SolarMax P series

Parameter configuration with MaxTalk 2 Pro

Operating manual
 Contents
1 Notes on this operating manual 3
1.1 Target group3
1.2 Scope3
1.3 Safety instructions used3
1.4 Writing styles used3
2 Safety instructions 4
3 Requirements4
4 Configuration5
4.1 Standard5
4.2 Grid monitoring7
4.2.1 Anti-Islanding7
4.2.2 Voltage limits7
4.2.3 OV detection8
4.2.4 Frequency limits8
4.2.5 Current and output limits9
4.3 Start conditions9
4.4 Leakage current limits10
4.5 Frequency-dependent power reduction11
4.5.1 P(f) mode11
4.5.2 Operating mode 1 11
4.5.3 Operating mode 2 12
4.5.4 Operating mode 3 13
4.6 Reactive power control14
4.6.1 Generator metering arrow system 14
4.6.2 Q mode 14
4.6.2.1 Operating mode cos 15
4.6.2.2 Operating mode cos(Pac)15
4.6.2.3 Operating mode Q16
4.6.2.4 Reactive power control hysteresis (voltage-dependent) 17
4.6.2.5 Reactive power control hysteresis (active power-dependent) 17
5 External control 18
5.1 External shutdown 18
5.2 SPI logic 18
5.3 External power control 20
6 Reset country configuration 23
7 Synchronize configuration 23

2
1 Notes on this operating manual
This operating manual contains instructions for the configuration of the extended MaxTalk2 Pro functions and
associated parameters.
You should have basic knowledge of the operation of MaxTalk 2. You can find basic information on the operation
of MaxTalk 2 in the software under the "Help" menu item.

1.1 Target group

This operating manual is intended for authorized skilled personnel only.

1.2 Scope
This operating manual is applicable to the following SolarMax inverters:
SM2000P
SM3000P
SM4000P
SM4600P
SM5000P

1.3 Safety instructions used

The following levels of safety instructions can be found in this operating manual:

ATTENTION!
Non-observance of these safety instructions may cause material damage.

Note
This symbol identifies notes that are of particular importance for operating the device.

1.4 Writing styles used

Menu commands and buttons are in italics, e.g. Start.
Windows and tabs are in quotation marks, e.g. "System overview".

Note
If no specific inverter type is mentioned for the parameter values indicated, the values apply to all
inverters listed above.

3
 2 Safety instructions
You are only authorized to configure the advanced functions of the SolarMax inverters if you comply with the
instructions below:
The grid operator must have specified and/or approved all changes.
All implemented settings have to be documented in writing.

ATTENTION!
Incorrect configuration can have serious consequences!

Please note that unauthorized or incorrect configuration of the advanced settings

may have serious consequences such as:
Change in the response of the protective devices of the SolarMax inverters resulting in a hazard to
users, third parties, or equipment
Adverse influence on the operating and yield performance of the SolarMax inverter
Invalidation of the operating license for the SolarMax inverter
Loss of all warranty rights

Note
Every time the parameter values are changed, the inverter temporarily disconnects from the grid in
order to activate the change. In that case, the graphics display of the inverter shows the status mes-
sage "Out of service".

3 Requirements
Ensure that the following requirements are met before you make adjustments to the inverter with MaxTalk 2 Pro:
Adequate power supply via the DC supply cables

ATTENTION!
Possible data loss!
Do not interrupt the power supply. Loss of data could result.

4
4 Configuration
The "Configuration" tab of MaxTalk 2 Pro comprises all adjustable operating parameters and the advanced func-
tions of the inverter.
In the "Device" menu, click Configuration. The "Configuration" tab is subdivided as follows:
Standard
Grid monitoring
Start-up conditions
Leakage current limits
Frequency-dependent power reduction
Reactive power control

4.1 Standard
Under "Standard", it is possible to change the country setting selected during commissioning. In this way it is
possible to change or reset the country setting of the inverter.

Standard
If appropriate, change the setting in the "Standard" menu:
Setting Grid connection / description
Australia AS 4777
Belgium C10/11
Bulgaria VDE 0126-1-1 2006
Denmark VDE-AR-N 4105
Germany (13.8 kVA < Smax 30 kVA, cos(Pac)) VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
13.68 kVA or does not exceed 30 kVA. The oper-
ating mode "cos(Pac)" (see Section 4.6.2.2) for
the generation of reactive power is activated.

Germany (13.8 kVA < Smax 30 kVA) VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
13.68 kVA and does not exceed 30 kVA.

