Solar Stik 24VDC POWER HUB 3500 Installation instructions

OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
FOR THE
24VDC POWER HUB 3500
January 2020 |Solar Stik Inc.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Version 1.0
Updated: 20200130
P/N 20-0302204
Interactive

24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
January 2020 |Solar Stik®, Inc.2 |
Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION, THEORY OF OPERATION, AND EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
Power Hub Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Use of the Power Hub in a System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Modes of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Product Safety Information and Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Safety Information Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Limitations on Liability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Fire Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Recommended Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Electric Shock Hazard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Environmental and Handling Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Dust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
THEORY OF OPERATION
Operation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Battery Charging and Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Protection Circuits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Metered Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) – Charge Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Derating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The Inter-Connect System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Equipment Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Connection Ports and Vents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Internal Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Information Plate (I-Plate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Faceplate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting PV Arrays to the Power Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting Regulated 24 VDC Power Sources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting a 24VDC PRO-Verter or 24 VDC Expander Paks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Connecting Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Connecting to Communications Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Powering up the Power Hub. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
The Power Hub User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Pages Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Menu Button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Device List: Power Hub Circuits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Monitoring PV Power: Current and Historical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
PV Power: Understanding Reported Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Monitoring System Batteries: Current and Historical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Battery Monitor: Understanding Reported Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Heat and Derating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Causes of Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Power Hub Internal Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Power Hub Internal Temperature Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
User Interface Settings Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Power Hub Stacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Storing the Inter-Connect Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Locking Component Cases to Prevent Tampering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Transporting the Power Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Water Intrusion Remediation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES
Power Hub Will Not Power Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Performance Issues, Causes and Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Data Logging and Remote Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Performance and Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Data Storage and Retrieval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
MicroSD Card Formatting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Remote Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Solar Charge Controller Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Preventive Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Cleaning Power Hub Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Using the Power Hub to Monitor PV Array Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Assessing PV Array Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Troubleshooting Individual PV Arrays Using the Power Hub User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
ABOUT SOLAR STIK, INC.
Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
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List of Figures
Figure 1. A Power Hub in a Hybrid Power System........................................................................................................... 5
Figure 2. How a Power Hub works in a System............................................................................................................... 6
Figure 3. 24VDC Power Hub 3500 ................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 4. Inter-Connect Plug .......................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 5. Overview of Power Hub connections .............................................................................................................. 16
Figure 6. Front—DC output and communications.......................................................................................................... 16
Figure 7. Right Side—Regulated 24 VDC input and NATO connector ........................................................................... 17
Figure 8. Left Side—Solar-only ports ............................................................................................................................. 17
Figure 9. Back side—air intake vent............................................................................................................................... 18
Figure 10. Power Hub I-Plate ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Figure 11. Power Hub Faceplate features ...................................................................................................................... 19
Figure 12. Power Hub Solar Input Only connectors....................................................................................................... 20
Figure 13. Power Hub regulated 24 VDC inputs............................................................................................................. 20
Figure 14. Power Hub PRO-Verter or Expander Pak connection................................................................................... 21
Figure 15. Power Hub 24 VDC IN/OUT ports ................................................................................................................ 21
Figure 16. Power Hub Tech port..................................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 17. LCD user interface and navigation guide ...................................................................................................... 22
Figure 18. Data views displayed in “Pages”................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 19. Device list on user interface .......................................................................................................................... 23
Figure 20. Power Hub as the primary power management device ................................................................................ 26
Figure 21. Power Hub as the secondary power management device............................................................................ 26
Figure 22. Power Hub internal temperature report on user interface............................................................................. 27
Figure 23. Stacking Power Hubs.................................................................................................................................... 30
Figure 24. Inter-Connect Cable storage ......................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 25. Steel-reinforced padlock holes...................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 26. Lock securing Power Hub lid ........................................................................................................................ 31
Figure 27. Drain plug screw located under the TECH PORT.......................................................................................... 32
Figure 28. Micro SD card port location .......................................................................................................................... 34
Figure 29. Cleaning the air intake lter ........................................................................................................................... 40
Section Page(s) Description Date
First published FEB 2019
Revision History
List of Tables
Table 1. Symptoms and Solutions for the Most Common Power Hub Issues ............................................................... 33

