APsystems ECU-R Instruction Manual

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APsystems Energy Communication Unit ECU-R
Installation / User Manual
Please scan this QR code
to download our APPs
or click the link below:
http://q-r.to/1OrC

APsystems ECU-R Installation/User Manual
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction........................................................................................................................................ 2
2. Interface Explanation..................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Interface Layout................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Reset....................................................................................................................... 4
2.3 Power Connection Port.................................................................................... 4
2.4 RJ45 Ethernet Network Port..........................................................................4
2.5 RJ45 Signal (Only for Australia)....................................................................4
2.6 Antenna..................................................................................................................4
2.7 USB port................................................................................................................ 4
2.8 AP.............................................................................................................................4
2.9 LED1.........................................................................................................................5
2.10 LED2...................................................................................................................... 5
3. Hardware Installation..................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Preparation.............................................................................................................6
3.2 Selecting an Installation Location for the ECU-R....................................6
3.3 Installation.............................................................................................................6
3.4 Cable Connection............................................................................................... 7
3.5 Internet Connection...........................................................................................9
4. ECU-R User Interface....................................................................................................................10
4.1 Commissioning the ECU-R............................................................................. 10
4.2 Enter microinverters UID (serial numbers) into the ECU-R............... 11
4.3 Historical ID........................................................................................................ 12
4.4 Delete UID...........................................................................................................12
4.5 Grid Profile..........................................................................................................13
4.6 Time management........................................................................................... 14
4.7 ECU Network Settings....................................................................................14
4.8 Checking the commissioning of the ECU-R............................................17
4.9 Module................................................................................................................. 18
4.10 Data..................................................................................................................... 19
4.11 Inverter Connection Progress...................................................................... 19
4.12 Automatic System Check............................................................................. 20
4.13 ECU AP Settings..............................................................................................20
4.14 Do-It-Yourself Registration.......................................................................... 21
4.15 Settings...............................................................................................................21
5. Technical Data.................................................................................................................................22
6. Contact Information..................................................................................................................... 24

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1. Introduction
The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-R) is the information
gateway for our microinverters. The ECU-R collects module performance
data from each individual microinverter and transfers the information to an
Internet database in real time. Through the APsystems Energy Monitoring
and Analysis (EMA) software, the ECU-R gives you precise analysis of each
microinverter and PV module in your solar installation powered by
APsystems. The user-friendly interface gives you access to your solar array
performance in seconds from our web based portal or from our APP.
Features
Collects individual PV module and microinverter statistics
Communicates in real time
Requires no additional wiring
The APsystems ECU-R is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications,
typically consisting of five key elements:
APsystems microinverter(s)
APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-R)
EMA Manager APP: for installer to set-up the ECU-R
EMA APP: to enable end-users to have access to the data and
performance of their system anytime, anywhere
APsystems Energy Monitoring and Analysis (EMA): web-based
monitoring and analysis system, for both end-users and installers
Figure 1
APP
PV
Module
Ground
Neutral
Meter
Junction Box
microinverter
Internet EMA
Ene rgy Com munication Unit

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2. Interface Explanation
2.1 Interface Layout
The ECU-R interface includes, (figure 2) from left to right
Reset button
Wifi antenna connector (WLAN communication between ECU and
router)
power connection port
RJ45 Signal port (for Australia only)
RJ45 ethernet network port (LAN communication between ECU and
router)
Zigbee antenna connector (communication between ECU and
microinverters)
Reset Antenna (WIFI) RJ45 ethernet network port Antenna (ZigBee)
On the side ECU: from top to bottom are:
USB port (North America ONLY): for cellular communication using an
external 4G dongle. It is recommended to only use the cellular
communication in areas where there is no easy access to Wireless or
Ethernet network. Only 4G Dongle supplied by APsystems are
compatible with our ECU-R.
AP button: in case there is need to activate the ECU-R hotspot (see
later in the document)
Figure 2
Power Connection Port
RJ45 Signal (Only for Australia)
USB
AP

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2. Interface Explanation
2.2 Reset
Press the Reset button for a minimum of three seconds: the ECU-R will
automatically return to the default settings.
2.3 Power Connection Port
The power connection port connects power through the power adapter.
2.4 RJ45 Ethernet Network Port
The ECU-R allows the user to communicate with the EMA server via
Ethernet cable.
2.5 RJ45 Signal (Only for Australia)
The RJ45 Signal is designed for DRM0, it should be connected by RJ45
connector in the package otherwise the inverter will not work.
Please do not plug out the RJ45.
2.6 Antenna
The antennas supplied with the ECU-R must be connected to the ECU-R.
One antenna is used for the communication between ECU-R and
microinverters (Zigbee signal), the other antenna is used for the Wi-Fi
connection between ECU-R and router.
2.7 USB port
North America ONLY: for cellular communication using an external 4G
dongle. It is recommended to only use the cellular communication in areas
where there is no easy access to Wireless or Ethernet network. Only 4G
Dongle supplied by APsystems are compatible with our ECU-R.
2.8 AP
The AP button enables to turn on the ECU wifi hotspot. When setting up the
ECU, installer needs to first connect to the ECU hotspot via his smart phone
or tablet.
Press the AP button for a few seconds: the ECU hotspot will be live for one
hour. If more time is needed to set-up the ECU, press the AP button to
reactivate the hotspot.

