Sunny Island 4248U

SI4248U Installation Guide
Sunny Island 4248U
SOLARTECHNOLOGY
Battery Inverter/Charger for
Stand-Alone and Back-up Applications
Installation & Operating Instructions
i
SI4248U Installation Guide
ii
SI4248U Installation Guide
Copyright © 2004 SMA America, Inc. All rights reserved.
All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photographic, magnetic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SMA
America, Inc.
SMA America makes no representations, express or implied, with respect to this
documentation or any of the equipment and/or software it may describe, including
(with no limitation) any implied warranties of utility, merchantability or fitness for any
particular purpose. All such warranties are expressly disclaimed. Neither SMA America
nor its distributors or dealers shall be liable for any indirect, incidental or consequential
damages under any circumstances.
(The exclusion of implied warranties may not apply in all cases under some statutes, and
thus the above exclusion may not apply.)
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Every attempt has been made to
make this document complete, accurate and up-to-date. Readers are cautioned,
however, that SMA America reserves the right to make changes without notice and shall
not be responsible for any damages, including indirect, incidental or consequential
damages, caused by reliance on the material presented, including, but not limited to,
omissions, typographical errors, arithmetical errors or listing errors in the content
material.
Revision History
Rev.
No.
0.1
1.0
1.1
1.2
Date
By
Description
Feb. 2, 2004
Sept. 24, 2004
Feb. 25, 2005
Sep. 13, 2005
Jeffrey Philpott
Jeffrey Philpott
Yvonne Siebert
Jeffrey Philpott
Alpha draft
Preliminary Release
New chapter: “Split-phase“
Generator Update/Com. Update
SMA America, Incorporated
12438-C Loma Rica Drive
Grass Valley, California 95945
Tel 530.273.4895
Fax 530.274.7271
www.sma-america.com
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SI4248U Installation Guide
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
*SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS*
This manual contains important instructions for the Sunny Island SI4248U that must be followed
during the installation, operating and maintenance of the inverter.
The Sunny Island 4248U is designed and tested according to international safety requirements,
but as with all electrical and electronic equipment, certain precautions must be observed when
installing and/or operating the Sunny Island 4248U. To reduce the risk of personal injury and
to ensure the safe installation and operation of the Sunny Island 4248U, you must carefully
read and follow all instructions and warnings in this Installation Guide.
Safety and Hazard Symbols
This symbol is used to call attention to important information that you must have
when installing and/or operating the Sunny Island 4248U. Failure to read and
follow instructions marked with this symbol could result in serious injury and/or
damage to the equipment.
This symbol appears beside instructions and warnings that deal with dangerous
voltages that can injure people who come in contact with them.
Warnings
WARNING: A Warning describes a hazard to equipment or personnel. It calls
attention to a procedure or practice, which, if not correctly performed or adhered
to, could result in damage to or destruction of part or all of the SMA equipment
and/or other equipment connected to the SMA equipment or personal injury.
Warnings may also be accompanied by one or more of the safety and hazard symbols
described above to indicate the type of hazard described therein.
Other Symbols
In addition to the safety and hazard symbols described previously, the following symbol is also
used in this Installation Guide:
This symbol accompanies notes that call attention to supplementary information
that you should know to ensure optimal operation of the system.
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SI4248U Installation Guide
Warranty
All Sunny Island 4248U inverters sold in the USA have a five-year warranty, as indicated on
the warranty card included in the shipping container. For warranty coverage, or if you have
questions about the Sunny Island 4248U warranty, contact SMA America at the address,
telephone number or Web site listed on page iii (to send E-mail, see the Contact section of the
SMA America Web site: www.sma-america.com).
WARNING: All electrical installation must be done by qualified personnel and
in accordance with the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70, local
building codes and the requirements of the authority having jurisdiction.
WARNING: The Sunny Island 4248U contains no user serviceable parts.
Always contact an SMA authorized service center for repairs and
maintenance.
WARNING: Other than the cooling fans, the Sunny Island 4248U contains no
user-serviceable parts. Always contact an SMA authorized Service Center for
repairs and maintenance other than those detailed in this manual.
WARNING: Before installing or using the Sunny Island 4248U, read all of the
instructions and warnings on the Sunny Island 4248U and in this Installation
Guide.
WARNING: Do NOT connect the AC OUPUT of the Sunny Island 4248U to the
utility grid. Doing so will damage the inverter and void the warranty.
WARNING: The Sunny Island 4248U is designed for use in Negative Ground
DC systems only.
WARNING: Always wait a minimum of 5 minutes for any stored potentials in
the Sunny Island 4248U to discharge completely before opening the
enclosure.
WARNING: This device is not intended for use with emergency systems or
essential equipment such as fire pumps, operating room or life support
equipment. See NEC 700/701.
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SI4248U Installation Guide
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SI4248U Installation Guide
Installation Manual 1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
System Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Conductor Types and Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Auxiliary Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Wiring Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Split-Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Generator Set Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Sunny Boy Set Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Sunny Island 4248U Menu Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Installer Level Menu Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Diagnose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Battery Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Charging Operations used by the Sunny Island . . . . . . . 60
Generator, Load Shedding Control and Battery State of Charge 62
How to set up State of Charge Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
User Manual 67
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
User Interface Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Sunny Island Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Off-Grid / Stand Alone Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Back-Up Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
User Interface Functionality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Changing Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
How Information is Displayed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Home Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Sunny Island 4248U User Menu Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
User Menu Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Diagnose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
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SI4248U Installation
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Start Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Battery Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Charging Operations used by the Sunny Island . . . . . . . 88
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SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Section 1:
Installation Manual
Introduction
Features
Congratulations! You’ve purchased the finest inverter/charger available today. Over twenty
years of inverter manufacturing experience has gone into the design of the Sunny Island
4248U. As a result, the Sunny Island 4248U represents state-of-the-art technology, high
reliability and overall ease of use, all the things you’ve come to expect from SMA, the industry
leader in inverter manufacturing. Some of the features included are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Optimized for high ambient temperature operation
Very high efficiency
Integrated DC breaker
Near silent operation
Non-volatile memory
Compatible with all Sunny Boy and SMA Control products
Advanced battery management system
Sealed electronics compartment
Generator overload protection
Generator reactive power compensation
DC Input
Optional
GenMan
Generator
OR
Utility Grid
Main
Service Panel
AC Input
Loads
Internal
Gen/Grid
Iso-Relay
Secondary
Panel
Sunny Boy
Bi-directional Inverter
Windy Boy
Load - Shed
Relay
Critical Loads
AC Coupling on Output Side
Figure 1-1 Sunny Island 4248U System Block Diagram
1
Introduction
SI4248U Manual
Code Compliance
The Sunny Island 4248U has been tested and listed by ETL to meet the requirements of UL 1741
Static Inverters and Charge Controllers for use in Photovoltaic Power Systems. The Sunny
Island 4248U also meets all RFI/EMI requirements of FCC Part 15, part b.
Specifications
DC Nominal Voltage
48 V DC
DC Input Voltage Range
(With Full Power Output)
43 to 63 V DC
DC Maximum Output Voltage
63 V DC (67 V DC for max. 100 ms)
DC Minimum Output Voltage
41 V DC
AC Nominal Output Voltage
120 V AC
AC Maximum Input Voltage
150 V AC
AC Minimum Input Voltage
80 V AC
THD of Output Voltage
<3%
AC Nominal Output Frequency
60 Hz
AC Maximum Input Frequency
66 Hz
AC Minimum Input Frequency
54 Hz
AC Maximum Input Current
(Battery Charging)
40 A @ 77 °F (25 °C)
28 A @ 113 °F (45 °C)
DC Maximum Charge Current
100 A
AC Maximum Continuous Output Current
35 A @ 77 °F (25 °C)
AC Maximum Pass-Through Cur- 56 A
rent
2
Idle Power Consumption
approx. 22 W
Standby Power Consumption
approx. 4 W
Enclosure
NEMA 1(Indoor Installation) / IP30
Weight
86 lbs. (39 kg)
Dimensions
H 23 x W 15.25 x D 8.75 inches
Operating Temperature
-4 to +113 °F (-20 to +45 °C)
Cooling
Low noise temperature controlled fan
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Interfaces
2 LEDs, 2-line LCD, 4 Buttons, Serial Port (optional),
Generator Request (N.O. dry contact), Generator
Ready (isolated input), Load Shed (N.C. dry contact)
Max. Voltage G_Req / Load_S
see Figure 1-14
Max. Current G_Req / Load_S
see Figure 1-14
Table 1-1: Sunny Island 4248U Specifications
Efficiency [%]
100
150W 86%
300W 91%
1000W 95%
2500W 94%
4200W 91%
Efficiency
50
0
1000 W
2000 W
3000 W
4000 W
Output Power [Pac]
Output Power [kW]
Figure 1-2 Sunny Island 4248U Efficiency Curve
Output Power
10
7.1
5.4
5
4.1
25 °C
45 °C
50 °C
0
100ms
1 min
30 min
4.2
3.4
2.6
continuous
Figure 1-3 Sunny Island 4248U Output Power Curves
3
Safety
SI4248U Manual
Safety
Safety Features
The Sunny Island 4248U is equipped with several safety related components. Some of the
safety features included are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Built in DC disconnect
AC input current limiting to protect generator
Automatic fan control
Over and under-voltage monitoring of both AC and DC voltages
Input and output AC frequency monitoring
Generator relay failure detection
Over-temperature protection
WARNING: There is an inherent risk of electrical shock or injury to personnel, or
potential damage to the components of the system when working on and around
electrical equipment. Be sure that you have read and understand the safety
instructions in the front section of this manual and any other safety documentation
provided with other equipment in your system before beginning installation.
Battery Safety
Special care should be taken when working around batteries. Battery banks have the potential
to deliver extremely large amounts of current when shorted. Wires can melt, tools can be
welded, fires can start. Even small battery banks deserve your utmost respect.
• Read, understand and follow the battery manufacturer’s safety and installation instructions.
• Always wear protective clothing and eye protection when working with the batteries.
• Be sure that the battery enclosure is made from a dielectric, corrosion resistant material
and is well ventilated.
• Use the correct cable size for your system. Using cables that are too small will create a fire
hazard.
• Ensure that an approved DC disconnect and over-current protection is installed between
the batteries and inverter(s), if the inverter is located more than 5 ft. away from the batteries.
4
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
RFI/EMI
The Sunny Island 4248U has been tested and complies with the requirements of FCC part 15
rules for Class B digital devices. FCC part 15 was written to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference caused by electronic devices in a residential installation.
The Sunny Island 4248U generates and can radiate radio frequency energy that can cause
interference to radio communications if the inverter is not installed according to these
instructions. Even so, there is no way to guarantee that radio interference will not be generated
in a given installation.
If the inverter is found to be causing harmful radio or television interference, (easily verified by
switching the inverter on and off), the situation can usually be corrected by implementing one
or more of the following:
•
•
•
•
•
Move the equipment being effected further from the inverter
Ensure that all conduit runs and the inverter enclosure are grounded
Move or relocate the receiving antenna
Connect the equipment to a different receptacle on a different circuit
Secure the services of an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance
5
Preparation
SI4248U Manual
Preparation
Lifting/Moving
The Sunny Island 4248U weighs 86 lbs. (39 kg) Be sure to use proper lifting techniques and
secure the help of someone to assist in the installation of the inverter.
Unpacking
Retain the shipping container in case it becomes necessary to ship the inverter.
Before installing the Sunny Island 4248U, carefully unpack it and make sure that all of the
following items are included. If anything is missing or if the inverter has been damaged in
shipping, contact SMA America immediately. Contact information is located in the front and
back of this manual.
•
•
•
•
Closely inspect the shipping container and inverter for any damage
Verify that the mounting bracket, manual and warranty card are all present
Fill out the warranty card with the model number and serial number of the unit
Keep all receipts together for future reference
The lid of the Sunny Island 4248U is not mounted when you receive the device. The lid is
packed in a bag to prevent damages during shipping. You have to unpack the lid and fasten
it to the enclosure of the Sunny Island 4248U after the installation.
Bottom Mounting Tab
The tab on the bottom of the inverter is installed upside down to prevent damage during
transport. This tab needs to be removed and remounted so that the flange points downward
and is flush with the back of the inverter. See illustration below.
"OTTOM6IEW
3IDE6IEW
-OUNTING4AB
-OUNTWITH
FLANGEDOWN
7ALL
Figure 1-4 Mounting Tab Orientation
6
7ALL
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Removing the Cover
WARNING: Care should be taken when removing the front cover. See
illustration below.
2
It is important when removing the cover to make sure that you swing
the bottom of the cover out far enough to clear the DC breaker on the
front of the inverter (step 1) before lifting the cover off (step 2). Failure
to do so can result in the DC breaker being accidentally switched on.
1
Figure 1-5Proper Cover Removal
The cover of the Sunny Island 4248U is not mounted at the factory. Mount the cover once installation is complete. To mount the cover, install the four screws in the bottom of the inverter
as shown below.
Figure 1-6 Bottom View with Location of Cover Mounting Screws
7
Preparation
SI4248U Manual
Mounting Location
The Sunny Island 4248U must be mounted indoors in an area where it is easily accessible and
out of the elements. It is important that the Sunny Island 4248U not be mounted directly over
the battery bank for corrosion and safety reasons. Mount the inverter off to one side of the
battery bank or perhaps on the other side of the same wall if convenient. The following
diagram shows possible mounting locations.
WARNING: NEC Article 110.26 clearance requirements may be violated if
the inverter is mounted directly over the battery enclosure.
WARNING: If the inverter is mounted in a separate room from the batteries,
there must be an additional DC disconnect mounted inside the room
containing the batteries. Over-current protection (at the battery location) for
the cable between the batteries and the inverter is also required when the
batteries are in a separate room from the inverter or more than about 5 feet
away.
%3#
$O.OT-OUNT(ERE
-AYVIOLATE.%#
%.4%2
%3#
/+
/+
"ATTERY"ANK
-OUNTINGINSAMEROOMWITHTHEBATTERYBANK
7ALL
3)5
"ATTERY2OOM
$#$ISCONNECT
/VERCURRENT0ROTECTION
"ATTERY"ANK
-OUNTINGONOPPOSITESIDEOFTHEWALLFROMTHEBATTERYBANK
Figure 1-7 Mounting Locations
8
%.4%2
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Mounting Method
The Sunny Island 4248U was designed to be wall-mounted in a vertical position. Drywall, or
“wallboard”, is not strong enough to support the weight of the Sunny Island 4248U by itself.