Germany (3.68 kVA < Smax 13.8 kVA, cos(Pac))
Germany (3.68 kVA < Smax 13.8 kVA)
Germany (Smax > 30 kVA, cos(Pac))
Germany (Smax > 30 kVA, I/O module, cos(Pac))
VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
3.68 kVA and does not exceed 13.68 kVA. The
operating mode "cos(Pac)" (see Section 4.6.2.2)
for the generation of reactive power is activated.
The plant rating is greater than 3.68 kVA and
does not exceed 13.68 kVA / VDE-AR-N 4105
VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
30 kVA. The operating mode "cos(Pac)" (see
Section 4.6.2.2) for the generation of reactive
power is activated.
VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
30 kVA. The operating mode "cos(Pac)" (see
Section 4.6.2.2) for the feed-in/input of reactive
power is activated. The I/O module has been
fitted and external grid monitoring and remote
shutdown is used (NA protection; see Section
5.1).

5
 Setting Grid connection / description
Germany (Smax > 30 kVA, I/O module) VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater
than 30 kVA. The I/O module has been fitted and
external grid monitoring and remote shutdown is
used (NA protection; see Section 5.1).
Germany (Smax > 30 kVA) VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating is greater than
30 kVA.
Germany (Smax 3.68 kVA) VDE-AR-N 4105 / The plant rating does not
exceed 3.68 kVA.
EN 50438 EN 50438
France VDE 0126-1-1 50.4 Hz
Greece - Mainland PPC Guide
Greece - Islands PPC Guide
Great Britain (Iac 16 A) G83/2
Great Britain (Iac > 16 A) G59/2
Israel IS 4777
Italy (3 kW < Pmax 6 kW, SPI) CEI 0-21 / The plant rating is greater than 3kW
and/or does not exceed 6kW. The I/O module
has been fitted and the SPI logic is activated (see
Section 5.2).
Italy (3 kW < Pmax 6 kW) CEI 0-21 / The plant rating is greater than 3kW
and/or does not exceed 6kW.
Italy (Pmax 3 kW, SPI) CEI 0-21 / The plant rating does not exceed 3kW.
The I/O module has been fitted and the SPI logic
is activated (see Section 5.2).
Italy (Pmax 3 kW) CEI 0-21 / The plant rating does not exceed 3kW.
Croatia EC 61727
Portugal EN 50438
Romania VDE 0126-1-1 2006
Sweden EN 50438
Switzerland VDE 0126-1-1 + A1:2011 CH
Spain RD 1699
Czech Republic EN 50438
Turkey VDE 0126-1-1 2006

6
4.2 Grid monitoring
These functions monitor the grid parameters during feed-in operation.

4.2.1 Anti-Islanding
During maintenance work on the local grid it is possible that staff of the grid operator has to disconnect the PV
power plant from the grid. In order to prevent the inverter from continuing to feed into the local, disconnected
grid, the island detection function monitors whether an island grid is present and, if appropriate, disconnects the
inverter from the grid.
The "Anti-Islanding" function can be activated and deactivated:
Setting Description
If the inverter detects an island situation, the inverter will disconnect from the grid immediately.
This prevents the inverter from continuing to feed into the grid when this is switched off.
The function is deactivated.

4.2.2 Voltage limits

The inverter permanently monitors the mains voltage for inadmissible voltage values. It is possible to specify
upper and lower limits for the mains voltage. The adjustable limits for the voltage can be created in two stages.
Two-stage monitoring allows for the definition of different monitoring sensitivities:
the violation of the first limit is linked to a longer tripping time (low sensitivity)
the violation of the second limit is linked to a shorter tripping time (higher sensitivity)

Example
The mains voltage violates the limits "Vac min 1" and "Vac min 2".

Vac [V]

Vac nominal = 230

Vac min 1 = 212

Vac min 2 = 196

t [ms]
t Uac min 1 = 2500 ms t Uac min 2 = 500 ms

Grid operation

Grid disconnection
t [ms]

Figure 1 Voltage limits violation

When the first value limit "Vac min 1" (= 212 V) is not reached, the inverter disconnects from the mains within
2500 ms. When the mains voltage does not reach the second limit value "Vac min 2" (= 196 V) the inverter discon-
nects from the mains within 500 ms.
If necessary, change the standard values:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Vac min 1 Minimum admissible mains voltage (limit 1) 80.0 230.0 V
t Vac min 1 Tripping time for "Vac min 1" 0 900000 ms

