SolarMax SP Series User manual

SolarMax SP-series
1000 SP /1500 SP / 2000 SP /
2500 SP / 3000SP
Instruction Manual

SOLARMAX GmbH
Zur Schönhalde 10
D-89352 Ellzee
E-Mail: [e-mail]
© SOLARMAX GmbH 2021

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Contents
1 Notes on the manual � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5
1.1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Target groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Where to keep this manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.4 Symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 Safety � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6
2.1 Intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3 Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3 Description � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8
3.1 Identication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.2 Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.3 Front panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.3.1 LED indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.3.2 Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.4 Connections in the lower part. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4 Installation � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �12
4.1 Package contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.2 Selecting the installation location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3 Mounting the inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5 Electrical Connection � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �16
5.1 Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2 Connecting the inverter to the mains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2.1 Integrated RCD and RCM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2.2 Connection instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2.3 Connecting the inverter to the PV generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.3 Communication interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6 Commissioning� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 22
7 Conguration � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 23
7.1 Connecting the WLAN antenna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
7.2 Connecting the inverter via WLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
7.3 Conguration of the inverter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
8 Troubleshooting� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 28
8.1 Troubleshooting measures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
8.2 SOLARMAX Service Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
9 Technical Data� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 29
10 Disposal � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 30
11 Warranty� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 31

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1 Notes on the manual
1�1 Scope
The scope of this manual is to provide detailed instructions about the instal-
lation, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for the fol-
lowing SOLARMAX inverters:
1000SP/1500 SP/ 2000SP /2500 SP/ 3000 SP
1�2 Target groups
This instruction manual is intended for the operator of the plant and the
installer of the PV power plant. Before any action is taken, the user must rst
read the safety instructions to protect himself from the hazards deriving from
using devices operating at high voltages.
Electrical connection an installation may only be carried out by trained elec-
tricians (e.g. electricians, electric systems technicians, electrical mechanics,
and industrial electronics technicians).
1�3 Where to keep this manual
The plant operator must ensure that this instruction manual is available to the
relevant persons at all times. If this original document is lost, an up-to-date
version of this instruction manual can be downloaded from our website at any
time (www.solarmax.com).
1�4 Symbols used
The following safety instructions and general information are used within this
instruction manual.
DANGER!
Non-observance of these safety instructions results in serious inju-
ries or death.
WARNING!
Non-observance of these safety instructions may result in serious
injuries or death.
CAUTION!
Non-observance of these safety instructions may result in minor or
extensive injuries.
ATTENTION!
Non-observance of these safety instructions may result in material
damage.
Note
Notes contain additional information or facilitate operation of the
inverter.

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2 Safety
2�1 Intended use
SOLARMAX SP series inverters are designed exclusively for the conversion
of the direct current generated by PV modules into alternating current which
conforms to the parameters of the public grid. Any other use is contrary to the
intended use.
Inverters of the SP series may only be used in combination with PV modules
which comply with the IEC 61730 standard. Inverters of the SP series may only
be connected to Class II PV generators.
2�2 Safety instructions
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
In daylight the PV generator supplies the inverter with a danger-
ously high DC voltage.
● Make sure that all electrical input conductors to the inverter are
de-energized before starting any work on the inverter or the
input conductors.
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
Components within the inverter are charged with a high voltage.
● Never open the inverter while it is in operation.
WARNING!
Risk of injury from electric arc!
Removing the DC connectors when live can lead to dangerous elec-
tric arcs.
● Switch o the DC disconnector at the inverter before removing
the DC connectors.
WARNING!
Fire hazard caused by inappropriate repair attempts!
● The inverter does not contain any replaceable components.
Defective inverters must be returned to the SOLARMAX Service
Center for repair or disposed of in accordance with the instruc-
tions in this manual.

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CAUTION!
The inverter can become very hot during operation�
● Do not touch the heatsink and the side surfaces during or soon
after the use.
2�3 Symbols
Symbol Description
Life threatening hazard due to high voltage. Only qualied
personnel may perform work on the inverter.
Attention: hot surfaces!
10 min
Life threatening hazard due to high voltage in the inverter!
Disconnect the voltage from the inverter. Wait 10 minutes
before opening the inverter.
Warning!
Non-observance of the safety instruction may cause serious
injuries.
Read and follow the operating instructions supplied with the
inverter. Do not remove any symbols on the inverter. Replace
damaged symbols.
CE marking. The inverter complies with the requirements
of the European directives regarding the Electromagnetic
compatibility and the electric safety.
Do not dispose of the inverter and its accessory components
in the household waste.
Removing
this label
voids the
warranty
Do not open the inverter and do not make modications
or holes of any type. In case these instructions are not
observed, then SOLARMAX does not assume any liabilities
for damages to persons or properties.

