTION------------------------------------------------ 6
CHECK INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT ---------------------------------------- 8
INSTALLATION POSITION------------------------------------------------------------- 8
CHOOSE AC CABLE---------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
MOUNTING AND WIRING ---------------------------------------------------------------10
INSTALLATION DIAGRAM -----------------------------------------------------------10
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS----------------------------------------------------------13
Step 1. Wire AC Cable--------------------------------------------------------------------13
Step 2. Install Micro-inverter ------------------------------------------------------------13
Step 3. Grounding the System-----------------------------------------------------------14
Step 4. Fasten AC Cable------------------------------------------------------------------15
Step 5. Connect AC Cable of Micro-inverter------------------------------------------15
Step 6. Protecting Unused Ends---------------------------------------------------------17
Step 7. Connecting AC-TRUNK Cables to a Junction Box-------------------------17
Step 8. Drawing System Map------------------------------------------------------------19
Step 9. Install Photovoltaic Modules ---------------------------------------------------20
MAINTENANCE GUIDE-------------------------------------------------------------------21
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE------------------------------------------------------------21
STORAGE AND DISMANTLING -----------------------------------------------------22
APPENDIX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------23
TECHNICAL DATA-----------------------------------------------------------------------23
EFFICIENCY CURVES ------------------------------------------------------------------25
TEMPLATE FOR MAPOF MICRO-INVERTER INSTALLATION----------26
Warranty Instructions------------------------------------------------------------------------29

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for using PIGRID250 Micro-Inverter! This Micro-Inverter system is the world’s most
technologically advanced inverter system with high efficiency, flexibility, safety and reliability for
use in utility-interactive applications.
This system is composed of a group of Micro-inverters that convert direct current (DC) into
alternating current (AC) and feeds it into the electric grid. Different from systems that photovoltaic
modules are subdivided into strings and controlled by one or several inverters, this system is built
for the incorporation of a Micro-inverter for each photovoltaic module. Each Micro-inverter works
independently of the others to guarantee maximum power of each photovoltaic module. This setup
enables direct control over the production of a single photovoltaic module, consequently improving
the flexibility and reliability of the system.
This manual contains important instructions for the PIGRID250 Micro-inverter and must be read in
its entirety before installing or commissioning the equipment. For safety, only qualified technician,
who has received training or has demonstrated skills should install and maintain this Micro-inverter
under the guide of this document.
PIGRID250 is a 250W maximum Grid Tied Micro-inverter, and is designed to operate on 208Vac,
220Vac, 230Vac or 240Vac split phaseAC grid connections.
This document applies only to the inverter model listed in Table 1 below:
Table 1
Output Power
Model Number
250W
PIGRID250
For technical assistance or to find out where to buy this or related products you may contact AIMS
Power via email [e-mail] or [e-mail] or call us at [phone].

SAFETY
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS!
PLEASE SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS IN A SAFE PLACE!
SYMBOL ILLUSTRATION
The safety symbols used in this manual are list below and illustrated in detail.
Symbol
Usage
Indicates a hazardous situation that can result in deadly
electric shock hazards, other serious physical injury, or
fire hazards.
Indicates directions which must be fully understood and
followed in its entirety in order to avoid potential safety
hazards including equipment damage or personal injury.
This points out that the described operation must not be
carried out. The reader should stop, use caution and fully
understand the operations explained before proceeding.
INSTALLATION WARNINGS
The PIGRID250 Micro-inverter is designed and tested according to international safety
requirements (UL 1741/IEEE 1547). However, certain safety precautions must be taken when
installing and operating this inverter. The installer must read and follow all instructions, cautions
and warnings in this installation manual

All operations including transport, installation, start-up and maintenance,
must be carried out by qualified, trained personnel.
Before installation, check the unit to ensure absence of any transport or
handling damage, which could affect insulation integrity or safety clearances.
Choose installation location carefully and adhere to specified cooling
requirements. Unauthorized removal of necessary protections, improper use,
incorrect installation and operation may lead to serious safety and shock
hazards or equipment damage.
Before connecting the Micro-inverter to the power distribution grid, contact
the local power distribution grid company to get appropriate approvals. This
connection must be made only by qualified technical personnel. It is the
responsibility of the installer to provide external disconnect switches and
Overcurrent Protection Devices (OCPD).
AIMS Power DOES NOT provide AC output overcurrent protection. To
reduce the risk of fire, connect only to a circuit with 20A maximum branch
circuit overcurrent protection in accordance with the National Electric Code
(ANSI/NFPA 70)
The AC output (neutral) is not bonded to ground .
Only one photovoltaic module can be connected to the input of the inverter.
Do not connect batteries or other sources of power supply. The inverter can
be used only if all the technical characteristics are observed and applied.
Do not install the equipment in adverse environment conditions such as
flammable, explosive, corrosive, extreme high or low temperature, or extreme
humidity. Do not use the equipment when the safety devices do not work or
are disabled.
Use personal protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection when
working.
Inform the manufacturer about non-standard installation conditions.
Do not use the equipment if any operating anomalies are found. Avoid
temporary repairs.
All repairs should be carried out using only qualified spare parts, which must
be installed in accordance with their intended use and by a licensed contractor

