SMA MD.485-US-40 User manual

MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 | Version 1.1ENGLISH
Installation Manual
SMA RS485 MODULE
MD.485-US-40 (PC-485.BG1)

Legal Provisions SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-112
Legal Provisions
The information contained in these documents is the property of SMA Solar Technology AG. No
part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or
by any means, be it electronic, mechanical, photographic, magnetic or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of SMA Solar Technology AG. Internal reproduction used solely for the purpose
of product evaluation or other proper use is allowed and does not require prior approval.
SMA Solar Technology AG makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, with
respect to this documentation or any of the equipment and/or software it may describe, including
(with no limitation) any implied warranties of utility, merchantability, or fitness for any particular
purpose. All such representations or warranties are expressly disclaimed. Neither SMA Solar
Technology AG nor its distributors or dealers shall be liable for any indirect, incidental, or
consequential damages under any circumstances.
The exclusion of implied warranties may not apply in all cases under some statutes, and thus the
above exclusion may not apply.
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Every attempt has been made to make this
document complete, accurate and up-to-date. Readers are cautioned, however, that product
improvements and field usage experience may cause SMA Solar Technology AG to make changes
to these specifications without advance notice, or per contract provisions in those cases where a
supply agreement requires advance notice. SMA Solar Technology AG shall not be responsible for
any damages, including indirect, incidental or consequential damages, caused by reliance on the
material presented, including, but not limited to, omissions, typographical errors, arithmetical errors
or listing errors in the content material.
Trademarks
All trademarks are recognized, even if not explicitly identified as such. Missing designations do not
mean that a product or brand is not a registered trademark.
SMA Solar Technology AG
Sonnenallee 1
34266 Niestetal
Germany
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.SMA.de
Email: [email protected]
Status: 9/24/2018
Copyright © 2018 SMA Solar Technology AG. All rights reserved.

Table of Contents
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 3
Table of Contents
1 Information on this Document................................................. 4
1.1 Validity........................................................................................................................ 4
1.2 Target Group.............................................................................................................. 4
1.3 Levels of warning messages ...................................................................................... 4
1.4 Symbols in the Document .......................................................................................... 4
1.5 Typographies in the document.................................................................................. 5
1.6 Designation in the document..................................................................................... 5
1.7 Additional Information ............................................................................................... 5
2 Safety ........................................................................................ 6
2.1 Intended Use .............................................................................................................. 6
2.2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.................................................................... 7
3 Scope of Delivery ..................................................................... 9
4 Product Overview .................................................................... 10
4.1 SMA RS485 Module................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Type Label .................................................................................................................. 10
5 Mounting................................................................................... 12
5.1 Mounting position ...................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Installing the Module ................................................................................................. 12
6 Connection ................................................................................ 14
6.1 Preparing the Connection Cable............................................................................... 14
6.2 Inserting the Cables ................................................................................................... 15
6.3 Connecting the Cable................................................................................................ 15
7 Decommissioning ..................................................................... 17
7.1 Removing the Module................................................................................................ 17
7.2 Packing the Product for Shipment ............................................................................. 18
7.3 Disposing of the Product............................................................................................ 18
8 Technical Data .......................................................................... 19
9 Compliance Information .......................................................... 20
10 Contact ...................................................................................... 21

1 Information on this Document SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-114
1 Information on this Document
1.1 Validity
This document is valid for:
• SMA RS485 (MD.485-US-40) with assembly designation "PC-485.BG1" from hardware
version A1
1.2 Target Group
The tasks described in this document must only be performed by qualified persons. Qualified
persons must have the following skills:
• Knowledge of how an inverter works and is operated
• Training in how to deal with the dangers and risks associated with installing, repairing and
using electrical devices and installations
• Training in the installation and commissioning of electrical devices and installations
• Knowledge of all applicable laws, standards and directives
• Knowledge of and compliance with this document and all safety information
1.3 Levels of warning messages
The following levels of warning messages may occur when handling the product.
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, can result in property damage.
1.4 Symbols in the Document
Symbol Explanation
Information that is important for a specific topic or goal, but is not safety-rele-
vant
☐
Indicates a requirement for meeting a specific goal
☑
Desired result

1 Information on this Document
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 5
Symbol Explanation
✖
A problem that might occur
Example
1.5 Typographies in the document
Typography Use Example
bold • Messages
• Terminals
• Elements on a user interface
• Elements to be selected
• Elements to be entered
• Connect the insulated
conductors to the terminals
X703:1 to X703:6.
• Enter 10 in the field
Minutes.
>• Connects several elements to be
selected
• Select Settings > Date.
[Button]
[Key]
• Button or key to be selected or
pressed
• Select [Enter].
1.6 Designation in the document
Complete designation Designation in this document
PV system PV system
SMA RS485 Module Module, product
1.7 Additional Information
Title and information content Type of information
"RS485 Cabling Plan" Installation Manual