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Power Hub Introduction
The primary function of the DC Power Hub is to serve as a singular collection, management and
distribution tool for DC power in a Hybrid Power System (HPS).
The Hub is designed specically for operation between energy-storage batteries and DC generation
sources, including photovoltaic (PV) arrays, wind generators, fuel cells, small hydro generation,
vehicular power, and more. It regulates the incoming power, making it compatible for a connected
battery, loads, or distribution devices such as inverters.
Power Hubs play a critical role in applications where any combination of the following is necessary:
• Renewable power generation is required to support a battery
• Reducing generator run-time in a hybrid system is critical
• Less reliance on grid-utility power is desirable
• DC power management and distribution is required for a battery platform
It is a modular component of the HPS architecture, and its exible design allows use with other
technologies that collectively meet specic mission requirements.
All Power Hubs are “Plug & Play”-compatible with the Inter-Connect circuit and are modular and
scalable. Their design allows multiple Power Hubs to be used in a single application where power
management requirements exceed the ability of a single Hub, or when multiple DC loads are
required to meet the demand.
The Power Hub includes one DC Inter-Connect Cable for connection to an HPS.
GENERAL INFORMATION, THEORY OF OPERATION,
AND EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
Figure 1. A Power Hub in a Hybrid Power System

24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
January 2020 |Solar Stik®, Inc.6 |
Figure 2. How a Power Hub works in a System
Use of the Power Hub in a System
The Power Hub provides a portal to integrate multiple DC power sources into a hybrid power
network, including unregulated PV power and power from regulated sources (Figure 2). It funnels all
incoming power to the batteries, PRO-Verters, or loads automatically, using basic programming in
the User Interface to direct the ow.
Programming and connection of the Hub in a System will vary according to the specic
functions the system in which it is employed, but systems vary in accordance with the operator’s
requirements. Consequently, not every feature in the Power Hub may be used for an application.
The Power Hub can support operation with either lead-acid or lithium battery types. Other changes
in programming may improve performance in extreme environmental operating conditions.
This manual provides an overview of the core features and capabilities of the Power Hub along with
a guide for the user interface menu windows. Contact your eld service representative (FSR) for
assistance in altering operation congurations or programming.
(Energy Storage Module)
24VDC Power Hub 3500
DC
(AC and DC
Loads)
24VDC PRO-Verter
Power
Management
24 VDC Li Expander Pak
Energy Storage
Wind Hydro
Fuel Cell Vehicle
Regulated DC Power Options
Unregulated
DC Power
Solar
Fuel-powered
Generator
AC
(AC and DC
Loads)
24VDC PDM Plus
Power
Management
Power
Generation
(AC Power)

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Figure 3. 24VDC Power Hub 3500
Modes of Operation
Depending on the application, there are several operational modes that can be congured using a
Power Hub:
• Hybrid
DC loads, DC generation and batteries are all connected to a Power Hub. It is the central power
management device in the system. The Power Hub provides constant DC power to a load by
alternating between power from batteries and power from a DC generator (such as a PV array). In the
hybrid conguration, the batteries cycle regularly, which maximizes electrical efciency throughout
the circuit, minimizing dependency on any one DC source.
• Direct DC Support
The Power Hub can be congured to provide DC into a system conguration where DC is used for
any of the following:
• Peak Shaving
• Inverter operation
• Battery charging
Product Safety Information and Instructions
This manual contains important safety instructions that must be followed during the installation
and operation of this product. Read all instructions and safety information contained in this manual
before installing or using this product.
All electrical connections must be made using the proper polarized connectors.
While this product is designed for indoor/outdoor operation, the interior of the Power Hub 3500 must
not be exposed to rain, snow, moisture, or liquids. Close and latch and/or lock the cases when the
System is unattended.
The Power Hub is not eld serviceable beyond simple preventive maintenance. Do not attempt to
open or service the unit. If repair is needed, contact your FSR.
Exercise caution when handling or operating the Power Hub. Live power may be present at more
than one point.

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January 2020 |Solar Stik®, Inc.8 |
Since the use of this manual and the conditions or methods of operation, use, and maintenance of
this product are beyond the control of Solar Stik, this company does not assume responsibility and
expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage, or expense—whether direct, indirect, consequential, or
incidental—arising out of or anyway connected with such operation, use, or maintenance.
Due to continuous improvements and product updates, the images shown in this manual may not
exactly match the unit purchased.
This equipment CAN BE USED FOR CONNECTION WITH LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS OR OTHER
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT or devices; however, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Solar
Stik makes no representations or warranties regarding the use of the System in connection with life
support systems or other medical equipment devices.
Limitations on Liability
Safety Information Labels
Your safety and the safety of others is very important.
Always read and obey all safety messages.
This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill you or
hurt you and others. All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and the word
“DANGER”, “WARNING”, or “CAUTION”. These words are dened as:
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.
All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, how to reduce the chance of injury, and
what can happen if the instructions are not followed.

