Interfaces and Functions

The inverter can be equipped or retrofitted with the following interfaces and functions:

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.

Once the connection has been established to the smart device, use a terminal (e.g. smartphone, tablet or laptop) to connect to the product's user interface using a web browser.

Smart Inverter Screen

The Smart Inverter Screen enables you to view the status display and to display the current power and consumption on the user interface login page. This gives you an overview of the most important product data without having to log into the user interface.

The Smart Inverter Screen is deactivated by default. The Smart Inverter Screen can be activated via the user interface once the product has been commissioned.

Configuring the inverter via file

You can adopt the inverter configuration from a file. To do this, there must be an inverter configuration saved to a file. Adhere to the following information about the file formats in the process:

SMA Standard (*.bck)	EPRI Common File Format for DER Settings (IEEE 1547 URP-File Beta-Version (*.csv))
.bck is a proprietary file format by . This includes, for example, special country data sets (source requirement) or adjustments to various grid parameters. The .bck file is always linked to a device family with up-to-date firmware. The bck files are available to download on the product page for the corresponding inverter. Data backup is possible for all settings of the inverter.	csv is an open, manufacturer-independent URP (Utility-Required-Profile) file format that was defined by the "Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)" in cooperation with US electric utility companies and inverter manufacturers. This common file definition utilizes the parameter attributes from the IEEE 1547.1-2020 standard, including the unique parameter labels, their data types, units, and possible value options. This standard dictates how these parameters and their values are expressed and formatted in a common file format so that anyone can interpret its contents without ambiguity. IEEE 1547-2018 specifies approximately 100 parameters for DER devices. This file format provides a practical way to verify the configuration of the standard parameters in DER inverters, as well as share the information with others. The ability to upload files and configure an inverter based on the EPRI Common File Format (.csv) is only available if the inverter has previously been configured to an IEEE 1547:2018 compliant US country code. The ability to save inverter applied settings to the EPRI Common File Format is currently not available.

SMA Standard (*.bck)

EPRI Common File Format for DER Settings

(IEEE 1547 URP-File Beta-Version (*.csv))

*.bck is a proprietary file format by . This includes, for example, special country data sets (source requirement) or adjustments to various grid parameters. The *.bck file is always linked to a device family with up-to-date firmware. The bck files are available to download on the product page for the corresponding inverter. Data backup is possible for all settings of the inverter.

*csv is an open, manufacturer-independent URP (Utility-Required-Profile) file format that was defined by the "Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)" in cooperation with US electric utility companies and inverter manufacturers. This common file definition utilizes the parameter attributes from the IEEE 1547.1-2020 standard, including the unique parameter labels, their data types, units, and possible value options. This standard dictates how these parameters and their values are expressed and formatted in a common file format so that anyone can interpret its contents without ambiguity. IEEE 1547-2018 specifies approximately 100 parameters for DER devices. This file format provides a practical way to verify the configuration of the standard parameters in DER inverters, as well as share the information with others. The ability to upload files and configure an inverter based on the EPRI Common File Format (*.csv) is only available if the inverter has previously been configured to an IEEE 1547:2018 compliant US country code. The ability to save inverter applied settings to the EPRI Common File Format is currently not available.

SMA PUK2.0

SMA PUK2.0 replaces for products with firmware version ≥ 4.00.00.R the previous procedure for logging in to the user interface if you have forgotten the password for your product. Whether your product supports PUK2.0 is shown on the login page of the user interface via the information button.

To improve security for your product, you can generate a product key. With the product key, the product can be unlocked directly on the user interface and does not require a chargeable order of a PUK via SMA. If you have lost the product key, you can generate a new one by physically accessing the product.

Display of I-V characteristic curve

On the user interface of the product, a characteristic curve can be generated from current and voltage values of the PV array per MPP tracker. Using this I-V characteristic curve, problems in the PV array can be detected at an early stage.

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.

SMA Webconnect

The inverter is equipped with a Webconnect function as standard. The Webconnect function enables direct data transmission between the inverter and Sunny Portal without any additional communication device and for a maximum of inverters per visualized system. In PV systems with more than inverters, there is the option of establishing data transmission between the inverters and Sunny Portal via the data logger (e.g., SMA Data Manager) or distributing the inverters over several systems. You can directly access your visualized system via the web browser on your end device.

Wi-Fi

Depending on availability, the product is or is not equipped with a Wi-Fi interface. If the Wi-Fi interface is present, the Wi-Fi interface is enabled by default at delivery. If you do not want to use WLAN, you can deactivate the WLAN interface.

If the Wi-Fi interface is present, the product also has a WPS function. The WPS function is for automatically connecting the product to a network (e.g. via router) and establish a direct connection between the product and a smart end device.

