Power One PVI-DESKTOP Setup guide

PVI-DESKTOP
Remote controller
INSTALLATION AND OPERATOR'S
MANUAL
Note: This document contains information that is the property of Power-One,
Inc. Reproduction, even partial, or transfer to third parties of the contents of this
document without the written consent of Power-One is strictly forbidden.
Model number: PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev. 1.1

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
TABLE OF REVISIONS
Document
Revision Date Description of changes
1.0 21/07/2009 First issue
1.1 29/12/2009 First revision
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
INSTRUCTIONS FOR READING THE MANUAL
This manual contains important instructions for safety and operation which must be
understood and carefully followed during installation and maintenance of the
equipment.
In order to reduce the risk of damage and to be sure that the equipment is correctly
installed and ready to operate, special safety symbols are used in the manual to
highlight potential security risks or useful information. The symbols are as follows:
WARNING: Paragraphs marked with this symbol contain actions and
instructions which must be fully understood and followed in order to avoid
potential damage to the device or to persons.
NOTE: Paragraphs marked with this symbol contain actions and instructions
which must be fully understood and followed in order to avoid malfunction.
FCC NOTICE
The device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subjected to the
following 2 conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation
FCC ID: X6W-DESK

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION.........................................................................6
1.1 AURORA INVERTERS.............................................................................6
1.2 PVI-DESKTOP...........................................................................................6
1.3 AVAILABLE MODELS ............................................................................7
2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PVI-DESKTOP.................................9
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE DEVICE.............................................................9
2.2 TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS.......................................................12
2.3 PACKAGING CONTENTS .....................................................................13
3 GETTING STARTED.................................................................15
3.1 FIRST RECHARGE OF THE BATTERY................................................15
3.2 SELECTION OF INSTALLATION LOCATION....................................15
3.2.1 Wall mounting .......................................................................................16
3.2.2 Installation on desk................................................................................17
3.2.3 Tips on the selection of installation location.........................................17
3.2.4 Radio communication test .....................................................................18
3.3 OTHER PRELIMINARY OPERATIONS................................................18
4 SYSTEM INSTALLATION.......................................................20
5 DESCRIPTION OF THE MENU..............................................22
5.1 DEFAULT SCREEN................................................................................22
5.2 MENU.......................................................................................................23
6 PVI-DESKTOP CONNECTIONS AND INTERFACES.........24
6.1 POWER SUPPLY CONNECTOR............................................................24
6.2 USB CONNECTOR .................................................................................25
6.3 RS485 CONNECTOR ..............................................................................25
6.4 SD CARD SLOT.......................................................................................26
6.5 RESET BUTTON.....................................................................................27
6.6 STATUS LED...........................................................................................28
6.7 BLUETOOTH
®
(OPTIONAL) .................................................................28
6.8 TOUCH SCREEN.....................................................................................28
7 SYSTEM OPERATION .............................................................30

Installation and Operator's Manual
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8 FIRMWARE UPDATE...............................................................31
9 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE................................................32

