APS YC500A-MIW Instruction Manual

Installation/User Manual
APS YC500A-MIW
Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter
Version 4.1 7/2014
APS America
1015 Hostmark St. Ste 104; Poulsbo, WA 98370
TEL: [phone] EMAIL: [email protected]
WEB: www.APSamerica.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1
Radio interference statement 2
APS Microinverter System Introduction 3
APS Microinverter 500 series Introduction 5
APS Microinverter System Installation 6
Additional Installation components from APS 6
Required Parts and Tools from installer 6
Installation Procedures 7
Step 1 - Installing the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box 7
Step 2 – Attaching the APS Microinverters to the Racking
or the PV Module Frame 8
Step 3 - Connecting the APS Microinverter to the PV Module 9
Step 4 - Ground the System 10
Step 5 –Connecting APS Microinverters to the AC Cables 11
Step 6 - Completing the APS Installation Map 12
APS Microinverter system operating instructions 13
Troubleshooting 14
• Status Indications and Error Reporting 14
• Operation LED 14
• GFDI Error 14
• Other Faults 14
Troubleshooting a non-operating APS Microinverter 15-16
Replace a Microinverter 17
Technical Data 18-19
Efficency Cruves 20
Wiring Diagrams 21
• Sample Wiring Diagram – 120V/240V Split Phase 22
• Sample Wiring Diagram – 120V/ 208V Three Phase 23
• Sample Wiring Diagram – 277V/480V Three Phase 23
iii
APS YC500-MIW Installation/User Manual

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 1
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! This manual contains important
instructions to follow during installation and maintenance of the APS
Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter (Microinverter). To reduce the
risk of electrical shock and ensure the safe installation and operation
of the APS Microinverter, the following symbols appear throughout
this document to indicate dangerous conditions and important safety
instructions.
WARNING: This indicates a situation where failure to follow
instructions may cause a serious hardware failure or personnel danger
if not applied appropriately. Use extreme caution when performing
this task.
NOTE: This indicates information that is important for optimized
Microinverter operation. Follow these instructions closely.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
✔Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the APS
Microinverter without rst disconnecting the AC power.
✔Only qualied professionals should install and/or replace APS
Microinverters.
✔Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local
electrical codes.
✔Before installing or using the APS Microinverter, please read all
instructions and cautionary markings in the technical documents
and on the APS Microinverter system and the PV-array.
✔Be aware that the body of the APS Microinverter is the heat sink
and can reach high temperatures. To reduce risk of burns, do not
touch the body of the Microinverter.
✔Do NOT attempt to repair the APS Microinverter. If it fails, contact
APS Customer Support (206-855-5100) to obtain an RMA number
and start the replacement process. Damaging or opening the APS
Microinverter will void the warranty.
1
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WARNING
SYMBOL
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NOTE
SYMBOL

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 2
RADIO INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
FCC Compliance: The equipment complies with the limits for a class
B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are
designed to protect against harmful interference in a residential
installation. The equipment could radiate radio frequency energy
and this might cause harmful interference to radio communications
if instructions were not followed when installing and using the
equipment. But there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful
interference to radio or television reception, the following measures
might resolve the issues:
A) Relocate the receiving antenna and keep it well away from the
equipment
B) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
assistance.
Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance may void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
Radio Interference Statement

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 3
APS YC500-A System Introduction
The APS Microinverter is used in utility-interactive grid-tied
applications, comprised of three key elements:
✹APS Microinverter
✹APS Energy Communication Unit (ECU)
✹APS Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web-based
monitoring and analysis system
Figure 1

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 4
APS Microinverters maximize PV energy production
Each PV module has individual Maximum Peak Power Tracking
(MPPT) controls, which ensures that the maximum power is exported
to the utility grid regardless of the performance of the other PV
modules in the array. When PV modules in the array are affected
by shade, dust, orientation, or any situation in which one module
underperforms compared with the other units, the APS Microinverter
ensures top performance from the array by maximizing the
performance of each module within the array.
More reliable than centralized or string inverters
The distributed APS Microinverter system ensures that no
single point of system failure exists across the PV system. APS
Microinverters are designed to operate at full power at ambient
outdoor temperatures of up to 149°F (65°C). The inverter housing
is designed for outdoor installation and complies with the IP65
environmental enclosure rating.
Simple to install
You can install individual PV modules in any combination of module
quantity, orientation, type, and power rate.
Smart system performance monitoring and analysis.
The APS Energy Communication Unit (ECU) is installed by simply
plugging it into any wall outlet and providing an Ethernet or Wi-
Fi connection to a broadband router or modem. After installing the
ECU, the full network of APS Microinverters automatically reports
to the APS Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web server. The
EMA software displays performance trends, informs you of abnormal
events, and controls system shutdown when it is needed. (See ECU
manual for instructions.)