or authorizedAIMS Power service representative.
Liabilities arising from commercial components are delegated to their
respective manufacturers.
Anytime the inverter has been disconnected from the power network, use
extreme caution as some components can retain charge sufficient to create a
shock hazard. Prior to touching any part of the inverter use care to ensure
surfaces and equipment are at touch safe temperatures and voltage potentials
before proceeding.
AIMS Power accepts No liability for damage from incorrect or careless
operation
PREPARE FOR INSTALLING
TRANSPORTION AND INSPECTION
AIMS Power packages and protects individual components using suitable means to make the
transport and subsequent handling easier. Transportation of the equipment, especially by road, must
be carried out by suitable ways for protecting the components (in particular, the electronic
components) from violent, shocks, humidity, vibration, etc. Please dispose of the packaging
materials in an appropriate way to avoid unforeseen injury.
It is the customer’s responsibility to examine the condition of the components transported. Once
receiving the Micro-inverter, it is necessary to check the container for any external damage and
verify receipt of all items. Call AIMS Power, the Shipper or the carrier immediately if damage or
shortage is detected. If inspection reveals damage to the inverter, contact the supplier, or authorized
distributor for a repair/return determination and instructions regarding the process.
Table 2 lists components for use with PIGRID250,

Table 2
Code
Description
AC trunk spool_41inches_50plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 41
AC trunk spool_67inches_32plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 67
AC trunk spool_81inches_27plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 81
AC trunk plug cap
InsulatedAC cap forAC cable connectors
AC trunk end cap
End cap for 10 AWG AC cable
AC trunk unlock tool
Tool for releasing connectors

CHECK INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT
Installation of the equipment is carried out based on the system design and the place in which the
equipment is installed.
The installation must be carried out with the equipment disconnected from the grid (power
disconnect switch open) and with the photovoltaic modules shaded or isolated.
See Appendix: Technical Data to check the environmental parameters to be observed (degree
of protection, temperature, humidity, altitude, etc.)
To avoid unwanted power de-rating due to an increase in the internal temperature of the inverter,
do not expose it to direct sunlight.
To avoid overheating, always make sure the flow of air around the inverter is not blocked.
Do not install in places where gasses or flammable substances may be present.
Avoid electromagnetic interference that can compromise the correct operation of electronic
equipment.
INSTALLATION POSITION
When choosing the position of installation, comply with the following conditions:
Install only on structures specifically conceived for photovoltaic modules (supplied by installation
technicians).
Install Micro-inverter underneath the photovoltaic modules so that they work in the shade. If this
condition cannot be met, the inverter could undergo de-rating.

Fig.1. Installation position of Micro-inverter
CHOOSE AC CABLE
The AC cable is shipped on a reel with the connectors pre-mounted. The available spacing between
connectors is: 41”, 67”, and 81”. The installer is responsible for choosing the AC cable model with
the correct spacing on the basis of the orientation (shown below) and type of
photovoltaic modules.
Observe the certification documents concerning the maximum number of Micro-
inverters permitted for installation at each cable section!
Table 3
AC Cable Items
Photovoltaic Modules Orientation Illustration
AC-TRUNK Spool
41 Inches
50 Plugs
PV Module
Micro Inverter
60 Cells

AC-TRUNK Spool
41 Inches
50 Plugs
AC-TRUNK Spool
67 Inches
32 Plugs
AC-TRUNK Spool
81 Inches
27 Plugs
* Note: The AC-TRUNK SPOOL may contain a number of connectors indicated by the number of
plugs in the part number. The installer may cut the cable to the length needed for the specific
installation.
MOUNTING AND WIRING
INSTALLATION DIAGRAM
System Schematic Diagram
60 Cells
72 Cells
72 Cells

Fig.2. 208Vac three phase
Fig.3. 220Vac, 230Vac, 240Vac split phase
DC AC DC AC
…
DC AC DC AC
…
DC AC DC AC
…
AC
Distribution
Panel
Junction
Box
Red: L1
Black: L2
White: Neutral
Green: Ground
PV Model
Micro Inverter
AC Cable
DC AC DC AC
…
Red: L1
Black: L2
White: Neutral
Green: Ground
PV Model
Micro Inverter
AC Cable
Junction
Box
AC
Distribution
Panel

Assembly Diagram
Fig.4. Assembly Illustration
Fig.5. Assembly Illustration for one microinverter system
PV Module
Bracket
Junction
Box
Micro Inverter
DC Cables From
PV Module
AC Trunk Cable Plug
AC Trunk End Cap
PV Module
Junction
Box
Microinverter
AC drop cable
extension cable AC drop cable

