Solis 4G Mini Single Phase Inverter

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Description

The Solis 4G mini series single phase inverters integrate DRM and backflow power control functions, suitable for smart grid requirements. The series includes eight models: Solis-mini-700-4G, Solis-mini-1000-4G, Solis-mini-1500-4G, Solis-mini-2000-4G, Solis-mini-2500-4G, Solis-mini-3000-4G, Solis-mini-3600-4G, and Solis-mini-1000-4G-LV.

The front panel features LED lights, an LCD display, and four control buttons (ESC, UP, DOWN, ENTER).

1.2 Packaging

Upon receiving the inverter, ensure all the following parts are included:

• PV grid tie inverter (1)
• Wall/pole bracket (1)
• Locking screws (2)
• DC connector (1 pair for 0.7~3.0kW, 2 pairs for 3.6kW)
• AC connector (1)
• RJ45 connector (1) (For UK and Belgium)
• WiFi/GPRS Stick (Optional) (1)
• Manual (1)
• CT with cable (Optional) (1)

2. Safety Instructions

Improper use may result in electric shock hazards or burns. This manual contains important safety instructions that should be followed during installation and maintenance. Read these instructions carefully before use and keep them for future reference.

2.1 Safety Symbols

• WARNING: Indicates important safety instructions; failure to follow could result in serious injury or death.
• NOTE: Indicates important safety instructions; failure to follow could result in damage or destruction of the inverter.
• CAUTION, RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK: Indicates important safety instructions; failure to follow could result in electric shock.
• CAUTION, HOT SURFACE: Indicates safety instructions; failure to follow could result in burns.

2.2 General Safety Instructions

• Only devices compliant with SELV (EN 60950) may be connected to the RS485 and USB interfaces.
• Do not connect the PV array positive (+) or negative (-) to ground, as this can cause serious damage to the inverter.
• Electrical installations must comply with local and national electrical safety standards.
• Do not touch any live internal parts until 5 minutes after disconnecting from the utility grid and PV input.
• To reduce the risk of fire, over-current protective devices (OCPD) are required for circuits connected to the inverter. The DC OCPD must be installed per local requirements. All photovoltaic source and output circuit conductors must have disconnects complying with NEC Article 690, Part II. All Solis single phase inverters feature an integrated DC switch.
• Do not remove the cover; there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified and accredited service technicians.
• The PV array supplies a DC voltage when exposed to sunlight.
• Risk of electric shock from energy stored in capacitors exists. Do not remove the cover for 5 minutes after disconnecting all power sources. Warranty may be voided if the cover is removed without authorization.
• The inverter surface temperature can reach up to 75°C (167°F). Avoid touching the surface during operation to prevent burns. Keep the inverter out of reach of children.
• The PV module used with the inverter must have an IEC 61730 Class A rating.

2.3 Notice For Use

The inverter must be used in installations that meet the following specifications:

1. Permanent installation is required.
2. The electrical installation must meet all applicable regulations and standards.
3. The inverter must be installed according to the instructions in this manual and correct technical specifications.
4. To start the inverter, switch the Grid Supply Main Switch (AC) ON first, then switch the solar panel's DC isolator ON. To stop the inverter, switch the Grid Supply Main Switch (AC) OFF first, then switch the solar panel's DC isolator OFF.

3. Overview

3.1 Front Panel Display

The front panel includes POWER, OPERATION, and ALARM LEDs, along with ESC, UP, DOWN, and ENTER buttons.

3.2 LED Status Indicator Lights

The inverter has three LED status indicator lights:

• POWER (red): Indicates the power status (ON: DC power detected; OFF: No or low DC power).
• OPERATION (green): Indicates the operation status (ON: Operating properly; OFF: Stopped supplying power; FLASHING: Initializing).
• ALARM (yellow): Indicates alarm status (ON: Alarm or fault detected; OFF: Operating without fault or alarm).

3.3 Keypad

The four keys (ESC, UP, DOWN, ENTER) are used for scrolling through options and accessing settings.

3.4 LCD

The two-line Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) shows inverter status, data, service messages, and alarm indications.