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Use Sweeping Motion
These additional cautionary steps will ensure
your safety:
• System components should not be operated in
standing water.
• Close and latch the component lids if it is
precipitating.
• System cables should not be routed through
standing water.
• Cable connections should remain dry.
• Unused ports on System components should
be covered when not in use to reduce the
possibility of water intrusion.
Fire Hazard
Fire Types
Class A fire - Fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, trash, and plastics.
Class B fire - Fires in ammable liquids such as gasoline, petroleum, oil, and paint.
Class C fire - Fires involving energized electrical equipment such as motors, transformers, and
appliances. Remove the power source and the class C re becomes a class A or B re.
Recommended Fire Extinguisher
NSN 4210-00-288-7219 Fire Extinguisher, Carbon Dioxide, 10 lb
Carbon dioxide is a liqueed gas, which is highly effective ghting class B and C res. These
extinguishers are ideal for areas where contamination and/or cleanup are a concern, such as data
processing centers, labs, and telecommunication rooms.
Using the Fire Extinguisher
When using the extinguisher on a re, remember PASS:
Pull the pin.
Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the re from a safe distance.
Squeeze the operating lever to discharge the re extinguishing agent.
Sweep the nozzle or hose from side to side until the re is out. Move forward or around the re as the
re diminishes.
Watch the area for reignition until the cause has been xed.
WARNING
Only CO2(carbon dioxide) re extinguishers should
be used with equipment.

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Electric Shock Hazard
WARNING
Standing water around the electrical equipment and/or intrusion of water into the System
components can increase the risk of electrical shock.
DON’T LET THIS BE YOU!
HIGH VOLTAGE: System components, PV arrays, and generators may have lethal line voltages.
Extreme care should be taken to protect against electrocution. Always work with another
person in case an emergency occurs. Disconnect power before performing maintenance. Wear
safety glasses whenever working on any part of a System that requires exposure to mechanical
or direct electrical contacts.

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Environmental and Handling Precautions
All components are ruggedized, yet there are a few things the operator can do to prevent failures
and prolong the operational life of the product.
Water
If outdoor operation is necessary, the lids
of all components should be closed and
latched whenever possible. Lids should only
be open to access operator controls and
closed at all other times.
Impact
Equipment should not be dropped onto hard
surfaces at a height greater than one foot
when transporting or during operation.
Dust
• Air intake lters should be cleaned once per
month, or more frequently when conditions
warrant.
• As a general rule, minimize exposure to
high levels of particulates by exercising
common-sense placement.
Heat
Heat and solar loading reduces efciency,
causes Power Hub derating, and shortens
life expectancy. Shade the Power Hub to
prevent the negative effects of heat.

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THEORY OF OPERATION
Operation Overview
The Power Hub has multiple DC connections on its exterior, allowing for multiple conguration
possibilities.
It requires connection to an active 24 V battery circuit in order for it to operate. A minimum of three
(3) energy storage modules (i.e., Expander Paks) must be present and functioning for the Power
Hub to be able to operate at its rated power, however, for lower power congurations, a single
energy storage module (ESM) or small bank of ESMs may be used.
The Hub has an internal DC bus that can support multiple regulated DC generation sources to
include the following:
• Wind
• Fuel Cell
• Vehicular
• Hydro
It also has a dedicated circuit for managing unregulated power from PV arrays. The Hub has a
sophisticated ultra-fast Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) PV charge controller system that
regulates PV power, and optimizes PV power production based on two factors:
1. Available PV power
2. Battery State-of-Charge (SoC)
The MPPT process allows a PV array to operate at its rated/available voltage, turning the higher
PV voltage into charging current (amps), which is then provided to the battery at the appropriate
voltage, improving performance and life of the batteries.
Battery Charging and Recovery
The solar charger controllers can be programmed to charge using several algorithms, including
multi-stage charging for lead-acid batteries as well as Constant Current / Constant Voltage (CC/
CV) for lithium battery types. Selection of charge algorithms should be based on battery chemistry,
capacity and operating conditions.
The Power Hub can also be used to resuscitate over-discharged batteries. Incoming PV power will
activate the PV controls and begin the charging process, even if the battery voltage has dropped to
levels that cause other components (PRO-Verters, Power Distribution Modules, etc) in a system to
shut down due to low voltage.
Protection Circuits
The Power Hub serves as a DC junction within the Inter-Connect Circuit. When connected to
an active 24V DC Inter-Connect network, it allows DC to ow through its internal bus, with ONLY the
PV circuit offering limit protections:

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
• The bayonet connector for the Solar Leash is keyed and unique to the PV circuit. It cannot be
connected improperly, and no other System cable will t.
• The PV charge controller is fully protected against voltage transients, over-temperature, over-
current, reverse battery connections, and reverse PV connections. An automatic current limit
feature allows use of its full rated capability without worrying about overload from excessive PV
input current.
Other DC power sources and batteries that connect to the Hub have their own individual circuit
protections, so the Hub does not need circuit breakers for individual loads or other connected
equipment. If a short-circuit conditions occurs within the DC network, only affected batteries, loads,
and power sources will engage their protections circuits, leaving non-problematic circuits active.
(See Circuit Breaker Protections in the Inter-Connect section for more details.)
Metered Circuits
Information regarding the status of the batteries and the overall ow of power into and out of the
system can be obtained from the Power Hub User Interface. Precise data is available in both real-
time and historical models.
DC power values are tracked as it ows in through the PV Controller circuits, as well as power that
ows out to a connected battery, PRO-Verter or additional Power Hub(s).
Only certain ports are metered on the Hub. Follow recommended connection diagrams on the
I-Plate and the System manual for proper metering of DC values.
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) – Charge Controls
The Power Hub 3500 contains three (3) photovoltaic (PV) charge controllers. Each charge controller
has tow (2) input ports; both ports are parallel. Being able to monitor each charge controller and its
solar input(s) independently a the User Interface facilitates system optimization and troubleshooting
of the solar arrays.
Derating
Derating is a condition where the PV power management functions are diminished due to high
temperatures.
Excessive heat in the Power Hub reduces its ability to supply to DC into the Inter-Connect circuit
(i.e. to the batteries and other connected devices). It is usually caused by poor airow over the
internal charge controls or by solar loading in high-heat environments.
The rst indication of heat-related derating may be the appearance that the solar arrays are “not
producing any power” when they should be. If this is the case, check the temperatures. (Note: The
Power Hub User Interface will also report 0 VDC charging current when the System batteries are
fully charged.)

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The Inter-Connect System
The Solar Stik System is comprised of three distinct types of technologies:
• Energy storage
• Power management
• Power generation
All of the individual Solar Stik components that operate in these categories utilize a unique
connection architecture, known as the Inter-Connect Circuit.
The Inter-Connect Circuit is the skeletal backbone of the Solar Stik System’s DC power network. It
uses a simple, polarized, locking connection that is common throughout the architecture. All Solar
Stik power management, energy storage, and power generation components are compatible with
the Inter-Connect Circuit.
Using a common, polarized connector allows rapid “Plug & Play” scaling of components, adaptation
of capabilities within the architecture, technology refreshment, and swapping of components when
conditions warrant.
Communicating Voltage
All Solar Stik components on the Inter-Connect Circuit use one value to successfully operate in
concert: battery voltage.
The Inter-Connect Circuit communicates battery voltage to all components on the network, allowing
them to independently coordinate their respective functions. Voltage is used to trigger actions such
as Automatic Generator Start/Stop (AGS) function, renewable power delegation, power distribution
timing, and more.
The Importance of Proper System Connection
While there is no unsafe way to make connections using a common polarized connector, proper
setup of the Inter-Connect Circuit is critical in order to properly communicate voltage to all points in
the System, ensuring all of the components operate together to provide seamless power.
Setup can also directly impact how power is metered in the network. Power management devices
such as Power Hubs and PRO-Verters will meter current as it ows through the circuit, providing
critical real-time and historical data the operator can use to troubleshoot, verify system performance,
and make programming / architectural changes based on evolving conditions. Consult the System
Operator Manual for a connection schematic specic for a particular application.
Circuit Breaker Protections
The Inter-Connect network is protected from overloads and short circuits through a network of circuit
breakers strategically placed throughout the circuit. It ensures the potential for a reverse polarity
connection within the circuit is minimized. If a problem occurs in a leg of the Inter-Connect Circuit,
If the internal temperature of the Power Hub is greater than 104 ºF (40 ºC), the Power Hub
performance will be degraded (See: Power Hub Internal Temperature Report).
If the system is not operating at rated power, be sure to check the air filters on the case of
the Power Hub and/or shade the case from direct sunlight if operating outdoors.

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Figure 4. Inter-Connect Plug
The Inter-Connect Plug
• Polarized
• 200 A maximum current
• 24 VDC connection only
• Mechanically “locks” into place
• Rotate knob clockwise to lock,
counterclockwise to release
• Can be repaired or modied in the eld
the affected leg will disconnect from the primary network, leaving the other circuits functioning. If a
major failure occurs in the circuit, then the entire network will shut down.