Do not attempt to install the inverter on wallboard without additional support. The inverter can
be mounted on a single wall stud provided that three 1/4 inch lag bolts with washers are used
and provided that the lag screws are long enough to penetrate the stud to a depth of 1 1/2
inches. For additional support, the Sunny Island 4248U may be mounted to 2 x 4 braces, UniStrut or a sheet of plywood that is secured to the building support structure.
Clearances
Air is drawn into the bottom of the inverter and exits through the sides near the top of the
enclosure. To maintain proper air flow, a distance of 6 inches must be maintained on the sides
of the inverter and a distance of 4 inches should be maintained on top of the inverter. All wire
terminations will be made through the bottom of the enclosure, therefore a minimum of 3 feet
of clearance should be maintained below the inverter. For best viewing of the LCD display,
mount the inverter so that the display will be near eye-level. (To help accomplish this, position
the mounting bracket so that the top edge is approximately 8” above eye-level.)
h
%3#
%.4%2
g
&LOOR
Figure 1-8 Recommended Clearances for the Sunny Island 4248U
9
Preparation
SI4248U Manual
User Interface Overview
The following illustration shows the names and locations of the components that make up the
Sunny Island 4248U’s user interface.
RED
$#$ISCONNECT
GREEN
,INE$ISPLAY
10
)NDICATOR
,IGHTS
%3#
%.4%2
.AVIGATION+EYS
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Installation
WARNING: The Sunny Island 4248U is extremely heavy and it is recommended
that the installer obtain assistance from another person when mounting the
inverter.
Special Tools
It is helpful to have a laptop on hand with the Sunny Data software installed, a communication
cable and an RS232 Piggy-Back module for communication with the Sunny Island 4248U (but
is not required to complete installation).
Hardware
The type of hardware required to mount the inverter will vary depending upon the mounting
method used. See the Mounting Method section for details on recommended mounting options
for the inverter.
The Mounting Bracket
The mounting bracket provided has an assortment of holes and slots punched in it for various
mounting needs. Horizontally, there are 5 slots to be used for mounting to wall studs when the
stud spacing is appropriate. There are also several holes along the vertical portion of the
bracket for use in single stud mounting and in conjunction with the other holes when needed.
11
Installation
SI4248U Manual
Mounting
Single Stud Mounting
The Sunny Island 4248U can be mounted to a single wall stud if necessary. It must be mounted
with the holes centered on the stud and the lag bolts must penetrate the stud to a depth of at
least 1 1/2”.
• Locate the center of the wall stud and mark its location on the wall
• Locate desired height of inverter remembering to keep the user interface near eye level
• Place the mounting bracket in position and using the bracket as a template, making sure
the bracket is level, mark the mounting holes for the bracket on the wall
• Drill 3/16” pilot holes in the wall and stud to a depth of 1 1/2”
• Mount the bracket to the wall using at least three 1/4” lag bolts with washers that are
long enough to penetrate the stud to a depth of 1 1/2”
• Verify that the threaded screw at the bottom of the bracket is removed
• With assistance, lift the inverter onto the mounting bracket and secure it by fastening the
threaded screw through the tab on the bottom edge of the inverter
• Verify that the inverter is securely mounted in place before proceeding
12
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
$RYWALL
-OUNTCENTEREDON
STUDUSINGTHREELAG
BOLTSWITHWASHERS
THATARELONGENOUGH
TOPENETRATETHESTUD
TOADEPTHOFATLEAST
7ALLSTUDS
SPACED
ONCENTER
$RYWALL
Figure 1-9 Mounting Bracket to Single Stud
13
Installation
SI4248U Manual
Using Wall Braces
For additional security, the Sunny Island 4248U may be mounted by attaching a pair of wall
braces horizontally. It is recommended that the wall braces span three studs for secure
mounting.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
14
Locate the wall studs and mark their location on the wall
Locate desired height of inverter remembering to keep the user interface near eye level
Use a level to draw the horizontal lines across three studs
Place a pre-cut wall braces on the location marked and drill pilot holes through the wall
braces and the studs
Mount the wall braces to the wall using 16D nails or 3 1/2” lag bolts
Repeat the process for the other wall brace
Place the mounting bracket in position and using the bracket as a template, mark the
mounting holes for the bracket on the wall braces
Drill pilot holes in the wall braces
Mount bracket to the wall braces using at least three 1/4 x 3 inch lag bolts with washers
Verify that the threaded screw at the bottom of the bracket is removed
With assistance, lift the inverter onto the mounting bracket and secure it by fastening the
threaded screw through the tab on the bottom edge of the inverter
Verify that the inverter is securely mounted in place before proceeding
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
$RYWALL
X3UPPORTS
3PACED
APARTSPANNING
WALLSTUDS
7ALLSTUDS
SPACED
ONCENTER
$RYWALL
Figure 1-10 Mounting With 2x4 Braces
15
Installation
SI4248U Manual
Mounting with Plywood
NOTE: To mount the inverter with plywood, a sheet of 3/4” plywood should be
used. (Do not use laminated pressboard or MDF, etc.)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
16
Locate the wall studs and mark their location on the wall
Locate desired height of inverter remembering to keep the user interface near eye level
Use a level to draw the horizontal lines across three studs
Place the sheet of plywood on the location marked, making sure the long edge of the sheet
is horizontal, and drill pilot holes through the plywood and the studs
Mount the sheet of plywood to the wall using #10 wood screws that penetrate a minimum
of 1 1/2” into the wall studs
Place the mounting bracket in position and using the bracket as a template, making sure
the bracket is level, mark the mounting holes for the bracket on the plywood
Drill pilot holes in the plywood
Mount the bracket to the plywood using at least three 1/4 x 1 1/2 inch lag bolts with
washers
Verify that the threaded screw at the bottom of the bracket is removed
With assistance, lift the inverter onto the mounting bracket and secure it by fastening the
threaded screw through the tab on the bottom edge of the inverter
Verify that the inverter is securely mounted in place before proceeding
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
$RYWALL
INCHPLYWOOD
SPANNINGWALLSTUDS
7ALLSTUDS
SPACED
ONCENTER
$RYWALL
Figure 1-11 Mounting With Sheet of Plywood
17
Installation
SI4248U Manual
System Configuration
The system installer and the user or owner of the system should discuss the various
configurations that are possible with the Sunny Island 4248U and decide which options will
be installed and connected. The system configuration will significantly affect how the inverter
is connected and set up to work harmoniously with the other components in the system.
Off-Grid / Stand Alone Systems
By definition, off-grid or stand alone systems are systems where electrical power is generated
and stored without assistance from the utility grid. These systems typically consist of one or
more power generation sources such as a PV array, a wind generator, a hydro-electric
generator or a gas powered generator.
Typically, there is a need to store the power that is generated. Without a storage method,
power would only be available when one or more of the generating devices were active (i.e.
when the sun was shining for a PV array, or when the wind was blowing for a wind generator).
Batteries are the most common device used for power storage. The size and type of batteries
used depends greatly on the system power requirements.
Because many of the loads that will be powered by the system require AC power as opposed
to DC power, an inverter is needed to change the DC voltage to an AC voltage that can be
used by the AC loads. This is exactly what the Sunny Island 4248U was designed to do.
The Sunny Island 4248U can also function as a battery charger for charging the battery bank.
This mode operates by connecting an AC power source to the inverter’s AC power input. The
AC power source could be a gas powered generator or even the utility grid, if available at the
system’s location. The power generated by the external source can be used to power AC loads
via the Sunny Island 4248U while the batteries are being charged at the same time. The Sunny
Island 4248U watches the battery voltage and only applies the amount of power necessary to
bring the batteries up to a full state of charge after all power required by the loads is supplied.
Frequency Shift Power Control (FSPC) for Off-Grid Applications Only
When the Sunny Island 4248U is coupled to Sunny Boy inverters on the AC output, it requires
a method in which to control the power output of the Sunny Boys. To do this, it employs a type
of control referred to as Frequency Shift Power Control (FSPC). Using the FSPC feature, the
Sunny Island 4248U is able to increase the frequency of its AC output. This increase in
frequency causes the Sunny Boys to decrease their power output.
Although the Sunny Island 4248U increases its output frequency during these periods, it keeps
track of how much frequency shifting has taken place. Shortly afterwards, the inverter will
automatically compensate for the frequency shifting and bring any appliances such as electric
clocks back to normal. In this way, users don’t have to worry about any inaccuracies in their
electronic equipment.
The activation of the FSPC feature is controlled by the “SunnyBoys” parameter in the Sunny
Island 4248U. When this parameter is set to “Yes”, the FSPC feature is enabled.
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When the FSPC feature is enabled and the generator in the system is operating, the generator
becomes the frequency reference and the Sunny Boys will respond to any shifts in frequency
by the output of the generator. Typically, generators run at 60Hz when loaded and therefore,
in most cases, the Sunny Boys will be allowed to run at full power when the generator is
operating.
NOTE: Some Sunny Boy models may require a firmware upgrade to be
compatible with the FSPC. Please contact SMA-America for details.
Back-Up Systems
A back-up system is configured differently from an off-grid system. The purpose of a back-up
system is to supply power when the primary source of electrical power, such as the utility grid,
fails for some reason. When used as a back-up system, the Sunny Island 4248U is designed
to begin providing AC power automatically whenever the primary source of AC power shuts
down.
In a back-up configuration, the Sunny Island 4248U still requires a source for its power. This
is accomplished through the use of a large battery bank. Again, the size and type of batteries
used will be determined by the intended operation of the system.
When using the Sunny Island 4248U in a back-up system configuration, the utility grid needs
to be connected to the grid isolation relay in the inverter via the AC input terminals. Please refer
to the AC wiring section of this manual.
CAUTION: Any AC power sources coupled to the AC output side of the inverter
must meet UL 1741 requirements. In addition, the GridConnected parameter in
Generator Settings must be set to GridFeed-PV (if this parameter is set to
GridCharge when AC sources are coupled to the AC Output side, the inverter will
generate an error). Make sure, the maximum power of installed feeders is not
higher than the max. allowed power for the generator relay (56 A per phase)!
CAUTION: The Sunny Island 4248U is not a grid interactive inverter and
therefore does not provide any active anti-islanding features. It will however,
allow power generated by grid interactive inverters such as the Sunny Boy, to be
passed through it to the grid via its grid-isolation relay. The Sunny Island 4248U
will not supply power to the grid from its batteries and therefore can not create
and island on the utility grid.
During times of normal operation where the primary source of AC power is active, the Sunny
Island 4248U maintains the charge of the battery bank so that they are ready in the event of
an outage. The Sunny Island 4248U applies a sophisticated charging algorithm to ensure that
full charge capacity is maintained and that the life of the battery bank is maximized.
Once the batteries are fully charged, the Sunny Island 4248U will automatically enter “Silent
Mode”. Silent Mode is a standby mode during which most of the electronics in the inverter are
turned off to reduce power loss during periods of inactivity. The metering functions of the
19
Installation
SI4248U Manual
inverter are still active so the inverter will “wake up” and charge the batteries if needed. It will
also respond immediately to a grid failure. When the inverter is in Silent Mode, it is indicated
on the display by “Silent“.
The Sunny Island 4248U also has the ability to connect external sources of power, such as a
gas powered generator to assist in powering the loads and charging the battery bank during
extended outages. Using a generator with the utility present requires special wiring
considerations and should only be designed and installed by qualified personnel.
Control of Sunny Boy Inverters in a Grid-Tied Configuration
In grid-tied applications frequency shifting alone cannot be used because it would require that
the Sunny Boy inverters allow changes in frequency to occur which exceed UL safety limits for
grid-tied inverters. Therefore, in grid-tied applications, primary control of the Sunny Boys is
accomplished through the use of the RS-485 communication line. The Sunny Island sends
commands via the RS-485 bus to the Sunny Boys that limits the output of the Sunny Boys when
required to prevent overcharging the batteries.
Setting the GridConnected parameter in the Sunny Island to GridFeedPV automatically
activates the communication bus.
NOTE: To further protect against system shut-down due to over voltage, the Sunny
Boy parameter in the Sunny Island should still be set to YES so that in the event
that the battery voltage increases more rapidly than the RS-485 bus can
communicate, the frequency shift will activate and prevent the Sunny Island from
shutting down due to over-voltage.
Options Overview
The Sunny Island 4248U allows you to connect a variety of options to it for remote metering,
load control and controlling optional equipment such as a generator.
The Sunny Island 4248U supports all of the SMA Control series of metering and data
acquisition devices through the use of the optional “Communication Piggy-Back” unit. This
enables the inverter to communicate in either the RS-232 or RS-485 formats.
A variety of communication options are available to connect multiple Sunny Island 4248U's
together, or combine other SMA products on the same communication bus.
For customers desiring remote access to the Sunny Island 4248U, various modems and
Ethernet options are also available. Local access to the Sunny Island 4248U is a simple wire
connection between a PC and the Sunny Island 4248U (The Sunny Data application and a MS
Windows PC are necessary to communicate with the Sunny Island 4248U from local or remote
locations. Sunny Data is available free-of-charge on the SMA America web site: www.smaamerica.com).
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SI4248U Manual
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The Sunny Island 4248U also supports the automatic operation of 2-wire start generators as
a standard feature. The optional GenMan unit enables the inverter to operate multiple-wirestart generators. The GenMan option is available from your local distributor/dealer. Manualstart type generators may also be used.
The terminal blocks are grouped according to function. This helps keep the wires for the
different options together and makes for a more organized wiring compartment.
Conductor Types and Sizes
Generator AC Input
The inverter can accept and pass through up to 56 Amps from an external generator. Per the
NEC, a factor of 1.25 must be applied when sizing conductors and overcurrent devices.
Therefor, a value of 70 Amps must be used when sizing conductors and devices. Circuit
conductors from the generator, operating at 56 Amps, should be sized at 6 AWG and the
circuit should be protected with a 70 Amp overcurrent device (circuit breaker or fused
disconnect). The inverter will accept 4 AWG conductors. All wire should be rated at 75° C
minimum. For further information, see NEC Table 310-16.
Typical conductors for this application would be THHN or THWN-2 installed in conduit. Long
distances between the generator and the inverter may require larger conductors to compensate
for excessive voltage drops.
With a 70 Amp overcurrent device in the generator-to-inverter circuit, an 8 AWG equipment
grounding conductor will be needed in this circuit. (See NEC Table 250.122.) The conductor
can be bare or have green insulation or green markings.
If the circuit conductors are oversized to compensate for voltage drop, the equipmentgrounding conductor must also be oversized. (See NEC 250.122(B)).
AC Output Circuit
NOTE: All electrical installation must be done in accordance with the local and
National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70. The maximum continuous AC current
of the Sunny Island 4248U is 35 A AC.
The rated inverter output is 4200 W at 120 V AC. The continuous AC output current is 35 A.
