Interfaces and Functions
The product can be equipped or retrofitted with the following interfaces and functions: The availability of the functions depends on the product version and additional options purchased.
For further information on current and future functions, refer to the product page at www.SMA-Solar.com.
User interface for configuration and monitoring
The product is equipped as standard with an integrated webserver, which provides a user interface for configuring and monitoring the product.
The product user interface can be called up via the web browser if there is an existing connection to an end device (e.g. computer or tablet PC).
SMA Speedwire
The product is equipped with SMA Speedwire as standard. SMA Speedwire is a type of communication based on the Ethernet standard. SMA Speedwire is designed for a data transfer rate of 100 Mbps and enables optimum communication between Speedwire devices within systems.
Dashboard
On the dashboard of the user interface, information on the product, the plant and its components is displayed clearly and at a glance using widgets. The dashboard display can vary depending on the system's functional scope and user rights.
Information, such as yield forecast, system section visualization and inverter comparison, are available via the extended functions in Sunny Portal.
Modbus
The product is equipped with a Modbus interface. The Modbus interface is deactivated by default and must be configured as needed.
The Modbus interface of the supported SMA products is designed for industrial use – via SCADA systems, for example – and has the following tasks:
Remote query of measured values
Setpoint specifications for system control
Plant-wide parameterization
You can use the system parameter assistant to change the parameters of connected devices at the same time and to compare them. Simply select the desired devices from a list and change the parameters that are suitable for simultaneous change. The status of the parameter changes is accessible at all times.
Energy monitoring
Several SMA Energy Meters and Modbus energy meters from other manufacturers can be connected for comprehensive energy monitoring. The product can also read out, save and display the generation and consumption data of the meters.
In addition, energy meters (e.g. a gas meter) can be registered via the extended functions in Sunny Portal. The meter readings can be entered manually and displayed.
FTP Push
The FTP Push function can be used to upload collected system data to a freely selectable external FTP server. The collected system data is uploaded to the specified folder up to 1 time per hour per day. Here, the system data is exported in an unchangeable XML format. The system data and user data is transmitted via standard FTP protocol to the FTP server without encryption.
Grid management services
The product is equipped with service functions for grid management.
Depending on the requirements of the grid operator, you can activate and configure the functions (e.g. active power limitation) via operating parameters.
The setpoints from the grid operator can either be implemented via open-loop control or closed-loop control. For this, the setpoints are specified via Modbus, via analog or digital signals or manually in the installation assistant. The implementation of the setpoints is reported back to the grid operator.
Active power limitation
The setpoint for active power limitation is specified in percent. The total system power is taken as the reference value. For this, the setpoints are specified via Modbus, via analog or digital signals or manually in the installation assistant.
Zero export
Some grid operators permit connection of PV systems only on condition that no active power is fed into the utility grid. The PV energy is therefore consumed exclusively at the place where it is generated.
This product enables the limitation of the active power feed-in of the connected SMA inverters and inverters of other manufacturers, provided these are connected via SunSpec Modbus and support this function, to 0% with active closed-loop control of specifications at the grid-connection point.
Reactive power control
The reactive power control can take place through direct parameter settings (Q, cos φ) in the installation assistant or a variable specification from the grid operator via the Modbus interface or via analog signals. The reactive power control as characteristic curve function can also be regulated as a function of the voltage at the point of interconnection Q(V). The values are specified as a percentage of the maximum AC power. A proper meter for measuring the relevant electrical variables (V, P, Q) is required at the grid-connection point. A pure voltage measurement is not sufficient. A suitable energy meter is also required at the point of interconnection for cos φ specifications in control mode.
Direct marketing
A direct marketer can use the product for remotely controlling the system via the built-in direct marketing interface. In this process, control signals of the direct marketer are transferred to the system. The function is activated via the installation assistant of the grid management services in the product.