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Equipment Description
Description Connector Voltage
A24VDC Load Port (unmetered) Inter-Connect Port 24 VDC
BExhaust Vent - -
CEthernet Port Ethernet - RJF21B -
D24VDC Battery/Power Hub Port (metered) Inter-Connect Port 24 VDC
BC
D
A
Figure 5. Overview of Power Hub connections
A. May be connected to Power Distribution Modules (PDMs; Figure 20) or 24 VDC loads.
C. For external modem connection to the remote monitoring kit (RMK) if present (optional).
D. For connection to a 24VDC PRO-Verter or 24VDC Expander Paks( Figure 20, 20)
Expander Pak/
Power Hub*
Ethernet
24 VDC Input/
Output
Unregulated DC
Solar Inputs
Regulated DC
Power Inputs
Overview
Figure 6. Front—DC output and communications
Connection Ports and Vents
Port placards assist in making the correct connections between components. Please review the
information on all of these plates and labels, as they contain the basic information required to set up
and operate the Power Hub.

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Description Connector Watts Amps
ASolar Input Cannon Bayonet Receptacle
CB2-22-2SC
1166 W Max/Solar Charger
3500 W Total
60 A @ 58 VDC
11.7 A @ 100 VDC*
A
(A)
Neg-
(C)
Pos+
(B)
N/A
A. Connections for solar panel input
A
B
Description Connector Amps Voltage
A24 VDC NATO Slave (unmetered) NATO Slave 100 24 VDC
BRegulated 24 VDC Input Only (unmetered) Inter-Connect Port 100 total 24 VDC
Figure 7. Right Side—Regulated 24 VDC input and NATO connector
A. For connection to a tactical vehicle or generator.
B. For connection to 24 VDC regulated power sources such as wind, vehicle, fuel
cell or hydroelectric charging.
Figure 8. Left Side—Solar-only ports

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Air Intake
Figure 9. Back side—air intake vent
The Power Hub I-Plate provides concise, abbreviated information for setting up and running a Power
Hub as part of a System (Quick-start Guide and Operating Information). All System components
should be connected as described on the I-Plate. The Warning and Notices are important lists of
things to do and not to do. Be familiar with their content before operating the Power Hub. An I-Plate
is (usually) tailored to a customer’s specic application. Contact Solar Stik Tech Support for details.
Information Plate (I-Plate)
Figure 10. Power Hub I-Plate
Thermostatically-controlled, internal cooling fans turn on at 104 ºF (40 ºC) and turn off when the
internal temperature drops to 90 ºF (32 ºC).
Internal Cooling

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24VDC Power Hub 3500 Operator Manual
Faceplate
The Faceplate provides support for the user interface and the Inter-Connect Cable storage ports.
Recommended safety equipment, PV charging specications, compatible battery chemistries,
environmental operating conditions and Solar Stik Technical Support contact information are
provided in the center of the Faceplate (Figure 11).
Figure 11. Power Hub Faceplate features
These Inter-Connect
ports are for cable
storage and have no
electrical connection.
User Interface

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OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS
Connections
Figure 12. Power Hub Solar Input Only connectors
Connecting Regulated 24 VDC Power Sources
Connect regulated 24 VDC power sources such
as wind generators and fuel cells to the three (3)
Inter-Connect ports. Connect 24 VDC power from
Military Vehicles (e.g., HMMWV) and TQGs to the
NATO port.
Figure 13. Power Hub regulated 24 VDC inputs
Up to six (6) solar arrays can be connected to the Power Hub Solar Input Only ports using Solar
Stik Solar Leashes. The Power Hub 3500 contains three (3) solar charge controllers. Each charge
controller has two (2) input ports; both ports are equal. When connecting fewer than four (4) arrays,
choose one port from each of the three (3) charge controllers. After the rst three (3) ports are
connected to solar arrays, the remaining three (3) ports may be connected to additional solar arrays
at random.
Each of the three (3) solar chargers safely accepts up to 1166 watts. Different types of solar arrays
can be connected to the Power Hub simultaneously as long as their specications meet the
requirements shown on the Faceplate (Figure 10). The bayonet connector for the Solar Leash is
keyed and unique to the Solar Stik System (Figure 7). It cannot be connected improperly, and no
other Solar Stik System cable will t.
Solar Arrays (x6)
Charge
Control
1
Charge
Control
2
Charge
Control
3
Connecting PV Arrays to the Power Hub