APsystems YC500A-NA-MX Instruction Manual

Installation / User Manual
Rev 1.1
ALTENERGY POWER SYSTEM Inc.
www.APsystems.com
APsystems Shanghai
Rm.B403, No.188 Zhangyang Road, Pudong, Shanghai 200120, P.R.C
TEL: [phone] EMAIL:[e-mail]
© All Rights Reserved (For Mexico)
APsystems YC500A/I (240V)
Photovoltaic Grid-connected Microinverter

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions................................................................................................................... 2
Safety Instructions................................................................................................................................................ 2
Radio interference statement...............................................................................................................................3
APsystems Microinverter System Introduction.......................................................................................4
APsystems Microinverter YC500 Introduction........................................................................................ 6
APsystems Microinverter System Installation......................................................................................... 7
Additional Installation components from APsystems..........................................................................................7
Required Parts and Tools from you......................................................................................................................7
YC500A Installation Procedures............................................................................................................................8
Step 1 - Installing the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box..................................................................................8
Step 2 - Attaching the APsystems Microinverters to the Racking or the PV Module Frame...................... 9
Step 3 - Connecting the APsystems Microinverter AC Cables....................................................................10
Step 4 - Ground the System........................................................................................................................ 11
Step 5 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Module................................................................. 11
Step 6 - Complete the APsystems Installation Map................................................................................... 12
YC500I Installation Procedures........................................................................................................................... 14
Step 1 - Position the AC bus cable.............................................................................................................. 14
Step 2 - Install the AC branch circuit junction box..................................................................................... 14
Step 3 - Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the racking or the PV module frame............................14
Stpe 4 - Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable................................................................15
Step 5 - Install a AC bus protective end cap at the end of AC bus cable....................................................16
Step 6 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules............................................................... 16
Step 7 - Complete the APsystems Installation Map................................................................................... 17
YC500I Installation Procedures........................................................................................................................... 18
APsystems microinverter system operating instructions.....................................................................19
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................ 20
Status Indications and Error Reporting...............................................................................................................20
Start up LED.................................................................................................................................................20
Operation LED............................................................................................................................................. 20
Other Faults.................................................................................................................................................20
Troubleshooting a non-operating APsystems Microinverter............................................................................. 21
Replace a microinverter........................................................................................................................... 22
Technical Data........................................................................................................................................... 23
APsystems YC500 Microinverter Datasheet....................................................................................................... 24
YC500A Wiring Diagram........................................................................................................................... 25
Sample Wiring Diagram - 110V/240V Split Phase.............................................................................................. 25
YC500I Wiring Diagram............................................................................................................................ 26
Sample Wiring Diagram - 120V/240V Split Phase.............................................................................................. 26

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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Important Safety Instructions
This manual contains important instructions to follow during installation
and maintenance of the APsystems Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter
(Microinverter). To reduce the risk of electrical shock and ensure the safe
installation and operation of the APsystems Microinverter, the following
symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditions
and important safety instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! This manual contains important instructions
for models YC500A-NA-MX/YC500I-NA-MX that must be
followed during installation and maintenance of the Photovoltaic Grid-connected
Inverter.
Specifications subject to change without notice - please ensure you are using
the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com
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 APsystems Microinverter
without first disconnecting the AC power.
Only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystems
Microinverters.
Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical
codes.
Before installing or using the APsystems Microinverter, please read all
instructions and cautionary markings in the technical documents and
on the APsystems Microinverter system and the solar-array.
Be aware that the body of the APsystems 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 APsystems Microinverter. If it fails,
contact APsystems Customer Support to obtain an RMA number and
start the replacement process. Damaging or opening the APsystems
Microinverter will void the warranty.
WARNING
SYMBOL
NOTE
SYMBOL

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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Radio interference statement
FCC Compliance：The equipment can comply 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 not following the instructions 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 technical for help.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

