SMA SUNNY BOY 1600TL User manual

SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 | IME-SB21TL | Version 5.1
EN
PV Inverter
SUNNY BOY 1600TL/2100TL
Installation Guide

SMA Solar Technology AG Table of Contents
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 3
Table of Contents
1 Information on this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.1 Validity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2 Target Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.3 Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Symbols Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Appropriate Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3 Explanation of Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.3.1 Symbols on the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.3.2 Symbols on the Type Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.1 Scope of Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2 Identifying the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4 Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.1 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.2 Selecting the Mounting Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.3 Mounting the Inverter with the Wall Mounting Bracket . . . . . . 17

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4 SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 Installation Guide
5 Electrical Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.1 Overview of the Connection Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.1.1 Exterior View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.1.2 Interior View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.2 Connection to the Power Distribution Grid (AC). . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.2.1 Conditions for the AC Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.2.2 Connecting the Inverter to the Power Distribution Grid (AC) . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.2.3 Connecting Additional Grounding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.3 Setting the Display Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.4 Connecting the PV Array (DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.4.1 Conditions for the DC Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.4.2 Assembling the DC Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.4.3 Opening the DC Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
5.4.4 Connecting the PV Array (DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5.5 Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.6 Setting the Grid and Country Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.6.1 Setting the Installation Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6 Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
6.1 Commissioning the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7 Opening and Closing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7.1 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7.2 Opening the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7.3 Closing the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
8 Maintenance and Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
8.1 Checking the Electronic Solar Switch for Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

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9 Failure Search. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
9.1 Blink Codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
9.2 Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
9.3 Red LED is Glowing Continuously. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
9.3.1 Checking the PV Array for a Ground Fault . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
9.3.2 Checking the Function of the Varistors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
10 Decommissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
10.1 Disassembling the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
10.2 Packing the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
10.3 Storing the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
10.4 Disposing of the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
11 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
11.1 Sunny Boy 1600TL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
11.2 Sunny Boy 2100TL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
12 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
13 Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

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6 SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 Installation Guide

SMA Solar Technology AG Information on this Manual
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 7
1 Information on this Manual
1.1 Validity
This manual describes the assembly, installation, commissioning, maintenance and failure search
procedures for the following SMA inverters:
• Sunny Boy 1600TL (SB 1600TL-10)
• Sunny Boy 2100TL (SB 2100TL)
Keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference.
1.2 Target Group
This manual is for electrically skilled persons. The tasks described in this manual may be performed
by electrically skilled persons only.
1.3 Additional Information
You will find further information on special topics such as designing a miniature circuit-breaker or the
description of the operating parameters in the download area at www.SMA.de/en.
Refer to the User Manual provided for detailed information on operating the inverter.

Information on this Manual SMA Solar Technology AG
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1.4 Symbols Used
The following types of safety instructions and general information are used in this manual:
DANGER!
"DANGER" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING!
"WARNING" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
CAUTION!
"CAUTION" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury.
NOTICE!
"NOTICE" indicates a situation that can result in property damage if not avoided.
Information
Information provides tips that are valuable for the optimal installation and operation of
your product.
☑ This symbol indicates the result of an action.

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 9
2 Safety
2.1 Appropriate Usage
The Sunny Boy is a PV inverter which converts the DC current of the PV array to AC current and feeds
it into the power distribution grid.
Principle of a PV plant with this Sunny Boy
The Sunny Boy may only be operated with PV arrays (modules and cabling) of protection class II. Do
not connect any sources of energy other than PV modules to the Sunny Boy.
When designing the PV plant, ensure that the values comply with the permitted operating range of all
components at all times. The free design program "Sunny Design" (www.SMA.de/en/SunnyDesign)
will assist you. The manufacturer of the PV modules must have approved the modules for use with this
Sunny Boy device. You must also ensure that all measures recommended by the module manufacturer
for long-term maintenance of the module properties are taken (see also Technical Description
"Module Technology" in the download area of www.SMA.de/en).
Do not use the Sunny Boy for purposes other than those described here. Alternative uses,
modifications to the Sunny Boy or the installation of components not expressly recommended or sold
by SMA Solar Technology AG shall void any warranty claims and the operation permission.
Capacitive discharge currents
PV modules with large capacities relative to ground, such as thin-film modules with cells on
a metallic substrate, may only be used if their coupling capacity does not exceed 1400 nF.
During feed-in operation, a discharge current flows from the cells to ground. The amount
of current depends on the manner in which the modules are installed (e.g., foil on metal
roof) and on the weather (rain, snow). This "normal" discharge current may not exceed
50 mA due to the fact that the inverter would otherwise automatically disconnect from the
grid as a protective measure.

Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
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2.2 Safety Instructions
DANGER!
Danger to life due to high voltages in the inverter.
• All work on the inverter may only be carried out by an electrically skilled person.
• The appliance is not to be used by children or persons with reduced physical, sensory
or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been
given supervision or instruction.
• Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
WARNING!
Risk of electric shock when pulling out the DC connectors under load.
If you disconnect the DC connectors from the inverter under load, an electric arc may
occur, leading to electric shock and burns.
• If the inverter is not equipped with an Electronic Solar Switch and the regulations in
the country of installation require an external DC switch-disconnector, install an
external DC switch-disconnector.
• Switch off the AC miniature circuit-breaker and disconnect the inverter on the DC side
before pulling out the DC connectors.
CAUTION!
Danger of burn injuries due to hot enclosure parts.
• Do not touch enclosure during operation.
• Only touch the lid during operation.
NOTICE!
Dust and water in the inverter can damage the device.
If the inverter is equipped with an Electronic Solar Switch, it will only provide IP21 degree
of protection once the Electronic Solar Switch has been pulled out. The inverter is therefore
no longer protected against water and dust. In order to also maintain the IP65 degree of
protection during temporary decommissioning, proceed as follows:
• Unlock and disconnect all DC connectors.
• Open all DC connectors and remove the cables.
• Close all DC inputs with the corresponding DC connectors and the supplied sealing
plugs.
• Securely attach the Electronic Solar Switch again.

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 11
2.3 Explanation of Symbols
This section gives an explanation of all the symbols found on the inverter and on the type label.
2.3.1 Symbols on the Inverter
* optional
Grounding the PV array
Comply with the local regulations for grounding the modules and the PV array. SMA Solar
Technology AG recommends connecting the array frame and other electrically conductive
surfaces so that there is continuous conduction and to ground them in order to ensure
maximum protection for plants and persons.
Symbol Explanation
Operation display.
Indicates the operating state of the inverter.
Ground fault or varistor defective.
Read section 9.3"Red LED is Glowing Continuously" (page51).
Error or fault.
Read section 9"Failure Search" (page45).
Tap to switch on the display light and switch to the next display message.
Electronic Solar Switch (ESS) DC switch-disconnector*.
• When the Electronic Solar Switch is plugged in, the DC circuit is
closed.
• To interrupt the DC circuit and disconnect the inverter securely
under load, you have to first pull out the Electronic Solar Switch
and then remove all DC connectors , as described in section
7.2"Opening the Inverter" (page38).

Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
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2.3.2 Symbols on the Type Label
Symbol Explanation
Beware of dangerous electrical voltage.
The inverter operates at high voltages. All work on the inverter may only be
carried out by an electrically skilled person.
Beware of hot surface.
The inverter can become hot during operation. Avoid contact during
operation.
Observe all documentation that accompanies the inverter.
The inverter must not be disposed of together with household waste. For
more information on disposal, see section 10.4"Disposing of the Inverter"
(page57).
CE mark.
The inverter complies with the requirements of the applicable EC
guidelines.
The inverter is transformerless.
Direct current (DC).
Alternating current (AC).
Degree of protection IP65.
The inverter is protected against penetration by dust particles and water
jets from any angle.
RAL quality mark for solar products.
The inverter complies with the requirements of the German Institute for
Quality Assurance and Labeling.
Australian mark of conformity.

SMA Solar Technology AG Unpacking
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 13
3 Unpacking
3.1 Scope of Delivery
Check the delivery for completeness and for any visible external damage. Contact your dealer if
anything is damaged or missing.
* optional
Object Number Description
A1Sunny Boy
B1 Wall mounting bracket
C1 Electronic Solar Switch (ESS)*
D2/4 DC connectors
Sunny Boy 1600TL: 2 units (1 x positive, 1 x negative)
Sunny Boy 2100TL: 4 units (2 x positive, 2 x negative)
E2/4 Sealing plugs for DC connectors
Sunny Boy 1600TL: 2 units
Sunny Boy 2100TL: 4 units
F1 Protective cap for AC socket on inverter
G1 AC connection socket: socket unit, threaded sleeve, pressure
screw PG13.5, sealing ring PG13.5, fastening case PG13.5,
cable gland PG16
H1 M6x12 cylinder head screw and conical spring washer
I1Jumper
K1 Installation manual
L1 User manual
M1Set of documents with explanations and certificates
N1 Supplementary sheet with inverter factory settings

Unpacking SMA Solar Technology AG
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3.2 Identifying the Inverter
You can identify the inverter by the type label. The type label is on the right side of the enclosure.
The serial number (Serial No.) and the type (Type/Model) of the inverter, as well as device-specific
characteristics, are specified on the type label.