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3 Description
3�1 Identication
The inverter can be identied on the basis of the information provided on the
nameplate. The nameplate is on the right side of the inverter. The following
image shows the nameplate of the 3000 SP model:
3000 SP
Item No.: 10093001
Serial No.: 1234-123456789
Input DC
Max. Input Voltage 600 V
MPPT Range 240 ... 520 V
Max. Input Curr. 13 A
Shorted Imput Curr. 15 A
Output AC
Nominal Power 3000 W
Maximum Power 3300 VA
Voltage 230 V
Max. Output Curr. 14,3 A
Frequency 50 / 60 Hz
Power Factor Range 0.8i … 0.8c
Overvoltage Category DC II / AC III
Protective Class I
IP Rating IP65
Ambient Temperature – 25 ... + 60°C
Compliancy VDE-AR-N 4105
VDE 0126-1-1
CEI 0-21
SOLARMAX GmbH
Zur Schönhalde 10 - 89352 Ellzee - Germany
www�solarmax�com
Fig. 1: Label of SOLARMAX 3000 SP
3�2 Function
The SOLARMAX SP Series inverters have the following characteristics that
provide high eciency and high reliability:
● Wide input DC range, allowing maximum exibility in the conguration of
the PV generator.
● Wide Maximum Power Point (MPP) tracking operating interval, ensuring
high energy harvesting even in sub-optimal weather conditions.
● The high MPP accuracy and the high eciency of the power electronic cir-
cuits minimize the operating losses.
● Quad MPP tracker for optimum energy yield
● Protection class IP65, suitable for outdoor use

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Additionally, in the SP Series inverters integrate the following protection
devices:
● Internal overvoltage
● DC insulation monitoring
● Ground fault protection
● Grid monitoring
● Current leakage protection
● DC current monitoring protection
● DC disconnector integrated
● Reverse DC polarity protection
3�3 Front panel
3�3�1 LED indicators
1 2 3
Fig. 2: Status indicators on the front panel of the SP inverters
LED Description State Description
1 Grid
indicator Blink Grid voltage absent or out of range. It is not possible to connect the inverter to the grid.
ON, with
blinks every
30sec
Normal operation.
The LED is normally ON, but every 30sec it
blinks according to the current power level
vs. the nominal power.
1 blink = <20 % of nominal power
2 blinks = 20 % to 40 %
3 blinks = 40 % to 60 %
4 blinks = 60 % to 80 %
5 blinks = 80 % to 100 %
2Communica-
tion indicator Blink Data communication underway
OFF No communication
3Warning
indicator ON / blink A warning occurred. Refer to the error table.
OFF No warning

10
The following table shows the status of the LED indicators in case of a warning/
alarm:
Description Grid
indicator
Comm�
indicator
Warning
indicator
Leakage current abnormal
  
Inverter relay abnormal
  
Insulation resistance abnormal

 
Leakage current HCT abnormal
  
Internal Communications Fault

 
Boost circuit abnormal



EEPROM fault
 

Flash programming
  
Other warning
 

Legend:

LED ON

LED OFF

LED Blink

keep original status
3�3�2 Display
Normal Operation
The SP units are equipped with a two-line LCD display. The LCD display shows
the parameters currently generated by the PV system on a rolling basis.
Warning/Alarm
In the event of faults, the following alarm codes are displayed:
Code Meaning Description
A00 Grid over voltage The grid voltage exceeds the permitted
voltage range
A01 Grid under voltage The grid voltage falls below the permitted
voltage range
A02 No grid Grid voltage is 0 V
A03 Grid over frequency The grid frequency exceeds the permitted
frequency range
A04 Grid under frequency The grid frequency falls below the permitted
voltage range
A06 Grid unbalanced The grid voltage unbalances are lie outside
the permitted voltage range.
B00 PV over voltage The PV voltage exceeds the permitted voltage
range
B01 Insulation resistance
abnormal
The insulation resistance to ground is too low
when starting the inverter.