For sizing conductors, the NEC requires that this current be increased by a factor of 1.25
yielding a current of 43.75 amps. The output conductors should be sized to carry at least 50
amps and protected by a 50 amp overcurrent device. Therefore, the minimum conductor size
required by the NEC is 8 AWG at 70 °C, even if the inverter is not used at full power.
However, if the inverter is going to be connected to a generator capable of delivering 56 A to
the inverter, then the inverter output conductors must be sized at 6 AWG and protected with a
70 A overcurrent device. See above and NEC Table 310.16.
Typical conductors for this application would be THHN or THWN-2 installed in conduit.
21
Installation
SI4248U Manual
If the inverter and any connected generator are to operate at an output current of 35 A or less
and be protected by a 50 A overcurrent device, the equipment-grounding conductor for the
AC output can be 10 AWG bare, green-insulated or have green markings.
However, if the full 56 A pass-through current is to be used, the equipment-grounding
conductor must be increased to 8 AWG (see NEC 250.122.).
If the circuit conductors are oversized to compensate for voltage drop, the equipmentgrounding conductor must also be oversized (see NEC 250.122(B)).
If the full 56 A pass-through rating of the Sunny Island 4248U is to be used, then 6 AWG
conductors and 70 A circuit breakers must be used in the AC input and output circuits (The
commonly used 60 A inverter disconnect switch cannot be used in this application).
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Installation Manual
DC Input Circuit (Battery to Inverter)
WARNING: The Sunny Island 4248U is designed to operate at a nominal voltage
of 48 V DC. Verify with a volt meter that the battery bank is wired correctly for
48 V DC prior to connecting the inverter.
NOTE: All electrical installation must be done in accordance with the local and
National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70. The maximum continuous DC current
of the Sunny Island 4248U is 100 A DC.
NOTE: The recommended length for the DC battery cables is <10 ft and should
not exceed 20 feet.
The Sunny Island 4248U comes equipped with a 175 A DC circuit breaker which allows for
improved transient surge capability. The battery conductors must be sized in accordance with
this circuit breaker and should be sized at 2/0 AWG (which has a rating of 175 A at 30 °C).
Paralleled smaller cables having a total ampacity of 175 A can also be used. For example,
two 1/0 AWG THHN conductors connected in parallel would have a total ampacity of 240 A
at 30 °C and four 1/0 AWG conductors will fit in1-1/2” trade size conduit (TSC). (Do not use
USE, XHHW or RHW insulated cables as they will exceed conduit fill ratings.)
For higher ambient operating temperatures, larger conductors may be required. The Sunny
Island 4248U will accept two 2/0 AWG conductors for both positive and negative DC inputs.
Refer to the NEC for more information.
If the batteries are located more than about 5 feet from the inverter or in another room, an
additional 175 A overcurrent device and disconnect should be located near the batteries.
Typical conductors for this application would be THHN or THWN-2 installed in conduit.
If the batteries are mounted on conductive racks or in metallic enclosures and/or there is a
metal enclosure for the battery disconnect/overcurrent device, then an equipment-grounding
conductor must be installed. For a 175 A overcurrent device, the equipment-grounding
conductor will be a 6 AWG bare, green-insulated or green marked copper conductor (see
NEC 250.122).
If the circuit conductors are oversized to compensate for voltage drop, the equipmentgrounding conductor must also be oversized (see NEC 250.122(B)).
23
Installation
SI4248U Manual
System Grounding
NOTE: Grounding practices must be performed in accordance with the NEC.
Consult the NEC and local ordinances with regard to the system grounding
requirements for your specific installation.
The AC output of the typical stand-alone inverter system is grounded at the AC panel board
(load center) serving as the AC distribution system for the output of the inverter. See Figure 112. In this panel board, the AC neutral is bonded to the AC equipment-grounding conductors
and to the AC grounding electrode conductor (GEC). From this bonding point, the AC GEC is
run to the AC grounding electrode or grounding system (see NEC 250.).
The DC part of the system must also be bonded to ground. The Sunny Island 4248U is designed
to work with a negatively grounded DC electrical system.
The inverter does not make the negative conductor-to-ground bond and this connection must
be made external to the inverter. From the external DC bonding point, a DC GEC must be run
to 1) a DC grounding system that is bonded to the AC grounding system or 2) directly to the
AC grounding system. (See NEC 250.)
If a PV array is mounted on the roof of a dwelling, NEC 690.5 requires that a ground-fault
protection device be installed which will modify the DC system grounding instructions
presented above. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing this device.
The size of the GEC will be between 8 AWG and 4 AWG depending on the type of grounding
electrode used (see NEC 250.166.).
!#,/!$
#%.4%2
%3#
%.4%2
,INE
.EUTRAL
%QUIPMENT'ROUND
'ROUNDING%LECTRODE
OR'ROUNDING%LECTRODE3YSTEM
Figure 1-12 AC System and Equipment Grounding
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SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Auxiliary Wiring
This section contains information on the auxiliary wiring terminal blocks and their functionality.
More detailed information regarding the setup of the different parameters for these functions
can be found in following sections.
Automatic Load Shedding
The Sunny Island 4248U is capable of shutting off specified loads automatically if a low battery
condition is present. The relay that controls those loads is connected to the NC contact
terminals. When the battery voltage reaches a low set point, the inverter will open the load
shed relay contacts. This relay can be connected directly to loads or to other relays to shut off
no critical loads during a low battery condition.
Generator Control
The Sunny Island 4248U has the ability to control back-up generators automatically. The
Sunny Island 4248U can operate two-wire gen-start circuits with the G-REQ relay alone.
When the generator is needed, this contact is closed. Two-wire start generators will start at this
time and the inverter will use its’ power to charge the batteries and power loads. When the
generator is no longer required, the relay contacts are opened and the generator will stop.
NOTE: This two-wire system is not directly compatible with any three-wire starting
systems such as those used by Honda and Onan. Damage to the generator and/
or the Sunny Island 4248U may result if a three-wire start system connection is
made. The operation of other types of generators with three-wire start systems is
accomplished through the use of the optional GenMan generator management
device. The GenMan unit, if required, would also connect to the G-REQ terminals.
The GenMan is available from SMA America or your local supplier.
Terminal
Function
LOAD_S
Load Relay: N.C.
G_REQ
Generator Start Relay: N.O.
LOAD_S
Load Relay: Common
G_REQ
Generator Start Relay: Common
Table 1-2: Load Shed and Generator Relay Connections
25
Installation
SI4248U Manual
The maximum current that can be switched by either the load shed or generator request relay
differs a great deal depending on voltage and wether it’s AC or DC. The detailed load limit
curve is shown in the following graph.
300
270
250
200
Voltage [V]
AC resistive load
100
DC resistive load
50
0
0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1
2
3
4
5
6
Current [A]
Figure 1-13 Load Limit Curve for Load Shed and Generator Request Relays
Generator Run Confirmation
The Sunny Island 4248U has the ability to operate multi-wire start generators automatically
when used with the GenMan option (GenMan is an optional unit available from SMA
America). When the generator has been started, the GenMan will confirm operation by
sending a signal to these terminals. In this way, the Sunny Island 4248U can determine wether
the generator is functioning properly or not.
Terminal
Function
SHIELD
Shield
G_RUN -
From Generator Ready negative output on optional GenMan unit
SHIELD
Shield
G_RUN +
From Generator Ready positive output on optional GenMan unit
Table 1-3: Generator Run Confirmation
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Synchronization
These terminals were designed for use as inverter synchronization ports for future
communication capabilities and are not used at this time. Make no terminations here.
Terminal
Function
S_IN -
Synchronization IN, Negative
S_OUT -
Synchronization OUT, Negative
S_IN +
Synchronization IN, Positive
S_OUT +
Synchronization OUT, Positive
Table 1-4: Synchronization
Internal Fans and Battery Temperature Compensation
NOTE: The battery temperature sensor must be connected for the inverter to
function properly. If it is not connected, the inverter generates an error that can
not be cleared until the battery temperature sensor is connected.
The Sunny Island 4248U is equipped with fans to help maintain efficiency during high loads
or high ambient temperatures. Power for the fans is provided here. Also, the external battery
temperature sensor is connected here to monitor the battery temperature and make
adjustments to the charge level accordingly.
Terminal
Function
FAN +
Positive power lead of the fans
TBAT 2
Battery temperature sensor lead #2
FAN -
Negative power lead of the fans
TBAT 1
Battery temperature sensor lead #1
Table 1-5: Auxiliary Fans and Battery Temperature Sensor
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Installation
SI4248U Manual
Serial Port
The Serial Port is used to communicate with external metering devices such as the Sunny Boy
Control. Use of this port requires that the optional communications Piggy-Back unit be installed.
This port can be configured for RS485 or RS232 formats.
Terminal
RS485
RS232
2
A+
RXD
3
not used
TXD
5
GND
GND
7
B-
not used
Table 1-6: Serial Port
Controller Area Network (CAN)
The CAN connections are used when two Sunny Island 4248U’s are used in split-phase
configuration. Please see the split-phase section of this manual for further details.
Terminal
Function
SHIELD
Communication cable shield
CAN_H
CAN Bus High
C_GND
CAN Bus Common
CAN_L
CAN Bus Low
Table 1-7: Controller Area Network (CAN)
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Installation Manual
Wiring Instructions
Conduit
Begin by installing conduits in the appropriate holes in the bottom of the inverter.
NOTE: All conduit used should be metallic (EMT).
NOTE: All DC conduit from the inverter to the battery should be metallic to meet
US FCC and European EN electromagnetic radiation requirements. See RFI/EMI
statement on page 5.
WARNING: Any unused holes must be filled by an appropriate hole plug to meet
NEC and listing requirements before the inverter is turned on.
There is one 1 1/2” trade size conduit (TSC) hole for the DC conductors from the battery, one
3/4” TSC hole for the AC output wiring and one 3/4” TSC hole for the AC wiring from the
generator. Four 1/2” TSC holes are provided for auxiliary and communication wiring. They
are to be used as needed depending on the options installed. All unused holes must be plugged
with an approved device.
1 1/2“ TSC for
DC conductors
3/4“ TSC hole AC
output wiring
3/4“ TSC hole for
AC wiring
1/2“ TSC hole for auxiliary and communication wiring
29
Installation
SI4248U Manual
Torque Specifications
Torque all terminations to the following values.
Terminal
Torque Value
DC Positive
DC Negative
Equipment Ground
35 - 50 ft. lbs.
AC Power In/Out
18 - 35 in. lbs.
Auxiliary/Communication
4 in. lbs.
Table 1-8: Torque Specifications
Shield
CAN_L
C_GND
CAN_H
1 1/2”
3/4”
3/4”
1/2”
Figure 1-14 Conduit Installation
Once the conduits are in place, pull the appropriate wires into the correct conduit runs, being
sure to allow enough extra wire at the ends for termination.
Equipment Ground
The equipment-grounding conductors (AC and DC) terminate at the terminals marked
equipment ground. If there are more than two equipment-grounding conductors, the additional
conductor should be spliced together with an appropriate splicing device before connecting
only a single conductor to each terminal.
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DC Grounding
The National Electrical Code requires that the DC side of this 48 V system be grounded.
The equipment grounding conductor between the inverter and the equipment where the DC
bonding jumper (the single connection between the DC negative and the grounding system) is
located should be at least 6 AWG to carry all possible fault currents from the battery. The
bonding jumper might be located in a battery disconnect enclosure, a PV disconnect enclosure,
or in a ground-fault protection device enclosure.
PV systems (with modules on the roof of a dwelling) that charge the batteries directly (not via
a Sunny Boy inverter) will usually have an external NEC 690.5 Ground-Fault Protection Device
(GFPD). In this case, the DC grounding-electrode conductor must be connected to the GFPD
following the directions for that device.
WARNING: The Sunny Island 4248U does not make any connection between the
DC positive or negative circuits and ground. The required connection must be
made by the installer. The Sunny Island 4248U is designed to operate in negativegrounded systems.
Auxiliary Wiring
Connect any auxiliary wires to the appropriate terminal blocks following the instructions that
accompanied the particular option(s) that you will install. Note that the auxiliary terminal
blocks are offset and arranged in layers. Some of the connections will terminate to both layers.
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Installation
SI4248U Manual
Battery Temperature Sensor
Install the battery temperature sensor (BTS) in the battery compartment where it makes contact
with the case of a battery near the center of the battery bank.
The battery temperature sensor must be connected for the inverter to function
properly.
• Use only the BTS that came with the Sunny Island 4248U
• Do not lengthen the BTS cable
• Do not drill holes in any part of the batteries to mount the sensor unless instructed to do so
by the battery manufacturer
• Although the BTS terminals are numbered and the wires are color coded, there is no
polarity to the BTS so it may be wired in any configuration
If the inverter is powered up without the battery temperature sensor connected,
the display will show a “CBT Open“ error and will not let the user proceed with
normal operation. To clear this, switch off the inverter and connect the battery
temperature sensor cable to the appropiate terminals.
Shield
CAN_L
C_GND
CAN_H
Figure 1-15 Equipment Ground and Auxiliary Wiring
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Installation Manual
NOTE: In split-phase mode with two Sunny Island 4248U’s connected together,
the slave unit must have the battery temperature sensor connected to set the
inverter to “slave” mode. Once the inverter is set to “slave” mode, it does not
require the battery temperature sensor and can be removed. The slave unit sensor
may be installed temporarily; it does not need to be run through conduit.
Shield
CAN_L
C_GND
CAN_H
Generator Request
Load Shed
(Dry Contact)
Generator Run
(Optional)
Battery Temp.
Synchronize
Internal Fans
(Optional)
(+15, Transistor)
CAN Bus
Inverter to Inverter
Communication
Communication
Figure 1-16 Auxiliary Wiring Terminals
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Installation
SI4248U Manual
AC Wiring
Begin the AC wiring by connecting the equipment ground conductor (green or bare) to the PE
terminal, followed by the neutral conductor (white) to the N terminal and finally the line
conductor (black) to the L terminal.
If your system is equipped with a generator, connect the incoming AC wires from the generator
in the same order as above.
If your system will use the utility grid, be sure the AC source is safely disconnected and then
connect the wires in the same order as above.
Typical color coding for AC connections are:
• Line (hot ungrounded conductor): Black
• Neutral (grounded conductor): White
• Equipment-Grounding Conductor: Bare, green or green with yellow stripes
Shield
CAN_L
C_GND
CAN_H
Figure 1-17 AC Load and Generator Wiring
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SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
DC Wiring
WARNING: To reduce the risk of shock, injury, or equipment damage, make
certain that the internal inverter DC disconnect has been switched OFF and any
external DC disconnect switched OFF or the DC battery cables are disconnected
from the battery before attempting to attach or remove the DC input cables to the
inverter.