7
 Parameter Description Value range Unit
Vac max 1 Maximum admissible mains voltage (limit 1) 230.0 280.0 V
t Vac max 1 Tripping time for "Vac max 1" 0 900000 ms
Vac min 2 Minimum admissible mains voltage (limit 2) 80.0 230.0 V
t Vac min 2 Tripping time for "Vac min 2" 0 900000 ms
Vac max 2 Maximum admissible mains voltage (limit 2) 230.0 280.0 V
t Vac max 2 Tripping time for "Vac max 2" 0 600000 ms
Vac 10 min max Maximum admissible average value of the mains voltage over 243.0 264.0 V
the last 10 minutes
In order to use the two-stage monitoring in a reasonable manner, the tripping time of the limit that is closer to
the nominal value must be longer than the tripping time of the limit that is farther away from the nominal value.

4.2.3 OV detection
Overvoltage transients may occur if the mains impedance is increased abruptly (e.g. as a consequence of an
island situation) and the inverter continues to feed in current for a short period of time. The OV detection (overvolt-
age detection) ensures that the inverter immediately disconnects from the grid when such overvoltage transients
occur.
The "OV detection" function can be activated and/or deactivated.
Setting Description
The inverter checks the grid for inadmissible transients (voltage peaks). If the transients are
too high, the inverter will immediately disconnect from the grid.
The function is deactivated.

4.2.4 Frequency limits

The inverter permanently monitors the mains frequency for inadmissible frequency values. It is possible to specify
upper and lower limits for the mains frequency. The adjustable limits for the mains frequency can be created in
two stages, like in the case of voltage limits (see section 4.2.2).
If necessary, change the standard values:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
f min 1 Minimum admissible mains frequency (limit 1) 45.00 50.00 Hz
t f min 1 Tripping time for "f min 1" 0 600000 ms
f max 1 Maximum admissible mains frequency (limit 1) 50.00 55.00 Hz
t f max 1 Tripping time for "f max 1" 0 600000 ms
f min 2 Minimum admissible mains frequency (limit 2) 45.00 50.00 Hz
t f min 2 Tripping time for "f min 2" 0 600000 ms
f max 2 Maximum admissible mains frequency (limit 2) 50.00 55.00 Hz
t f max 2 Tripping time for "f max 2" 0 600000 ms

8
4.2.5 Current and output limits
The following output values of the inverter can be limited and adjusted within the specified value ranges:
Parameter Description Device Value range Unit
Iac max Maximum permissible mains current SM2000P 0 9.0 A
SM3000P 0 13.5
SM4000P 0 17.5
SM4600P 0 22.0
SM5000P 0 22.0
Iac mean max Maximum admissible DC component in AC SM2000P
current SM3000P
SM4000P 0 1.0 A
SM4600P
SM5000P
Pac max Maximum effective power to be fed in SM2000P 0 2000.0 W
SM3000P 0 3000.0
SM4000P 0 4000.0
SM4600P 0 4600.0
SM5000P 0 5000.0
S max Maximum apparent power to be fed in. SM2000P 0 2000.0 VA
The maximum admissible apparent power SM3000P 0 3000.0
must be at least as high as the maximum SM4000P 0 4000.0
admissible active power in each case. SM4600P 0 4600.0
SM5000P 0 5000.0

4.3 Start conditions

The inverter response to the application of mains power can be specified in the start-up conditions. Mains power
is applied during start-up in the morning or after mains disconnection resulting from limits being exceeded.

Note
The start-up conditions can be configured independently of the voltage and frequency limit settings
(Sections 4.2.2 and 4.2.4).

If necessary, change the standard values:

Parameter Description Value range Unit
Restart delay Delay time before mains reconnection following 0 ... 600 s
previous failure-related mains disconnection.
The inverter will show the status message "Restart
delay" during this delay time.
Pac progression Maximum increase of the active power during mains 0 ... 6000 %/min
reconnection following a mains disconnection due to
a fault (in percent of Pac nom / minute). The status
message "Restart limitation" will be displayed.
Soft start Maximum increase of the effective power at grid 1 ... 2000 W/s
connection. This gradient, if activated, is always
effective, as opposed to "Pac progression" (even
during restart in the morning). The status message
"Restart limitation" will be displayed.
Note: If both "Soft start" and "Pac progression are
activated, the lower gradient is the determining fac-
tor for the inverter.

