Renogy RNG-D Series User manual

Version 1.0
INSTALLATION
GUIDE FOR
PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) MODULES

Contents
01
02
02
03
04
05
05
07
12
07
09
12
13
14
15
16
17
17
15
16
02
05
08
06
10
Purpose of this Guide
Disclaimer of Liability
General Safety
Safety Precaution Measures
Product Identification
Installation Considerations
Unpacking and Storing
Pre-Installation Requirements
Site Considerations
Module Mounting
Fastening
Top Down Clamps
Grounding
Module Dimensions
Electrical Installation
Electrical Specifications
Cables and Wiring
Bypass Diodes
General Installation
Grid Connected Electrical System
Commission and Maintenance
Testing, Commissioning, and Troubleshooting
Maintenance
Replacing Bypass Diodes

02
Purpose of this Guide
This guide contains information regarding the installation for solar modules. All instructions should
be read and understood before attempting to install. If there are any questions, please contact us
for further explanation. The installer should conform to all the safety precautions listed in this guide
when installing the module. Local codes should also be followed in such installations. Before
installing a solar photovoltaic system, the installer should become familiar with the mechanical and
electrical requirement for such a system. Keep this guide in a safe place for future reference (care
and maintenance) and incase of sale or disposal of the module at the end of its useful life.
Because the use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation, operation, use
and maintenance of photovoltaic (PV) product are beyond Renogy’s control, Renogy does not
accept responsibility and expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage, or expense arising out
of or in any way connected with such installation, operation, use or maintenance.
No responsibility is assumed by Renogy for any infringement of patents or other rights of third
parties, which may result from use of the PV product. No license is granted by implication or
otherwise under any patent or patent rights. The information in this manual is based on
Renogy’s knowledge and experience and is believed to be reliable; but such information
including product specification (without limitations) and suggestions do not constitute a
warranty, expresses or implied. Renogy reserves the right to change the manual, the PV
produce, the specifications, or product information sheets without prior notice.
This document is applicable to the series of solar modules listed below:
RNG-100D-SS; RNG-100D-R-BK; RNG-100MB; RNG-160D-SS; RNG-175D; RSP200D;
RNG-270P; RNG-320D
Disclaimer of Liability
Installing solar photovoltaic systems may require specialized skills and knowledge.
Installation should be performed only by qualified personnel. All modules come with a
permanently attached junction box and #12 AWG wire terminated in connectors. Renogy can
provide customers with fitted cables for ease of installation, if desired. The installer should
assume the risk of all injury that might occur during installation, including, without limitation,
the risk of electric shock.
One individual module may generate DC voltages greater than 30 volts when exposed to
direct sunlight. Contact with a DC voltage of 30V or more is potentially hazardous. When
disconnecting wires connected to a photovoltaic module that is exposed to sunlight, an
electric arc may result. Such arcs may cause burns, may start fires and may otherwise create
problems. Therefore, be extremely careful!
General Safety

03
Safety Precaution Measures
Solar modules change light energy to direct-current electrical energy. They are designed for
outdoor use. Modules may be ground mounted, mounted on roof, vehicles or boats. Proper
design of support structures is the responsibility of the system designer and installer.
Under normal outdoor conditions the module will produce current and voltages that are
different than those listed in the data sheet. Data sheet values are values expected at
standard test conditions.
Solar modules produce electrical energy when light shines on their front surface. The DC
voltage may exceed 30V. If modules are connected in series, the total voltage is equal to the
sum of the individual module voltages. If modules are connected in parallel, the total current
is equal to the sum of individual module currents.
Keep children well away from the system while transporting and installing mechanical and
electrical components.
Completely cover the module with an opaque material during installation to keep electricity
from being generated.
Do not attempt to disassemble the module, and do not remove any attached nameplates or
components.
Do not apply paint or adhesive to the module top surface.
Do not use artificially concentrated sunlight directly on the module.
Do not wear metallic rings, watchbands, ear, nose, lip rings or other metallic devices while
installing or troubleshooting photovoltaic systems.
Use only insulated tools that are approved for working on electrical installations.
Abide with the safety regulations for all other components used in the system, including
wiring and cables, connectors, charging regulators, inverters, storage batteries and
rechargeable batteries, etc.
Use only equipment, connectors, wiring and support frames suitable for use in solar electric
systems. Always use the same type of module within a particular photovoltaic system.