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Code Meaning Description
B02 Leakage current
abnormal
The insulation resistance to ground on
the input side decreases during inverter
operation.
B03 PV strings abnormal The PV strings are damaged.
B04 PV under voltage The PV voltage falls below the permitted
voltage range
B05 Weak irradiance The output of the PV modules is less than the
minimal operating power
B07 PV polarity reversed The poles of the PV strings are connected
with reversed polarity.
3�4 Connections in the lower part
1 2 3 4 5
6
Fig. 3: Connections in the lower part
Position Description
1 Vent valve
2DC disconnector
3 PV string connectors
4AC connector
5Slot for the communication accessories
6External protective earth (PE) connection

12
4 Installation
4�1 Package contents
When the inverter is delivered check and report any damage on the box that
may aect its contents. Verify the presence of all the parts listed below and
that the inverter does not show any visible damage. Contact immediately the
dealer in case of any parts missing or damaged.
G
H
Fig. 4: Scope of delivery of SP inverters
Part Quantity Description
A 1 Inverter with separate WLAN antenna
B 1 pair DC Connector
C 1 AC Connector
D 1 Mounting bracket
E 3 Screws and dowels
F 2 Ex. head bolts
G 1 This manual
H 1 PV connector unplugging tool

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4�2 Selecting the installation location
DANGER!
Fatal fire or explosion hazard!
The inverter is an electrical device with heat generation and the pos-
sibility of sparking.
● Install the inverter in an environment that is free of ammable
gases and uids
● Never install the inverter near combustible materials. The instal-
lation base must be non-combustible.
● Follow the local fire safety regulations.
Select the installation site according to the following indications:
● Select a dry location protected from water and snow
● Install the inverter in an easily accessible location, so that the maintenance
work can be carried out easily
● Do not expose the inverter to direct sunlight
● Never install one inverter above another (this would reduce the cooling
eect)
● The environmental temperature in the installation site must be between
-25°C and 60°C
● Make sure there is a good air circulation. An insucient air circulation may
reduce the performance and the lifetime of the components inside the
inverter.
● Maintain the following minimum installation distances:
50 cm
60 cm
20 cm
20 cm
Fig. 5: Minimum installation distances of SP inverters

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● Install the inverter in vertical position with maximum backward inclination
of15°.
≤15°
OK OK
(max. 15°)
No No No
Fig. 6: Mounting position of the SP inverter
● Make sure the installation base is robust enough to sustain the weight of
the inverter.
4�3 Mounting the inverter
The inverter is attached to the wall or to a mounting system using a mounting
plate. The mounting plate and the mounting material are included in the scope
of delivery. The following installation instructions apply to wall mounting of
the inverter
1. Mark the three drilling holes on the wall using the mounting bracket pro-
vided with the inverter.
63
76260
223
Fig. 7: Mounting the mounting bracket

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2. Drill the holes. Insert the dowels, position the bracket and insert the
screws to lock it.
3. Line up the slots on the sides of the heatsink with the hooks on the bracket,
adjust until the coupling is completely done, and use the two hexagonal
head bolts to lock the inverter to the bracket
Fig. 8: Mounting the SP inverter to the mounting bracket
4. Make sure the inverter is tightened to the mounting wall.

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5 Electrical Connection
5�1 Safety
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
In daylight the PV generator supplies the inverter with a danger-
ously high DC voltage.
● Respect all the valid national standards and regulations con-
cerning safety and prevention.
● This inverter will be connected directly to a high voltage photo-
voltaic generator. The installation must be carried out by quali-
ed personnel observing the local and national standards and
regulations.
● The PV generator voltages are very high. NEVER plug or unplug
the DC connectors when the inverter is turned on, otherwise dan-
gerous electric arcs could develop.
NOTE
Follow the applicable standards and regulations to implement the
electrical connections, in particular for the section of the conduc-
tors, the fuses, and the Protective Earth (PE) connection.
5�2 Connecting the inverter to the mains
5�2�1 Integrated RCD and RCM
The SP Series inverters are equipped with integrated RCD (Residual Current
Device) and RCM (Residual Current Monitor) according to VDE 0126-1-1. The
sensor measures the residual current and compares it to the pre-set value,
disconnecting automatically the inverter from the AC grid by means of the
integrated RCD in case the value exceeds it.
If you add an external RCD breaker you can use a type A device with at least
100mA rated fault current (300mA in case of PV plants with large leakage
capacities).
5�2�2 Connection instructions
AC Connector
NOTE
Use a copper wire of size 20 ... 14mm
2external diameter (section
4...6 mm 2). Use only rigid or exible conductors.