2 Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-116
2 Safety
2.1 Intended Use
The SMA RS485 Module enables SMA inverters to establish wired RS485 communication.
The SMARS485Module enables SMA inverters of type "SBx.x-1SP-US-40" to establish
communication between the inverter and the energy meter according to ANSIC12.20 of the
SMARevenueGradeMeterKit. The SMARS485 module can be used in SMA inverters of type
"SBx.x-1SP-US-40" only to establish this communication. The setup of a cable-connected RS485
communication to other units is not supported.
The product must only be installed in the following SMA inverters:
• STP50-US-40 (SunnyTripowerCORE1-US)
• STP33-US-41 (SunnyTripowerCORE1-US)
• STP50-US-41 (SunnyTripowerCORE1-US)
• STP62-US-41 (SunnyTripowerCORE1-US)
• SB3.0-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 3.0-US)
• SB3.8-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 3.8-US)
• SB5.0-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 5.0-US)
• SB6.0-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 6.0-US)
• SB7.0-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 7.0-US)
• SB7.7-1SP-US-40 (Sunny Boy 7.7-US)
The inverter still complies with the standard after the product has been installed.
All components must remain within their permitted operating ranges and their installation
requirements at all times.
The product is approved for the US and Canadian market.
Use this product only in accordance with the information provided in the enclosed documentation
and with the locally applicable laws, regulations, standards and directives. Any other application
may cause personal injury or property damage.
Alterations to the product, e.g. changes or modifications, are only permitted with the express written
permission of SMA. Unauthorized alterations will void guarantee and warranty claims and in most
cases terminate the operating license. SMA shall not be held liable for any damage caused by
such changes.
Any use of the product other than that described in the Intended Use section does not qualify as the
intended use.
The enclosed documentation is an integral part of this product. Keep the documentation in a
convenient place for future reference and observe all instructions contained therein.
This document does not replace and is not intended to replace any local, state, provincial, federal
or national laws, regulations or codes applicable to the installation, electrical safety and use of the
product. SMA assumes no responsibility for the compliance or non-compliance with such laws or
codes in connection with the installation of the product.
The type label must remain permanently attached to the product.

2 Safety
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 7
2.2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
This section contains safety information that must be observed at all times when working on or with
the product.
The product has been designed and tested in accordance with international safety requirements. As
with all electrical or electronical devices, there are residual risks despite careful construction. To
prevent personal injury and property damage and to ensure long-term operation of the product,
read this section carefully and observe all safety information at all times.
DANGER
Danger to life due to electric shock when live components or cables of the
inverter are touched
High voltages are present in the conductive components or cables of the inverter. Touching live
parts and cables of the inverter results in death or lethal injuries due to electric shock.
• Disconnect the inverter from voltage sources and make sure it cannot be reconnected
before working on the device.
• Wear suitable personal protective equipment for all work on the product.
NOTICE
Damage to the enclosure seal in subfreezing conditions
If you open the inverter when temperatures are below freezing, the enclosure seals can be
damaged. This can lead to moisture entering the inverter.
• Only open the inverter if the ambient temperature is not below -5°C (23°F).
• If a layer of ice has formed on the enclosure seal when temperatures are below freezing,
remove it prior to opening the inverter (e.g. by melting the ice with warm air). Observe the
applicable safety regulations.
NOTICE
Damage to the product due to sand, dust and moisture ingress
Sand, dust and moisture penetration can damage the product and impair its functionality.
• Only open the inverter if the humidity is within the thresholds and the environment is free of
sand and dust.
• Do not open the inverter during a dust storm or precipitation.
• Close tightly all enclosure openings.
• Only use listed rain-tight or liquid-tight conduit fittings to attach the conduits to the product.
NOTICE
Damage to the inverter or product due to electrostatic discharge
Touching electronic components can cause damage to or destroy the inverter or the product
through electrostatic discharge.
• Ground yourself before touching any component.

2 Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-118
Electrical installations (for North America)
All installations must conform with the laws, regulations, codes and standards applicable in the
jurisdiction of installation (e.g. National Electrical Code® ANSI/NFPA 70 or Canadian
Electrical Code® CSA-C22.1.).
• Before connecting the inverter to the utility grid, contact your local grid operator. The
electrical connection of the inverter must be carried out by qualified persons only.
• Ensure that the cables or conductors used for electrical connection are not damaged.