04
Product Identification
Renogy modules have been qualified for Application Class A. Modules qualified for safety
through IEC 61140 and within this application class are considered to meet the requirements
for Safety Class II. Modules rated under this class should be used in systems operating at a
voltage above 50 VDC or power above 240 W, where general contact access is anticipated.
Each module has two labels on its rear side providing the following information:
Fire Resistance Safety Class C
When the fire rating is dependent on a specific mounting structure, specific spacing, or
specific means or attachment to the roof or structure, details of the specific parameter or
parameters should be included in the instructions.
Nameplate: describes the product type; rated power, rated current, rated voltage, open
circuit voltage, short circuit current, all as measured under standard test conditions; weight,
dimension etc.
Do not remove any label. If the label is removed the product warranty will no longer be
honored by Renogy.
Bar code: each individual module has a unique serial number.
Module Application:Class A
RNG-xxD
This module produces electricity when exposed to light.
Module Type:
Max Power at STC (Pmax)
Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc)
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp)
Optimum Operating Current (Imp)
Temp Coefficient of Pmax
Temp Coefficient of Voc
Temp Coefficient of Isc
Max System Voltage
Max Series Fuse Size Rating
Fire Rating
Weight
Dimensions
STC
W
V
V
A
x %/℃
x %/℃
x %/℃
600VDC (UL)
xx A
Class C
xx kg / xx lbs
xx x xx x xx mm / xx x xx x xx in
Irradiance 1000 W/m2, T = 25℃, AM=1.5
WARNING:
Please follow all applicable electrical safety precautions.
Only qualified personnel should install or perform maintenace work
on these modules.
Beware of dangerously high DC voltageswhen connecting modules.
Do not damage or scratch the rear surface of the module.
Follow your battery manufacturer’s recommendation.
Short-Circuit Current (Isc) A
Safety
tested
Production
monitored
IEC61730
IEC61215
Photo
voltaics

05
Installation Considerations
Before installing, obtain information about any requirements and pre-approvals for the site,
installation, and inspection from the relevant authorities.
Unpack module pallets carefully, making sure to follow all directions on the pallet.
Unpacking and Storing
Pre-Installation Requirements
Check applicable building codes and ensure that the structure can bear the module system
load
Do not step, walk, stand, or jump on any modules. Localized heavy loads may cause
variances of micro-cracks on the cells which will ultimately compromise module reliability
Ensure that the modules meet the general technical system requirements.
Ensure other system components do not damage the modules mechanically or electrically
Modules can be wired in series to increase voltage or in parallel to increase current. Series
connections have the modules go from positive of one module to negative of the second
module. Parallel connections connect the positive and negative cables of one module and
combine them to the second module.
Bypass diodes in the module is dependent on the model itself.
Modules must not be connected together to create a voltage that is higher than the
maximum system voltage.
Do not carry modules on your head or carry modules through the wires or junction box
Do not use sharp instruments on the modules, especially the sensitive backsheet
Do not leave modules unsupported or unsecured
Keep all electrical contacts clean and dry
Ensure the supporting roof has fire resistant roof covering
Renogy modules are listed as Class C under the UL790 Standard.
CAUTION

06
Renogy modules should be installed in locations that meet the following requirements:
Site Considerations
A maximum of two strings can be connected in parallel without needing to incorporate an
over-current protection device.
Only modules with similar electrical output should be connected in the same string to avoid
mismatch effects.
The small drainage holes on the underside of the module must not be blocked.
Operating Temperature within -40°F to 194°F
Relative humidity within 45% to 95%
Avoid trees, buildings, or obstructions
Avoid shading—even minor partial shading reduces yields. Sunlight should be able to reach
the module even on the shortest day of the year. Shading can affect module service life.
The module should be facing true south in northern latitudes and true north in southern
latitudes for best power production.
For detailed information on the best elevation tilt angle for the installation, refer to standard
solar photovoltaic installation guides or a reputable solar installer or systems integrator.