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 5 5
APS Microinverter 500 Series
The APS 500 series Microinverters connect with the Split-phase
grid, and operate with most 60 and 72 cell PV modules. For more
information, please see the Technical Data page (p.18) of this manual.
The APS YC500 has two independent DC inputs, each with
independent MPPT control and data monitoring.
The following gure shows the APS YC500 Microinverter schematic:
Figure 2
MODEL NUMBER AC GRID PV MODULE MODULE CONNECTOR
YC500 60Hz/240V 60,72 Cell MC-4 Type or Customize
Maximum units per branch of YC500
Max. parallel combination of APS modules = 7/branch for 20 A breaker (14 PV modules)

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 6
APS Microinverter System Installation
A PV system using APS Microinverters is simple to install. Each
Microinverter easily mounts on the PV racking, directly beneath the
PV module(s). Low voltage DC wires connect from the PV module
directly to the Microinverter, eliminating the risk of high DC voltage.
Installation MUST comply with local regulations and technical rules.
WARNING: Perform all electrical installations in accordance with
local electrical codes.
WARNING: Be aware that only qualied professionals should install
and/or replace APS Microinverters.
WARNING: Before installing or using an APS Microinverter, please
read all instructions and warnings in the technical documents and on
the APS Microinverter system itself as well as on the PV array.
WARNING: Be aware that installation of this equipment includes
the risk of electric shock.
WARNING: Do not touch any live parts in the system, including the
PV array, when the system has been connected to the electrical grid.
Additional Installation components from APS
✹AC branch end cable (1 per branch, sold separately)
✹Protective end cap (1 per branch, sold separately)
Required Parts and Tools from Installer
In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, the
following tools are required for assembly:
✹One AC connection junction box
✹Mounting hardware suitable for module racking
✹Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware
✹Continuous grounding conductor and grounding washers
✹Phillips screwdriver
✹Torque wrench
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 7
Installation Procedures
APS Microinverters are designed to only operate when they can sense
power coming from the grid. Even if they are plugged into the PV array,
they will not turn themselves on until they can read power from the grid.
WARNING: Do NOT connect APS Microinverters to the utility grid or
energize the AC circuit until you have completed all of the installation
procedures as described in the following sections.
Step 1 - Installing the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box
A. Install an appropriate junction box at a suitable location on the
PV racking system (typically at the end of a branch of modules).
B. Connect the open wire end of the AC branch end splice cable
into the junction box using an appropriate gland or strain relief
tting.
C. Wire the conductors: L1- RED; L2 - BLACK; N -WHITE.
D. Connect the AC branch circuit junction box to the point of utility
interconnection.
NOTE: Be sure to size the AC wire to account for voltage drop
between the AC branch circuit junction box and the point of utility
interconnection. (See wire size diagram on following page.)
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YC500A
Installation
To junction box
Figure 3

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 8
YC500 Number per Branch
2 3 4 5 6 7* 8 9
EXTERNAL WIRE
SIZE (AWG) MAXIMUM EXTERNAL CABLE LENGTH (ft)
12 370.7 237.1 167.9 124.3 93.6 70.2 51.4 35.7
10 593.1 379.4 268.6 198.9 149.7 112.3 82.3 57.1
8 926.8 592.9 419.6 310.7 233.9 175.5 128.6 89.3
6 1482.8 948.6 671.4 497.1 374.3 280.8 205.7 142.9
*7 is the maximum number/branch with a 20 amp breaker
Step 2 – Attaching the APS Microinverters to the
Racking or the PV Module Frame
A. Mark the location of the Microinverter on the rack, keeping in
mind the PV module junction box or any other obstructions.
B. Mount one Microinverter at each of these locations using
hardware recommended by your module racking vendor.
C. GROUNDING WASHER: If using the appropriate grounding
washer (check with a licensed electrician); attach the grounding
washer between the frame and the Microinverter.
WARNING: Prior to installing any of the Microinverters, verify that
the utility voltage at the point of common connection matches the
voltage rating on the Microinverter label.
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Figure 5