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
1INTRODUCTION
This document contains the technical description of the PVI-DESKTOP. The user will
find all the information needed for configuration and for the proper operation and use
of the device.
1.1 AURORA INVERTERS
The inverters for the Aurora range photovoltaic and wind plants are equipped with
internal software that allows several parameters to be monitored for both the operation
of the plant and the inverter itself and for the production of measured energy. The
inverters are also provided with a display (liquid crystal or monochrome) capable of
showing sensitive data simply by using the built-in keypad.
Often, due to the limited accessibility of the system, remote display of all data
recorded by the inverter is necessary so as to have full control of the conversion
device's functions and, at the same, to check the actual energy production.
1.2 PVI-DESKTOP
The PVI-DESKTOP can fulfil the tasks of monitoring and remotely displaying
important parameters. The PVI-DESKTOP is a device which can communicate
remotely with the inverters in different ways, present the information of interest to the
user on a large TFT display, process and store a wealth of information covering the
whole life of the photovoltaic or wind system. As well as all this, the PVI-DESKTOP
can also communicate with other devices (e.g. normal home PCs) via a USB port and,
optionally, via Bluetooth
®
; this type of communication is possible by using dedicated
software for monitoring the Aurora inverters through a connection with a PC, Aurora
Communicator, which is always included in the inverter package CD and upgradeable
from the web site http:\\www.power-one.com\.
The PVI-DESKTOP thus allows you to replace or supplement the display of data
carried out remotely via the cable between the inverter RS485 port and an input port
on a normal home PC (and which still requires the software mentioned above). The
main advantage of using a PVI-DESKTOP lies in the possibility of setting up wireless
communication and the absence of wired communication. Moreover the large TFT
touch screen display allows the data acquired by the system to be easily and intuitively
displayed and processed. This way the use of an external PC is not strictly necessary.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
Connection to an external PC is only necessary for upgrading the internal firmware or
downloading the data collected by using Aurora Communicator.
Figure 1 shows a diagram summarizing the connections possible with the PVI-
DESKTOP, both to the inverters and a traditional PC.
AURORA
Desktop
Personal
Computer
USB2
868/915MH
optional
868/915MH
868/915MH
868/915MH
Internet
RS485
RS485
RS485
P
1
Server
Figure 1 – Simplified connection diagram for the PVI-DESKTOP
1.3 AVAILABLE MODELS
Several versions can be purchased and they differ by their features or added
components. The various models are identified by the P/N:
PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx
Where, field yy shows the characters BT if the model is equipped with a Bluetooth
®
peripheral (otherwise this field is not in the P/N), and field xx shows two characters
identifying the national code which distinguishes the different mains sockets for the
charger. Some examples:

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
PVI-DESKTOP-IT  model without Bluetooth
®
peripheral and power supply/battery
charger with Italian mains socket
PVI-DESKTOP-BT-UK  model with Bluetooth
®
peripheral and power
supply/battery charger with English mains socket

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
2DESCRIPTION OF THE PVI-DESKTOP
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE DEVICE
For proper use of the PVI-DESKTOP, you are recommended to look carefully at
Figure 2 to learn how to identify all the parts of the object.
1
4
5
6
7
8
9

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
Figure 2 - Position of the components
1. PVI-DESKTOP
2. Docking station
3. Holes for wall mounting
4. Touch Screen display
5. Multicolour LED status indicator
6. ON/OFF Button
7. RS485 communication port
8. USB 2.0 communication port
9. Reset button (internal)
10. Power supply input
11. Sound output holes
12. Stylus Pen positioning groove
13. SD card connector
10
11
12
13
3
2

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
WARNING: Component 7. is a connector to be used solely and exclusively
for connection by RS485 to the Aurora inverters, when used. On no account
use it for anything else (e.g. connection of Ethernet cables for PC or
telephone connections) to prevent damage to the communication port.
The following figure also illustrates the location of the internal components of the
PVI-DESKTOP and the mechanical parts that make it up. The drawing is shown
purely for information purposes, since any disassembly or operation on the electronics
of the PVI-DESKTOP, including replacement of the Lithium battery, must be carried
out by specialist staff.
Figure 3 - Mechanical blow-up diagram
WARNING: the PVI-DESKTOP is fitted with security labels which, if
removed or showing scratch marks, render the warranty null and void.
Maintenance operations and replacement of components on the PVI-
DESKTOP can only be carried out by qualified specialist staff.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
2.2 TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The technical characteristics of the PVI-DESKTOP display and remote control device
are summarized in the following table.
Inverter radio communication frequency 868.25 MHz, single channel
with 500 kHz bandwidth
Communication range with radiomodule
1
300 m
Bluetooth Optional
Bluetooth communication frequency 2.4 GHz
Bluetooth range
1
20 m
USB 2.0 port present
RS485 communication port present
Maximum RS485 cable length 200 m
Included SD Card capacity 1 Gb
Graphical display resolution 320 x 240 QVGA
Graphical display dimensions 3.5”
Touch Panel 4-wire resistive
Battery capacity 1950 mAh
Standby
2
3 weeks
Full charge time via power supply 6 h
Full charge time via USB 2.0 8 h
Voltage and current from power supply 5V 1A DC
Maximum current from USB 2.0 500 mA
Software upgrade Free via web
3
Restoration of default settings Reset button
Status indicator Three-colour LED
1
The specified range is significant only in the open and in the absence of
obstacles to the radio signal
2
The standby time indicated was measured in standard operating conditions
(radio communication every 15 minutes, power sleep enabled at 1 minute)
3
See website www.power-one.com