07
Installation Considerations
Modules must be mounted using the mounting holes located on the rear side of the long frame
parts using M6 or M8 bolt stainless steel bolts, nuts, and washers. Refer to the racking
manufacturer for specific torque requirements.
The mounting design must be certified by a registered professional engineer and comply with
local code requirements from relevant authorities.
Fastening
All installation methods herein are only for reference and Renogy will not provide their own
mounting components. Instead, the system installer is responsible for making sure
installation is abided by all codes.
Module mounting must use the pre-drilled mounting holes (Length * Width: 14mm x 9mm)
in the frame. The most common mounting is achieved by mounting the module using the
four symmetry points close to the inner side of the module frame. Refer to the following
picture for more details. Note that the holes in the center (blue) are for grounding.
RNG100D Example

08
Clamps are an approved method of mounting for Renogy modules. A clamp holds two
modules in a row. The centerline of the clamps must be in-line with the module mounting holes
and installed according to code.
Top Down Clamps
Use appropriate corrosion-proof fastening materials—should be stainless steel
Do NOT drill holes or modify the module frame as it will void warranty.
Each module must be securely fastened at a minimum of 4 points on two opposite sides.
*Actual bolt depends on the railing and professional installer.
Design load and safety factors will be determined by racking suppliers or professional
engineers.

09
The frame of the PV module, as well as any exposed non-current carrying metal parts of fixed
equipment that can be energized must be grounded to avoid electrical shock. Renogy
recommends grounding all PV module frames to ensure the voltage between the conductive
equipment and the earth ground is zero in all circumstances.
Appropriate grounding consists of using an appropriately sized EGC or racking system that
can be used for integrated grounding. Renogy panels implement a coated aluminum frame for
corrosion resistance. The frame rails have pre-drilled holes marked with the grounding sign.
Do not drill additional holes into the frame rails.
Grounding
Note that the stainless steel washer is used between the grounding wire and the module
frame. This is for avoiding corrosion due to dissimilar metals.
The module frame must be properly grounded (refer to NEC clause 250). The grounding
wire must be properly fastened to the module frame to assure good electrical contact. Use
the recommended type, or an equivalent, connector for this wire.
We recommend the lay-in lug (Cat. No. GBL4-DBT; rated for 600Volts; company: ILSCO;
UL number is E34440）when grounding. First strip the 16mm insulating jacket from the end
of the ground wire (4-14 STR.) carefully to avoid nicking or cutting conductors, insert the
wire into the slot of the lug (see the picture), and screw down the slotted screw.
Next, assemble the recommended ILSCO grounding lug to the aluminum frame using
stainless steel M3 or M5 screw and hardware as shown below. Note: there are two different
size grounding holes, the smaller of which is being phased out.
Further, buildup of hardware for mounting the grounding lug are the same—except for the
M3 screw, an added flat washer is mounted directly under the M3 screw head. The star
washer is fitted directly under the grounding lug and makes electrical contact by penetrating
the anodized coating of the aluminum frame, The screw assembly is further fitted with a flat
washer, then a split lock washer and finally a nut to secure the entire assembly, as shown.
Recommended torque of M3 or M5 screw assembly is 0.8NM or 1.5 NM.
If the support frame is made of metal, the surface of the frame must be electroplated and
have excellent conductivity.