9
 Mains check
If the mains check is activated, the inverter checks the following adjustable limits before connecting to the mains.
The inverter will only connect to the mains if the limits are not exceeded during an adjustable period of time. The
inverter will show the status message "Restart delay" during the mains check.
When the mains check is activated the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Monitoring time Duration of mains check 0 ... 900 s
Note: If the timer monitoring time and restart delay
are both activated, they will start simultaneously. The
inverter will only connect to the mains when both
timers have expired.
Vac min Minimum admissible mains voltage 161.0 ... 230.0 V
Vac max Maximum admissible mains voltage 230.0 ... 280.0 V
f min Minimum admissible mains frequency 45.00 ... 50.00 Hz
f max Maximum admissible mains frequency 50.00 ... 55.00 Hz

4.4 Leakage current limits

The integrated fault current monitoring (RCMU) monitors the DC and AC leakage currents on the generator side.
Change the standard value if necessary:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Ierr max Maximum admissible leakage current (effective 30.0 ... 300.0 mA
value). When the leakage current exceeds the set
limit, the inverter will disconnect from the mains and
display the error message "Ierr too high".

10
4.5 Frequency-dependent power reduction
The frequency-dependent power reduction is used to reduce the output power Pac of the inverter when the mains
frequencies are too high, in order to stabilize the grid. This function can be carried out in P(f) mode. When the
output power is reduced in the P(f) mode the status message "Frequency limitation" is displayed on the inverter.

4.5.1 P(f) mode

In the "P(f) mode" menu, select the required operating mode:
Operating mode Description
Off The P(f) mode is deactivated.
Auto The P(f) mode is activated. Depending on the country setting, the frequency-depen-
dent power reduction mode 1, mode 2 or mode 3 is automatically activated.
Mode 1 Mode 1 is activated.
Mode 2 Mode 2 is activated.
Mode 3 Mode 3 is activated.

4.5.2 Operating mode 1

Figure 2 illustrates Mode 1 operation.

f [Hz] Pac/Pac nom [%]

51.5 100
PM
51 80

P(f) reduction
50.5 60
f start
f stop 40
50

49.5 20

49 Frequency dependent power reduction 0

t [s]
Grid frequency f
Standardised output Pac/Pac nom[%]

Figure 2 Mode 1 operation

Frequency-dependent power reduction starts as soon as the mains frequency exceeds the "f start" limit. The
active power PM currently fed in at this point in time serves as reference value for power reduction. If the mains
frequency continues to increase, the inverter will reduce the active power in a linear manner using the "P(f) re-
duction" gradient. If the mains frequency decreases again, the inverter maintains power constant until the mains
frequency drops below the "f stop" limit. At this point the inverter increases the active power to the maximum
admissible value.
When Mode 1 is activated the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
P(f) reduction Reduction gradient for the active power (in 1 ... 100 %/Hz
percent of PM per Hertz / PM: active power at
start of output reduction)
f start Start frequency (f stop + 0.01) ... 55.00 Hz
f stop Stop frequency 50.00 ... (f start 0.01) Hz

11
 Example (SM5000P)
Fed in active power PM at start of the power reduction = 5 kW
f start = 50.20 Hz
f stop = 50.05 Hz
P(f) reduction = 40%/Hz
Highest frequency value = 51.20 Hz
The inverter will react as follows: the mains frequency exceeds the "f start" limit of 50.20 Hz, the inverter stores
the temporary active power PM. The mains frequency continues to rise to 51.20 Hz which means that, via the "P(f)
reduction" gradient, the active power Pac is limited to a value of

5 kW
Pac = 5 kW 40% W = 3 kW.
W Hz
100%
Hz
This maximum output value is maintained until output drops below the "f stop" limit. Then the inverter reverts to
feeding in the maximum available active power.

4.5.3 Operating mode 2

Figure 3 illustrates Mode 2 operation.

f [Hz] Pac/Pac nom [%]

Re-increase
51.5 100
PM
51 80

P(f) reduction
50.5 60
f start
50 40

49.5 20

49 Frequency dependent power reduction 0

t [s]
0 60 120
Grid frequency f
Standardised output Pac/Pac nom [%]

Figure 3 Mode 2 operation

In this mode the output power is reduced if the mains frequency exceeds the "f start" limit. If the mains frequency
is reduced again, the inverter increases the output power immediately. In this phase, the reduction and increase
in output power are controlled with the "P(f) reduction" gradient. The active power P M fed in at the start serves as
reference value for power reduction. If the mains frequency drops below the "f start" limit, the inverter increases
the output power to the maximum admissible value via the "Re-increase" gradient.