NOTE: Tools used for tightening the DC input terminals may contact the chassis.
No damage will result if the above warning is heeded and the inverter has not
been powered on for at least five minutes.
NOTE: The DC cables that supply power to the Sunny Island 4248U should be
connected directly between the inverter and the battery bank only (via additional
disconnect and over-current protection if required). The DC power circuit should
not be, nor supply power to, a branch DC circuit.
Connect the Positive DC cable, and then the Negative DC cable to the appropriate terminals.
Shield
CAN_L
C_GND
CAN_H
Figure 1-18 DC Power Wiring
35
Split-Phase
SI4248U Manual
Split-Phase
Split-phase Systems
The Sunny Island 4248U has the ability to work together in split-phase mode with another
Sunny Island 4248U to provide 240 V AC capabilities.
When used in split-phase mode, one inverter is set up to be the “Master” unit, and the other
the “Slave” unit. Basically, the master unit controls all functions of the inverters as a whole, and
the slave unit merely provides the other 120 V AC leg. For example, all the battery charging
functions are controlled only by the master unit.
To set the inverters up for split-phase mode, they must first be completely wired and ready to
operate. Both inverters need to have a battery temperature sensor connected to them (the slave
unit’s battery temperature sensor is only required for set-up and then it can be removed. There
is no need to place the slave unit’s battery temperature sensor in conduit, it is temporary). Use
the following wiring diagrams for guides when wiring the inverters for split-phase.
5NCXG
/CUVGT
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5JKGNF
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0
.
.
0
.
Figure 1-19 AC and DC Wiring for Split-Phase
Only 240 V generators with center tap (or 120 V with autoformer) may be used and connected
to the system as shown in figure above.
36
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
/CUVGT
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5JKGNF
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%#0A*
5JKGNF
%#0A.
%A)0&
%#0A*
5JKGNF
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%#0A*
Figure 1-20 Sync Connection for Split-Phase
AC coupled energy sources can be connected either to the Master and/or Slave Sunny Island
4248U (L1-N, L2-N, 120 V) or to both outer conductors (L1-L2, 240 V).
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Once the wiring is complete, the units must be set for split-phase operation.
• Power up the Master inverter and go to parameter 41-5, “Splitphase” and set it for Master. Power down the master inverter.
• Power up the Slave inverter and set the same parameter for Slave. Power down the slave
inverter. (You may now disconnect the battery temperature sensor cable from the slave
inverter.)
Now, when the inverters are restarted, they will operate in split-phase configuration.
37
Commissioning
SI4248U Manual
Commissioning
Preparation
NOTE: Before beginning, recheck all of the power connections for correct polarity
and assure that they are torqued to specification.
Once the wiring is complete, the system parameters need to be set. You will be setting
parameters for battery type, battery capacity, and generator configuration.
For your convenience, we’ve provided space here for you to enter that information before
beginning.
Battery Type: _____________ Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) or Flooded Lead Acid (FLA)
**Battery Capacity: ________ Amp Hours (100 to 6000)
**The Sunny Island 4248U assumes a C20 (twenty hour capacity) value for capacity
NOTE: Some batteries list the amp-hour capacity in the 10 hr. rate on the label.
To calculate the 20 hr. rate the 10 hr. rate has to be multiplied by 1.1.
**The Sunny Island 4248U defaults to a 100 amp-hour battery capacity
Generator: _ None _Manual _Two-Wire _GenMan Option Installed
Maximum Generator Output Current: ___Amps (0.0 to 60.0)
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SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
User Interface Overview
To commission the Sunny Island 4248U, you will need to interact with the user interface. The
basic configuration of the user interface is shown in the figure below. The user interface consists
of a DC disconnect, a 2-line digital display, two status indicators, up and down arrows, an
Escape and an Enter key. You will use combinations of the arrow keys and the Escape and
Enter keys to navigate, display information and change parameters. See the User Interface
section for detailed information.
RED
$#$ISCONNECT
GREEN
,INE$ISPLAY
)NDICATOR
,IGHTS
%3#
%.4%2
.AVIGATION+EYS
Figure 1-21 Sunny Island 4248U User Interface
The following table outlines the key functions.
Key
Function
ESC
Cancel, Answer NO, Move up one menu level
UP Arrow
Scroll Upward, Increase Value
DOWN Arrow
Scroll Downward, Decrease Value
ENTER
Select Function, Select Value, Confirm Changes, Answer YES
Table 1-9: Key Functionality
Changing Parameters
When a parameter is reached via the navigation keys, the current value of that parameter will
be displayed. Next to that value will be a “return” character . This character represents a
parameter that may be changed. To change the parameter, press ENTER and the “return”
character will begin to blink next to the value. Once the “return” character is blinking, the value
can then be adjusted by using the arrow keys. Once the desired value is reached, press ENTER
to store the new value.
39
Commissioning
SI4248U Manual
LED Indicators
There are two LED indicators on the front of the Sunny Island 4248U, one red and one green.
The following table describes their functionality.
Operating Condition
Red LED
Green LED
INIT (Initialization)
ON
ON
Stop
ON
OFF
Operating
OFF
ON
Derating
BLINKING
ON
Warning
BLINKING
BLINKING
Fault
BLINKING
OFF
Table 1-10: LED Indicator Functionality
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SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Powering Up
Begin by verifying that the AC breaker is in the OFF position. Turn the inverter on by switching
the DC breaker on the front of the inverter to the ON position. The display will show “INIT”
When the inverter is powered up initially, it will require that you set two parameters: Battery
Type and Battery Capacity. First, the inverter will automatically execute an initiation sequence.
When the inverter has completed this sequence, the display will show any errors it may have
encountered during the self test (Any errors will need to be corrected before continuing). If no
errors are detected, the display will show: “To Init System Press <Enter>” Refer to the following
diagram for a description of the initialization sequence and for instructions on entering the
battery type and battery capacity values.
When the inverter is switched on for the first time, it will display
SMA.
SMA SMA SMA SMA
A SMA SMA SMA S
Wait
Once the Initialization process is complete it will ask that you
press Enter to begin the setup process.
To Init System
Press <Enter>
Press: Enter
The first parameter to set is the battery type. Begin by pressing
Enter so that the „return“ character begins to blink. Then use the
up and down arrows to select the correct battery type and press
Enter to store the new value.
The second parameter is the capacity of the battery bank in amphours. Begin by pressing Enter so that the „return“ character
begins to blink. Then use the up and down arrows to select the
correct value. (Holding the arrows will cause the value to change
more quickly.) Then press Enter to store the new value.
The Sunny Island 4248U shows the maximum charging current.
BatType
VRLA
Press: Enter/Arrow Keys/Enter
AmpHoursBat
100Ah
Press: Enter/Arrow Keys/Enter
AmpacBatMax
xx A
Press: Enter
The inverter is now ready to run. To start the inverter, press Enter.
To START
Press <ENTER>
Press: Enter
The inverter will then begin to operate and display the home
screen.
¿
Invert
oo
41
Commissioning
SI4248U Manual
During normal operation, the inverter will display the home screen. See the figure below for a
description of the items found on the home screen.
/UTPUT0OWER#HARGE#URRENT
;
=
)NVERT'OO%
%RROR$ETECTION
'ENERATOR2UN2ELAY
/PERATING-ODE
'ENERATOR2UN
,OAD3HED2ELAY
Figure 1-22 Home Screen Elements
Reset Sunny Island 4248U to factory settings
In order to reset the Sunny Island 4248U to its delivery status, switch the inverter off with the
DC disconnect. Press and hold [ ESC ] and [Arrow Up] button. Switch the DC disconnect on,
still pressing the buttons. When "NEWSYS" appears in the display you can let off the buttons
and proceed as if the inverter was new (it will show "To init System Press <Enter>").
Generator Set Up
There are three sets of parameters that need to be set based upon system configuration and
type of generator used to allow the Sunny Island to operate the generator automatically:
GenControl, GenOperation and GridConnected.
GenControl
The GenControl parameter tells the Sunny Island what type of control is required to operate
the generator that is connected to it. There are three possible settings: Manual, Direct and
GenMan
Manual: (Default) When Manual is selected, the Sunny Island assumes that it has no control
over the generator whatsoever. This setting is to be used when the generator has no autostart
capability and must be started and stopped manually.
NOTE: When the Sunny Island GenControl parameter is set to Manual, the Sunny
Island will automatically connect to the generator whenever it sees voltage on the
AC input terminals (provided the voltage and frequency of the power is within
tolerances.)
NOTE: Because the GenRequest relay is not utilized with manual start generators,
it can be used to activate a indicator light that would notify the user that the Sunny
Island is requesting that the generator be switched on.
Direct: The Direct setting is used when the generator is a two-wire start type that can be started
by the closing of a relay. The two-wire start circuit would be wired to the G_REQ relay
terminals. In Direct mode, the generator will be started automatically be the Sunny Island when
42
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
a low battery voltage condition exists. The generator can also be started manually by changing
the GenOperation parameter to START. The generator can then be stopped manually by
setting the GenOperation parameter to STOP or by returning it to AUTO.
NOTE: Leaving the GenOperation parameter in the STOP position will not allow
the Sunny Island to operate the generator automatically. If automatic control is
desired, set the GenOperation parameter to AUTO.
GenMan: The GenMan is an optional unit that may be purchased through your SMA supplier.
The GenMan provides the additional functionality required by generators that are more
complex and need more than a two-wire connection to operate. The GenMan provides the
additional connections as well as warm-up and cool-down functionality. (See the GenMan
manual for more details.) Set the GenControl parameter to GenMan if a GenMan unit is
connected to the Sunny Island.
NOTE: When a GenMan unit is used, manual control of the generator may be
accomplished through the control on the GenMan unit in addition to the
GenOperation parameter in the Sunny Island.
GenOperation
The GenOperation parameter is used to control the generator manually or return it to
automatic control via the Sunny Island. It has five possible settings: Start, Stop, Auto, Run1h
and Release.
Start & Stop: These settings are used as manual overrides to force the Sunny Island to start or
stop the generator regardless of the Sunny Island’s mode.
NOTE: For the Start & Stop functionality to work, GenControl must be set to Direct
or GenMan.
NOTE: Remember, once either of these settings are chosen, the generator will
remain in that state until another command is given. The Sunny Island will NOT
be able to start or stop the generator automatically.
Auto: The Auto setting returns control of the generator to the Sunny Island. Leave the
GenOperation parameter set to AUTO if automatic operation of the generator by the Sunny
Island is desired.
Run1h: The Run1h setting allows the generator to run for 1 hour from the time it is selected and
then it is shut off automatically. This can be a useful feature if a heavy load is going to be
operated or for a brief charge of the batteries.
NOTE: After the hour of run-time has completed, the Sunny Island will return the
GenOperation parameter to whichever parameter was selected previously. For
example, if the parameter was set to AUTO and Run1h is selected, when the hour
is completed the Sunny Island will return to AUTO. If STOP was selected
previously, then after one hour the Sunny Island would return to STOP.
43
Commissioning
SI4248U Manual
Release: The Sunny Island contains circuitry that prevents power from being fed back into the
generator. If this condition is detected by the Sunny Island, it shuts off the generator and then
locks the generator out for 20 minutes. This 20 minute wait time can be cancelled by selecting
Release.
GridConnected
The GridConnected parameter tells the Sunny Island if there is a utility grid present and if so,
what role it will play. It also tells the Sunny Island wether the power source connected to the
AC input is a generator or the utility grid. It has three possible settings: GridNone, GridCharge
and GridFeedPV.
GridNone: Set GridConnected to GridNone if there is a generator connected to the AC input
of the Sunny Island.
GridCharge: Set GridConnected to GridCharge when the utility grid is connected to the AC
input of the Sunny Island.
NOTE: When setting GridConnected to GridCharge, make sure that GenControl
is set to Manual and that GenOperation is set to Auto.
GridFeedPV: Use the GridFeedPV setting when grid connected Sunny Boys are present in the
system.
NOTE: When selecting GridFeedPV, make sure that GenControl is set to Manual
and that GenOperation is set to Auto.
Generator Status Displays
The Sunny Island 4248U display a variety of symbols to indicate the status and quality of the
power being produced as well as the condition that caused the generator to start. Refer to the
following two tables for details.
Icon
Description
*
Indicates that the generator input voltage and frequency are within the
limits set by parameters 24-4 to 24-8
?
Indicates that the generator input voltage and frequency are outside of
the limits set by parameters 24-4 to 24-8
!
The maximum reverse power limit as determined by the value of PGenReverse has been exceeded and the generator function locked out for
20 minutes.
Table 1-11: Generator Power Quality Icons
44
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Icon
Description
T
The generator has been activated by the Run1H parameter. The generator will run for an hour and then stop automatically
B
The battery management system has requested that the generator start
S
GenRequest was manually set to START. The generator will NOT stop
automatically
R
The generator was started by an external source, (manually, at the
generator)
Table 1-12: Generator Activation Icons
Sunny Boy Set Up
NOTE: When using Sunny Boy inverters together with the Sunny Island 4248U, it
is recommended that the battery bank contain at least 100 Amp hours of capacity
per 1000 W of PV modules installed. For example, if there is a pair of SB2500U
inverters and 5 kW of PV, the minimum recommended battery capacity would be
500 Amp hours.
Off-Grid Systems
If you’re using Sunny Boy inverters in the system you will need to set the Sunny Island 4248U
to interface with the Sunny Boys. You will also have to set a parameter in the Sunny Boys to
work with the Sunny Island 4248U.
To prepare the Sunny Island 4248U for use with Sunny Boy inverters, set the “SunnyBoys”
parameter to “YES”.
On the Sunny Boy(s), set the “Default” parameter to “off grid”.
Back-Up Systems
In both Back-Up modes, ("GridConnected" set to "GridCharge or set to "Grid-FeedPV"), the
Sunny Island 4248U will disconnect from grid, if the voltage or frequency is out of the ranges
defined by UL1741 (as shown in the table below).
Voltage Range
106 V to 131 V
Frequency Range
59.32 Hz to 60.48 Hz
45
Commissioning
SI4248U Manual
• GridFeedPV
If excess power generated by the grid interactive inverters such as Sunny Boys is to be fed
to the grid, setting the GridConnected parameter to GridFeedPV will allow the power to be
fed to the grid via the grid-isolation relay in the Sunny Island. Remember, the Sunny Island
will not supply power to the grid from its batteries.
