SolarEdge Solar Inverter User manual

Disclaimers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
1
Disclaimers
Important Notice
Copyright © SolarEdge Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or
by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic, magnetic or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of SolarEdge Inc.
The material furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, SolarEdge
assumes no responsibility for the use of this material. SolarEdge reserves the right to make changes to the
material at any time and without notice. You may refer to the SolarEdge web site (www.solaredge.com)
for the most updated version.
All company and brand products and service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
Patent marking notice: see http://www.solaredge.com/groups/patent
The general terms and conditions of purchase of SolarEdge products shall apply.
The content of these documents is continually reviewed and amended, where necessary. However,
discrepancies cannot be excluded. No guarantee is made for the completeness of these documents.
Emission Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits applied by the local regulations.
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, you are 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 the receiver (and its antenna).
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 not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Support and Contact Information
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
2
Support and Contact Information
If you have technical queries concerning our products, please contact us:
Belgium
080073041
[e-mail]
France
0800917410
[e-mail]
Germany
[phone]
[e-mail]
Italy
800 784 824
[e-mail]
Japan
+81.3.5530.9360
[e-mail]
APAC (Asia Pacific)
[e-mail]
US & Canada
1 877 360 5292
[e-mail]
Australia
1800149229
[e-mail]
Greece
00800125574
Israel
[phone]
Netherlands
08000221089
United Kingdom
0800 028 1183
Worldwide
[phone]
Fax
[phone]
Before contact, make sure to have the following information at hand:
Inverter and power optimizer model numbers
Serial number of the product in question
The error indicated on the inverter screen or on the SolarEdge monitoring portal, if there is such an
indication.
System configuration information, including the type and number of modules connected and the
number and length of strings.
The communication method to the SolarEdge monitoring portal, if the site is connected
Inverter software version as appears in the ID status screen (see page 37)

Table of Contents
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
3
Table of Contents
Disclaimers......................................................................................................................... 1
Important Notice ...............................................................................................................1
Emission Compliance .........................................................................................................1
Support and Contact Information ....................................................................................... 2
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................... 3
HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................. 6
SAFETY SYMBOLS...............................................................................................................6
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ......................................................................................................7
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge System ..................................................................... 8
System Overview ...............................................................................................................8
SolarEdge Power Optimizer.......................................................................................................8
SolarEdge Inverter.....................................................................................................................8
SolarEdge Monitoring Portal .....................................................................................................8
Installation Procedure .......................................................................................................9
Installation Equipment List ..............................................................................................10
Inverter Transport and Storage .......................................................................................10
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers....................................................................... 11
Safety...............................................................................................................................11
Installation Guidelines .....................................................................................................12
Step 1, Mounting the Power Optimizers .........................................................................12
Step 2, Connecting a Module to a Power Optimizer........................................................13
Step 3, Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings..............................................................14
Step 4, Verifying Proper Power Optimizer Connection....................................................14
Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter...................................................................................... 16
Inverter Package Contents...............................................................................................16
Identifying the Inverter....................................................................................................16
Inverter Interfaces ...........................................................................................................16
Mounting the Inverter .....................................................................................................18
Connecting the AC to the Inverter ...................................................................................20
Grid Connection Guidelines..................................................................................................... 20
Connecting to AC.....................................................................................................................20
Connecting the Strings to the Inverter ............................................................................22
Selecting a Residual-Current Device ................................................................................22
Chapter 4: Commissioning the Installation ....................................................................... 23
Step 1, Activating the System ..........................................................................................23
Step 2, Pairing Power Optimizers to the Inverter ............................................................24
Step 3, Verifying Proper Operation..................................................................................25
Step 4, Reporting and Monitoring Installation Data ........................................................26
The SolarEdge Monitoring System ..........................................................................................26