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2. Interface Explanation
Figure 3
2.9 LED1
LED1 will be ON (green light) when the ECU is powered ON
2.10 LED2
LED2 will be ON (green light) when the ECU is exchanging data with the
EMA server.
When you haven’t entered microinverters UID into the ECU-R, or The ECU
cannot connect to the EMA server, LED2 is OFF.
LED1
LED2

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3. Hardware Installation
3.1 Preparation
Make sure you have the following components ready before
beginning the installation of the ECU-R:
A standard AC electrical outlet (located as close as possible of the
PV array to ensure good communication between ECU and
microinverters).
A broadband Internet connection available for your use.
A broadband router with either a CAT5 Ethernet, or a wireless
router.
A smartphone or tablet with EMA Manager APP ready to use (see
page 11).
3.2 Selecting an Installation Location for the ECU-R
Choose a location that is as close as possible of the PV array.
The ECU-R is NOT rated for outdoor use. If installing outdoor,
ensure that the ECU-R is put in a waterproof box, and that the
antenna (wifi and Zigee) are placed outside of the box to ensure
optimum communication. In case you need to use extension
antennas to be closer to the PV array, please make sure the
extension antennas are Wifi 2.4GHz with SMA connectors
male/female. These extension antennas are not supplied by
APsystems, but can be purchased at any electrical/PV shop.
3.3 Installation
1) Using a Wall Mount
When mounting the ECU-R to a wall, make sure to select a cool, dry
indoor location.
Depending on the wall surface you are mounting the ECU-R to, use
either two drywall screws or wall anchors, installed 100 mm apart
(The drywall screws and wall anchors are not included in the ECU-R
kit).
Align and slide the ECU-R onto the mounting screws.
Figure 4

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3. Hardware Installation
2) if the HECU-R is not mounted on a wall mount, you can put it anywhere
on a flat surface or furniture, close to a power outlet.
3.4 Cable Connection
1) ECU-R outside of a cabinet (wall mounted or not)
Connect the adapter to the power connection port at the back of
the ECU-R.
Figure 5
The antennas used for ZigBee port and WI-FI port are exactly the same
type and are interchangeable.

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3. Hardware Instrallation
2）Installation inside a power cabinet
Install the socket on the guide rail (The socket is not be supplied by
APsystems).
Connect the adapter to the power connection port at the back of
the ECU-R.
Figure 6
ECU antennas must be left outside of the cabinet, even if the cabinet is
made of plastic. Please make sure the extension antennas are Wifi
2.4GHz with SMA connectors male/female. These extension antennas
are not supplied by APsystems, but can be purchased at any
electrical/PV shop.

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3. Hardware Installation
3.5 Internet Connection
There are two different approaches to connect the ECU-R to the Internet:
Option 1: Direct LAN cable connection.
1) Make sure the LAN cable is connected to the network port on the
back of the ECU-R.
2) Connect the LAN cable to a spare port on the broadband router.
See more info later in the document.
Figure 7
Option 2: Wireless Connection.
Use ECU-R internal WLAN (see later in the document, page 15 ).

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4. ECU-R User Interface
Please scan QR code below to have access to our products and APP
catalogue, or click this link to download our APPs: http://q-r.to/1OrC.
EMA Manager APP: for installers
Professional installers: all features available
DIY (Do It Yourself) installers: only ECU_APP features available
EMA APP: for end-users only
4.1 Commissioning the ECU-R
Make sure you have downloaded the EMA Manager APP on your
smartphone or tablet.
Make sure the ECU-R hotspot is activated (if not, press the AP
button for a few second).
Open Settings > Wi-Fi in your smartphone or tablet.
Select ECU-R hotspot: name is ECU_R_216xxxx (mimicking ECU-R
serial number).
Connect your smartphone or tablet to the ECU-R hotspot. Default
password is “88888888” (8 times 8).
Once the connection is established with the ECU-R hotspot, open
the EMA Manager APP.
Select “ECU APP” to enter into the commissioning tool (you can
access to ECU APP without any login or password).