NOTE: To protect the grid-isolation relay in the Sunny Island 4248U from
overload, the maximum power that can be fed to grid is limited to 6.72 kW,
or 56 A at 120 V AC per Sunny Island. To prevent interruptions in the
operation of your system, the total power of the PV array for the grid
interactive inverters should not exceed this value. If this value is exceeded for
longer than 30 seconds, the Sunny Island 4248U will switch to island mode
immediately.
• GridCharge
When the "GridConnected" parameter is set to "GridCharge", the Sunny Island 4248U will
not allow power to be passed through its grid-isolation relay and into the grid. If for any
reason it detects power being fed to the grid, it will trigger an error and immediately switch
to island mode.
AC Output Voltage Verification
Once the system parameters are set, the inverter is ready to begin operating. The AC output
must be tested to make sure that it is within specifications.
Switch the inverter on and then, using an AC incandescent lamp as a load, measure the output
voltage of the inverter to verify that the AC voltage is approximately 120 V AC.
Well Done! The Sunny Island 4248U is now ready to operate normally (If perchance the
inverter is not running at this point, refer to the Troubleshooting guide and correct the error
indicated by the code on the display).
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SI4248U Manual
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Sunny Island 4248U Menu Tree
The installer menus are arranged in four simple groups: Meters, Settings, Diagnose and
Operation. Using the information from the previous section, each of the parameters can be
navigated to and changed if needed. The following diagram shows a simple map of the
parameters that are viewable at the installer level.
Home Screen
10 METERS
System Meters
20 SETTINGS
System Settings
30 DIAGNOSE
System Diagnose
11 Inverter Meters
11-1
11-2
11-3
11-4
VacInverter
AmpacInverter
FacInverter
PacInverter
12 Battery Meters
12-1
12-2
12-3
12-4
12-5
12-6
BatVoltage
BatCurrent
BatTemp
BatState
BatChargeMode
TabsorbLeft
13 Generator Meters
13-1
13-2
13-3
13-4
VacGenerator
AmpacGenerator
FacGenerator
PacGenerator
21 Password Settings
21-1 Level [00] *****
22 Inverter Settings
22-1 VacNominal
22-2 FacNominal
23 Battery Settings
23-1
23-2
23-3
23-4
24 Generator Settings
24-1 GenControl
24-2 AmpacGenMax
24-3 GenOperation
31 System Information
31-1
31-2
31-3
31-4
32 Error Information
32-1 Last
32-2 Hist
VdcBatNominal
BatType
AmpHoursBat
AmpdcBatMax
DeviceConfig
FWVERS
SerNum
RunTime
40-1 BatChargeMode
40-2 Autostart
40 OPERATION
System Operation
Installer Level
11-5 TrfTemp
11-6 HsTemp
23-5 NewBattery
23-6 TabsorbBoost
23-7 VchargeBoost
23-8 TabsorbEqual
23-9 VchargeEqual
23-10 TabsorbFull
23-11 VchargeFull
23-12 VchargeFloat
23-13 TcycleFull
23-14 TcycleEqual
23-15 SOCLim1
23-16 SOCLim2
23-17 SOCLim3
23-18 TBatMax
24-4
24-5
24-6
24-7
24-8
24-9
24-10
24-11
40-3
40-4
40-5
40-6
40-7
40-8
VacGenMax
VacGenMin
FacGenMax
FacGenMin
GridConnected
DelayVGenLow
Transition
PGenRevers
BaudRate
ParameterSet
Splitphase
LoadShedding
GenRequest
SunnyBoys
Figure 1-23 Installer Level Menu Map
47
Installer Level Menu Guide
SI4248U Manual
Installer Level Menu Guide
The following tables contain information on each of the menu items which are intended to be
modified only by the installer (A guide to the menu items available to the user is found in the
user’s section of this manual). Some items display information where others are operating
parameters and can be changed. Please use caution when setting parameters as incorrect
settings may cause undesirable operation of the inverter.
Once the second inverter is switched to slave mode, all main functions for the two inverters will
appear only on the master display. All information that appears on the slave display should
be disregarded as it will behave differently while the inverter performs slave-only functions.
NOTE: It is recommended that you record the value of any parameter change in
the margin of these pages for future reference. Installer level parameter changes
should only be performed by qualified personnel.
Meters
Inverter Meters (11)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
VacInverter
0 - 300
VAC
N/A
The VacInverter menu displays the AC output operating voltage of the inverter.
AmpacInverter
-70 +70
AAC
N/A
The AmpacInverter menu displays the output current
of the inverter.
FacInverter
45 - 70
Hz
N/A
The FacInverter menu displays the operating frequency of the AC output.
PacInverter
-10000 +10000
WAC
N/A
The PacInverter menu displays the operating power
of the AC ouput.
TrfTemp
-327 +327
°C
N/A
The TrfTemp menu displays the temperature of the
transformer.
HsTemp
-327 +327
°C
N/A
The HsTemp menu displays the temperature of the
heat sink.
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SI4248U Manual
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Battery Meters (12)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
BatVoltage
0 - 80
VDC
N/A
The BatVoltage menu displays the battery voltage.
BatCurrent
-200 +200
ADC
N/A
The BatCurrent menu displays the DC current.
BatTemp
-40 +200
°C
N/A
The BatTemp menu displays the battery temperature.
BatState
Norm,
Warn,
Low,
Crit
N/A
Battery state (BMS)
The BatState menu displays the current state of
charge of the batteries.
BatChargeMode
-----,
Auto,
Boost,
Full,
Float,
Equalize
N/A
The BatChargMode meter allows you to monitor the
charge mode of the inverter.
-----: will be shown on Slaves in Split-Phase Mode
only.
Auto: Inverter maintains charge automatically.
For details about the special charge modes see
"Battery Management" on page 88.
TabsorbLeft
0 - Max
min
N/A
Every charge mode has a dedicated absorption
time that might have been adjusted by your system
installer. For this time normally the Sunny Island will
have to keep the generator running, even if it seems
that there is enough energy in the system and the
generator is hardly loaded. The counted down
value of "TabsorbLeft" shows the remaining time for
this state.
BatChargeVolt
0 - 80
VDC
N/A
The BatChargeVolt menu shows the setpoint value
of the active battery charge mode (BatChargeMode)
49
Installer Level Menu Guide
SI4248U Manual
Generator Meters (13)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
VacGenerator
0 - 260
VAC
N/A
The VacGenerator menu displays the AC voltage at
the inverter generator input.
AmpacGenerat
0 - 60
AAC
N/A
The AmpacGenerator menu displays the AC current
at the inverter generator input.
FacGenerator
0 - 70
Hz
N/A
The FacGenerator menu displays the AC frequency
at the inverter generator input.
PacGenerator
0 - 20
kWAC
N/A
The PacGenerator menu displays the AC power at
the inverter generator input.
Settings
Inverter Settings (22)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
VacNominal
105 - 130
VAC
120
The VacNominal parameter sets the nominal output
voltage of the inverter.
FacNominal
55 - 65
Hz
60
The FacNominal parameter sets the nominal output
frequency of the inverter.
Default
Description
Battery Settings (23)
50
Name
Range/
Unit
VdcBatNominal
42 - 48
VDC
48
BatType
VRLA
FLA
VRLA
The VdcBatNominal parameter sets the nominal
operating voltage of the inverter.
The BatType parameter selects the type of battery
used in the system.
VRLA = Valve Regulated Lead Acid
FLA = Flooded Lead Acid
This parameter needs to be set when the inverter is
first commissioned. Once the system is configured,
this parameter can only be changed after selecting
„Reset“ in „NewBattery“ (23-5).
SI4248U Manual
Name
Installation Manual
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
AmpHoursBat
100 6000
Ah
100
The BatCapacity parameter sets the total amp-hour
capacity of the battery bank. This parameter needs
to be set when the inverter is first commissioned.
Once the system is configured, this parameter can
only be changed after selecting „Reset“ in „NewBattery“ (23-5).
AmpdcBatMax
0 - 100
ADC
30
The AmpdcBatMax parameter sets the DC charge
current limit to the batteries.
NewBattery
--Reset
---
The NewBattery parameter resets the battery history
stored in the inverter. Only reset this if replacing
your battery bank with new batteries. Selecting
„Reset“ will lead to a restart of the Sunny Island
4248U. This is intended.
TabsorbBoost
1 - 600
min
45
(FLA)/
60
(VRLA)
The TabsorbBoost parameter adjusts the length of
time in which the inverter will charge the batteries in
boost-charge mode.
VchargeBoost
44 - 62.4
VDC
60
(FLA)/
56.8
(VRLA)
The VchargeBoost parameter adjusts the high
voltage setpoint used for charging in the boostcharge mode.
TabsorbEqual
1 - 1200
min
360
The TabsorbEqual parameter adjusts the length of
time the inverter will charge the batteries in
equalize-charge mode.
VchargeEqual
44 - 62.4
VDC
60
(FLA)/
56.8
(VRLA)
The VchargeEqual parameter adjusts the high
voltage setpoint used when charging in equalizecharge mode.
TabsorbFull
1 - 1200
min
180
(FLA)/
180
(VRLA)
The TabsorbFull parameter adjusts the duration of
the absorbtion-charge mode.
VchargeFull
44 - 62.4
VDC
60
(FLA)/
56.8
(VRLA)
The VchargeFull parameter adjusts the high voltage
setpoint at which the inverter considers the bank fully
charged.
VchargeFloat
44 - 62.4
VDC
54
The VchargeFloat parameter adjusts the voltage at
which the inverter will floatcharge the battery bank.
51
Installer Level Menu Guide
Name
SI4248U Manual
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
TcycleFull
1 - 180
D
14
The TcycleFull parameter selects the number of days
between the last boost charge and the next full
charge cycle.
TcycleEqual
7 - 365
D
60
The TcycleEqual parameter selects the number of
days between the last boost-charge and the next
equalize charge.
SOCLim1
0 - 100
%
40
State of charge generator start
SOCLim2
0 - 100
%
30
State of charge load shedding
SOCLim3
0 - 100
%
20
State of charge system shutdown
TBatMax
0 - 55
°C
45
Maximun battery temperature
Generator Settings (24)
Name
52
Range/
Unit
GenControl
Manual,
Direct,
GenMan
AmpacGenMax
2 - 60
AAC
Default
Description
Manual The GenControl parameter selects the type of generator control to be used with your system.
Manual: Manual start type or no generator connected.
Direct: Two-wire start generator connected to the
dry contacts in the inverter.
GenMan: GenMan option installed.
10
The AmpGenMax Parameter should be set to about
85 % of the maximum AC current of your generator. In Charge Mode the Sunny Island 4248U will
then limit the total current (loads in the system +
Sunny Island) to this value in order to prevent the
generator from stalling.
Note: If the load in the system is above this value in
Voltage Mode, the Sunny Island 4248U will not
switch to Charge Mode for the same reason.
SI4248U Manual
Name
Installation Manual
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
GenOperation
Auto,
Start,
Stop,
Run1h,
Release
Auto
The GenOperation parameter forces the generator
to react immediately:
Auto: Normal control by Sunny Island is active (the
display might show "G" or "*").
Start: Generator will be started by the Sunny Island
immediately (the display will show "R"). Remember
to stop the generator when not needed anymore (by
selecting either "Stop" or "Auto").
Stop: Generator will be stopped by the Sunny
Island immediately (the display will show "S").
Remember to set the generator back to "Auto"mode if you want the Sunny Island to take over control again.
Run1h: Generator will be started immediately and
will kept running for one hour (the display will show
"T"). Afterwards the Sunny Island will switch back
to the previous mode. If "Run1h" was selected from
"Start" mode the Sunny Island will switch back to
"Start" after one hour time.
Release: Aborts the lock time (20 min.) for the generator after a "ReversePower" failure has occurred.
VacGenMax
120 - 150
VAC
130
The VacGenMax parameter selects the maximum
AC voltage the inverter will accept from the generator. If the generator voltage is higher than this limit
when running unloaded the Sunny Island 4248U
will not connect, or, if the generator voltage
exceeds this limit while connected the Sunny Island
4248U will disconnect the generator.
VacGenMin
80 - 120
VAC
106
The VacGenMin parameter selects the minimum AC
voltage the inverter will accept from the generator.
If the generator voltage is lower than this limit when
running unloaded the Sunny Island 4248U will not
connect, or, if the generator voltage goes below this
limit while connected the Sunny Island 4248U will
disconnect the generator.
53
Installer Level Menu Guide
Name
SI4248U Manual
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
FacGenMax
60 - 66
Hz
65
The FacGenMax parameter selects the maximum
frequency the inverter will accept from the generator. If the generator frequency is greater than this
limit when running unloaded the Sunny Island
4248U will not connect, or, if the generator frequency goes above this limit while connected the
Sunny Island 4248U will disconnect the generator.
FacGenMin
54 - 60
Hz
55
The FacGenMin parameter selects the minimum frequency the inverter will accept from the generator.
If the generator frequency is lower than this limit
when running unloaded the Sunny Island 4248U
will not connect, or, if the generator frequency goes
below this limit while connected the Sunny Island
4248U will disconnect the generator.
GridConnected
GridNone,
GridCharge,
GridFeedPV
GridNone
Grid connection mode.
GridNone: No grid operation - Generator limits;
apply (VacGenMin, VacGenMax, FacGenMin,
FacGenMax, DelayVGenLow, PGenRevers).
GridCharge: Charge only from grid - UL limits;
apply (voltage range 106 V - 131 V, frequency
range 59.32 Hz - 60.48 Hz), no reverse power
accepted.
GridFeedPV: Charge from grid and feed grid with
Sunny Boy via Sunny Island; (voltage range 106 V 131 V, frequency range 59.32 Hz - 60.48 Hz),
reverse power limit is 6.72 kW.
DelayVGenLow
500 6000
Ms
3000
The DelayVGenLow parameter selects the amount
of time the Sunny Island 4248U will wait before disconnecting when the generator voltage or frequency drops below the VacGenMin or FacGenMin
limits.
Transition
Ramp/
Fast
Fast
The Transition parameter selects the way in which
the Sunny Island 4248U will transition from charge
to invert mode when it detects a grid or generator
fault.
Select Ramp when Sunny Boy inverters are connected to the system.
Select Fast when no Sunny Boy inverters are connected to the system.
PGenRevers
0 - 1000
W
300
Max. reverse power limitation
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Diagnose
System Information (31)
Name
Range/
Unit
DeviceConfig
N/A
FWVers
N/A
N/A
The FWVers menu displays the version number of
the firmware installed in the inverter.
SerNum
N/A
N/A
The SerNum menu displays the serial number of the
inverter.
RunTime
N/A
Hours
N/A
The RunTime menu displays the total time the
inverter has been operating.