Table of Contents
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
4
Providing Installation Information........................................................................................... 27
Chapter 5: User Interface ................................................................................................. 28
LCD User Buttons.............................................................................................................28
Inverter Configuration –Setup Mode..............................................................................29
Configuring the Inverter Using the Internal LCD User Buttons ................................................ 29
Configuring the Inverter Using the External LCD Light Button ................................................31
Inverter Configuration Menu Options .....................................................................................33
Inverter Status Screens –Operational Mode...................................................................36
Initial Inverter Status...............................................................................................................36
Main Inverter Status................................................................................................................ 37
Energy Meter Status................................................................................................................ 37
Telemetry Status .....................................................................................................................37
ID Status ..................................................................................................................................37
Server Communication Status .................................................................................................38
IP Status .................................................................................................................................. 38
ZigBee Status...........................................................................................................................38
Communication Ports Status................................................................................................... 39
Fan Health Status –Three Phase Inverters.............................................................................. 39
Power Control Status ..............................................................................................................40
Chapter 6: Setting Up Communication.............................................................................. 41
Communication Connectors ............................................................................................41
Communication Types .....................................................................................................42
Removing the Inverter Cover...........................................................................................42
Creating an Ethernet (LAN) Connection...........................................................................42
Creating an RS485 Bus Connection..................................................................................45
Creating an RS232 (UART) Connection ............................................................................48
Creating a ZigBee Connection..........................................................................................49
Connecting a Laptop to the Inverter................................................................................49
Verifying the Connection .................................................................................................49
Appendix A: Errors and Troubleshooting .......................................................................... 50
Troubleshooting Communication - S_OK is Not Displayed ..............................................50
Error Codes ......................................................................................................................52
Power Optimizers Troubleshooting .................................................................................57
Appendix B: Technical Specifications ................................................................................ 58
Single Phase Inverters......................................................................................................58
Three Phase Inverters......................................................................................................60
Inverter and Mounting Bracket Dimensions....................................................................63
Single Phase Inverter and Mounting Bracket .......................................................................... 63
Three Phase Inverter and Mounting Bracket........................................................................... 65
Appendix C: Safe DC ......................................................................................................... 67
Appendix D: Fan Maintenance and Replacement.............................................................. 68
Fan Maintenance .............................................................................................................68

Table of Contents
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
5
Fan 2 Replacement ..........................................................................................................68
Appendix E: Replacing and Adding System Components................................................... 70
Replacing an Inverter.......................................................................................................70
Adding, Removing or Replacing Power Optimizers..........................................................70

HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
6
HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
During installation, testing and inspection adherence to all the handling and safety instructions is
mandatory.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
The following safety symbols are used in this document. Familiarize yourself with the symbols and their
meaning before installing or operating the system.
WARNING!
Denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in injury or loss of life. Do not proceed beyond a warning note until the indicated
conditions are fully understood and met.
CAUTION:
Denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage or destruction of the product. Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until
the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
NOTE:
Denotes additional information about the current subject.
IMPORTANT SAFETY FEATURE:
Denotes information about safety issues.

HANDLING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!
The cover must be opened only after shutting off the inverter ON/OFF switch located at the bottom
of the inverter. This disables the DC voltage inside the inverter. Wait five minutes before opening the
cover. Otherwise, there is a risk of electric shock from energy stored in the capacitors.
WARNING!
Before operating the inverter, ensure that the AC power cable and wall outlet are grounded properly.
WARNING!
Opening the inverter and repairing or testing under power must be performed only by qualified
service personnel familiar with this inverter.
WARNING!
Do not touch the PV panels or any rail system connected when the inverter switch is ON, unless
grounded.
CAUTION:
This unit must be operated under the specified operating specifications, as described in the latest
technical specification datasheet, available on the SolarEdge website at
http://www.solaredge.com/groups/products/overview.
CAUTION:
The inverters are IP65 rated. Unused connectors and glands should be sealed with the provided
seals.
NOTE:
Use PV modules rated according to IEC 61730 class A.
NOTE:
The symbol appears at grounding points on the SolarEdge equipment. This symbol is also
used in this manual.
NOTE:
The following warning symbols appear on the inverter warning label:
Symbol
Warning
Risk of electric shock
Risk of electric shock from energy stored in the capacitor. Do not remove cover
until 5 minutes after disconnecting the all sources of supply.
Hot surface –To reduce the risk of burns, do not touch.
Inverter ON/OFF switch
0=OFF
1=ON

Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge System
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
8
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge System
System Overview
The SolarEdge power harvesting solution maximizes the power output from any type of solar Photovoltaic
(PV) installation while reducing the average cost per watt. The following sections describe the system
components.
SolarEdge Power Optimizer
SolarEdge power optimizers are DC-DC converters connected to PV modules in order to maximize power
harvesting by performing independent Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) at the module level.
The power optimizers regulate the string voltage at a constant level, regardless of string length and
environmental conditions. The power optimizers include a safety voltage function that automatically
reduces the output of each power optimizer to 1 Vdc during fault conditions, when disconnected from the
inverter or when the inverter’s ON/OFF switch is turned OFF. Each power optimizer also transmits module
performance data over the DC power line to the inverter.
Two types of power optimizers are available:
Module Add-on power optimizer –connected to one or more modules
Module embedded power optimizer –embedded into a module
SolarEdge Inverter
The SolarEdge inverter efficiently converts DC power from the modules into AC power that can be fed into
the main AC service of the site and from there to the grid. The inverter also receives the monitoring data
from each power optimizer and transmits it to a central server (the SolarEdge monitoring portal; requires
Internet connection).
SolarEdge Monitoring Portal
The SolarEdge monitoring portal enables you to monitor the technical and financial performance of one or
more SolarEdge sites. It provides information about present and past performance of each module
individually and about the system as a whole.

Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge System
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
9
Installation Procedure
The following is the procedure for installing and setting up a new SolarEdge site. Many of these also apply
to modification of an existing site.
Page 10
Pages 14 and 26
Page 16
Pages 20-22
Page 23
Page 26
Page 29
Recording power optimizer serial numbers
Installing the inverter
Commissioning and activating the installation
Connecting the inverter to the SolarEdge monitoring portal
Configuring the inverter
Connecting power optimizers to modules and in a string
Connecting the strings and the AC to the inverter

Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge System
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
10
Installation Equipment List
Standard tools can be used during the installation of the SolarEdge system. The following is a
recommendation of the equipment needed for installation:
Allen screwdriver for M6/M8 screw types
Standard flat head screwdrivers set
Voltage tester screwdriver
Drilling motor and bits suitable for the surface on which the inverter will be installed Suitable screws
for attaching the inverter mounting bracket to the surface to which it will be connected
M6 (1/4") or M8 (5/16”) stainless bolts, nuts, and washers for attaching the power optimizer to the
racking
MC4 Crimper
Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Voltmeter
For installing the communication options, you may also need the following:
For Ethernet:
CAT5/6 twisted pair Ethernet cable
RJ-45 plugs
RJ-45 crimper
For RS485:
Four- or six-wire twisted pair
Small flat head screwdriver set
Inverter Transport and Storage
Transport the inverter in its original packaging, facing up and without exposing it to unnecessary shocks. If
the original package is no longer available, use a similar box that can withstand the weight of the inverter
(refer to the inverter weight in Appendix B: Technical Specifications on page 58), has a handle system and
can be closed fully.
Store the inverter in a dry place where ambient temperatures are -25°C - +65°C / -13°F - 149°F.

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
11
Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
Safety
The following notes and warnings apply when installing the power optimizers:
WARNING!
When modifying an existing installation, turn OFF the inverter ON/OFF switch and the AC circuit
breaker on the main AC distribution panel.
WARNING!
Input and output connectors are not watertight until mated. Open connectors should be mated to each
other or plugged with appropriate watertight caps.
CAUTION:
This unit must be operated according to the operating specifications in this document.
CAUTION:
Cutting the power optimizer input or output cable connector is prohibited and will void the warranty.
CAUTION:
Power optimizers are IP65/NEMA4 rated. Choose a mounting location where optimizers will not be
submerged in water.
CAUTION:
If you intend to mount the optimizers directly to the module or module frame, first consult the module
manufacturer for guidance regarding the mounting location and the impact, if any, on module warranty.
Drilling holes in the module frame should be done according to the module manufacturer instructions.
CAUTION:
Installing a SolarEdge system without ensuring compatibility of the module connectors with the
optimizer connectors may be unsafe and could cause functionality problems such as ground faults,
resulting in inverter shut down.
In order to ensure mechanical compatibility of the SolarEdge optimizers and the modules to which they
are connected:
 Use identical connectors from the same manufacturer and of the same type on both the power
optimizers and on the modules; or
 Verify that the connectors are compatible in the following way:
▪ The connector manufacturer should explicitly verify compatibility with the SolarEdge
optimizer connector; and
▪A third-party test report by one of the listed external labs (TUV, VDE, Bureau Veritas UL, CSA,
InterTek) should be obtained, verifying the compatibility of the connectors.
IMPORTANT SAFETY FEATURE:
Modules with SolarEdge power optimizers are safe. They carry only a low safety voltage before the
inverter is turned ON. As long as the power optimizers are not connected to the inverter or the inverter
is turned OFF, each power optimizer will output a safe voltage of 1V.

