Rated power
The rated output power of the inverter, expressed in volt-amperes (VA). Essentially, this value is equivalent to power in watts (W).
This parameter refers to the power that the device can continuously deliver to consumers. When choosing based on this parameter, ensure that the rated power of the inverter exceeds the expected load power by approximately 15-20%. Additionally, keep in mind that some electrical appliances (particularly those with electric motors, such as vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, etc.) consume significantly more energy at startup than during regular operation. For such loads, it's important to check the peak power of the inverter (see the relevant paragraph) — it should be higher than the starting power of the load.
Operating voltage PV
The operating range of the inverter is usually located between the starting voltage and the maximum voltage. This interval is indicated in volts.
Functions
—
UPS function. Inverters with a UPS function automatically switch to battery-powered mode when there is insufficient power generation from solar panels or in cases where the main power source is disconnected. This ensures load redundancy. Note that switching may not occur instantly, but with a certain delay (about 10-30 ms).
—
Connecting the generator. Inverters that support the generator connection function significantly increase the reliability and efficiency of autonomous solar energy systems. In practice, the function can be implemented in several basic ways. First, the system can automatically turn the generator on and off depending on the battery charge level or current power consumption, ensuring efficient use of resources and minimizing fuel consumption. Secondly, switching the load to the generator can be carried out when there is a shortage of electricity generation from solar panels. And thirdly, the generator can be used to maintain an optimal battery charge level so that the system is in full readiness at any time.
—
Parallel connection. The inverter has special connectors through which two or more devices can be connected to a single electrical network. Parallel connection is used when one inverter is not able to pull the entire load from solar panels and the input power exceeds the capabilities of the device itself.
—
Built-in monitoring. The presence of a built-in monitoring module on board the inverter, which collects information about the productivity of solar panels, allows you to monitor energy production and consumption, as well as monitor the performance of the system as a whole. Moreover, these parameters can often be viewed and controlled in real time (including through a mobile application for a smartphone). The monitoring module is usually connected to the Internet via a Wi-Fi network.
Control interfaces
Connection interfaces provided in the inverter design for solar panels.
-
RS232. A specialized communication interface used to directly connect the inverter to a computer. As a rule, the interface provides the ability to monitor solar generation systems around the clock using a local network. Also, the RS232 connector can be used to communicate several inverters with each other, or, less often, for software updates or service testing.
-
RS485. A connector often used to connect several inverters to a central hub, which, in turn, connects to a computer. This connection can be useful for setting up a solar generation system or sending monitoring data over the network.
-
USB. A standard USB port is often used for configuring equipment via a wired connection to a computer or for inverter firmware updates.
-
LAN (RJ45). The presence of a LAN connector (RJ45) in the inverter design. Such ports are standardly used for wired connections in computer networks using a twisted pair cable.
-
Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi communication module for wireless connection of the inverter to a computer, laptop or mobile phone. Using specialized software, you can receive monitoring data from the inverter directly “over the air” - transmitting information over a Wi-Fi network eliminates the
...fuss with wires.
— Bluetooth. Option to wirelessly pair the inverter with smartphones, tablets or laptops via Bluetooth. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to monitor equipment performance and remotely control the inverter within range of the Bluetooth wireless network.