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 9
WARNING: Do not mount the Microinverter in a location that allows
exposure to direct sunlight. Allow a minimum of 3/4” (1.5 cm.) between
the roof and the bottom of the Microinverter to allow proper air ow.
NOTE:Connecting cables (steps 3-5) can be done in any order but
DO NOT connect to the utility power grid until all the steps are
completed.
Step 3 – Connecting APS Microinverters to the PV
Module
Connect the DC cables from the PV Modules to the Micro-Inverter per the
diagram below:
Note: When plugging in the DC cables, the Microinverter should
immediately blink green three times. This will happen as soon as
the cables are plugged in and will show that the Microinverter is
functioning correctly. This entire check function will start and end
within 5 seconds of plugging in the unit, so pay careful attention to
these lights when connecting the DC cables.
9
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Figure 6
Photovoltaic panels
and Microinverter DC
input cable connection
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 10
WARNING: Insure that all AC and DC wiring is correct. Check that
none of the AC and DC wires are pinched or damaged. Be sure that
all junction boxes are properly closed.
Step 4 - Ground the System
NOTE: If you already use grounding washers (WEEB) to ground the
Microinverter chassis to the PV module racking as described in Step
2C, skip this step.
Each APS Microinverter comes with a ground clamp that can
accommodate a single #6 awg strand and #4 awg solid conductor.
Check your local electrical code for grounding conductor sizing
requirements. Connect the grounding electrode conductor to the
microinverter ground clamp.
NOTE: The AC output neutral is not bonded to ground inside the
microinverter.
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Figure 7
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 11
Step 5 - Connecting the APS Microinverter to the
PV Module
A. Check the Microinverter datasheet for the maximum allowable
number of Microinverters on one AC branch circuit.
B. Install a protective end cap on the open AC connector of the last
Microinverter in the AC branch circuit.
C. Plug the AC female connector of the last Microinverter into the
male connector of the next Microinverter, and so on, to form a
continuous AC branch circuit.
WARNING: Do NOT exceed the maximum number of Microinverters
in an AC branch circuit, as displayed on the unit label.
Figure 8
Figure 9
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 12
Step 6 - Completing the APS Installation Map
Fill in the APS Registration Cards, which provide system information
and the installation map. Feel free to provide your own layout if a
larger or more intricate installation map is required. The layout map
provided is designed to accomodate labels in vertical or horizontal
orientation to meet all the eld PV connections.
1. Each APS Microinverter has removable serial number labels.
Peel a label off, and afx it to the respective location on the
APS installation map.
2. Fill out the warranty cards and email to APS at emasupport@
altenergy-power.com
3. APS will create the EMA account and email you the account
information. Then you can use the EMA website to view
detailed performance of your PV system.
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Figure 10

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 13
APS Microinverter System Operating Instructions
To operate the APS Microinverter PV system:
1. Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each Microinverter
branch circuit.
2. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system
will start producing power after a two-minute wait time.
3. Within 2 to 5 minutes of turning on the AC circuit breaker,
the units should start blinking green every 2 seconds. This
means they are producing power normally, but have not yet
connected to the ECU. After the ECU has been plugged in and
acknowledges the Microinverters, they will start to blink green
every 10 seconds.
4. Plug in the ECU and follow the instructions according to the
manual for the ECU.
5. The APS Microinverters will start to send performance data
over power line to the ECU. The time required for all the
Microinverters in the system to report to the ECU will vary
with the number of Microinverters in the system. You can
verify proper operation of the APS Microinverters via the ECU.
See the ECU Installation and Operation Manual for more
information.roubleshooting