Default
Description
SI4248 The DeviceConfig parameter displays the name of
U
the device.
Error Information (32)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Last
N/A
N/A
The Last menu displays the most recent error that
occurred in the system.
Hist
N/A
N/A
The Hist menu displays the last 10 errors to occur in
the system. This is a revolving list, the first item in is
the last out and it is only cleared when a system
reset is performed.
Description
55
Installer Level Menu Guide
SI4248U Manual
Operation
Name
56
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
BatChargeMode
Auto,
Boost,
Full,
Equalize,
Manual
Auto
The BatChargMode parameter allows you to override the Auto charge mode of the inverter.
Auto: Inverter maintains charge automatically.
Selecting any of the other modes will automatically
place the inverter into that mode. For example, if
you wanted to perform an equalize charge on your
flooded batteries, you would select Equalize in this
menu to put the inverter into equalize mode.
For details about the special charge modes see
"Battery Management" on page 88.
Manual: For future use. Please do not select.
Autostart
Off,
On
Off
The Autostart parameter allows the inverter to start
automatically whenever DC power is applied to it or
after a fault has been detected (up to 10 times). If
AutoStart is OFF, the inverter will always have to be
started manually.
BaudRate
1200,
2400,
4800,
9600,
19200
1200
The BaudRate parameter selects the baud rate that
the Sunny Island 4248U will use to communicate
with external devices.
ParameterSet
None,
Load,
Save
None
The ParameterSet parameter allows the current set
of parameters to be saved, or a saved set of parameters to be loaded.
Select None to operate the inverter with the current
set of parameters.
Select Save to save the current set of parameters
(When the system is operating optimally, it is a
good idea to save that set of parameters. This is
particularly useful when experimenting and the
inverter needs to be restored to the previous settings.).
Select Load to load the saved set of parameters into
the Sunny Island 4248U
Splitphase
None,
Master,
Slave
None
The Splitphase parameter selects the role each
inverter has to play when used in split-phase mode.
This parameter should remain set to None unless
the inverter is to be used in Split-Phase mode. (See
Split-Phase section for details).
SI4248U Manual
Name
Installation Manual
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
LoadShedding
Off,
On,
Auto
Off
The LoadShedding parameter selects the operating
mode of the load shedding relay.
Select Off when the load shedding option is not
being used or to manually switch the load shedding
relay to the off position.
Select On to manually switch the load shedding
relay to the on position.
Select Auto to allow automatic control of the load
shedding relay by the Sunny Island. Loads are shed
when SOCLim2 is reached.
GenRequest
Off/
On/
Auto
Auto
The GenRequest parameter manually toggles the
generator request relay. This is intended to be used
for testing purposes to confirm operation of the generator start circuit.
Select Off when no generator is present or to manually switch the generator relay off.
Select On to manually switch the generator relay to
the on position.
Select Auto to allow automatic control of the generator request relay by the Sunny Island 4248U.
SunnyBoys
No/
Yes
No
The Sunny Boys parameter is used when the Sunny
Island 4248U will be connected to Sunny Boy
inverters in the same system.
Select No when there are no Sunny Boy inverters in
the system.
Select Yes when there are Sunny Boy inverters used
in the same system with the Sunny Island 4248U.
(NOTE: When Sunny Boys are used in off-grid systems, there are parameters in the Sunny Boy inverters that must also be set. See the Sunny Boy
paragraph in this manual for more information.)
57
Troubleshooting
SI4248U Manual
Troubleshooting
Refer to the following table as a guide to the errors codes generated by the Sunny Island
4248U.
Name
Cause
Release
Description
CBT-Open
T >= 70°C
T < 70°C
Battery temp-sensor cable broken
CBT-Short
T <= -40°C
T > -40°C
Battery temp-sensor shorted
ChargeLow
SOC <
SOCLim3
SOC >
SOCLim3
Battery SOC critical
CHS-Open
T >= 150°C
T < 150°C
Heatsink temp-sensor cable broken
CHS-Short
T <= -40°C
T > -40°C
Heatsink temp-sensor shorted
CTR-Open
T >= 150°C
T < 150°C
Transformer temp-sensor cable broken
CTR-Short
T <= -40°C
T > -40°C
Transformer temp-sensor shorted
FailSet
TrfDerateTemp
>= TrfMaxTemp or
HSDerate
Temp >=
HSMaxTemp
Set parameter
correctly
Derating settings incorrect
HS-TempOV
T >=85°C
T <= 80°C
Heatsink over temperature
INTERNAL01
AST- Short
INTERNAL02
AST- Open
INTERNAL03
Demand-State
not equal to
DSP state
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
No reaction of DSP to change of
demand state
INTERNAL04
Lost Two handshakes from
DSP (T >= 1
sec.)
Automatic
reset
Lost DSP Handshake
INTERNAL05
Measurement
out of valid
range
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
DSP measurement failure. Breakdown
bit-coded error-info at DSPE_SY
INTERNAL06
Over current
detected by
DSP
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
DSP over current
58
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Name
Cause
Release
Description
NoMaster
NA
NA
Splitphase configuration no master
found (on slave device)
NoSlave
NA
NA
Splitphase configuration no slave
found (on master device)
RelayFail
VacInverter
VacGenreator
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
Relay Failure
TBatHigh
BatTemp >
TBatMax
BatTemp <
TBatMax-2°C
Battery temperature too high
TR-TempOV
T >=101°C
T <= 96°C
Transformer over temperature
TwoMaster
Receive handshake from
Master device
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
Two master devices in splitphase configuration
TwoSlave
Receive handshake from
slave device
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
Two slave devices in splitphase configuration
VAC-High
VAC > VACMax
VAC < VACMax
High output voltage
VAC-Low
VAC< VACMin
Automatic
acknowledge.
Restart
Low output voltage
VBatHigh
VBat > VBatMax
VBat > VBatMax
High battery voltage
VBatLow
VBat < VBatMin
(for 30 seconds)
VBat > VBatMin
Low battery voltage
Automatic
reset
Watchdog reset
Watchdog
Table 1-13: Error Codes
59
Battery Management
SI4248U Manual
Battery Management
Charging Operations used by the Sunny Island
The battery management system allows automatic operation (without user interference
required) of 3 different charging operations:
• Boost Charge:
fast charging operation with short generator run time for quick battery charge (to state of
charge of approximately 85 ... 95 %)
• Full Charge:
charging the battery full – requiring longer generator run time (absorption time) at low
generator load condition (to state of charge of approximately 92 ... 97%)
• Equalizing Charge:
equalizing all cells with long generator run time at low load condition (to state of charge
of approximately 95 ... 100 %)
TcycleEqual days or
30 charge througputs
30 % discharge or
auto gen start
V > VchargeEqual
for TabsorbEqual
V > VchargeBoost
for TabsorbBoost
Equaliziation Charge
V=VchargeEqual
Boost Charge
V=Vcharge Boost
TcycleFull days or
8 charge throughputs
Floating Charge
V=VchargeFloat
Full Charge
V=VchargeFull
V > VchargeFull
for TabsorbFull
TcycleEqual days or 16 charge throughputs
Figure 1-24 Battery Management System State Transitions in Back-Up Mode
60
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
“GridConnected” set to “GridCharge” or “GridFeedPV”
AND BatVoltage > BatChargeVolt + 0.05 V / cell
Battery Management System
TcycleEqual days or
30 charge througputs
30 % discharge or
auto gen start
V > VchargeEqual
for TabsorbEqual
V > VchargeBoost
for TabsorbBoost
Equaliziation Charge
V=VchargeEqual
Boost Charge
V=Vcharge Boost
Floating Charge
V=VchargeFloat
TcycleFull days or
8 charge throughputs
Full Charge
V=VchargeFull
V > VchargeFull
for TabsorbFull
TcycleEqual days or 16 charge throughputs
Normal
Operation
Charge
Provides
value for
“BatCharge
Volt”
“Silent” active for more than 12 hrs.
BatVoltage <VchargeFloat - 0.16 V /cell
AND “Silent” active for more than 3 min.
Energy
Saving
Operation
Silent
Grid Grid
failure present
Normal
Operation
Invert
Grid failure
Figure 1-25 Battery Management System State Transitions in Off-Grid Mode
Each charging operation (Boost charge, Full charge, Equalizing charge, and Floating Charge)
can also be activated manually. For customer convenience all transitions are done
automatically and cycle times are adjustable (TcycleFull, TcycleEqual). The number of charge
throughputs (of Amp hours of nominal battery capacity – C20 passed through the battery) are
fixed and not adjustable. Charge throughputs are only calculated from energy passing through
the Sunny Island 4248U. Other DC coupled sources or loads are not taken into account by the
Sunny Island 4248U. On rare occasions, it is possible to meet the requirements of two charge
operations causing the order of the processes to be: Boost, Full and then Equalization for that
charge cycle.
Each charge operation consists of a full charge phase with limited current (by generator
maximum AmpacGenMax current or by maximum DC charge current AmpdcBatMax) and an
absorption phase after the battery voltage has reached the charge voltage set point. The
remaining time for the absorption phase is displayed as a meter (in the Battery section) as
“TabsorbLeft”.
After completion of the absorption phase, the generator is switched off (if a generator is used).
The charge operation is then finished and the charge voltage set point is set to Float. The Float
State only effects the operation of the Sunny Island 4248U in systems with AC coupled PV
(Sunny Boys). The generator is stopped in this state and the control loop which controls the
charge current is inactive. For AC coupled PV, a different control loop stays active while the
Sunny Island 4248U is in Voltage Mode (no Generator running) which controls the output
power of the Sunny Boys by the calculated charge voltage set point (in all charging processes
including Float).
61
Battery Management
SI4248U Manual
Generator, Load Shedding Control and Battery State of Charge
State of Charge
Generator start and load shedding are controlled by the State of Charge (derived from current
compensated battery voltage). The generator control also considers the battery size.
Generator and Load Shedding Control distinguishes between four states (see Battery Meters
BatState and figure below):
•
•
•
•
Normal
Start Generator
Start Load shedding (includes Start Generator)
Critical Battery State (Shut down)
The transitions between these states are controlled by the State of Charge calculated from the
battery voltage and a timer (see "State transition for generator start and load shedding" on page 63).
The mentioned time of 2 minutes is active when Sunny Island 4248U sees discharging. The 30
minutes time is active for charging or for discharging with currents less than 0.5 A per 100 Ah
battery capacity. The 6 minutes time is active with charging currents of 0.5 to 2 A per 100 Ah
capacity. The 30 minutes time is active with charging current above 2 A per 100 Ah.
30 min
Generator Start Delay [min]
30
25
20
15
10
6 min
5
0
2 min
-5
-4
Charging
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
Battery Current [A/Ah]
Figure 1-26 Generator Start Delay vs. Normalized Battery Current
62
3
4
5
Discharging
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
Normal
SOC < SocLim1
for t > 2/6/30 minutes
SOC > SocLim1
for t > 15 minutes
Warning
(Start Generator)
SOC < SocLim2
for t > 2/6/30 minutes
SOC > SocLim2
for t > 15 minutes
Low
(Load Shedding)
SOC > SocLim3
for t > 15 minutes
or charge current
SOC < SocLim3
for t > 2/6/30 minutes
and no charging current
Critical
(Shut down)
Figure 1-27 State transition for generator start and load shedding
When critical state is reached (and no charge current is detected) the Sunny Island 4248U will
shut down for battery protection. After that a manual restart of the Sunny Island 4248U is
required. If no charge current flows the inverter will shutdown after 5 minutes. Independent
from the Generator and Load Shedding control the battery voltage monitoring stays active and
will shut down Sunny Island 4248U, if the battery voltage falls below the minimum voltage level
VbatMin.
63
Battery Management
SI4248U Manual
How to set up State of Charge Limits
NOTE: This process applies to FLA type batteries with accessible cells only. For
sealed batteries, please refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for acid density
values.
The 3 limits for generator start, load shedding and shut down, can be set as State of Charge
(SOC) values (SocLim1, SocLim2, SocLim3). The battery management assumes the acid density
to 1.28 kg/l. If the Acid Density of the used battery is different, user must adapt the desired
SOC value.
Figure 1-28 State of Charge and Open Circuit Voltage Levels depending on Acid
Example:
If the generator should start at a SOC of 40% or when the battery has a specific gravity of 1.24
kg/l, then:
The SocLim1 should be set to 25%. To determine this value, begin at 40% SOC, go up to the
blue curve (which represents 1,24 kg/l), go left to meet the red line, go down and find 25%.
The firmware always assigns the SOC parameter with the highest value to SocLim1 (generator
start) and the lowest to SocLim3 (shutdown) and the remaining value to SocLim2 (load
shedding) to ensure reasonable order of SOC thresholds.
If the generator is started by the Sunny Island 4248U due to reaching a voltage level
corresponding to SocLim1 State of Charge, it will run until the charge operation has completed,
(i.e. completion of the absorption phase and then switching to float). If the generator starts
during Float, (e.g. with DC-loads only), the BMS will automatically switch to boost charge and
64
SI4248U Manual
Installation Manual
complete a boost charge cycle. If the generator is started manually (without a request from the
Sunny Island 4248U, by rope for example) and the BMS is in Float, it will not switch to Boost
mode. This allows the generator to supply some large loads without always changing the
charge state. When using a manual start generator, the user may set the charge operation state
as needed, (e.g. Full Charge).
The Sunny Island 4248U internal control loop looks at the difference between the actual battery
voltage and the charge voltage set point for the current charge state. The result of this control
loop determines the current to be drawn from the generator. This current value is limited by the
maximum generator current as set by the AmpacGenMax parameter, and the maximum
battery charge current allowed as set by the AmpdcBatMax parameter. The Sunny Island
4248U prevents the generator from overloading by reducing the amount of charge current that
is drawn from the generator.
Because a PV system cannot deliver energy at night or during cloudy conditions, it is sometimes
difficult to maintain the battery voltage for a long enough time to complete a Full Charge or
Equalizing Charge cycle in a single day. However, the Sunny Island is capable of tracking the
absorption time and will continue the process from where it left off when enough power is
available to do so.
65
Battery Management
66
SI4248U Manual
SI4248U Manual
User Manual
Section 2:
User Manual
Introduction
Inverter Description
The Sunny Island 4248U is a DC-AC inverter and battery charger.
DC power is converted to AC utility grade power through a single-stage, high-frequency,
pulse-width-modulated (PWM) MOSFET bridge. The AC power is filtered to provide safe, highfidelity, low EMI/EMC emission power to the AC loads. Excess energy on the AC side is used
to recharge the battery in a sophisticated manner ensuring the longest life possible for the
batteries.