Expanding the radio range in the WLAN network

In order to expand the radio range of the inverter in the WLAN network, you can install the Antenna Extension Kit accessory set in the inverter.

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
Remote setting of operating parameters
Setpoint specifications for system control

Module slots

The inverter is standard-equipped with two module slots. The module slots are located on the communication assembly and allow additional modules to be connected (e.g. SMA Sensor Module). The modules are available as accessories. The installation of two identical modules is not permissible.

SMA RS485 Module

With the assembly of the RS485 Module, the inverter can communicate with special SMA communication products (Information on assembly and connection see manual of the SMA RS485 Module). The SMA RS485 Module can be retrofitted.

Antenna Extension Kit

Within the WLAN network, the Antenna Extension Kit enables the radio range of the inverter to be upgraded (Information on assembly and connection see manual of the Antenna Extension Kit). The Antenna Extension Kit can be retrofitted.

SMA Sensor Module

The SMA Sensor Module has different interfaces for connecting various sensors (i.e. temperature sensor, irradiation sensor, anemometer or energy meter). The SMA Sensor Module converts the signals of the connected sensors and transmits them to the inverter. Information on installation, connection and configuration can be found in the manual for the SMA sensor module. The SMA Sensor Module can be retrofitted.

Grid management services

The inverter was tested in accordance with the UL 1741 SA (September 7, 2016) and UL 1741SB / IEEE 1547-2018 (October 2022) to be compliant with the source requirements documents of the states available at the time.

For connecting the inverter to the utility grid, no additional grid monitoring equipment is necessary. A description of the tested functions and instructions on the activation and setting of functions can be found in the technical information at www.SMA-Solar.com.

For information about Grid Guard Code 10m, see the Technical Information .

PV Rapid Shutdown Equipment

The inverter is listed as PV Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE) according to UL 1741.

All DC inputs and AC outputs of this product comply with photovoltaic rapid shutdown requirements for controlled conductors outside the array.

A complete PV Rapid Shutdown System consists of the inverter, PV array disconnect switches, and a Rapid Shutdown initiation device. The Rapid Shutdown initiation device serves to initiate a rapid shutdown. The PV Rapid Shutdown System must limit the DC conductors to < 30 V within 30 seconds.

NOTICE - The inverter's Rapid Shutdown function is initiated by disconnecting the inverter from the AC grid voltage, for example, by opening the main PV system AC disconnect. The AC disconnect that serves as the Rapid Shutdown initiation device must be readily accessible and clearly marked in accordance with National Electrical Code^®. The Rapid Shutdown status of the PV system will be indicated by the On/Off (Closed/Open) position of this AC disconnect. The Off (Open) position indicates that a rapid shutdown has been initiated.

If PV array disconnect switches compliant with the SunSpec communication signal for Rapid Shutdown systems are installed, the inverter can transmit a SunSpec-compliant "permission to operate" signal to them via its DC input conductors. When a rapid shutdown is initiated, the inverter will stop transmitting the SunSpec signal. When the SunSpec signal is not being received, the PV array disconnect switches are responsible for reducing line voltages within the PV array in accordance with National Electrical Code^®. In the event of a rapid shutdown via the SunSpec communication signal, it is important that all PV modules connected to the inverter are always equipped with SunSpec-compliant PV array disconnect switches, otherwise the inverter cannot start feed-in operation. The sum of the standby voltages of all PV array disconnect switches of a string must be < 30 V to ensure safe discharging of the DC lines. In addition, the recommended total length of all DC lines of a string should not exceed 300 m (1000 ft). The total length defines the length of the entire string wiring including the connection cable of the PV module switch in the string (measured from the positive DC terminal to the negative DC terminal of the inverter).

A PV Rapid Shutdown system can also be installed using PV array disconnect switches initiated in case of power failures or other means. In these cases, it must be ensured that the PV system Rapid Shutdown initiation device initiates a rapid shutdown of the PV array devices at the same time that the inverter is disconnected from grid voltage.

The PV array disconnect switches must disconnect the PV array from the inverter within a maximum of 15 seconds after Rapid Shutdown initiation.

The inverter is capable of grid support operation where in case of a power failure or by activating the AC disconnect, the inverter remains connected to the utility grid for a defined ride-through time and waits for voltage recovery. If grid voltage does not recover within the defined ride-through time, the inverter disconnects from the grid and a rapid shutdown is initiated.