SMA Solar Technology AG Assembly
Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 15
4 Assembly
4.1 Safety
4.2 Selecting the Mounting Location
Consider the following points when selecting where to install:
• The mounting method and location must be suitable for the inverter's weight and dimensions
(see section 11"Technical Data" (page58)).
• Mount on a solid surface.
• The mounting location must at all times be clear and safely accessible without the use of
additional aids such as scaffolding or lifting platforms. Non-fulfillment of these criteria may
restrict servicing.
• Mount vertically or tilted backwards at a maximum angle of 45°.
• The connection area must point downwards.
DANGER!
Danger to life due to fire or explosion.
Despite careful construction, electrical devices can cause fires.
• Do not mount the inverter on flammable construction materials.
• Do not mount the inverter in areas where highly flammable materials are stored.
• Do not mount the inverter in areas with a risk of explosion.
CAUTION!
Danger of burn injuries due to hot enclosure parts.
• Mount the inverter in such a way that the enclosure cannot be touched inadvertently.
CAUTION!
Risk of injury due to the heavy weight of the inverter.
• Take the inverter's weight of approx. 16 kg into account for mounting.

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• Never mount the device with a forward tilt.
• Never install the device with a sideways tilt.
• Do not mount horizontally.
• Install at eye level in order to allow operating states to be read at all times.
• To ensure optimal operation, the ambient temperature should be below 40°C.
• Do not expose the inverter to direct sunlight, as this can cause excessive heating and power
reduction.
• In a living area, do not mount the unit on plasterboard walls (or similar) in order to avoid audible
vibrations. When in use, the inverter emits noises which may be perceived as a nuisance in a
living area.
• Observe the minimum clearances to walls, other
inverters or objects as shown in the diagram in order
to ensure sufficient heat dissipation and sufficient
space for removing the Electronic Solar Switch.
Multiple inverters installed in areas with high ambient temperatures
If necessary, increase the clearance spaces and make sure there is enough ventilation to
ensure sufficient cooling of the inverters.

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Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 17
4.3 Mounting the Inverter with the Wall Mounting Bracket
1. Use the wall mounting bracket as a drilling template and mark the positions of the drill holes.
2. Attach the wall mounting bracket to the wall using
appropriate screws and washers.
CAUTION!
Risk of injury due to the heavy weight of the inverter.
• Take the inverter's weight of approx. 16 kg into account for mounting.
• Use mounting material suitable for the surface when attaching the wall mounting
bracket.

Assembly SMA Solar Technology AG
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3. Mount the inverter with its upper fastening plates on
the wall mounting bracket in such a way that it
cannot slide out of the bracket sideways.
4. If a second protective conductor is required in the
country of installation, ground the inverter and fix it
securely, as described in section 5.2.3"Connecting
Additional Grounding" (page27).
5. If a second protective conductor is not required, fix
the inverter securely using the enclosed M6x12
screw.
6. Check to ensure that the inverter is securely in place.
☑ The inverter is now mounted to the wall.

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Installation Guide SB16_21TL-IA-IEN112351 19
5 Electrical Connection
5.1 Overview of the Connection Area
5.1.1 Exterior View
The following figure shows the assignment of the individual connection areas on the bottom of the
inverter:
* optional
NOTICE!
Electrostatic discharges can damage the inverter.
Internal components of the inverter can be irreparably damaged by static discharge.
• Ground yourself before touching a component.
Object Description
ADC connectors for connecting the strings
Sunny Boy 1600TL: connection for 1 string
Sunny Boy 2100TL: connection for 2 strings
BSocket for connecting the Electronic Solar Switch (ESS) DC switch-disconnector*
CEnclosure opening with filler-plugs for communication
DSocket for AC connection

Electrical Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
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5.1.2 Interior View
The following figure shows the various components and connection areas of the open inverter:
* optional
Object Description
AVaristors
BConnection area and sockets for optional communication via RS485 or Bluetooth
CDisplay
DOperating status LEDs
ESocket for AC connection
FFlat male tab for grounding the cable shield during RS485 communication
GDC connectors for connecting the strings
Sunny Boy 1600TL: connection for 1 string
Sunny Boy 2100TL: connection for 2 strings
HElectronic Solar Switch (ESS) socket*