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
2.3 PACKAGING CONTENTS
Inside the packaging and in addition to the PVI-DESKTOP and its docking station, are
some accessories, some of which have already been positioned in the PVI-DESKTOP.
These accessories are indicated and recognisable from the following figure.
x2
14. USB cable
15. SD Card
16. Stylus Pen
17. DC 5V 1A power supply
18. Wall mounting kit (2 dowels + 2 universal screws)
NOTE: The distributor has delivered your PVI-DESKTOP to the carrier
packed securely and in perfect condition. The carrier, by accepting the
package, takes responsibility for it up to delivery. Despite the care exercised
by the carrier, it is possible that the package and its contents may be damaged
during transport.
The customer is recommended to carry out the following checks:
Examine the shipping container for signs of visible damage: holes, cracks or any
other sign of internal damage;
Describe any damage or missing parts on records of receipt, and obtain the
signature of the carrier and its full name;
Open the shipping container and examine the contents for signs of any damage
inside. When unpacking be careful not to discard equipment, components or
manuals. If damage is found, contact the shipper to determine the type of
intervention appropriate. An inspection may be required; store all the packing
material for the inspector!
16
18 14
15
17

Installation and Operator's Manual
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If the inspection reveals damage, call your local supplier, or authorized
distributor. They will decide whether the equipment should be returned for repair
and provide instructions in this regard;
It is the customer's responsibility to make a complaint with the carrier. Omission
of this procedure may result in the loss of warranty service for any damage
reported;
Keep the PVI-DESKTOP's original packaging in a safe place; should it be sent
for repair, it is necessary to use the original packaging.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
3GETTING STARTED
WARNING: the PVI-DESKTOP requires some preliminary steps at the
initial start up of the system. Follow the instructions carefully for proper start
up.
3.1 FIRST RECHARGE OF THE BATTERY
The lithium battery inside the PVI-DESKTOP may not be completely charged, or even
completely discharged, at the time of initial start up. To avoid problems, it is
recommended that the object be charged for no more than 10 hours using the
appropriate power supply supplied. Charging is also possible via the USB port, even
when the object is completely turned off, but this takes slightly longer. The LED
indicating the charge will remain orange for the duration of the recharge turning green
once it is fully charged.
WARNING: Should recharging not be complete after 10 hours, unplug the
power supply, check that there is no overheating or deformation in the back
part of the object that would indicate potential damage to the internal battery.
NOTE: Charging via the USB port is slower than charging via external
power supply.
The PVI-DESKTOP can also be used with the power supply always connected.
Leaving the object always connected to the mains causes no problem to its operation
or to the battery. Nevertheless, it is recommended that a full charging and discharging
cycle of the battery be carried out every 2 months.
3.2 SELECTION OF INSTALLATION LOCATION
The PVI-DESKTOP can simply be placed on a flat surface or desk, or can be wall
mounted. This is possible thanks to the docking station with supporting feet and
preruptures for the fixing holes.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
3.2.1 Wall mounting
Choosing the location carefully for wall mounting is essential for comfortable and
easy reading of data. It is recommended the PVI-DESKTOP is not installed above or
near heat sources (e.g. radiators, stoves or other sources of heat) to avoid damage to
the object. Avoid installing the object in the vicinity of large metallic parts (e.g.
boilers, steel doors, various kinds of metal boxes, etc.) in order not to limit the
operating efficiency of radio communication or Bluetooth
®
. It is furthermore
recommended that areas where the incidence of direct light may make it impossible to
read the display correctly and even lead to discolouration of the external plastic are
avoided. The following figures illustrate the procedure for proper wall mounting.
Figure 4 - Wall mounting procedure
Drill two holes, diameter 5 mm and minimum depth 45 mm, 3 cm apart from each
other (Figure 4.a.). Insert the dowels (Figure 4.b.). Screw the base to the wall using the
screws provided (Figure 4.c.)