The Rapid Shutdown function is disabled by default. The Rapid Shutdown function should only be enabled when PV array disconnect switches have been installed within the PV array or between the PV array and the inverter. The Rapid Shutdown function can be enabled during or after inverter commissioning via the user interface by selecting the operating mode suitable for the PV array disconnect switches. If the Rapid Shutdown function is enabled and no PV array disconnect switches are installed, the inverter cannot discharge the connected DC input conductors during a rapid shutdown. As a result, the inverter can be damaged.

WARNING - THIS PV RAPID SHUTDOWN EQUIPMENT DOES NOT PERFORM ALL OF THE FUNCTIONS OF A COMPLETE PV RAPID SHUTDOWN SYSTEM. THIS PV RAPID SHUTDOWN EQUIPMENT MUST BE INSTALLED WITH OTHER EQUIPMENT TO FORM A COMPLETE PV RAPID SHUTDOWN SYSTEM THAT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF NEC (NFPA 70) FOR CONTROLLED CONDUCTORS OUTSIDE THE ARRAY. OTHER EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN OR ON THIS PV SYSTEM MAY ADVERSLY AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE PV RAPID SHUTDOWN SYSTEM. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSTALLER TO ENSURE THAT THE COMPLETED PV SYSTEM MEETS THE RAPID SHUT DOWN FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE INSTALLED ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTALLATION MANUAL.

Multifunction Relay

The inverter is equipped with a multifunction relay as standard. The multifunction relay is an interface that can be configured for the operating mode used by a particular system.

SMA ShadeFix

The inverter is equipped with the shade management system SMA ShadeFix. SMA ShadeFix uses an intelligent MPP tracking system to determine the operating point with the highest output during shading conditions. With SMA ShadeFix, inverters use the best possible energy supply from the PV modules at all times to increase yields in shaded systems. SMA ShadeFix is enabled by default. The time interval of SMA ShadeFix is usually 6 minutes. This means that the inverter determines the optimum operating point every 6 minutes. Depending on the PV system or shading situation, it may be useful to adjust the time interval.

String-failure detection

The string-failure detection measures the total current of every input and continuously calculates the mean values for the inputs in question. The total currents are compared with the mean values. If a total current exceeds or falls short of the mean value by the set tolerance value, an event is reported. Marginally increased total currents are reliably detected over several query intervals and distinguished from typical current fluctuations of the PV array. String-failure detection is deactivated by default and must be activated. In addition, the tolerance value can be set via the user interface and the mean values read off.

Surge arrester type 1 and 2

On the AC and DC side, the inverter is equipped with slots for type 1 and 2 surge protection devices. The surge protection devices limit dangerous overvoltages. The surge protection devices can be retrofitted.

Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI)

The inverter is equipped with an integrated photovoltaic (PV) arc-fault circuit interrupter as required for PV systems by National Electrical Code^® ANSI/NFPA 70 (NEC). The inverters' arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) functionality is certified to Standard UL 1699B Edition 1 (August 2018), Photovoltaic (PV) DC Arc-Fault Circuit Protection, which defines requirements for PV arc-fault protection devices intended for use in solar photovoltaic electrical energy systems as described in NEC 690.11.

Depending on the country data set, arc fault detection is activated or deactivated by default. If the installation conditions permit this, you can change the default setting.

The arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) can detect electric arcs in the PV modules and the module wiring of connected strings. The arc-fault circuit interrupter ensures that the inverter ceases operations and interrupts any electric arcs as soon as they are detected. This involves halting the flow of current.

The arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) has proved extremely reliable, meaning that the inverter dependably detects and interrupts electric arcs that actually occur in the PV electric circuit and is generally not susceptible to false tripping. AFCI incidents output by the inverter should be regarded as reliable indicators of actual errors in the PV electric circuit displayed and should be investigated immediately and thoroughly by qualified persons to localize and rectify errors in the PV electric circuit.

If the AFCI is configured without permanent operation inhibition, the system should be monitored closely and recurring faults in the AFCI should be investigated immediately by qualified persons. If it is not possible to identify the cause of the error, the inverter should be taken out of operation until the investigation and corrective action can be completed. Recurring errors may cause damage to neighboring conductors and system components, which could result in more extensive system failures and damage and even to uncontrolled electric arcs and fires.

SMA Smart Connected

SMA Smart Connected is the free monitoring of the product via the SMA Sunny Portal. Thanks to SMA Smart Connected, the operator and qualified person will be informed automatically and proactively about product events that occur.

SMA Smart Connected is activated during registration in Sunny Portal. In order to use SMA Smart Connected, it is necessary that the product is permanently connected to Sunny Portal and the data of the operator and qualified person is stored in Sunny Portal and up-to-date.

Universal mounting system (UMS_Kit-10)

The universal mounting system enables wall mounting of the inverter or serves as platform for higher mounting on the ground. The universal mounting system is available as an accessory.