10
Module Dimensions
The modules will be mounted using the mounting holes (on the short side of the aluminum
frame), closest to the edges.
100D-SS-G2 RNG-175D
35mm
[1.38in]
509mm
[20.0in]
70mm
[2.76in]
70mm
[2.76in] 39mm
[1.54in]
50mm
[1.97in]
39mm
[1.54in]
50mm
[1.97in]
600mm
[23.6in]
464mm
[18.3in]
1031mm
[40.6in]
1076mm
[42.4in]
35mm
[1.38in]
39mm
[1.54in]
39mm
[1.54in]
50mm
[1.97in]
50mm
[1.97in]
200mm
[7.87in]
200mm
[7.87in]
14*9mm
[0.35in]
2.0mm
[0.08in]
668mm
[26.3 in]
140mm
[5.51 in] 50mm
[1.97 in]
39mm
[1.54 in]
39mm
[1.54 in]
50mm
[1.97 in]
300mm
[11.8 in]
300mm
[11.8 in]
50mm
[1.97 in]
39mm
[1.54 in]
1326mm
[52.2 in]
39mm
[1.54 in]
50mm
[1.97 in]
623mm
[24.5 in]
700mm
[27.6 in]
14*9mm
[0.35 in]
2.0mm
[0.08 in]
35mm
[1.38 in]
1281mm
[50.4 in]
35mm
[1.38 in]
RSP200D

11
RNG-320D
13 mm
[0.5 in]
35 mm
[1.4 in]
1002 mm
[39.4 in]
55 mm
[2.2 in]
900 mm
[35.4 in]
992 mm
[39.1 in]
1665 mm
[65.6 in]
35 mm
[1.4 in]
958 mm
[37.7 in]
6 mm
[0.24 in]
Grounding
14.5*6.5mm
[0.57*0.26 in]
RNG-270P

Electrical Installation
12
Rated
Power
(W)
Voltage at
Rated
Power,
Vmpp (V)
Current at
Rated
Power,
Impp (A)
Open
Circuit
Voltage
(V)
Short
Circuit
Current,
Isc (A)
Maximum
System
Voltage
UL Vmax
(V)
Electrical Specifications
The electrical characteristics are within ±10 percent of the indicated values of Isc, Voc, and
Pmax under Standard Test Conditions (STC Irradiance of 100mW/cm2, AM 1.5 spectrum,
and a cell temperature of 25°C (77°F))
Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience more current and/or
voltage than its Standard Test Conditions rated output. Accordingly, the values of Isc and
Voc marked on this module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining
component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and size of controls
connected to the PV output. (Additional multiplier of 1.56 may be applicable when sizing
conductors and fuses)
Electrical characteristics are displayed below:
Module
RNG-300D 300 32.25 9.33 39.82 9.78 1000
RNG-160D 160 20.2 7.92 22.9 8.37 600
RNG-100D 100 18.9 5.29 22.5 5.75 600
RNG-80D 80 20.9 3.85 24.3 3.98 600
RNG-50D 50 18.3 2.90 21.8 3.10 600
RNG-30D 30 19.5 1.60 22.9 1.7 600
RNG-10D 10 17.5 0.57 21.6 0.62 600
RNG-270P 270 31.4 8.60 38.6 9.03 1000
RNG-50P 50 17.8 2.84 22.4 2.95 600
Rated electrical characteristics are within 10% of measured values at STC Conditions of
1000W/m2, 25°C cell temperature, and spectral irradiation of AM 1.5 spectrum.