12
When Mode 2 is activated the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
P(f) reduction Reduction gradient for the active power (in 1 ... 100 %/Hz
percent of PM per Hertz; PM: active power at
start of output reduction)
f start Start frequency 50.00 ... 55.00 Hz
Re-increase Maximum increase to the maximum possible 1 ... 100 %/min
power output

4.5.4 Operating mode 3

Figure 4 illustrates Mode 3 operation.

f [Hz] Pac/Pac nom [%]

51.5 P(f) reduction 100

Re-increase
PM
51 80

50.5 60
f start
f max
f min 50 40

49.5 20
Monitoring time

49 Frequency dependent power reduction 0

t [s]
0 300 1038
Grid frequency f
Standardised output Pac/Pac nom [%]

Figure 4 Mode 3 operation

In this mode the output power is reduced if the mains frequency exceeds the "f start" limit. The reduction is
carried out using the "P(f) reduction" gradient. When the mains frequency drops again, falling into a defined
frequency range, the monitoring timer cuts in. The upper and lower limits of the frequency range are defined by
the "f max" and "f min" parameters. While the timer is running, a mains check is carried out: the mains frequency
must remain within the frequency range and the mains voltage within the "Vac max" and "Vac min" limits. When
this is the case, the inverter increases the output power to the maximum admissible value via the "Re-increase"
gradient.
When Mode 3 is activated the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
P(f) reduction Reduction gradient for the active power (in 1 ... 100 %/Hz
percent of PM per Hertz; PM: active power at
start of output reduction)
f start Start frequency 50.00 ... 55.00 Hz
f stop Start frequency 50.00 ... 55.00 Hz
f max Maximum admissible mains frequency 50.00 ... 51.00 Hz
f min Minimum admissible mains frequency 49.00 ... 50.00 Hz
Vac max Maximum admissible mains voltage 230.0 ... 253.0 V
Vac min Minimum admissible mains voltage 195.5 ... 230.0 V

13
 Parameter Description Value range Unit
Monitoring time Duration of mains check 0 ... 900 s
Re-increase Maximum increase to the maximum possible 1 ... 100 %/min
power output

4.6 Reactive power control

The fact that the inverter feeds in / takes up reactive power makes it possible to influence the voltage at the
inverter's grid connection point (i.e. increase or decrease).

4.6.1 Generator metering arrow system

The parameter values for reactive power are always specified in the generator metering arrow system.

Q
II I
OEX overexcited I
Inverter U Grid
Grid P Grid

Pac Pac
Grid P Grid

UEX underexcited
III IV
Q

Figure 5 Generator metering arrow system

The operating mode of the inverter must be defined for all reactive power and power factor settings. The inverter
may be overexcited or underexcited.
Operating mode OEX (overexcited): the inverter helps to support the voltage at the grid connection point (qua-
drant I in Figure 5).
Operating mode UEX (overexcited): the inverter helps to limit the voltage at the grid connection point (quadrant
IV in Figure 5).

4.6.2 Q mode
Select the required operating mode in the "Q mode" menu:
Operating mode Description
Off No feed-in of reactive power (cos = 1)
cos Operation with fixed power factor cos
cos(Pac) Operation in accordance with a definable cos(Pac) curve
Q Operation with constant reactive power Q

14
4.6.2.1 Operating mode cos
In the "cos" operating mode, a fixed cos value is specified. The inverter will calculate the reactive power from
the cos value and the current active power.

Parameter Description Value range

cos Power factor 0.800 ... 1.000 (OEX / UEX)

Note
The maximum apparent power S max of the inverter cannot be exceeded. Therefore, the active
power fed in may be reduced depending on the desired cos.

Example (SM5000P)
With a cos value of 0.8, the maximum feedable Pac max active power of the SM5000P reduces from 5 kW to
4 kW:
Pac max = cos S max = 0.8 5 kVA = 4 kW.

Reactive power control hysteresis

The description of the mains voltage-dependent and active power-dependent reactive power control hysteresis
can be found in Sections 4.6.2.4 and 4.6.2.5.

4.6.2.2 Operating mode cos(Pac)

In the cos(Pac) operating mode, the inverter changes the cos value subject to the power fed into the grid. De-
pending on the cos value, more or less reactive power is fed in. The dependency is defined by a cos-Pac curve.

cos

0.800 OEX (Pac X0 = 0%, cos Y0)

(Pac X1, cos Y1)
(Pac X2, cos Y2)
(Pac X3, cos Y3)
(Pac X4, cos Y4)
1.000
50% 100% [% of Pac nom]
(Pac X5, cos Y5)
(Pac X6, cos Y6)
(Pac X7, cos Y7)
(Pac X8, cos Y8)
0.800 UEX (Pac X9 = 100%, cos Y9)