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Please do not enter the ECU UID into the ID management menu (serial
number of 12 digits starting with 216-).
4. ECU-R User Interface
4.2 Enter microinverters UID (serial numbers) into the ECU-R
Click “Workspace”, select “ID Management”,
input the microinverters UID (serial number: 12 digits starting with a
4, a 5, a 7 or a 8) manually or scan the UID with your smartphone
or tablet scanner.
Once the microinverters UID have been entered, please press
“Sync”.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.3 Historical ID
If the ECU accidentally
emptied the inverter list, you
can use the same mobile
phone to quickly restore the
inverter id list.
4.4 Delete UID
In case of wrong entry or typo, select the microinverter UIDs, click
“Delete” then click “Sync”. The selected UID(s) will be removed
from the ECU-R.
Note: when deleting, please press also “Sync”. Otherwise the
microinverter will not be removed from the ECU-R.
Once the microinverters UID have been successfully entered into the
ECU-R, you need to select grid profile and define the adequate time
zone of your ECU.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.5 Grid Profile
From the work space, select “Grid profile”.
First select country and then the city.
If you select the wrong grid profile, the microinverters may not start or
may not produce as per optimal performance.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.6 Time management
From the workspace, please select menu “ECU Date Settings”
manual set-up, click “Date”, “Time” and “Timezone” to modify.
Automated set-up: Click “Time quick setting”: the APP will
synchronise on the time and time zone as per smartphone or tablet
settings.
4.7 ECU Network Settings
4.7.1 WLAN
From the Workspace menu, select “ECU Network settings”.
Swipe down the screen, the available SSIDs will be displayed .
Select the network of your choice and enter its password.
When connecting to the local Wifi, the smartphone or tablet may
lose its connection to the ECU hotspot and connect to other wifi
network or 4G.
If more operations are needed to finish-up the ECU commissioning,
please make sure to reconnect your smartphone or tablet to the
ECU hotspot (may have to press the AP button to re-activate the
hotspot).

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4. ECU-R User Interface
When your smartphone or tablet is connected to the ECU hotspot
again, you can open the ECU APP home page and check the
internet connection status.
The first bullet (with ECU UID) is green when the smartphone/tablet
is properly connected to the ECU hotspot.
The 2nd bullet shall be green if the internet connection to the router
has been successfully established.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.7.2 LAN
Make sure the LAN cable is connected to the network port on the
back of the ECU-R.
Connect the LAN cable to a spare port on the broadband router.
ECU’s wired network setting has 2 options:
automatically obtain an IP address: the router will give an IP address
to the ECU-R automatically (preferred method) .
use a fixed IP address. In that case, you need to enter enter IP
address, subnet mask, default gateway, Preferred DNS server and
Alternate DNS server.
Once the LAN connection has been established, you can check the
internet connection on the home page of the ECU APP:
The first bullet (with ECU UID) is green when the
smartphone/tablet is properly connected to the ECU hotspot.
The 2nd bullet shall be green if the internet connection to the router
has been successfully established.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.8 Checking the commissioning of the ECU-R
Once the ECU-R has been commissioned, installer can check status
on the home page of the ECU APP:
Several infos are displayed
- Systems info (ECU UID, serial number)
- number of microinverters communicating with the ECU / total
number of microinverters entered in the ECU (using the ID
Management menu).

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4. ECU-R User Interface
Status of connectivity
The traffic light (on the left) in front of the ECU UID shows
connectivity status between smartphone or tablet and ECU
hotspot:
Smartphone or tablet is connected to the ECU hotspot.
Smartphone or tablet is not connected to the ECU hotspot. Please
try again by pressing the AP button.
The traffic light (on the right) shows connectivity status between
the ECU and the local internet:
The ECU is connected to the local internet.
The ECU is not connected to the internet.
Other info visible from the home page
power output of the day
-Total power output since installation
-CO₂Reduction since installation.
4.9 Module
This page displays the microinverters entered in the ECU (via the
Menu ID Management) and properly registered by the ECU.
A dual microinverter will be shown by default with 2 PV modules, while
a quad microinverters will be shown by default with 4 PV modules.
if some DC channels are not connected on purpose, the ECU_APP will
nonetheless continue to display the maximum number of panels which
can be connected to a given microinverter.
Removing un-used channel needs to be done from the EMA installer
account when creating end-user account.
On the module page, installer can visualize the performance of
microinverters registered into the ECU.
Click “Panel”: the detailed information of the microinverter is
displayed, including inverter UID, PV module DC power, grid voltage,
frequency and temperature.

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4. ECU-R User Interface
4.10 Data
In this Menu, you can view the detailed data at system level:
-Per day
-Per month
4.11 Inverter Connection Progress
This menu shows the connection progress and communication
quality between microinverter and ECU, 100% means the
connection is over.
The microinverters with "OK" are properly connected to the ECU