4. Installation

4.1 Select a Location for the Inverter

Consider the following criteria when selecting an installation location:

• WARNING: Risk of fire: Do not install in areas with highly flammable materials or gases, or in potentially explosive atmospheres. Ensure adequate airflow around the inverter to prevent overheating.
• Avoid direct sunlight and rain, as this can increase operational temperature and potentially limit output power. Ginlong recommends using a sun shade if ambient air temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F).

4.2 Mounting the Inverter

The inverter must be mounted vertically on a wall or strong structure capable of bearing its weight, with a maximum incline of +/- 5°. Maintain a minimum clearance of 12 inches between inverters or objects, and 20 inches from the ground. Ensure visibility of the LED status lights and LCD. Adequate ventilation is crucial, especially in confined spaces. Do not store or place anything against the inverter.

Mounting Steps:

1. Select mounting height and mark holes according to the bracket dimensions. For brick walls, ensure holes are suitable for expansion bolts.
2. Ensure the bracket is horizontal and drill holes. Secure the bracket to the wall with suitable screws.
3. Lift the inverter, align the back bracket with the mounting bracket, and hang it securely.
4. Use M4*9 screws to lock the inverter to the mount bracket.

4.3 Electrical Connections

4.3.1 Connect PV side of inverter

1. Switch the Grid Supply Main Switch (AC) OFF.
2. Switch the DC Isolator OFF.
3. Assemble the PV input connector to the inverter.

WARNING: Before connecting, ensure the PV array open circuit voltage is within the inverter's limit (Maximum 600Vdc for specified models). Do not connect PV array positive or negative poles to ground.

Ensure the polarity of the PV array output voltage matches the "DC+" and "DC-" symbols. Use approved DC cable for PV systems.

DC Cable Assembly:

• Strip the DC wire (approx. 7mm) and disassemble the connector cap nut.
• Insert the wire into the connector cap nut and contact pin.
• Crimp the contact pin to the wire using a proper wire crimper.
• Insert the contact pin into the top part of the connector and screw up the cap nut.
• Connect the DC connectors to the inverter; a small click confirms connection.

Caution: If DC inputs are accidentally reversely connected or the inverter is faulty, do not turn off the DC switch. This can damage the inverter and cause a fire. Use a clip-on ammeter to measure DC string current. If it is above 0.5A, wait for solar irradiance to reduce until the current drops below 0.5A before turning off DC switches and disconnecting PV strings. Damages due to incorrect operations are not covered by warranty.

4.3.2 Connect grid side of inverter

Use 2.5-6mm² 105°C cable for AC connections. Ensure cable resistance is below 1 ohm. For wires longer than 20m, use 6mm² cable.

WARNING: Connect the Line wire to "L", Neutral wire to "N", and Earth to "<0xF0><0x9F><0xAA><0xA8>" terminals.

AC Cable Assembly:

• Disassemble the AC connector and strip AC wires (approx. 6mm).
• Connect the green and yellow wire to the ground terminal, the red/brown wire to the L terminal, and the blue wire to the N terminal. Tighten screws securely.
• Tighten the cap on the terminal.
• Connect the AC grid terminal connector to the inverter; a small click confirms connection.

Note for Split Phase Grid: For 208/220/240V split phase, connect L1 to "L", L2 to "N", and earth to the ground terminal.

4.3.3 External ground connection

An external ground connection is provided on the right side of the inverter. Use M4 OT terminals and crimp the lug to the terminal.

4.3.4 Max. overcurrent protection device (OCPD)

Solis recommends installing breakers to protect AC grid connection conductors against overcurrent. The table below lists OCPD ratings for Solis mini single phase inverters.

4.3.5 Inverter monitoring connection

The inverter can be monitored via Wi-Fi or GPRS using optional Solis communication devices. Refer to the Solis Monitoring Device installation manuals for connection instructions.

4.3.6 Electrical connection diagram

A DC isolator is required between the PV panels and the inverter. The diagram shows a simple guidance for installing a solar system with a PV inverter, including main switch, solar supply main switch, isolation device, inverter, and load connections.