17
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1. Remove the external isolation of the cable to free the N (Neutral) and L
(Line) wires for a length Y of 36 mm, and to free the PE (Protective Earth)
wire for a length Y of 40 mm. Remove the isolation of the individual wires
for a length X of about 10 ... 15 mm.
y
x
N
L
Fig. 9: Removing the isolation of the AC cable
2. Crimp or solder tip terminals on the wires.
N
L
Fig. 10: Connecting the tip terminals to the AC cable
3. Check that all the parts of the AC connector are present and in good condi-
tion. Insert the cable in the cable gland and into the connector enclosure.
4. Insert and lock the individual conductors PE, N and L in the respective con-
nector terminals.
G
N
L
Zo o m i n
Fig. 11: Connecting the AC cable to the AC connector
5. Insert the connector in the enclosure and pull the cable backwards until
the tabs on the sides click in position.
6. Tighten the cable gland with a 4Nm torque.
7. Insert the connector in the counterpart located at the bottom of the
inverter pushing it until the side tab clicks and locks it in position.

18
Fig. 12: Connecting the AC cable to the SP inverter
8. If you have to remove the AC connector, use a screwdriver to press the side
tab and unlock it from the enclosure, while pulling down the connector to
disengage it from the inverter.
Protective Earth Connection
Connect the external Protective Earth cable:
Fig. 13: Connecting the external Protective Earth cable
CAUTION!
The external Protective Earth connection cannot substitute the one
present in the AC connector used to connect the inverter to the grid.
Make sure that both cables are present and connected, otherwise
warranty may be void in case of failure of the electrical connections.

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5�2�3 Connecting the inverter to the PV generator
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
In daylight the PV generator supplies the inverter with a danger-
ously high DC voltage.
● The PV generator voltages are very high. NEVER plug or unplug
the DC connectors when the inverter is turned on, otherwise dan-
gerous electric arcs could develop.
10 mi
n
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
Components within the inverter are charged with a high
voltage.
● Before attempting any action on the DC connections,
make sure that the DC switch is switched o
● Wait 10 minutes to rule out any residual risks
● Do not connect either PV generator pole to ground.
Make sure that positive and negative poles are free
oating to earth potential.
This inverter is equipped with a MPPT circuit having the following character-
istics:
Model Max� DC Voltage Max� DC Current
1000SP 600 V 13 A
1500 SP 600 V 13 A
2000SP 600 V 13 A
2500 SP 600 V 13 A
3000SP 600 V 13 A
CAUTION!
Never exceed the absolute maximum ratings indicated in the above
table under any environmental operating condition.
Connectors of PV string cabels
Ensure that cables of the proper type are being used to connect the inverter to
the PV generator. In particular, PVC and H07RN-F non-tinned cables are NOT
recommended.
The PV cables must be terminated with the Amphenol H4 provided with the
inverter.

20
If dierent types of connectors are used, or if dierent installation tools and
procedures are used, then it may not be possible to ensure safety and tech-
nical performance.
The 25/28/30 SHT units have integrated 15 A string fuses. The string fuses
prevent too high reverse current.
The following Connectors are recommended for PV strings:
● Positive pole connector (+), female: Amphenol H4CFC4 S
PC
Insulation layer
Locking nut
Fig. 14: Positive pole female connector
Insulation layer Locking nut
Fig. 15: Negative pole male connector
DANGER!
Fatal electric shock hazard!
In daylight the PV generator supplies the inverter with a danger-
ously high DC voltage.
● The PV generator voltages are very high. NEVER plug or
unplug the DC connectors when the inverter is turned on, oth-
erwise dangerous electric arcs could develop.
Connection of PV input cable
1. Cut the cable isolation for a length of 8 … 10 mm. Crimp the cable into the
metallic terminals provided, observing the correct polarity (red cable goes
in the terminal of the female positive pole connector; black cable goes in
the terminal of the male negative pole connector).