3 Scope of Delivery
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 9
3 Scope of Delivery
Check the scope of delivery for completeness and any externally visible damage. Contact your
distributor if the scope of delivery is incomplete or damaged.
BA C D
FE
Figure 1: Components included in the scope of delivery
Position Quantity Designation
A 1 Module
B 1 Fastening screw (M5, TX25)
C 2 4-pole terminal block
D 1 Terminator
E 2 Copper foil
F 1 Quick Reference Guide

4 Product Overview SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1110
4 Product Overview
4.1 SMA RS485 Module
The SMA RS485 Module enables SMA inverters to establish wired RS485 communication.
Design of the Module
F
A
D D
C
B
B
E
Figure 2: Design of the module
Position Explanation
A Opening for the fastening screw
B Openings for the guide pins of the communication assembly
C Jacks for connecting the 4-pole terminal blocks
D Shield clamps
E Type label
F Connector strip on the back of the module for connection to the
communication assembly in the inverter
4.2 Type Label
The type label clearly identifies the product. The type label is located on the front of the product.
PC-485.BG1
XXXXX
XX
A
B
C
Figure 3: Design of the type label
Position Explanation
A Device type
B Serial number
C Hardware version

4 Product Overview
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 11
You will require the information on the type label to use the product safely and when seeking
customer support from Service (see Section10 "Contact", page21).

5 Mounting SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1112
5 Mounting
5.1 Mounting position
DISPLAY
BAT
Max. 30V DC
USB
FCC ID: SVF-KP
IC: 9440A-KP20
MFR
AB
X1 X2
A
B
C
Figure 4: Communication assembly in the inverter with mounting position for the module
Position Designation
A Communication assembly
BModule slot M1*
CModule slot M2
* Production resources SMA recommends using module slot M1 for the module.
5.2 Installing the Module
NOTICE
Damage to the inverter due to moisture ingress during electrical installation
• Never open the inverter when it is raining or snowing, or the humidity is over 95%.
• For attaching the conduits to the enclosure, only use UL-listed rain-tight conduit fittings for
wet locations.
• Seal all unused openings tightly.
Maximum number of modules per inverter
You can only use a maximum of one module of the same device type per inverter.

5 Mounting
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 13
Procedure:
1. DANGER
Danger to life due to high voltages of the PV array
When exposed to sunlight, the PV array generates dangerous DC voltage, which is present
in the DC conductors and the live components of the inverter. Touching the DC conductors
or the live components can lead to lethal electric shocks.
• Prior to performing any work on the inverter, always disconnect the inverter from
voltage sources on the AC and DC sides as described in the inverter manual. When
doing so, note that even if the DC load-break is switched off, there will be dangerous
direct voltage present in the DC conductors of the inverter.
2. Remove the enclosure lid of the DC Connection Unit. Unscrew all screws with a Torx
screwdriver (TX25) and remove the enclosure lid carefully forward.
3. Set the screws and the enclosure lid aside and store safely.
4. Install the module at the desired mounting location. Perform the following steps:
• Guide the three guide pins on the
communication assembly through the holes in
the module. The holes in which the guide pins
must be inserted depend on the mounting
location.
• Carefully push the module down on the upper
edge and on the connection sockets until it
audibly snaps into both side locking tabs of the
communication assembly. The connector strip
on the back of the module is automatically
pushed into the socket terminal strip of the
communication assembly.
CLICKCLICK
5. Screw tight the fastening screw with a Torx
screwdriver (TX25) on the module (torque: 1.5Nm
(13 in-lb)). This additionally fixes the module in
place and grounds it in the inverter enclosure.

6 Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1114
6 Connection
6.1 Preparing the Connection Cable
Depending on whether the module is located at the end or in the middle of the communication bus,
prepare one or two connection cables as described in the following.
Requirements:
☐ The cable requirements must be complied with (see Installation Instructions "RS485 Cabling
Plan" at www.SMA-Solar.com).
☐ Diameter of the cable when using the cable support sleeve with one hole: at maximum 17 mm
(0.67in)
☐ Diameter of the cable when using the cable support sleeve with two holes: at maximum 6.5
mm (0.26in)
Procedure:
1. Strip 40mm (1.57in) of cable sheath from the end of the connection cable to which the
terminal block is to be attached. Make sure that no pieces of cable are dropped into the
inverter.
2. Trim the cable shield to a length of 15mm (0.59in)
and fold it over the cable sheath.
3. Wrap the cable shield with copper foil.
4. Strip the insulation on the three insulated conductors each by 6mm (0.24in). The two
insulated conductors used for communication must be a twisted pair.
5. Trim unneeded insulated conductors of the connection cable flush with the cable sheath.