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

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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APsystems Microinverter System Introduction
This integrated system improves safety; maximizes solar energy harvest;
increases system reliability, and simplifies solar system design, installation,
maintenance, and management.
APsystems 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 APsystems 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 APsystems Microinverter system ensures that no single
point of system failure exists across the PV system. APsystems 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 NEMA 6 environmental enclosure
rating.
Simple to install
You can install individual PV modules in any combination of module
quantity, orientation, type, and power rate.
For YC500I-NA-MX, the Ground wire (PE) of the AC cable is connected
to the chassis inside of the Microinverter, eliminating the
installation of grounding wire.
For YC500A-NA-MX, the Ground wire is installed outside of the
Microinverter. As the following figures:NA
Figure 2
NOTE: If you already use grounding washers to ground the
microinverter chassis to the PV module racking as described
skip this step.
Smart system performance monitoring and analysis
The APsystems 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 APsystems Microinverters automatically reports to the APsystems 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.)

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APsystems Microinverter YC500 Introduction
The APsystems YC500 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, or sign in APsystems
website to obtain a solar panel list which can match with APsystems Microinverters:
www.APsystems.com
Model
Number
AC grid
PV Module
Max. #
Per branch
Module Connector
YC500A-NA-MX
YC500I-NA-MX
60Hz/220V
60,72 Cell
7 for 20A breaker
8 for 25A breaker
MC-4 Type or Customize

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APsystems Microinverter System Installation
A PV system using APsystems 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.
Special Statement! An AC GFCI device should not be used to protect the
dedicated circuit to the APsystems microinverter even though it is an outside
circuit. None of the small GFCI devices (5mA-30 mA) are designed for back
feeding and will be damaged if back feed. In a similar manner, AC AFCIs
have not been evaluated for back feeding and may be damaged if back feed
with the output of a PV inverter.
WARNING: Perform all electrical installations in accordance with
localelectrical codes.
WARNING:Be aware that only qualified professionals should install
and/or replace APsystems Microinverters.
WARNING: Before installing or using an APsystems Microinverter,
please read all instructions and warnings in the technical documents
and on the APsystems 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.
NOTE: Strongly recommend to install Surge protection Devices in
the dedicated meter box.
Additional Installation components from APsystems
AC branch end cable (1 per branch, sold separately)
Protective end cap (1 per branch, sold separately)
Required Parts and Tools from you
In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, you will need
the following items:
An AC connection junction box
Mounting hardware suitable for module racking
Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware
Continuous grounding conductor and grounding washers
A Phillips screwdriver
A torque wrench

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
APsystems Microinverters are designed to only operate when they can sense
power coming from the grid. Even if they are plugged into the solar array,
they will not turn themselves on until they can read power from the grid.
WARNING: Do NOT connect APsystems 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.
Figure 3
Step 1 - Installing the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box
Figure 4
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 cable into the
junction box using an appropriate gland or strain relief fitting.
c. Wire the conductors: L1 - RED; L2 - BLACK; N -WHITE.
d. Connect the AC branch circuit junction box to the point of utility
interconnection.
To distribution box

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
Step 2 - Attaching the APsystems Microinverters to the
Racking or the PV Module Frame
Attach to the racking
a. Mark the location of the Microinverter on the rack, with respect to
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.
Option 1:
A
B
Figure 5
Option:2
Figure 6
Attach to the PV module frame.
Drill holes on the PV module frame before installing YC500. Please check with
the module manufacturer the compatibilty of such installation process.
Figure 7
WARNING: Prior to installing any of the microinverters, verify
that the utility voltage at the point of common connection matches
the voltage rating on microinverter label.
WARNING: Do not mount the Microinverter in a location that
allows exposure to direct sunlight. Allow a minimum of 3/4’’(1.5cm.)
between the roof and the bottom of the Microinverter to allow
proper air flow.
54
54
46
M4

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
Step 3 - Connecting the APsystems Microinverter AC Cables
AB
Figure 8
Best Practice: Use screwdriver to split the Main connectors.
Figure 9
a. Check the Microinverter technical data page (P.23) for the maximum
allowable number of Microinverters on each AC branch circuit.
b. Plug the AC female connector of the first Microinverter into the male
connector of the next Microinverter, and so on, to form a continuous
AC branch circuit.
c. Install a protective end cap on the open AC connector of the last
Microinverter in the AC branch circuit.
Figure 10
AC connector interface as follows.
Female Connector Male Connector Figure 11
WARNING: Do NOT exceed maximum number of Microinverters
in an AC branch circuit, as displayed on the Technical Data page
(p.18) of this manual.
NOTE: Please contact with ALTENERGY POWER SYSTEM Inc for
the purchase of AC extended cables when microinverters which are
installed space far and AC cable is not long enough.
Female
Connector
Male
Connector
L1
L2
N
L2
L1
N

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
Step 4 - Ground the System
If you already use grounding washers (WEEB) to ground the Microinverter
chassis to the PV module racking as described in Step 2, skip this step.
Figure 12
Each APsystems 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.
Step 5 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Module
Connect the DC cables from the PV Modules to the Microinverter 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.
AB
Figure 13
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.

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
NOTE: About A and B Sides corresponding the location of modules,
EMA registration show acquiesce in this installation. if there are
different connection methods, please email the detail installation
drawings to us to register, or the A, B Sides corresponding component
location will not correspond to the EMA position.
Step 6 - Complete the APsystems Installation Map
Fill in the APsystems 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 field PV connections.
a. Each APsystems Microinverter has removable serial number labels.
Peel labels off, affix one to the respective location on the APsystems
installation map, and fill in A,B in the label below(as figure16)
according to the layout on the roof(as figure 15). Then affix another
label to the PV module frame which is easy to see. The warranty cards
can obtain from the appendix of this manual or APsystems website
www.APsystems.com
b. Fill the warranty cards and email to APsystems at
[e-mail]
c. APsystems 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. You can learn more information on
energy monitoring and analysis system from APsystems website
www.APsystems.com
Figure 14
Microinverter
serial numbers
A
BA BA B
101123458044 101123458045 101123458054
……
Figure 15

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500A Installation Procedures
1 2 34 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 1716 18 19 20 2221
APsystems Microinverter&Energy Communication Unit
Warranty Card
The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation.
Each APsystems microinverter has a removable serial number label located on the mounting plate. Pee l the label
and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map.
Installation Map Template
To register your APsystems microinverter, please mail this warranty registration card to: emasupport altenergy power com@ - .
B A B A B A
Figure 16
NOTE: 1. The layout of the inverters' serial numbers on the warranty
card is only suitable for general arrangement.
2. Step 1~5 can be done in any order..
3. Warranty card is located in Appendix last page of this manual.
4. You can use Scanning Gun or mobile phone to scan the
serial numbers on the map when set ECU (see ECU manual).

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500I Installation Procedures
Step 1 - Position the AC bus cable
Step 2 - Install the AC branch circuit junction box
Figure 17
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 bus cable into the junction
box using an appropriate gland or strain relief fitting.
c. Wire the conductors: L1 - RED; L2 - BLACK; N -WHITE; PE - GREEN.
d. Connect the AC branch circuit junction box to the point of utility
interconnection.
Step 3 - Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the racking or
the PV module frame
Attach to the racking
a. Mark the location of the Microinverter on the rack, with respect to
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.
Option 1:
A
B
Figure 18
Option 2:
Figure 19
M8
M8