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 14
Troubleshooting
Qualied personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the
PV system does not operate correctly:
Status Indications and Error Reporting
START UP LED
One quick red light followed by three short green blinks when DC
power is rst applied to the Microinverter indicates a successful
Microinverter startup
Operation LED
Flashing Slow Green (10 sec. gap) - Producing power and
communicating with ECU
Flashing Fast Green (2 sec. gap) – Producing power and not
communicating with ECU
Flashing Red – Not producing power
GFDI Error
A solid red LED indicates the Microinverter has detected a Ground
Fault Detector Interrupter (GFDI) error in the PV system. Unless
the GFDI error has been cleared, the LED will remain red and the
ECU will keep reporting the fault.
After the ground fault error is xed, follow the instructions in the
ECU Installation and Operation Manual to clear this GFDI error
reporting.
Other Faults
All other faults are reported to the ECU. Refer to the ECU
Installation and Operation Manual for a list of additional faults
and troubleshooting procedures.
WARNING: Only qualied personnel should directly handle the APS
Microinverter.
WARNING: Never disconnect the DC wire connectors under
load. Ensure that no current is owing in the DC wires prior to
disconnecting.
WARNING: Always disconnect AC power before disconnecting the
PV module wires from the APS Microinverter. Either disconnecting
by the appropriate AC circuit breaker or unplugging the rst AC
connector of the rst Microinverter in a branch circuit is suitable as a
means of disconnection.
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 15
WARNING: The APS Microinverter is powered by PV module DC power.
AFTER disconnecting the DC power, when reconnecting the PV modules to
the Microinverter, be sure to watch for the three short LED ashes.
A non-operating APS Microinverter
There are two possible overall areas of trouble:
A. The Microinverter itself may be having problems, or
B. The Microinverter itself is working ne but it is having trouble
communicating with the ECU. The items below refer to Microinverter
issues, not communication issues (addressed in the ECU manual).
A quick way to tell whether the issue is the Microinverter or a
communication problem with the ECU:
1. Diagnosing from the Micro-Inverter: A red light – either blinking or
solid on the Microinverter, or no light at all. No light, or a red light,
means it is denitely a Microinverter problem.
2. Diagnosing from the ECU:
a. No-Data-Display: This is probably a communication issue- not a
Microinverter problem.
b. Problems with erratic display: Data is displayed for some period
and then no data is displayed: most likely a communication issue.
c. 0 watts, or 2 watts: Possibly a Microinverter problem
d. Erratic data display that is not coordinating with data displays
from other units: most likely a Microinverter problem.
TO TROUBLESHOOT A NON-OPERATING APS MICROINVERTER, FOLLOW
THE STEPS BELOW IN ORDER:
1. Verify the utility voltage and frequency are within ranges shown in
the Technical Data section of this manual.
2. Check the connection to the utility grid. Verify utility power is
present at the inverter in question by removing AC, then DC power.
Never disconnect the DC wires while the Microinverter is producing
power. Re-connect the DC module connectors and watch for three
short green LED ashes.
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Troubleshoot a Non-operating APS Microinverter. . .
continued on next page

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 16
. . .TROUBLESHOOT A NON-OPERATING APS MICROINVERTER
3. Check the AC branch circuit interconnection between all the
Microinverters. In rare cases, the wire in the AC plug may
have worked loose. This will need to be reviewed by a qualied
electrician. Verify each inverter is energized by the utility grid
as described in the previous step.
4. Make sure that all AC breakers are functioning properly and
are closed.
5. Check the DC connections between the Microinverter and the
PV module.
6. Verify the PV module DC voltage is within the allowable range
shown in the Section 8 Technical Data of this manual.
7. If the problem persists, please call APS Customer Support at
[phone].
WARNING: Do not attempt to repair the APS Microinverter. If
troubleshooting methods fail, please return the Microinverter to your
distributor for replacement.
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APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 17
Replace a Microinverter
Follow this procedure to replace a failed APS
Microinverter
A. Disconnect the APS Microinverter from the PV Module, in the
order shown below:
1. Disconnect the AC by turning off the branch circuit breaker.
2. Disconnect the rst AC connector in the branch circuit.
3. Disconnect the PV module DC wire connectors from the micro-
inverter.
4. Remove the Microinverter from the PV array racking.
B. Install a replacement Microinverter to the rack. Remember to
observe the ashing LED light as soon as the new Microinverter is
plugged into the DC cables.
C. Connect the AC cable of the replacement Microinverter and the
neighboring Microinverter to complete the branch circuit connections.
D. Close the branch circuit breaker, and verify operation of the
replacement Microinverter.
YC500-A Technical Data

APS YC500A-MIW Installation/User Manual 18
WARNING: Be sure to verify the voltage and current specications
of your PV module match with those of the Microinverter. Refer to the
APS website http://www.altenergy-power.com for a list of approved PV
modules.
WARNING: You must match the DC operating voltage range of
the PV module with the allowable input voltage range of the APS
Microinverter.
WARNING: The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV module
must not exceed the specied maximum input voltage of the APS
Microinverter.
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