Features
The Sunny Island 4248U not only provides up to 4200W of continuous true sine-wave AC
power, but is equipped with the latest features and technology to ensure that you get the most
from your battery based system. Some of the features included are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Optimized for high ambient temperature operation
Very high efficiency
Integrated DC breaker
Near silent operation
Non-volatile memory for system settings
Compatible with all Sunny Boy and SMA Control products
Advanced battery management system
Sealed electronic compartment
Generator overload protection
Generator reactive power compensation
DC Input
Optional
GenMan
Generator
OR
Utility Grid
Main
Service Panel
AC Input
Loads
Internal
Gen/Grid
Iso-Relay
Secondary
Panel
Sunny Boy
Bi-directional Inverter
Windy Boy
Load - Shed
Relay
Critical Loads
AC Coupling on Output Side
Figure 2-1 Sunny Island 4248U System Block Diagram
67
User Interface Overview
SI4248U Manual
User Interface Overview
The basic configuration of the user interface is shown in the figure below. The user interface
consists of a DC disconnect, a 2-line digital display, two status indicators, up and down
arrows, an Escape and an Enter key. You will use combinations of the arrow keys and the
Escape and Enter keys to navigate, display information and change parameters. See the User
Interface Functionality section for detailed information.
RED
$#$ISCONNECT
GREEN
,INE$ISPLAY
)NDICATOR
,IGHTS
%3#
%.4%2
.AVIGATION+EYS
Figure 2-2 Sunny Island 4248U User Interface
Options
The Sunny Island 4248U allows you to connect a variety of options to it for remote metering,
load control and controlling optional equipment such as a generator.
The Sunny Island 4248U supports all of the SMA Control series of metering and data
acquisition devices through the use of the optional “Communication Piggy Back” unit. This
enables the inverter to communicate in either the RS232 or RS485 formats.
A variety of communication options are available to connect multiple Sunny Island 4248U's
together or combine other SMA products on the same communication bus.
For customers desiring remote access to the Sunny Island 4248U, various modems and
Ethernet options are also available. With an (optional) RS232 Piggy-Back local access to the
Sunny Island 4248U is a simple wire connection between a PC and the Sunny Island 4248U
(The Sunny Data application and a MS Windows PC are necessary to communicate with the
Sunny Island 4248U from local or remote locations. Sunny Data is available free-of-charge on
the SMA-America web site: www.sma-america.com).
The Sunny Island 4248U also supports the automatic operation of 2-wire start generators as
a standard feature. The optional GenMan unit enables the inverter to operate multiple-wirestart generators. The GenMan option is available from your local distributor/dealer. Manualstart type generators may also be used.
The terminal blocks are grouped according to function. This helps keep the wires for the
different options together and makes for a more organized wiring compartment.
68
SI4248U Manual
User Manual
Sunny Island Applications
Off-Grid / Stand Alone Systems
By definition, off-grid or stand alone systems are systems where electrical power is generated
and stored without assistance from the utility grid. These systems typically consist of one or
more power generation sources such as a PV array, a wind generator, a hydro-electric
generator or a gas powered generator.
Typically, there is a need to store the power that is generated. Without a storage method,
power would only be available when one or more of the generating devices were active. (i.e.
when the sun was shining for a PV array, or when the wind was blowing for a wind generator.)
Batteries are the most common device used for power storage. The size and type of batteries
used depends greatly on the system power requirements.
Because many of the loads that will be powered by the system require AC power as opposed
to DC power, an inverter is needed to change the DC voltage to an AC voltage that can be
used by the AC loads. This is exactly what the Sunny Island 4248U was designed to do.
The Sunny Island 4248U can also function as a battery charger for charging the battery bank.
This mode operates by connecting an AC power source to the inverter’s AC power input. The
AC power source could be a gas powered generator or even the utility grid, if available at the
system’s location. The power generated by the external source can be used to power AC loads
via the Sunny Island 4248U while the batteries are being charged at the same time. The Sunny
Island 4248U watches the battery voltage and only applies the amount of power necessary to
bring the batteries up to a full state of charge after all power required by the loads is supplied.
Back-Up Systems
A back-up system is configured differently from an off-grid system. The purpose of a back-up
system is to supply power when the primary source of electrical power, such as the utility grid,
fails for some reason. When used as a back-up system, the Sunny Island 4248U is designed
to begin providing AC power automatically whenever the primary source of AC power shuts
down.
In a back-up configuration, the Sunny Island 4248U still requires a source for its power. This
is accomplished through the use of a large battery bank. Again, the size and type of batteries
used will be determined by the intended operation of the system.
During times of normal operation where the primary source of AC power is active, the Sunny
Island 4248U maintains the charge of the battery bank so that they are ready in the event of
an outage. The Sunny Island 4248U applies a sophisticated charging algorithm to ensure that
full charge capacity is maintained and that the life of the battery bank is maximized.
The Sunny Island 4248U also has the ability to connect external sources of power, such as a
gas powered generator to assist in powering the loads and charging the battery bank during
extended outages.
69
Sunny Island Applications
SI4248U Manual
For security reasons all energy sources installed on the AC output side should meet all
regulations for utility interaction.
Generators
Gas powered generators are a common component found in both off-grid and back-up
systems. Generators come in many different sizes and determining the correct one will depend
on the needs of the system. More importantly however, generators are divided into two basic
groups: Auto-Start and Manual Start.
Auto-Start
Basically, an auto-start generator is designed to start and run automatically without personnel
intervention. This requires that the generator is much more sophisticated in terms of its
operation. For example, auto-start generators typically have much larger engine oil and gas
capacities. They have sophisticated starting procedures such as crank times, retry counts and
exercise routines. It is highly recommended that this type of generator be used if you require
that the Sunny Island 4248U start a generator automatically. Please consult your installer or
system designer for generator recommendations.
Manual-Start
Manual start generators require that they have to be started by hand using a key, button or
pull-start system. These generators are less sophisticated and assume that there is personnel on
hand to monitor its operation.
NOTE: Both types of generators will generate electrical power reliably, but care
should be taken when selecting the type of generator to use in your system. Seek
the advice of a qualified technician if you are unsure.
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Safety
WARNING: There is an inherent risk of electrical shock or injury to personnel, or
potential damage to the components to the system when working on and around
electrical equipment. Be sure that you have read and understand the safety
instructions in the front section of this manual and any other safety documentation
provided with other equipment in your system. If you are unsure, secure the
services of a qualified technician.
Battery Safety
Special care should be taken when working around batteries. Battery banks contain the
potential to deliver extremely large amounts of current when shorted. Wires can be melted,
tools can be welded, fires can be started. Even small battery banks deserve your utmost respect.
In addition to the safety instructions in the front section of this manual, here are some helpful
hints:
• Read, understand and follow the safety instructions provided with your batteries.
• Always wear safety glasses or goggles, gloves and protective clothing when working with
batteries. Some batteries contain acid that may splash on you or into your eyes.
• Make sure that the batteries are in a well ventilated area. Batteries give off explosive
gases which can detonate if allowed to accumulate.
• Always keep the battery area free of sparks or open flames.
• Make sure that an approved DC disconnect and over-current device is used between the
battery bank and any equipment.
71
User Interface Functionality
SI4248U Manual
User Interface Functionality
The functions, modes, parameters and historical data within the Sunny Island 4248U are all
displayed and accessed through the user interface menu system. To navigate to the different
menus throughout the interface, you will use the arrow keys and both the ESC and ENTER keys.
The functionality for each of the components found in the user interface area of the inverter is
described in the table below.
Component
Functionality
DC Disconnect
Switches inverter on and off. In order to definitely switch off the
inverter also disconnect all connections on the AC side!
2-Line Display
Displays status, parameters, historical data and errors
Red Indicator Light
Activates when inverter detects a fault, when stopped or derating
Green Indicator Light
Activates when inverter is operating
ESC Key
Cancel, answer NO, return to previous menu
UP Arrow Key
Scroll upward, increase value
Down Arrow Key
Scroll downward, decrease value
ENTER Key
Confirm changes, answer YES, go to next menu
Table 2-1: Sunny Island 4248U User Interface Component Functionality
RED
$#$ISCONNECT
GREEN
,INE$ISPLAY
)NDICATOR
,IGHTS
%3#
%.4%2
.AVIGATION+EYS
Figure 2-3 User Interface
The following table outlines the key functions.
Key
Function
ESC
Cancel, Answer NO, Move up one menu level
UP Arrow
Scroll Upward, Increase Value
DOWN Arrow
Scroll Downward, Decrease Value
ENTER
Select Function, Select Value, Confirm Changes, Answer YES
Table 2-2: Key Functionality
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SI4248U Manual
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Changing Parameters
When a parameter is reached via the navigation keys, the current value of that parameter will
be displayed. Next to that value will be a “return” character. This character represents a
parameter that may be changed. To change the parameter, press ENTER and the “return”
character will begin to blink next to the value. Once the “return” character is blinking, the value
can then be adjusted by using the arrow keys. Once the desired value is reached, press ENTER
to store the new value.
How Information is Displayed
Information from the Sunny Island 4248U is displayed on a 2-line LCD display. As you move
up and down through the menus, 2 lines of information will be visible at a time.
Additional lines
above the display
window are accessible
using the [ ] key.
1. Display Line
2. Display Line
3. Display Line
4. Display Line
2 lines of information
are viewable at a time.
5. Display Line
Display Window
6. Display Line
7. Display Line
Additional lines
below the display
window are accessible
using the [ ] key.
8. Display Line
9. Display Line
10. Display Line
Figure 2-4 LCD Display Information
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User Interface Functionality
SI4248U Manual
Home Screen
During normal operation, the Sunny Island 4248U displays the Home Screen. This screen
shows relative output power, the operating mode of the inverter, if the generator start request
has been sent, fault notification and the status of the load shedding and generator relays.
/UTPUT0OWER#HARGE#URRENT
;
=
)NVERT'OO%
%RROR$ETECTION
'ENERATOR2UN2ELAY
/PERATING-ODE
'ENERATOR2UN
,OAD3HED2ELAY
Figure 2-5 Home Screen
Power Output / Battery Charge Indicator
The output power and the battery charging power of the inverter are indicated by a series of
blocks that run across the top of the display. This is a relative representation of the power of
the inverter, so blocks that reach the halfway point on the scale represent the inverter running
at half of its capacity.
The last indicator is an arrow rather than a block. If this indicator is lit it represents an overload
condition on the inverter.
Operating Modes
In the lower left corner of the screen, the operating mode of the inverter will be displayed. The
different operating modes of the inverter are:
•
•
•
•
74
Invert Voltage mode
Charge Current mode
DerInvert Derated voltage mode
DerCharge Derated current mode
SI4248U Manual
User Manual
Generator Request
Whenever the Sunny Island 4248U sends a request that the generator be started, it will display
a G in the lower right area of the home screen. Once the generator is up to speed and the
voltage and frequency of the power being produced by the generator is satisfactory, the G is
replaced with an asterisk. “*” The asterisk will remain visible for as long as the generator is
running.
The user has the opportunity to force starting and stopping of the generator in different ways (see "Generator Settings (24)" on page 82).
Note: In case of a "ReversePower"-failure the generator will be locked for 20
minutes. The lock time can be aborted manually (see chapter "Generator Settings
(24)" on page 82).
Fault Detection
Whenever the Sunny Island 4248U detects a fault it will display the error code on the home
screen for 10 seconds (and then restart if AutoStart is enabled). If the error is not
acknowledged within that time, and the fault was not one that caused the inverter to shut down,
an E (for Error) will be displayed in the lower right of the home screen to notify the user that
an error has occurred. This E will remain visible until the fault is viewed by the user in the error
menu. After the error has been viewed, the E will be cleared from the home screen.
The inverter maintains a log of the 10 most recent errors in the Error History menu. This menu
is preserved when the inverter is powered down and is only cleared when performing a total
system reset.
The inverter will detect the fault without acknowledgement up to 9 times and still continue to
operate. (Provided the error type does not result in the shut down of the inverter.) On the 10th
error detection without acknowledgement, the inverter will shut down and remain shut down
until the error is viewed by the user.
Relay Status
Load Shedding: As you face the inverter, you will see two small O’s in the lower right of the
home screen. The left O represents the state of the Load Shedding relay in the Sunny Island
4248U. O represents the Off or Open state. When the relay closes the O becomes solid like a
dot, indicating that the relay is On or Closed.
Generator Start: The O to the right represents the state of the Generator Start relay in the same
way as described above for the Load Shedding relay. It closes whenever the inverter is
requesting that the generator runs.
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User Interface Functionality
SI4248U Manual
Status LEDs
The RED and GREEN status LEDs work together to provide you with a variety of status
information. Refer to the following table.
Operating Condition
Red LED
Green LED
INIT (Initialization)
ON
ON
Standby
OFF
OFF
Operating
OFF
ON
Derating
OFF
BLINKING
Fault
ON
OFF
Table 2-3: User Interface LED Indicators
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User Manual
Sunny Island 4248U User Menu Tree
The user menus are arranged in four simple groups: Meters, Settings, Diagnose and
Operation. Using the information from the previous section, each of the parameters can be
navigated to and changed if needed. The following diagram shows a simple map of the
parameters that are viewable at the user level.
Home Screen
10 METERS
System Meters
20 SETTINGS
System Settings
30 DIAGNOSE
System Diangnose
11 Inverter Meters
11-1
11-2
11-3
11-4
VacInverter
AmpacInverter
FacInverter
PacInverter
12 Battery Meters
12-1
12-2
12-3
12-4
12-5
12-6
BatVoltage
BatCurrent
BatTemp
BatState
BatChargeMode
TabsorbLeft
13 Generator Meters
13-1
13-2
13-3
13-4
VacGenerator
AmpacGenerator
FacGenerator
PacGenerator
21 Password Settings
21-1 Level [00] *****
22 Inverter Settings
22-1 VacNominal
22-2 FacNominal
23 Battery Settings
23-1
23-2
23-3
23-4
24 Generator Settings
24-1 GenControl
24-2 AmpacGenMax
24-3 GenOperation
31 System Information
31-1
31-2
31-3
31-4
32 Error Information
32-1 Last
32-2 Hist
40 OPERATION
System Operation
VdcBatNominal
BatType
AmpHoursBat
AmpdcBatMax
DeviceConfig
FWVERS
SerNum
RunTime
40-1 BatChargeMode
40-2 Autostart
Figure 2-6 User Level Menu Map
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User Menu Guide
SI4248U Manual
User Menu Guide
The following tables contain information on each of the menu items available to the user in the
Sunny Island 4248U. There are other items in the Sunny Island 4248U that are visible to the
user, but the following items are those which do not require a password to change. Some items
display information (meters) where others are operating parameters and can be changed.