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500I Installation Procedures
Attach to the PV module frame.
Drill holes on the PV module frame before installing YC500I. Please check with
the module manufacturer the compatibilty of such installation process.
Figure 20
WARNING: Prior to installing any of the microinverters, verify
that the utility voltage at the point of common connection matches
the voltage rating on microinverter label.
WARNING: Do not mount the Microinverter in a location that
allows exposure to direct sunlight. Allow a minimum of 3/4’’(1.5cm.)
between the roof and the bottom of the Microinverter to allow proper
air flow.
Stpe 4 - Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable
Figure 21
Best Practice: Use the Withdrawal Tool of AC Bus to split the connectors.
a. Check the Microinverter technical data page(p.23) for the maximum
allowable number of Microinverters on each AC branch circuit.
b. Plug the AC connector of the Microinverter into the AC bus
c. Install a AC bus protective end cap on the open AC connector of the last
Microinverter in the AC branch circuit.
54
54
46
M4

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500I Installation Procedures
AC connector interface as follows.
Figure 22
Cover any unused connectors with sealing caps to protect the connectors.
Figure 23
WARNING: Do NOT exceed maximum number of Microinverters
in an AC branch circuit, as displayed on the Technical Data page
(p.23) of this manual.
Step 5 - Install a AC bus protective end cap at the end of AC bus
cable
a. Strip cable jacket. c. Insert the wires into the cable clamps.
b. Insert the cable end into the seal. d. Rotate the nut with 3.3N·m until the
latching mechanism meets the base.
Figure 24
Step 6 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules
Figure 25
L1
PE
L2
Nut
Seal
Body
N

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500I Installation Procedures
WARNING: Double check to make sure all of the AC and DC wiring
has been correctly installed. Ensure that none of the AC and/or DC
wires are pinched or damaged. Make sure that all of the junction
boxes are properly closed.
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.
NOTE: About A and B Sides corresponding the location of modules,
EMA registration show acquiesce in this installation. if there are
different connection methods, please email the detail installation
drawings to us to register, or the A, B Sides corresponding component
location will not correspond to the EMA position.
Step 7 - Complete the APsystems Installation Map
Fill in the APsystems 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 field PV connections.
d. Each APsystems Microinverter has removable serial number labels.
Peel labels off, affix one to the respective location on the APsystems
installation map, and fill in A,B in the label below(as figure28)
according to the layout on the roof(as figure 27). Then affix another
label to the PV module frame which is easy to see. The warranty cards
can obtain from the appendix of this manual or APsystems website
www.APsystems.com
e. Fill the warranty cards and email to APsystems at
[e-mail]
f. APsystems 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. You can learn more information on
energy monitoring and analysis system from APsystems website
www.APsystems.com
A
B
Figure 26

APsystems YC500A/I Installation/User Manual
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YC500I Installation Procedures
Figure 27
1 2 34 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 1716 18 19 20 2221
APsystems Microinverter&Energy Communication Unit
Warranty Card
The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation.
Each APsystems microinverter has a removable serial number label located on the mounting plate. Pee l the label
and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map.
Installation Map Template
To register your APsystems microinverter, please mail this warranty registration card to: emasupport@altenergy-power com.
B A B A B A
Figure 28
NOTE: 1. The layout of the inverters' serial numbers on the warranty
card is only suitable for general arrangement.
2. Step 1~7 can be done in any order.
3. Warranty card is located in Appendix last page of this manual.
4. You can use Scanning Gun or mobile phone to scan the
serial numbers on the map when set ECU (see ECU manual).

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APsystems microinverter system operating instructions
To operate the APsystems microinverter PV system:
1. Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each microinverter AC branch
circuit.
2. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will
start producing power after a five-minute waiting time.
3. The units should start blinking green every 2 seconds five minutes
after turning on the AC circuit breaker. 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 APsystems 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 APsystems
Microinverters via the ECU. See the ECU Installation and Operation
Manual for more information.
NOTE: Once AC power is applied, about 0.1A current and 25VA(W)
power for each microinverter may be measured with a meter. This
Current and Power are Reactive. The inverters ARE NOT operating.
After an over 300s waiting time, the inverters will start operation.