6 Connection
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 15
6.2 Inserting the Cables
Additionally required material (not included in the scope of delivery):
☐ Connection cable (see Section6.1, page14)
Procedure:
1. Make sure that the inverter has been disconnected and is secured against reconnection (see
the inverter manual).
2. Remove the swivel nut from the cable gland for the communication cable.
3. Thread the swivel nut over the cable.
4. Press the two-hole cable support sleeve out of the cable gland.
5. Remove the sealing plug from one of the enclosure openings of the two-hole cable support
sleeve and insert the cable into the enclosure opening.
6. Press the two-hole cable support sleeve with the cable into the cable gland and guide the
cable to the communication assembly in the DC Connection Unit. Ensure that any unused
enclosure openings of the two-hole cable support sleeve are sealed with sealing plugs.
7. Tighten the swivel nut on the cable gland hand-tight. This will secure the cable.
6.3 Connecting the Cable
Assignment of the terminal block:
Terminal block Clamping
position
Assignment
2 3 5 7
2 Data+ (D+)
3 Not assigned
5 Ground (GND)
7 Data- (D-)
Procedure:
1. Plug a terminal block each into the jack on the
module.
2. If one connection cable is to be connected, attach the terminator:

6 Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1116
• Push the levers of the terminals 2 and 7 of a
terminal block upwards.
• Bend the ends of the terminator downwards
and plug the terminator into the open terminals.
• Close the levers of the terminals.
3. Push the levers of the terminals 2, 5 and 7 of a terminal block upwards.
4. Connect the insulated conductors to the terminals 2, 5 and 7 and note the insulated conductor
colors (see Installation Instructions "RS485 Cabling Plan" at www.SMA-Solar.com).
5. Close the levers of the terminals.
6. Press each connection cable with the cable shield
into the shield clamp on the module.
7. If no further connections are required on the module, close the inverter and commission it (see
the inverter manual).

7 Decommissioning
SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 17
7 Decommissioning
7.1 Removing the Module
NOTICE
Damage to the inverter due to moisture ingress during electrical installation
• Never open the inverter when it is raining or snowing, or the humidity is over 95%.
• For attaching the conduits to the enclosure, only use UL-listed rain-tight conduit fittings for
wet locations.
• Seal all unused openings tightly.
Procedure:
1. DANGER
Danger to life due to high voltages of the PV array
When exposed to sunlight, the PV array generates dangerous DC voltage, which is present
in the DC conductors and the live components of the inverter. Touching the DC conductors
or the live components can lead to lethal electric shocks.
• Prior to performing any work on the inverter, always disconnect the inverter from
voltage sources on the AC and DC sides as described in the inverter manual. When
doing so, note that even if the DC load-break is switched off, there will be dangerous
direct voltage present in the DC conductors of the inverter.
2. Remove the enclosure lid of the DC Connection Unit. Unscrew all screws with a Torx
screwdriver (TX25) and remove the enclosure lid carefully forward.
3. Set the screws and the enclosure lid aside and store safely.
4. Remove all connecting terminal plates from the used connection sockets of the module.
5. Unscrew the fastening screw on the module using a Torx screwdriver (TX25).
6. Remove the module:
• Press the right or left locking tab of the communication assembly slightly outwards and
pull the module slightly forwards holding the lower end until the module is released from
the interlock of the locking tab.
• Grab the module by the upper and lower edge with one hand.
• Slightly press the second locking tab outwards using the other hand and pull the module
slightly forwards on the lower end until the module is released from the interlock of the
locking tab.
• Remove the module from its slot by pulling it forwards.
7. Lead the connection cable out of the two-hole cable support sleeve.
8. Lead the connection cable out of the swivel nut.
9. Close the inverter and, if necessary, recommission it (see inverter manual).

7 Decommissioning SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1118
7.2 Packing the Product for Shipment
• Pack the product for shipping. Use the original packaging or packaging that is suitable for the
weight and size of the product.
7.3 Disposing of the Product
• Dispose of the product in accordance with the locally applicable disposal regulations for
electronic waste.

8 Technical Data
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Installation Manual MD485-US-40-IA-en-11 19
8 Technical Data
General Data
Mounting location In the inverter
Voltage supply Via the inverter
Mechanical Data
Width x height x depth 60mmx105mmx33mm (2.4inx
4.1inx1.3in)
Ambient Conditions for Storage/Transport
Ambient temperature -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F)
Relative humidity, non-condensing 10% to 100%
Maximum height above mean sea level 3000m (9842ft)
Communication
Interface RS485
Maximum cable length 1200m (3937ft)
Terminals
Type of plug 4-pole spring-cage terminal
Number of RS485 connections 2

9 Compliance Information SMA Solar Technology AG
Installation ManualMD485-US-40-IA-en-1120
9 Compliance Information
FCC Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two 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.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications made to this equipment not expressly approved by SMA Solar
Technology AG may void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment.