FlexMax FM100 AFCI Installation

Installation
900-0253-01-00 Rev A 13
Figure 5 Bonding Jumper
Positive-Ground Systems
The FLEXmax 100 has several critical requirements when used in a positive-ground system.

The internal GFDI function cannot be used. However, make certain to leave the GFDI fuse in place.

Ensure neither PV conductor is grounded. The battery conductor is the only item to be grounded.
Take these additional steps.

Remove the bonding jumper wire (item
A
in Figure 5).

Establish an external positive-to-ground bond. The controller does not provide this bond.
Several other requirements must be met to maintain NEC compliance.

Install a dual-pole PV input circuit breaker to protect both the positive and negative conductors.

Install external GFDI protection. See the GFDI section below.
Page 22 depicts a positive-ground system. See page 72 for requirements when networking other devices
on positive-grounded systems.
IMPORTANT:
Make certain the bonding jumper is removed from all controllers in a positive-ground system.
Leaving the jumper in place will cause the GFDI fuse to open. The controller will not operate
and will display the symptoms of a ground fault shutdown.
Ground Fault Detection and Interruption (GFDI)
If a ground-fault event occurs, the controller’s GFDI fuse will open. The FLEXmax 100 GFDI circuit
detects continuity across the fuse. Lack of continuity will cause the charge controller to shut down. If the
fuse is not initially installed, the controller will be unable to operate. In either case the LED indicators and
the system display will show GFDI Fault. (See pages 30 and 38.) See the Troubleshooting section on
page 58 if this occurs.
If multiple controllers are used on a common system, all but one fuse must be removed. The other
controllers will detect the continuity of the remaining fuse. All units will then respond equally to a ground
fault. Figure 6 shows fuse removal or replacement. Note that the bonding jumpers are not removed.
A
Battery –
Ground