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
12
Installation Guidelines
This chapter refers only to the module add-on power optimizers. For module-embedded models,
refer to the installations instructions supplied with the embedded module.
The power optimizer can be placed in any orientation.
Position the power optimizer close enough to its module so that their cables can be connected.
To allow proper heat dissipation, maintain a 1" /2.5 cm clearance distance between the power
optimizer and other surfaces.
The minimum and maximum string length guidelines are stated in the power optimizer datasheets.
Refer to the SolarEdge Site Designer for string length verification. The SolarEdge Site Designer is
available on the SolarEdge website at http://www.solaredge.com/groups/support/downloads, under
Software Tools.
Completely shaded modules may cause their power optimizers to temporarily shut down. This will
not affect the performance of the other power optimizers in the string, as long as the minimum
numbers of power optimizers are connected in a string to modules. If under typical conditions fewer
than the minimum optimizers are connected to unshaded modules, add more optimizers to the
string.
Do not leave the power optimizers connectors uncovered. Open connectors should be mated to each
other.
Step 1, Mounting the Power Optimizers
1Determine the power optimizer mounting location and use the power optimizer mounting brackets
to attach the power optimizer to the support structure (see Figure 1).
2If required, mark the mounting holes locations and drill the holes.
3Attach each power optimizer to the rack using the M6 (1/4'') or M8 (5/16”) stainless steel bolts, nuts
and washers.
4Verify that each power optimizer is securely attached to the supporting structure or the module.
NOTE:
Record power optimizer serial numbers and locations, as described in Providing Installation
Information on page 27.
CAUTION:
Do not drill through the power optimizer or through the mounting holes. The drilling vibrations can
damage the power optimizer and will void the warranty.

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
13
Step 2, Connecting a Module to a Power Optimizer
Connect the Plus (+) output connector of the module to the Plus (+) input connector of the power
optimizer.
Connect the Minus (-) output connector of the module to the Minus (-) input connector of the power
optimizer.
Figure 1: Power optimizer connectors
NOTE:
Images are for illustration purposes only. Refer to the label on the product to identify the plus and
minus input and output connectors.
Output
Input
Connect to module
+
-
-
+
Mounting bracket

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
14
Step 3, Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings
You can construct parallel strings of unequal length, that is, the number of power optimizers in each string
does not have to be the same. The minimum and maximum string lengths are specified in the power
optimizers' datasheets. Refer to the SolarEdge Site Designer for string length verification.
NOTE:
String length should not exceed 300m from DC+ to DC- of the inverter. Use at least 4 mm² DC cables.
1Connect the Minus (-) output connector of the string’s first power optimizer to the Plus (+) output
connector of the string’s second power optimizer.
2Connect the rest of the power optimizers in the string in the same manner.
Figure 2: Power optimizers connected in series
3If you intend to monitor the installation, using the SolarEdge monitoring portal, record the physical
location of each power optimizer, as described in Providing Installation Information on page 27.
Step 4, Verifying Proper Power Optimizer Connection
After a module is connected to a power optimizer, the power optimizer outputs a safe voltage of 1V.
Therefore, the total string voltage should be equal to ~1V times the number of power optimizers
connected in series in the string. For example, if 10 power optimizers are connected in a string, then 10V
should be produced.
Make sure the modules are exposed to sunlight during this process; otherwise, the power optimizers
may not be powered. If you use a tracker, the power optimizer will turn ON only if the tracker is
tracking the sun and the module provides at least 2W.
In SolarEdge systems, due to the introduction of power optimizers between the PV modules and the
inverter, the short circuit current ISC and the open circuit voltage VOC hold different meanings from
those in traditional systems. For more information about the SolarEdge systems’ string voltage and
current, refer to the VOC and ISC in SolarEdge Systems Technical Note, available on the SolarEdge
website at:
http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/isc_and_voc_in_solaredge_sytems_technical_note.pdf
Isolation measurement using a measurement device of up to 1000V is acceptable.
CAUTION:
Do not leave the power optimizers connectors disconnected. Open connectors should be
mated to each other.
+
+
-
-

Chapter 2: Installing the Power Optimizers
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
15
►To verify proper power optimizers connection:
1Measure the voltage of each string individually before connecting it to the other strings or to the
inverter. Verify correct polarity by measuring the string polarity with a voltmeter. Use a voltmeter
with at least 0.1V measurement accuracy.
2For troubleshooting power optimizers operation problems, refer to Power Optimizers
Troubleshooting on page 57.

Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
16
Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter
Install the inverter either before or after the modules and power optimizers have been installed.
CAUTION:
Do not rest the connectors at the bottom of the inverter on the ground, as it may damage them. To
rest the inverter on the ground, lay it on its back, front or side.
Inverter Package Contents
One SolarEdge inverter
One mounting bracket
Two Allen screws for fastening the inverter to the mounting bracket
This installation guide
Quick installation guide
Inverter activation instructions (may include an activation card)
Identifying the Inverter
Refer to the sticker on the inverter that specifies its Serial Number and its Electrical Ratings. Provide the
serial number when contacting SolarEdge support. The serial number is also required when opening a new
site in the SolarEdge monitoring portal.
In the following sections, unless otherwise indicated, instructions apply to both single-phase and three-
phase inverters, though only one graphical example may be presented.
Inverter Interfaces
The following shows the inverter connectors and components, located at the bottom of the inverter:
Figure 3: Inverter connectors (three phase example)
LCD panel: displays inverter information and configuration parameters
AC output
ON/OFF switch
LCD panel and LEDs
LCD light button
Communication glands
DC input
Sealed plug

Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
17
LCD LEDs: Three LEDs indicate the following inverter statuses (see Figure 4):
Color
Description
Functionality
Green
Power production
On - The inverter is producing power.
Blinking - Standby mode. The inverter is in Standby mode until
its working voltage is reached. The inverter then enters
Production mode and produces power.
Off - The inverter is not producing power. This may be during
Night mode, when the inverter ON/OFF switch is OFF or when
an error occurs.
Yellow
Module communication
and inverter shutdown
Blinking:
Monitoring information is being received from a power
optimizer.
The inverter is being shut down.
Red
Fault
On - There is an error. Refer to Appendix A: Errors and
Troubleshooting on page 50 for more information.
Blinking - The inverter is being shut down.
All LEDs are on while the inverter is being configured.
Figure 4: Inverter front view
AC output
AC cable external gauge:
Single phase inverters: PG21 (9-16mm diameter)
Three phase inverters: M32 (15-21mm diameter)
DC inputs: For connection of the PV installation
CAUTION:
Do not remove the six screws on the DC metal panel as it may harm the inverter sealing and void
the warranty.
LCD
LEDs:
Green
Yellow
Red
LCD light button

Chapter 3: Installing the Inverter
SolarEdge Installation Guide –MAN-01-00057-2.2
18
ON/OFF switch: Turning this switch ON starts the operation of the power optimizers, enables power
production and allows the inverter to begin exporting power to the utility grid. Turning it OFF
reduces the power optimizer voltage to a low safety voltage and inhibits exportation of power.
When this switch is OFF, the inverter control circuitry remains powered up.
LCD light button: Pressing this button lights up the LCD for 30 seconds. In addition, you can press this
button to access configuration menu options, as described on page 31.
Two communication glands, for connection of inverter communication options. Each gland has three
openings. Refer to Chapter 6: Setting Up Communication on page 41 for more information.
Mounting the Inverter
1Determine the inverter mounting location, on a wall or pole, as follows:
To allow proper heat dissipation, maintain the following minimum clearance areas between the
inverter and other objects:
8" / 20 cm to the top and bottom of the inverter
4" / 10 cm to the right and left of the inverter
When installing inverters side by side, leave at least 16" / 40 cm between inverters
When installing inverters one above of the other, leave at least 16" / 40 cm between inverters.
Position the mounting bracket against the wall/pole and mark the drilling hole locations (refer to
Inverter and Mounting Bracket Dimensions on page 63):
Ensure that the U-shaped indentations are facing up and the “UP” marking is correctly oriented,
as shown below:
Figure 5: Brackets with U-shaped Indentations Facing Up
Use at least two bracket holes. Additional holes can be used to fix the bracket. Determine
which and how many holes to use according to mounting surface type and material.
NOTE:
Make sure the mounting surface or structure can support the weight of the inverter (single
phase: 20-21 kg; three phase: 33 kg) and bracket (1.3 kg).
2Drill the holes and mount the bracket. Verify that the bracket is firmly attached to the mounting
surface.