Figure 6 cos(Pac) curve with 10 value pairs

15
 The desired curve results from up to 10 value pairs of cos() and Pac:
X-axis: Y-axis:
Active power Pac Value range Unit Power factor cos Value range
Pac X0 5 cos Y0
Pac X1 cos Y1
Pac X2 cos Y2
Pac X3 cos Y3
Pac X4 cos Y4 0.800 ... 1.000
5 ... 100 % of Pac nom
Pac X5 cos Y5 (OEX / UEX)
Pac X6 cos Y6
Pac X7 cos Y7
Pac X8 cos Y8
Pac X9 100 cos Y9

Note
In order to define a curve, the cos Y0 and cos Y9 values are required as a minimum.
The values Pac X0 to Pac X9 must be increasing.

Reactive power control hysteresis

The description of the mains voltage-dependent reactive power control hysteresis can be found in Section 4.6.2.4.

4.6.2.3 Operating mode Q

In the Q operating mode, a constant reactive power is specified which the inverter will maintain at a constant level
independent of the active power. Q values with a positive sign (+) result in overexcited operation of the inverter
(OEX) while Q values with a negative sign (-) result in underexcited operation (UEX).

Parameter Description Value range Unit

Qrel Fixed reactive power 75 0 +75 % of Pac nom
The value range refers to the maximum apparent power S max of the inverter.

Example (SM5000P)
Maximum apparent power S max = 5 kVA
Specified value for Q = +60%
u Resulting reactive power Q = 5 kVA 60 % = 3 kvar

Note
The maximum apparent power S max of the inverter cannot be exceeded. Therefore, the active power
fed in may be reduced depending on the desired amount of reactive power.

The maximum active power Pac max of the SM5000P is reduced to 4 kW because the following relationship ap-
plies:
S 2 = P 2 + Q2; as a result of which
Pac max = (S2 Q2) = (5 kVA)2 (3 kvar)2 = 4 kW.

Reactive power control hysteresis

The description of the mains voltage-dependent and active power-dependent reactive power control hysteresis
can be found in Sections 4.6.2.4 and 4.6.2.5.

16
4.6.2.4 Reactive power control hysteresis (voltage-dependent)
This function represents a mains voltage-dependent on/off switch for the cos and cos(Pac) reactive power
modes.
Activate/deactivate the "Activate hysteresis" check box.
Setting Description
The function is activated. The reactive power mode (cos or cos(Pac)) is reactivated or
deactivated in accordance with the "Vac lock-in" and "Vac lock-out" limits.
The function is deactivated.
When the function is activated, the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Vac lock-In If the mains voltage exceeds this limit, the reac- 184 276 V
tive power mode is reactivated.
Vac lock-Out If the mains voltage drops below this limit, the 184 276 V
reactive power mode is deactivated (the operat-
ing mode for reactive power feed-in changes to
"Off").

4.6.2.5 Reactive power control hysteresis (active power-dependent)

This function involves an active power-dependent on/off switch for the cos and Q reactive power modes.
Activate/deactivate the "Activate hysteresis" check box.
Setting Description
The function is activated. The reactive power mode (cos or Q) is reactivated or deactivated
in accordance with the Pac Lock-In and Pac Lock-Out limits.
The function is deactivated.
When the function is activated, the following parameters can be set:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Pac lock-In If the active power exceeds this limit, the reactive 5 100 %
power mode is reactivated. The limit is stated in
% of the rated output power.
Pac lock-Out If the active power falls below this limit, the re- 5 100 %
active power mode is deactivated (the operat-
ing mode for reactive power feed-in changes to
"Off"). The limit is stated in % of the rated output
power.

17
 5 External control
In the "External control" tab it is possible to configure the I/O module interfaces for external control.
All functions described in this chapter assume that an I/O module has been fitted. If you want to use the functions
in this chapter, please read the "I/O module installation manual" for the SolarMax P series.
In the "Device" menu, click on External control. The "External control" tab is subdivided as follows:
External shutdown
External power control

5.1 External shutdown

If required, this function can be used to disconnect the inverter from the mains network with the help of an exter-
nal electrical signal (NA protection/Teledistacco). When the signal is active at the "NA" input of the I/O module,
the inverter will immediately disconnect from the grid. When this happens the inverter shows the status message
"Error ext. input 1".
Activate/deactivate the "Enable" check box.
Setting Description
The "NA" input of the I/O module is activated.
The "NA" input of the I/O input module is deactivated (the inverter does not react to
external signals at the "NA" input).