4.3.7 Meter Connection (optional)

The inverter supports export limitation functionality. A power meter or CT must be installed for this feature. The meter can be single-direction (load side) or dual-direction (grid side). Refer to sections 6.5.11.1.2 and 6.5.11.1.3 for wiring and configuration.

4.3.8 CT connections (optional)

For export limitation, a CT must be installed around the live conductor on the grid side of the main consumer unit. Ensure the CT's directional flow indication arrow points towards the grid. Refer to sections 6.5.11.1.4.1 and 6.5.11.1.4.2 for configuration.

4.3.9 Logic interface connection (For UK and Belgium)

For local regulations in the UK and Belgium, a logic interface is required. This can be operated by a simple switch or contactor. When the switch is closed, the inverter operates normally. When opened, output power reduces to zero within 5s. Pins 5 and 6 of the RJ45 terminal are used for this interface. Refer to chapter 6.5.8.1 to enable the logic interface function.

5. Start & Stop

5.1 Start the Inverter

1. Switch the grid supply main Switch (AC) ON.
2. Switch the DC switch ON. If PV array voltage is higher than the startup voltage, the inverter will turn on, and the red LED will light.
3. Once both DC and AC sides supply power, the inverter will check internal parameters and AC grid parameters. The green LED will flash, and the LCD will display "INITIALIZING".
4. After 30-300 seconds, the inverter will start generating power. The green LED will be continuously ON, and the LCD will display "GENERATING".

WARNING: Do not touch the inverter surface when operating, as it may be hot and cause burns.

5.1.1 Inverter working status

The inverter can indicate five statuses: Generating, LimBy Temp, LimByFreq, LimByVg, and LimByVar.

5.2 Stop the Inverter

1. Switch the Supply Main Switch (AC) OFF.
2. Wait 30 seconds, then switch the DC Switch OFF. All LEDs will turn off within one minute.

6. Operation

During normal operation, the display alternates between power and operation status every 10 seconds. Screens can be scrolled manually using the UP and DOWN keys. Press ENTER to access the Main Menu.

6.1 Main Menu

The Main Menu has four submenus: Information, Settings, Advanced Info., and Advanced Settings.

6.2 Information

The Information menu provides access to operational data. Selecting "Information" and scrolling allows viewing:

• V DC1, I_DC1: Input voltage and current.
• V Grid, I_Grid: Grid voltage and current.
• Status, Power: Inverter status and output power.
• F_Grid: Grid frequency.
• Total Energy: Total generated energy.
• This Month, Last Month: Monthly energy generation.
• Today, Yesterday: Daily energy generation.
• Inverter SN: Inverter serial number.
• Export_P, Export_I: Power and current of ERM.
• Work Mode, DRM Number: Inverter work mode and DRM number.
• Meter EnergyP: Active power measured by the meter.

6.2.1 Lock screen

Pressing the ESC key returns to the Main Menu. Pressing ENTER locks or unlocks the screen.

6.3 Settings

The Settings menu includes:

• Set Time: Allows setting the time and date.
• Set Address: Used to set the address for multi-inverter monitoring (default is "01").

6.4 Advanced Info. - Technicians Only

Access to this area requires a password (default "0010"). It provides information on:

• Alarm Message: Displays the 100 latest alarm messages.
• Running Message: Displays running messages like internal temperature and Standard NO.
• Version: Shows model and software versions.
• Daily Energy: Checks energy generation for a selected day.
• Monthly Energy and Yearly Energy: Checks energy generation for selected month and year.
• Daily Record: Shows history of changing settings.
• Communication Data: Displays internal inverter data.
• Warning Message: Displays the 100 latest warning messages.

6.5 Advanced Settings - Technicians Only

Access requires a password. Options include:

• Select Standard: Selects the grid's reference standard (e.g., AS4777-02, VDE4105). The "User-Def" function allows manual adjustment of limits, but requires service engineer access and local supplier approval.
• Grid ON/OFF: Starts or stops power generation.
• Clear Energy: Resets the inverter's yield history.
• Reset Password: Sets a new password for "Advanced Info." and "Advanced Settings".
• Power Control: Sets active and reactive power.
• Calibrate Energy: Revises the total energy value.
• Special Settings: For maintenance personnel only.
• STD. Mode Settings: Includes Working mode, