Use and Care Manual

6
STEP 3: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
There are two main types of multiple panel connections: SERIAL and
PARALLEL. The essential difference between them is how the power the
modules generate is combined.
SERIAL connection combines the
voltage of each connected module, while the amperage (or current)
remains the same as a single module would produce. For example,
three 100 watt modules connected in series may produce 18.5 volts
each at 5.4 amps; the total voltage output for all three would be 55.5
volts at 5.4 amps.
PARALLEL connection, however, combines the
current of each connected module, while the voltage remains the same
as a single module would produce. For example, the same three 100
watt modules connected in parallel together would produce 18.5 volts
but at 16.2 amps. Whether you choose to use
SERIAL or PARALLEL
connection will depend on your individual needs and is beyond the
scope of this manual. The following information covers how to connect
multiple panels to each other in a basic configuration for both
SERIAL
and PARALLEL connections.
MULTIPLE PANELS:
SERIAL CONNECTION
Exacly how you connect your panels will vary based on how your overall
system is designed. There are many different products that can be
connected to your panel; all diagrams are shown using a Ramsond
SunShield Charge Controller, which is purchased separately, and a
battery. Charge controllers are highly recommended for multiple panel
use to regulate the flow of power and to ensure nothing is damaged
during operation.
To connect panels that do not come pre-wired,
slide open the cover on
the junction box of your first panel. Once open, run a wire through
each rubber wiring guide along the bottom, one for the positive
flow and one for the negative flow. Once there is enough exposed
wire near each terminal screw in the junction box,
secure the end of
one wire to the positive terminal using the screw; then secure the
other wire to the negative terminal using the other screw. Then,
pull any excess wiring through the rubber guides, leaving a small
amount of slack near the secured ends. Once you have connected both
the positive and negative wires in the junction box and run them through
the wiring guides,
close the junction box by snapping the cover back
into place securely. Using the diagram shown at right as a reference,
connect the positive wire from the first panel to the negative termi-
nal of the second panel inside the junction box, using the above
instructions on accessing the terminal screws inside. If connecting more
than two panels, repeat the process of connecting each successive
panel’s positive wire to the next panel’s negative terminal until you reach
the end of the module array. Finally,
connect the last panel’s positive
wire and the first panel’s negative wire to your desired power
controller or battery system. Proceed to connect any additional wiring
from whichever component your panels are now connected to. You may
remove the opaque covering from your solar modules and they will
begin working. Your serial connection solar panel system is now
complete.
To connect pre-wired solar panels in series, you may
simply plug in the
positive and negative cables between each panel using the
diagram as a reference. Once you are ready to connect the array to
the other components,
plug the first panel’s negative lead and the
last panel’s positive lead into your power controller or battery
system. Whichever component you have will need to be wired with
corresponding MC4 connectors, however, which is beyond the scope of
this manual. Consult an experienced solar power equipment technician
or service provider to do this for you if needed.
IP 65 1000 VDC 4mm
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IP 65 1000 VDC 4mm
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CHARGE
CONTROLLER
SERIAL
CONNECTION