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
The PVI-DESKTOP support base is designed to make it easy to remove the object
even with the power or communication cables inserted. Moreover, if properly
installed, the PVI-DESKTOP will be perfectly parallel to the wall chosen.
NOTE: The physical characteristics of the installation location (wall
thickness, presence of metal or glass walls, distance from the Aurora inverter,
etc.) may limit the range of the radio signal. It is recommended that, once a
plausible location for mounting has been identified, a radio communication
test is carried out before the actual installation.
3.2.2 Installation on desk
The PVI-DESKTOP base enables comfortable and solid positioning on flat surfaces
such as tables or desks. The inclination of about 10° of the axis allows for easier
reading of the display and more convenient use of the touch screen. It is recommended
the PVI-DESKTOP is not installed above or near heat sources (e.g. radiators, stoves or
other sources of heat) to avoid damage to the object. Avoid installing the object in the
vicinity of large metallic parts (e.g. boilers, steel doors, various kinds of metal boxes,
etc.) in order not to limit the operating efficiency of radio communication or
Bluetooth
®
. It is furthermore recommended that areas where the incidence of direct
light may make it impossible to read the display correctly and even lead to
discolouration of the external plastic are avoided.
NOTE: The physical characteristics of the installation location (wall
thickness, presence of metal or glass walls, distance from the Aurora inverter,
etc.) may limit the range of the radio signal. It is recommended that, once a
plausible location for mounting has been identified, a radio communication
test is carried out before the actual installation.
3.2.3 Tips on the selection of installation location
The selection of installation location and the position of the PVI-DESKTOP strongly
influence the quality of the radio signal received. Choosing to leave the PVI-
DESKTOP resting on a desk free of obstacles and objects in a 20 cm radius allows the
best radio signal reception. If you choose wall mounting, take into account some rules
that allow data reception to be much improved. Avoid, for example, installing the PVI-

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
DESKTOP on walls coming between the inverter and the controller, and prefer walls
which do not come between the line of communication (Figure 5).
Figure 5 - Wall mounting, selection of location
Keep metal or conductive objects as far away as possible.
Signal quality is also influenced by environmental factors such as fog, rain, air
humidity, etc. The effect of these environmental factors is negligible over limited
distances but can be considerable over long communication distances.
3.2.4 Radio communication test
To test communication, it is possible to carry out a simple plant configuration as
shown in paragraph 4 point 2). Appearance of your inverter in the list of associable
devices is confirmation radio signal reception.
3.3 OTHER PRELIMINARY OPERATIONS
Before starting up the PVI-DESKTOP for the first time, make sure the Aurora
inverters have been properly configured. Check that the PVI-RADIOMODULE card
has been installed in the Aurora inverters, should activation of radio communication
with the PVI-DESKTOP be desired. To install the PVI-RADIOMODULE reference
should be made to the applicable manual. Check that the cable is long enough for
RS485 communication, if you desire to use wired configuration as an alternative to
radio communication.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
WARNING: Connector 7. Figure 2 is reserved for use with special wiring
for RS485 communication with Aurora inverters. Under no circumstances
connect with any other device (Ethernet, telephone network or other) as it
could lead to possible damage.
Check that the SD card is inserted correctly before turning on the device. The SD card
is an integral part of the device and is absolutely necessary for its operation. Missing
or incorrect insertion of the SD card generates an easily recognizable error message on
the display.

Installation and Operator's Manual
(PVI-DESKTOP-yy-xx Rev: 1.1)
4SYSTEM INSTALLATION
When all the preliminary steps (see § 3) have been carried out, the initial start up of
the communication system can proceed. For proper initial start up follow the
operations indicated in the following paragraphs scrupulously.
1) Inverter configuration and device switch on
•Check that the PVI-RADIOMODULE is correctly installed (see the PVI-
RADIOMODULE manual) if you want to initialize radio communication.
•Check that the Aurora inverters in your photovoltaic/wind plant are turned on.
•Check that the addresses for the RS485 ports are all different (they do not
need to be sequential).
•Check that the RS485 wiring is correct and inserted if you want to initialize
RS485 cable communication.
2) Switching on the PVI-DESKTOP and inverter association
•Switch on the device by pressing the ON/OFF button and follow the
instructions that appear on the display, select the desired values and click on
next.
•Set the date and current time.
Please note that you can change the setting at any time through the "Settings -
Date - Time" menu.
•Select the communication channel: select the box corresponding to the
communication channel that will be used (Radio or RS485).
•Select the number of inverters that will be connected to the PVI-DESKTOP
(from 1 to 6).
•Select how often you want a data read refresh. The time is selectable from a
minimum of 1 minute to a maximum of 15 minutes.
•Scan the communication channel to search for inverters or choose to defer the
operation to a later time.