Signal logic
Depending on the selected setting, a high-level signal (230 V) or a low-level signal (0 V) is interpreted as an active
signal.
Select the signal logic for the "NA" input of the I/O module in the menu:
Setting Description
Active when high A high-level signal corresponds to an active input signal (standard setting).
Active when low A low-level signal corresponds to an active input signal.

Status
Status display of the "NA" input at the I/O module (cannot be adjusted):
Setting Description
External input signal active
External input signal inactive

5.2 SPI logic

This section describes the configuration of the SPI logic. This function is only available with the "SPI" option and
the "Italy" country setting.
Description
The SPI logic activates the SPI frequency monitoring limits 1/2/3 depending on the logic condition of the "Coman-
do Locale" and "Segnale Esterno" signals. The condition of the "Comando Locale" switch can be configured. The
condition of the "Segnale Esterno" is defined via an external electrical signal. When the limits are transgressed,
the inverter disconnects from the grid.
The following table shows the activation of the SPI frequency monitoring 1/2/3 depending on the logic conditions
of "Comando Locale" and "Segnale Esterno":

18
 Mode Comando Segnale SPI frequency moni- SPI frequency moni- SPI frequency moni-
Locale Esterno toring 1 toring 2 toring 3
1* 0 1 Inactive Active Inactive
2 1 1 Active Active Inactive
3 0 or 1 0 Inactive Inactive Active
* Standard setting
Switching on
Activate/deactivate the "Enable" check box.
Setting Description
The SPI logic is activated.
The SPI logic is disabled.

Comando Locale
Select the logic condition in the "Comando Locale" menu:
Setting Description
High The "Comando Locale" has the logic condition 1.
Low The "Comando Locale" has the logic condition 0.

Segnale Esterno: status display of the K6 input at the I/O module (cannot be adjusted):
Setting Description
Standard setting (also when the K6 input is not connected).
Mode 3 of the SPI frequency monitoring system is activated.
"Comando Locale" is constantly set to "high". The logic condition can be configured to
"low" at any time.

Signal logic
Depending on the selected setting, a high-level signal (230 V) or a low-level signal (0 V) is allocated to the logic
condition "1".
In the menu select the signal logic for Segnale Esterno (input K6 at the I/O module).
Setting Description
High active High-level signal corresponds to the logic condition "1".
Low active Low-level signal corresponds to the logic condition "1" (standard setting)

SPI frequency monitoring 1

Status: status display of the SPI frequency monitoring 1 (cannot be adjusted):
Setting Description
The SPI frequency monitoring 1 is active.
The SPI frequency monitoring 1 is inactive.
If necessary, change the standard values:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
f min Minimum admissible mains frequency 45 50 Hz
t f min Tripping time for minimum admissible mains frequency 0 900,000 ms
"f min"
f max Maximum admissible mains frequency 50 55 Hz

19
 Parameter Description Value range Unit
t f max Tripping time for maximum admissible mains frequency "f 0 900,000 ms
max"

SPI frequency monitoring 2

Status: status display of the SPI frequency monitoring 2 (cannot be adjusted).
Setting Description
The SPI frequency monitoring 2 is active.
The SPI frequency monitoring 2 is inactive.
If necessary, change the standard values:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
f min Minimum admissible mains frequency 45 50 Hz
t f min Tripping time for minimum admissible mains frequency 0 900,000
ms
"f min"
f max Maximum admissible mains frequency 50 55 Hz
t f max Tripping time for maximum admissible mains frequency 0 900,000
ms
"f max"

SPI frequency monitoring 3

Status: status display of the SPI frequency monitoring 3 (cannot be adjusted).
Setting Description
The SPI frequency monitoring 3 is active.
The SPI frequency monitoring 3 is inactive.
If necessary, change the standard values:
Parameter Description Value range Unit
f min Minimum admissible mains frequency 45 50 Hz
t f min Tripping time for minimum admissible mains frequency 0 900,000
ms
"f min"
f max Maximum admissible mains frequency 50 55 Hz
t f max Tripping time for maximum admissible mains frequency 0 900,000
ms
"f max"

5.3 External power control

The K1 to K6 digital inputs of the I/O module can be configured under "External power control". These functions
can be used by the inverter to receive and interpret the rated values for active and reactive power via external
digital signals.
External power control
Activate and/or deactivate the "Enable" check box:
Setting Description
The K1, K2, K3, K4, K5 and K6 digital inputs are activated.
The power limits are set e.g. by a radio ripple control receiver as configured in the
configuration matrix.
The K1, K2, K3, K4, K5 and K6 digital inputs are deactivated (no implementation of
control commands).
When an external power control is activated the following parameters can be adjusted:

20
Parameter Description Value range Unit
Delay The power change will only be active after expiry of 1 60 s
the set delay. The timer is restarted at any digital input
change. Standard setting: 5 seconds.
Power slope falling The slope of power reduction (in percentage of the rated 1 6000 %/min
power per minute).
Example: a value of 200%/min means that the inverter
reduces its active power to the desired power value with a
gradient of 200% of the rated output power per minute in
the event of a reduction command.
Power slope rising The slope of the increase in power to rated power (in 1 6000 %/min
percentage of the rated power per minute).