Please be careful when setting parameters as incorrect settings may cause undesirable
operation of the inverter.
Once the second inverter is switched to slave mode, all main functions for the two inverters will
appear only on the master display. All information that appears on the slave display should
be disregarded as it will behave differently while the inverter performs slave-only functions.
NOTE: It is recommended that you record the value of every parameter change in
the margin of these pages for future reference.
Meters
Inverter Meters (11)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
VacInverter
0 - 300
VAC
N/A
The VacInverter menu displays the AC output operating voltage of the inverter.
AmpacInverter
-70 +70
AAC
N/A
The AmpacInverter menu displays the output current
of the inverter.
FacInverter
45 - 70
Hz
N/A
The FacInverter menu displays the operating frequency of the AC output.
Pac
-10000 +10000
WAC
N/A
The PacInverter menu displays the operating power
of the AC ouput.
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Battery Meters (12)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
BatVoltage
0 - 80
VDC
N/A
The BatVoltage menu displays the battery voltage.
BatCurrent
-200 +200
ADC
N/A
The BatCurrent menu displays the DC current.
BatTemp
-40 +200
°C
N/A
The BatTemp menu displays the battery temperature.
BatState
Norm,
Warn,
Low,
Crit
N/A
Battery state (BMS)
The BatState menu displays the current state of
charge of the batteries.
BatChargeMode
-----,
Auto,
Boost,
Full,
Float,
Equalize
N/A
The BatChargeMode menu displays the charging
mode of the inverter. For detailed information about
charge modes see chapter “Battery Management”
on page 60
-----: will be shown on Slaves in Split-Phase Mode
only.
TabsorbLeft
0 - Max
min
N/A
Every charge mode has a dedicated absorption
time that might have been adjusted by your system
installer. For this time normally the Sunny Island will
have to keep the generator running, even if it seems
that there is enough energy in the system and the
generator is hardly loaded. The counted down
value of "TabsorbLeft" shows the remaining time for
this state.
Default
Description
Generator Meters (13)
Name
Range/
Unit
VacGenerator
0 - 260
VAC
N/A
The VacGenerator menu displays the AC voltage at
the inverter generator input.
AmpacGenerator
-60 - 60
AAC
N/A
The AmpacGenerator menu displays the AC current
at the inverter generator input.
FacGenerator
0 - 70
Hz
N/A
The FacGenerator menu displays the AC frequency
at the inverter generator input.
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User Menu Guide
Name
PacGenerator
80
SI4248U Manual
Range/
Unit
-20 - 20
kWAC
Default
Description
N/A
The PacGenerator menu displays the AC power at
the inverter generator input.
SI4248U Manual
User Manual
Settings
Inverter Settings (22)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
VacNominal
105 - 130
VAC
120
The VacNominal parameter sets the nominal output
voltage of the inverter.
FacNominal
55 - 65
Hz
60
The FacNominal parameter sets the nominal output
frequency of the inverter.
Default
Description
Battery Settings (23)
Name
Range/
Unit
VdcBatNominal
42 - 48
VDC
48
BatType
VRLA
FLA
VRLA
The BatType parameter selects the type of battery
used in the system.
VRLA = Valve Regulated Lead Acid
FLA = Flooded Lead Acid
Once the system is configured, this parameter can
only be changed via „NewBattery“ (installer password required).
AmpHoursBat
100 6000
Ah
100
The BatCapacity parameter sets the total amp-hour
capacity of the battery bank. This parameter needs
to be set when the inverter is first commissioned.
Once the system is configured, this parameter can
only be changed via „NewBattery“ (installer password required).
AmpdcBatMax
0 - 100
ADC
10
The AmpdcBatMax parameter sets the DC charge
current limit to the batteries.
The VdcBatNominal parameter sets the nominal
operating voltage of the inverter.
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Generator Settings (24)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
GenControl
Manual,
Direct,
GenMan
AmpacGenMax
2 - 60
AAC
10
The AmpacGenMax Parameter should be set to
about 85 % of the maximum AC current of your
generator. In Charge Mode the Sunny Island
4248U will then limit the total current (loads in the
system + Sunny Island) to this value in order to prevent the generator from stalling.
Note: If the load in the system is above this value in
Voltage Mode, the Sunny Island 4248U will not
switch to Charge Mode for the same reason.
GenOperation
Auto,
Start,
Stop,
Run1h,
Release
Auto
The GenOperation parameter forces the generator
to react immediately:
Auto: Normal control by Sunny Island is active (the
display might show "G" or "*")
Start: Generator will be started by the Sunny Island
immediately (the display will show "R"). Remember
to stop the generator when not needed anymore (by
selecting either "Stop" or "Auto")
Stop: Generator will be stopped by the Sunny
Island immediately (the display will show "S").
Remember to set the generator back to "Auto"mode if you want the Sunny Island to take over control again.
Run1h: Generator will be started immediately and
will kept running for one hour (the display will show
"T"). This might be useful in order to conserve battery lifetime if you can forsee that the generator can
run at rather full capacity within the next hour.
Afterwards the Sunny Island will switch back to the
mode it has been in before. If "Run1h" was selected
from "Start" mode the Sunny Island will switch back
to "Auto" after one hour time.
Release: Aborts the lock time (20 min) for the generator after a "ReversePower" failure has occurred.
82
Manual The GenControl parameter selects the type of generator control to be used with your system.
Manual: Manual start type or no generator connected.
Direct: Two-wire start generator connected to the
dry contacts in the inverter.
GenMan: GenMan option installed.
SI4248U Manual
User Manual
Diagnose
System Information (31)
Name
Range/
Unit
DeviceConfig
N/A
FWVers
N/A
N/A
The FWVers menu displays the version number of
the firmware installed in the inverter.
SerNum
N/A
N/A
The SerNum menu displays the serial number of the
inverter.
RunTime
N/A
Hours
N/A
The RunTime menu displays the total time the
inverter has been operating.
Default
Description
SI4248 The DeviceConfig parameter displays the name of
U
the device.
Error Information (32)
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Last
N/A
N/A
The Last menu displays the most recent error that
occurred in the system.
Hist
N/A
N/A
The Hist menu displays the last 10 errors to occur in
the system. This is a revolving list, the first item in is
the last out and it is only cleared when a system
reset is performed.
Description
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User Menu Guide
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Operation
Name
Range/
Unit
Default
Description
BatChargMode
Auto,
Boost,
Full,
Float,
Equalize,
Manual
Auto
The BatChargMode parameter allows you to override the Auto charge mode of the inverter.
Auto: Inverter maintains charge automatically.
Selecting any of the other modes will automatically
place the inverter into that mode. For example, if
you want to perform an equalize charge on your
flooded batteries, you would select Equalize in this
menu to put the inverter into equalize mode.
For details about the special charge modes see
"Battery Management" on page 88.
Manual: For future use. Please do not select.
Autostart
Off/
On
Off
The Autostart parameter allows the inverter to start
automatically whenever DC power is applied to it or
after a fault has been detected (up to 10 times). If
AutoStart is OFF, the inverter will always have to be
started manually.
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Start Up
Powering Up
WARNING: This step in the User’s Manual assumes that the Sunny Island 4248U
has already been checked for proper connections, voltages, polarities and has
been commissioned by your installer. If this is the first time the inverter will be
powered up, refer to the Commissioning instructions in the Installation part of this
manual. If you are not qualified to perform the commissioning of the inverter,
secure the services of qualified personnel.
To turn on the Sunny Island 4248U, switch the DC disconnect on the front of the inverter to the
ON position. This will cause the inverter to come on and enter the INIT phase of start up. During
this phase the inverter performs a series of self tests to determine that there are no faults present
in the system before beginning operation.
Once the INIT phase is complete, the inverter will display “Press <Enter>”. Pressing the ENTER
key will start the inverter.
If the AUTOSTART parameter is set to ON, once the DC disconnect is switched to the ON
position, the inverter will begin operating automatically after a short delay.
Once the inverter begins operating, it displays the home screen which shows the current
operating mode and power throughput.
As described previously, use the User Interface to navigate and view parameter settings. If in
doubt, refer to the User Interface section of this manual.
Shutting Down
To turn off the inverter press and hold the ESC key. When prompted to turn off the inverter,
press ENTER. The inverter will then remain in standby mode.
To power down the inverter, switch the DC disconnect on the front of the inverter to the OFF
position.
CAUTION: Even then the inverter may start, if any voltage source is accidentally
applied to the AC side. To be sure the inverter will remain off, also disconnect it
on the AC side.
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Maintenance
SI4248U Manual
Maintenance
Sunny Island 4248U
The inverter has been designed to provide years of trouble-free service. As such, the only
maintenance required is the periodic cleaning of the filters for the cooling fans. The actual
cleaning interval for these filters will depend on the air quality at each installation. We
recommend a visual inspection of the filters monthly at the minimum. To clean the fan filters,
use a vacuum (recommended) or a whisk broom to clear any debris from the screens. Perform
screen cleaning only when the fans are OFF.
If it becomes necessary to replace a fan, the instructions for performing the replacement will
be provided with the new fans. Replacement of the fans should only be performed by
qualified personnel.
Enclosure
Check the enclosure of the Sunny Island 4248U for mechanical integrity. Should there be any
damages reducing the Sunny Island 4248U’s operating safety (cracks, holes, fissures, missing
covers) the Sunny Island 4248U has to be decommissioned immediately!
Large dirt particles should be removed from the device with a soft hand brush or a similar tool.
Fine dust can be wiped off the enclosure parts with a soft moistened cloth. Cleaning agents
containing solvents or abrasives should not be used to avoid scratching the paint layer.
Batteries
The battery bank will also require periodic maintenance. They may need to be topped off with
water and have the tops of the battery cases and terminals cleaned and clamps inspected for
tightness. Refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions that came with the batteries and be sure
to wear protective clothing.
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State Machine
The following diagram shows the state relationships for the Sunny Island 4248U.
FAULTS
5: LOCKED
0: OFF
DC Voltage
Self Test
Multiple Errors
or Locked
INIT
1: INIT
Error
Reset
STOP
Manual
Acknowledge
Multiple Errors
or Locked
Initialization
Locked
Acknowledge
Timeout
2: STANDBY
Low Battery
Fault
Retry
Timeout
Auto/Manual
Start
11: LOWBAT
Island
Network
3: ISLAND
External Box Specifications,
Set Standards
4: FAULT
Any Fault
Condition
OPERATION
DERATING
WARNING
8: SYNCISL
Incorrect External Voltage,
No Box Sync Signal,
Relay Off, Specification Cancelled
9: SYNCEXT
External Generator
Voltage Spec. Set,
Generator
Standards
(Start)
External Voltage OK,
Box Synch Signal
Relay ON
10: SYNCGEN
Incorrect External Voltage,
Relay Off, Standards Reversed (Off )
6: EXT. GRID
External Voltage OK,
Relay ON
7: GEN
Figure 2-7 Sunny Island 4248U State Machine
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Battery Management
SI4248U Manual
Battery Management
Charging Operations used by the Sunny Island
The battery management system allows automatic operation (without user interference
required) of 3 different charging operations:
• Boost Charge:
fast charging operation with short generator run time for quick battery charge (to state of
charge of approximately 85 ... 95 %)
• Full Charge:
charging the battery full – requiring longer generator run time (absorption time) at low
generator load condition (to state of charge of approximately 92 ... 97%)
• Equalizing Charge:
equalizing all cells with long generator run time at low load condition (to state of charge
of approximately 95 ... 100 %)
TcycleEqual days or
30 charge througputs
30 % discharge or
auto gen start
V > VchargeEqual
for TabsorbEqual
V > VchargeBoost
for TabsorbBoost
Equaliziation Charge
V=VchargeEqual
Boost Charge
V=Vcharge Boost
Floating Charge
V=VchargeFloat
TcycleFull days or
8 charge throughputs
Full Charge
V=VchargeFull
V > VchargeFull
for TabsorbFull
TcycleEqual days or 16 charge throughputs
Figure 2-8 State Transition Chart for charge processes: Charging voltage setpoint depending on charging process and transitions
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“GridConnected” set to “GridCharge” or “GridFeedPV”
AND BatVoltage > BatChargeVolt + 0.05 V / cell
Battery Management System
TcycleEqual days or
30 charge througputs
30 % discharge or
auto gen start
V > VchargeEqual
for TabsorbEqual
V > VchargeBoost
for TabsorbBoost
Equaliziation Charge
V=VchargeEqual
Boost Charge
V=Vcharge Boost
Floating Charge
V=VchargeFloat
TcycleFull days or
8 charge throughputs
Full Charge
V=VchargeFull
V > VchargeFull
for TabsorbFull
TcycleEqual days or 16 charge throughputs
Normal
Operation
Charge
Provides
value for
“BatCharge
Volt”
“Silent” active for more than 12 hrs.
BatVoltage <VchargeFloat - 0.16 V /cell
AND “Silent” active for more than 3 min.
Energy
Saving
Operation
Silent
Grid Grid
failure present
Normal
Operation
Invert
Grid failure
Figure 2-9 Battery Management System
Each charging operation (Boost charge, Full charge and Equalizing charge, and Floating
Charge too) can also be activated manually. For customer convenience all transitions are done
automatically (see "State Transition Chart for charge processes: Charging voltage setpoint depending on
charging process and transitions" on page 88) – with cycle times adjustable (TcycleFull,
TcycleEqual). The number of charge throughputs (of Amp hours of nominal battery capacity –
C20 passed through the battery) are fixed and not adjustable. Charge throughputs are only
calculated from energy passing through the Sunny Island 4248U. Each additional energy (DC
charger or DC loads) are not regarded by Sunny Island 4248U. In rare case, where conditions
for two charging operations are met, Boost Charge come before Full Charge before
Equalization Charge. The charging processes will then appear in this order.
Each charge operation consists of a full charge phase with limited current (by generator
maximum AmpacGenMax current or by maximum DC charge current AmpdcBatMax) and an
absorption phase after battery voltage has reached the charge voltage setpoint. The remaining
time for the absorption phase is displayed as the meter (Battery) “TabsorbLeft”.
After completion of the absorption phase the generator is switched off (in case of operation
together with a generator). The charge operation is finished and charge voltage setpoint goes
to Float State. The Float State affects the operation of the Sunny Island 4248U only in systems
with AC coupled PV (Sunny Boys) as the generator is stopped in this state and the control loop
which controls the charge current is inactive. For AC coupled PV a different control loop stays
active while Sunny Island 4248U is in Voltage Mode (no Generator running) which controls
the output power of the Sunny Boys by the calculated charge voltage setpoint (in all charging
processes and Float state).
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Battery Management
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