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1. Wire AC Cable
Wire the AC cable along the frame structure of photovoltaic modules.
Fig.6. Wiring the AC cable
Ensure that the cable matches the installation conditions, particularly in
regards to the number of the modules and their orientation.
The number of the Micro-inverters should not exceed the maximum number
permitted for installation.
Step 2. Install Micro-inverter
Mark the approximate center of each photovoltaic module on the frame and install the
Micro-inverter with the logo side facing downwards.
Ensure that the Micro-inverter does not block the stiffening braces of the
photovoltaic modules and the connector can easily reach the connector on
the AC cable.
Bracket
AC Trunk Cable Plug

The Micro-inverter must be under the module, out of long-term exposure to
direct sunlight or rain.
Step 3. Grounding the System
The system must be grounded according to local laws. The inverter can typically be
earth grounded using the connector clamp secured to the chassis and an adequately-
sized conductor.
Equipment grounding conductor coupling all of the MICRO inverters:
The conductor must have a minimum cross section of 6 AWG（4.11mm）
Fig.7. Typical Grounding
Incorrect grounding may cause physical injury, death or equipment
malfunction and increase electromagnetic interference. Make sure that
grounding conductors are adequately sized as required by safety regulations.

Step 4. Fasten AC Cable
Fasten the AC cable to the frame with cable ties or tie wraps. Each connector is
provided with two slots for ideal fastening. If using nylon or materials that may
decompose in sun light or over time, it is strongly recommended to inspect on occasion.
Fig.8. Fasten AC Cable
Step 5. ConnectAC Cable of Micro-inverter
Remove the temporary cap and then connect the AC cable of the Micro-inverters to the
AC-TRUNK cable connectors. The connectors are coupled correctly when two clicks
are heard.
For one Micro-inverter system, connect the AC cable of the Micro-inverter to the AC
drop cable extension cable connector. The connectors are coupled correctly when two
clicks are heard

Fig.9. Connect AC Cable of Micro-inverter
Fig.10. Connect AC Cable of Micro-inverter system
The AC-TRUNK UNLOCK TOOL must be used for the disconnection
of the AC connector from the MICRO inverter or for the removal of the
AC-TRUNK PLUG CAP from the connectors on the ACTRUNK cable.
Protect any unused AC-TRUNK cable connectors by fitting the AC-
TRUNK PLUG CAP on them to keep them watertight. The temporary
caps are only fitted for shipping and provide no seal whatsoever!
AC Trunk Cable
Temporary Plug Cap
AC Trunk Unlock Tool
Micro Inverter AC
Drop Cable

Fig.11. Unused Connectors
Step 6. Protecting Unused Ends
The unused ends of the AC-TRUNK cable must be terminated with the proper end. Fit
the appropriate AC-TRUNK END CAP on the unused ends of the AC-TRUNK cable.
Fig.12. Unused Ends
Step 7. ConnectingAC-TRUNK Cables to a Junction Box
Connect the AC-TRUNK cables coming from the MICRO inverters to a junction box.
Close the junction box after the wiring is complete. Ensure that the seal is tight.
AC Trunk Plug Cap
AC Trunk Cable
Temporary Plug Cap
AC Trunk End Cap

Fig.13. Junction Box
To prevent electrical hazards, all the connection operations must be
carried out with the equipment disconnected from the grid.
All the external connections to the insulated junction box (caps, adapters, etc.)
should be made with securely-sealed AIMS Power components.
AIMS Power AC cables from the Micro-inverters have four conductors with different
colors to identify the function of each conductor:
Table 4
Code
Description
AC trunk spool_41inches_50plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 41
AC trunk spool_67inches_32plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 67
AC trunk spool_81inches_27plugs
AC cable (4conducotors)
10AWG
Plug inches 81
Red: L1
Black: L2 White: Neutral
Green:
Ground

Pay special attention and ensure not to reverse the phase (load lines) with the
neutral!
The installation technician is responsible for selecting a junction box with the
appropriate dimensions and insulation.
The installationtechnician is responsible for selecting a cable running between
the junction box and the load distribution panel with the appropriate length
and cross section.
Step 8. Drawing System Map
Draw a map of the system, affixing the extra label that comes attached to each inverter,
on the appropriate position on the diagram (found in the Appendix of this manual).
Customer Information:
Please affix the extra
label that comes from
each inverter, on the
appropriate position on
this diagram.
1
2
3
4
5
A
B
C
D
E
Fig.14. System Map

Step 9. Install Photovoltaic Modules
Install the photovoltaic modules, and connect the DC cables of the modules to the
corresponding DC input side of the Micro-inverter.
Fig.15. Connect DC Cables
The recommended installation requires keeping the Micro-inverters
underneath the photovoltaic modules, so that the Micro-inverters can operate
in the shade. Direct sunlight may cause damage to the Micro-inverters and will
at minimum de-rate the performance.
Each module must be connected to the Micro-inverters with a DC cable having a
length of less than 3m.
DC Cable From PV Module
DC Cable From Micro Inverter