Description of the configuration matrix

Up to 6 digital control signals (e.g. from a radio ripple control signal receiver) can be connected at the I/O module
input (inputs K1 to K6). This means that up to 64 input conditions are possible for output control.
If the SPI logic is activated at the same time (see Section 5.2), only digital inputs K1 to K5 can be utilized. The
K6 input is used for the SPI logic. In this case, only 32 input conditions are available for output control. When
switching between the SPI logic and the "External power control", any existing configuration of the K6 digital input
remains unaltered.

Figure 7 Configuration matrix (example)

Input state

Element Description
K1/K2/K3/K4/K5/K6 Digital inputs of the I/O module
Status Display of active input signals and the corresponding target values
Configuration List of existing configurations
The active condition of the digital input is evaluated.
The inactive condition of the digital input is evaluated.
Blocked (not available / the digital input is used for a different purpose)

21
 Element Description
Default behavior Output is specified if configuration is not available or not defined. If no standard be-
havior has been defined, unknown output specifications are ignored.

Output action

Element Description Value range Unit

Prel [%] The inverter feeds the set active power (in % of 0 100 %
rated output).
cos [1] The inverter feeds reactive power in accordance 0.800 1,000 -
with the set cos value. (UEX / OEX)
Qrel [%] The inverter feeds the set reactive power (in % 75 0 75 %
of rated power).

Buttons

Element Description
Editing the configuration
Deleting the configuration
Remove all Delete all configurations. The configuration stored in "Default behavior" will not be
deleted.
Add Create new configuration

Add configuration
1. Click Add. The "Add entry" window appears.

2. Activate the required digital inputs K1 to K6 under "Input state".

3. Activate "Prel" as appropriate and indicate the corresponding active power.
4. In order to define a reactive power specification, select "cos" or "Qrel".

Note
In order to activate "cos" or "Qrel", click on the selected option.

5. Select the operation mode UEX (overexcited) or OEX (underexcited).

6. Enter the cos value or reactive power.
7. Click on Add. The entry is adopted appropriately into the configuration matrix.

22
 Note
You can choose individual commands (only target values for Prel, cos or Qrel) as well as combined
commands (Prel and cos or Prel and Qrel) for the configuration.
Active power and reactive power specifications with identical input conditions are combined in one
configuration.
An already existing input condition can be overwritten with new output specifications.
The configurations in the configuration matrix are sorted according to the input condition.

6 Reset country configuration

The factory settings of the inverter can be restored using this function. The country configuration is reset and all
parameter changes are deleted. Afterwards, the inverter is no longer available to MaxTalk or within the MaxComm
network.
In order to re-commission the inverter, the commissioning procedure must be carried out on the graphics display
of the inverter (see instruction manual).

Procedure
1. Select the desired device in the plant tree.
2. In the menu "Device", click on Commands and then on Reset country configuration.
3. Click OK in order to confirm the warning.
The inverter is reset.
The "Initial Setup" menu will be displayed on the graphics display of the inverter.

7 Synchronize configuration
This function can be used to transfer the configuration of an inverter to other inverters.
Requirements
The inverters (reference device and target devices) must be connected and available within the same Max-
Comm network.
The status LED is illuminated green (the inverters are in mains operation).

Procedure
1. Connect MaxTalk to the inverter within the MaxComm network.
2. In the "Function" menu, click Synchronize configuration. The "Synchronize configuration" box appears.
3. In the "Reference device" list, select the inverter the configuration of which is to be transferred to other
inverters.
MaxTalk will automatically list the compatible inverters.
4. Select the required devices in the "Compatible devices" field.
5. In order to start the synchronization process, click Start.
A list containing the synchronized devices will then be displayed. This list will also contain the devices that
could not be synchronized.
6. Check the configuration of the individual devices.

23
 SolarMax Service Center:
hotline@solarmax.com
www.solarmax.com/service
2013/08 en