SMA SUNNY BOY 3000 User manual

SB25_30-IEN100930 | IMEN-SB25_30 | Version 3.0
EN
PV Inverter
SUNNY BOY 2500 / 3000
Installation Guide

SMA Solar Technology AG Table of Contents
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 3
Table of Contents
1 Notes on this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.1 Scope of Validity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 Target Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.3 Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4 Symbols Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.1 Appropriate Usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2 Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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 Installing the Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.1 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.2 Selecting the Mounting Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.3 Mounting the Inverter with Wall Mounting Bracket . . . . . . . . . 17
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 Public Grid (AC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.2.1 Conditions for the AC Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.2.2 Connecting the Inverter to the Public Grid (AC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
5.3 Setting the Display Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Table of Contents SMA Solar Technology AG
4 SB25_30-IEN100930 Installation Guide
5.4 PV generator connection (DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.4.1 Conditions for the DC Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.4.2 Assembling the DC Plug Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.4.3 Opening the DC Plug Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.4.4 Connecting the PV Generator (DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.5 Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.6 Setting the Grid and Country Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.6.1 Setting the Installation Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.6.2 Setting Stand-alone Grid Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
6 Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.1 Commissioning the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.2 Self-Test in accordance with DK 5940, Ed. 2.2
(applies to Italy only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
6.2.1 Starting the Self-Test by Tapping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
6.2.2 Completion of the Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7 Opening and Closing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
7.1 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
7.2 Opening the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
7.3 Closing the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
8 Maintenance and Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
8.1 Checking the Electronic Solar Switch for Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
9 Failure Search. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
9.1 Blink Codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
9.2 Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
9.3 Red LED is Glowing Continuously. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
9.3.1 Checking the PV Generator for a Ground Fault . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
9.3.2 Checking the Functioning of the Varistors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.3.3 Checking the insulation resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

SMA Solar Technology AG Table of Contents
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 5
10 Decommissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
10.1 Dismantling the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
10.2 Packing the Inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
10.3 Storing the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
10.4 Disposing of the Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
11 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
11.1 SB 2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
11.2 SB 3000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
12 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
13 Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Notes on this Manual SMA Solar Technology AG
6 SB25_30-IEN100930 Installation Guide
1 Notes on this Manual
1.1 Scope of Validity
This manual describes the assembly, installation, commissioning and maintenance of the following
SMA inverters:
• Sunny Boy 2500 (SB 2500)
• Sunny Boy 3000 (SB 3000)
Store this manual where it can be accessed at all times.
1.2 Target Group
This guide is for qualified electrical technicians. The tasks described in this manual may only be
performed by qualified personnel.
1.3 Additional Information
You will find further information on special topics such as designing a line circuit breaker or the
description of the operating parameters in the download area at www.SMA.de/en.
Refer to the user manual for detailed information on operating the inverter.

SMA Solar Technology AG Notes on this Manual
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 7
1.4 Symbols Used
The following types of safety precautions and general information are used in this manual:
G
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.

Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
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2 Safety
2.1 Appropriate Usage
The Sunny Boy is a PV inverter, which converts the DC current of the PV generator to AC current and
feeds it into the public grid.
Principle of a PV plant with this Sunny Boy
The Sunny Boy may only be operated with PV generators (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 system, 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 Information "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 void the warranty claims and operation permission.

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 9
Certified Countries
The Sunny Boy 2500 / 3000 (with according configuration) fulfill the requirements specified in the
following standards and directives (dated: April/2010):
• AS4777 (2005)
• C10/C11 (05.2009)
• CER/06/190 (10.2006)
• DK 5940 Ed.2.2 (02.2006)*
• EN 50438:2008**
• G83/1-1:2008
• PPC:2006
• PPDS:2009
• RD 1663/2000 (2000)
• VDE 0126-1-1 (02.2006)
* only applies to SB 2500-IT / SB 3000-IT
** does not apply to national standard deviations of EN 50438
SMA Solar Technology AG can preset special grid parameters for other countries/installation
locations according to customer request, after evaluation by SMA Solar Technology AG. You can
make later modifications yourself by changing software parameters with respective communication
products (e.g. Sunny Data Control or Sunny Explorer) (see section 5.6”Setting the Grid and Country
Parameters” (page34)). To change grid-relevant parameters, you need a personal access code -
the so-called SMA Grid Guard Code. The application form for the personal access code is located
in the download area at www.SMA.de/en, in the "Certificate" category for each inverter.

Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
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2.2 Safety Precautions
DANGER!
Danger to life due to high voltages in the inverter.
• All work on the inverter must be carried out by qualified personnel only.
• 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.
DANGER!
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.
Once the Electronic Solar Switch has been pulled out, the inverter only provides protection
rating IP21. The inverter is then no longer protected against water and dust. In order that
the protection rating IP65 is also provided during a temporary decommissioning, proceed
as follows:
• Unlock and disconnect all DC connectors.
• Open all DC connectors and remove the wires.
• Close all DC inputs with the corresponding DC connectors and the sealing plug
provided.
• Securely attach the Electronic Solar Switch again.
Grounding the PV Generator
Comply with the local requirements for grounding the modules and the PV generator.
SMA Solar Technology AG recommends connecting the generator frame and other
electricity conducting surfaces so that there is continuous conduction and to ground them
in order to achieve maximum protection of the system and personnel.

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 11
2.3 Explanation of Symbols
This chapter contains an explanation of all symbols found on the inverter and type label.
2.3.1 Symbols on the Inverter
Symbol Explanation
Operation display.
Indicates the operation condition of the inverter.
Ground fault or varistor defective.
Read section 9.3”Red LED is Glowing Continuously” (page52).
Disturbance or fault
Read section 9”Failure Search” (page48).
Tap to switch on the display light and switch to the next display message.
Electronic Solar Switch (ESS) DC load disconnection unit
• 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 plug connectors , as described in section
7.2”Opening the Inverter” (page42).

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 must be
carried out by qualified personnel only.
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 with the household waste. For more
information on disposal, see section 10.4”Disposing of the Inverter”
(page59).
CE mark.
The inverter complies with the requirements of the applicable EC guidelines.
The inverter has a transformer.
Direct Current (DC)
Alternating current (AC)
Protection rating 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.

SMA Solar Technology AG Unpacking
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 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.
Object Quantity Description
A1Sunny Boy
B1 Wall mounting bracket
C1 Electronic Solar Switch (ESS)
D6 DC plug connectors (3 x positive/ 3 x negative)
E6 Sealing plugs for DC plug connectors
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
I1Jumper
K1 Installation guide
L1 User manual
M1 Set of documents with explanations and certificates
N1 Supplementary sheet with inverter factory settings

Unpacking SMA Solar Technology AG
14 SB25_30-IEN100930 Installation Guide
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 product, as well as device-specific
characteristics are specified on the type label.

SMA Solar Technology AG Installing the Device
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 15
4 Installing the Device
4.1 Safety
4.2 Selecting the Mounting Location
Consider the following points when selecting where to install:
• The installation method and mounting location must be suitable for the inverter's weight and
dimensions (see section 11”Technical Data” (page60)).
• Mount on a solid surface.
• The mounting location must at all times be clear and have safe access without the use of
additional aids such as scaffolding or lifting platforms. Any possible service actions are
otherwise limited.
• Vertical installation or tilted backwards by max. 45°.
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. 32 kg into account for mounting.

Installing the Device SMA Solar Technology AG
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• The connection area must point downward.
• Never install the device with a forward tilt.
• Do not install horizontally.
• Install at eye level so that operating statuses can 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 to avoid a power reduction due to excessive
heating.
• In a living area, do not mount the unit on plasterboard walls (or similar) in order to avoid audible
vibrations. The inverter can make noises when in use 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 the removal of the Electronic
Solar Switch.
Multiple inverters installed in areas with high ambient temperatures
If necessary, increase the clearances and make sure there is enough ventilation to ensure
sufficient cooling of the inverters.

SMA Solar Technology AG Installing the Device
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 17
4.3 Mounting the Inverter with 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. 32 kg into account for mounting.
• When mounting the bracket, use fastening material suitable for the material.

Installing the Device SMA Solar Technology AG
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3. Use the upper mounting clips to fit the inverter in the
wall mounting bracket so that it cannot be pushed
out of the wall mounting bracket from the side.
4. Use the M6x12 screws provided to fix the inverter
and prevent it from being lifted out of place.
5. Check to ensure the inverter is firmly fastened.
☑ The inverter is now mounted to the wall.

SMA Solar Technology AG Electrical Connection
Installation Guide SB25_30-IEN100930 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.
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 connector for connecting the PV strings
BSocket for connecting the Electronic Solar Switch (ESS) DC load disconnection unit
CEnclosure opening with sealing plugs for communication
DSocket for AC Connection

Electrical Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
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5.1.2 Interior View
The following illustration shows the various components and connection areas of the open inverter.
Object Description
AVaristors
BConnection area and sockets for optional communication via RS485 or radio
CDisplay
DOperating status LEDs
ESocket for AC Connection
FDC plug connector
GElectronic Solar Switch (ESS) socket