13
Wiring Type Ratings
PV Wire PV1-F1x4.0 mm2Rated Voltage: 1800VDC
-40ׄ°C Up to 120°C
Rated Voltage:1000VDC
Rated Current: 30A
-40°F to 194°F
Rated Voltage: 1000VDC Up to 15A
LJQ-1
PV-JM801
Solar Connectors
Junction Box
Means to identify each distinct PV connector manufacturer’s product - such as a picture or
illustration, unique physical features, markings, company logos, etc, and
Allowable mating connector manufacturer and model number(s) listed for each distinct
cable connector manufacturer’s product(s), as well as contact information and/or website of
the PV connector manufacturer.
Keep connectors dry and clean and ensure that caps are tightly sealed before connecting
modules.
Faulty connections can result in electrical shock so make sure to fasten all connections
securely.
Renogy modules can be installed in landscape or portrait orientation. Make sure that the
proper distance between the panels and the surface allows for air circulation.
Cables and Wiring
Renogy modules are equipped with two (2) stranded, PV-rated, output solar connector
cables. The positive connector is a male connector and the negative connector is a female
connector. These wires by themselves are rated for series connections, but could be adapted
to hold parallel connections with an extra component such as a combiner box or a solar
connector adaptor for parallel strings. Renogy recommends that only sunlight resistant cables
be used with the minimum wire size being 4mm2 in diameter.
Modules equipped with PV wiring connectors that comply with the Standard for Connectors
for Use in Photovoltaic Systems, UL 6703, shall have the specific allowable mating connector
manufacturer(s) and model number(s) listed, as well as contact information and/or website of
the PV connector manufacturer. If a specific module product is available with multiple PV
wiring connectors from various manufacturers, then the following shall be included:

14
Model Rating
SPA2040 Tj Max = 200°C, if 20A
Series Connections are just plug and play with the male and female solar connectors
Parallel connections will utilize solar Y branch connectors for centralizing all positive and all
negative connections.
Bypass Diodes
The junction boxes used with the Renogy modules contain bypass diodes that are wired in
parallel with the PV string cells. In the event the modules experience partial shading, the
diodes are activated to bypass the current generated by the non-shaded cells, therefore
limiting module heating and performance losses. However, they do not protect the panel from
over-current. Over-current protection devices must be used when connecting more than 2
modules in series.
If the bypass diodes are suspected of failure, installers or maintenance personnel should
contact the company (Renogy).
Portrait Orientation Landscape Orientation

15
In systems with more than two modules in series, high reverse current can flow through
cells that are shaded partially or outright when part of a module is shaded and the rest is
exposed to the sun. These currents can cause the affected cells to get very hot and could
even damage the module. To protect module from such high reverse currents.
All modules rated greater than 55 Watt have bypass diodes already integrated in the
junction box.
In the unlikely event of diode failure Renogy recommends a qualified service technician be
employed to determine if diodes have failed and to make replacement.
Do not use modules of different configurations in the same system. Several modules are
connected in series and then in parallel to form a PV array, especially for application with a
high operation voltage. If modules are connected in series, the total voltage is equal to the
sum of individual voltages. For applications requiring high currents, several photovoltaic
modules can be connected in parallel; the total current is equal to the sum of individual
currents.
The DC electrical energy generated by photovoltaic systems may also be converted to AC
and connected to a utility grid system. As local utilities’ policies on connecting renewable
energy systems to their grids vary from region to region, consult a qualified system
designer or integrator to design such a system. Permits are normally required to install such
a system and the utility must formally approve and inspect such a system before it can be
connected to the grid.
Module is supplied with Multicontact connectors (PV-KBT4 and PV-KST4) to use for
system electrical connections. Use the National Electric Code to determine system wiring
size (refer to NEC clause 310), type and temperature rating of conductors to be connected
to the module’s connectors. Wiring connected to the module’s wiring should be #12 AWG
(minimum) and must be temperature rated at 90°C (minimum).
In Canada installation shall be in accordance with CSA C22.1, Safety Standard for
Electrical Installations, Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1.
The cross section area of cable and the capacity of connector must be selected to suit the
maximum system short circuit current, otherwise the cable and connector will be
overheated under large current. Refer to NEC for details.
Module overcurrent protection, rated for DC use fuses
General
Grid Connected Electrical System

16
Test all electrical and electronic components of your system before commissioning it.
Follow the instructions in the guides supplied with the components and equipment.
To determine Voc and Isc in the following tests, the module(s) must be exposed to the sun
and not connected to a load. Observe personal safety when making these measurements.
Check the open-circuit voltage (Voc) of every series module using a digital multimeter
(Fluke 170 series are recommended). The measured system Voc should correspond to the
sum of the Vocs of the individual module. You will find the rated voltage in the technical
specifications of the type of the module used and in the tables at the end of this Installation
Guide. If the measured value is significantly lower than the expected value, proceed as
described under “Troubleshooting an excessively low voltage”.
Determine the short-circuit current (Isc) of every series circuit. It can be measured directly
by connecting the digital multimeter connected in the two terminals of series circuit or
module, Attention, the rated scale of the ammeter or the rated current of load should be
more than 1.25 times than the rated short-circuit current of series module. You will find the
rated current in the technical specifications of the type of module used. The measured
value can vary significantly, depending on weather conditions, the time of day and shading
of the module.
Testing modules connected in series before they are connected to the system.
First, check all wiring connections to make sure it is not open-circuit or is not connected
well.
Check the open-circuit voltage of each module:
Fully cover the modules with an opaque material.
Disconnect the wiring at both terminals of the modules.
Testing, Commissioning, and Troubleshooting
Renogy recommends that all work in commissioning and maintenance of a system must be
performed by a qualified solar PV technician!
To identify which is common low voltage and excessively low voltage, the commonl ow
voltage mentioned here is the decrease of open-circuit voltage of the module, which is caused
by the temperature rising of solar cells or lower irradiance. Excessively low voltage is typically
caused by improper connections at the terminals or defective bypass diodes.
Commission and Maintenance

17
If the measured voltage is only half of the rated, this indicates a defective bypass diode.
Refer to ‘Testing and replacing bypass diodes’.
In the case of not very low irradiance, if the voltage across the terminals differs from the
rated value by more than 5 percent, this indicates a bad electrical connection.
Clean the glass surface of the module as necessary. Always use water and a soft sponge
or cloth for cleaning. A mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent can be used to remove stubborn
dirt.
Check the electrical and mechanical connections every six months to verify that they are
clean, secure and undamaged.
If any problem arises, have them investigated by a competent specialist. Observe the
maintenance instructions for all components used in the system, such as support frames,
charging regulators, inverters, batteries, etc.
Maintenance
Renogy recommends the following maintenance in order to ensure optimum performance of
the module:
Place the module face down on a soft, flat surface Insert a 3mm flat screwdriver into the slot
on the junction box cover. (The cover has a sign of screwdriver). Gently pull up the four
slots until the cover has been opened.
Note the orientations of the polarity markings on the diodes.
Insert the 3mm flat screwdriver into a hole alongside the diode and near one mounting hole
of the diode, pry the screwdriver in the opposite direction of diode and gently pull the diode
up until the lead comes free. Do the same in the other mounting hole of the diode, and
repeat until the diode is free.
Check the resistance of the diodes by using the digital multimeter’s ohms scale. Resistance
should be low in one direction, then when leads are reversed on the diode’s terminals the
resistance should be high, as illustrated in the two pictures below. If a diode has a low
resistance in both directions, it is probably shorted. If it has high resistance in both
directions it is probably open. In either case it should be replaced.
Replacing Bypass Diodes
Removing the bypass diodes should be done only by a competent PV technician and after the
module has been disconnected from the system.

18
Replace a defective diode with a diode of the same type, and ensure that its polarity making
is oriented the same way as the original diode.
Finally, check the open-circuit voltage (Voc) of the module, as described previously, and
replace both covers.

Renogy reserves the right to change
the contents of this manual without notice.
RENOGY.COM
US 2775 E Philadelphia St, Ontario, CA 91761, USA
909-287-7111
www.renogy.com
[e-mail]
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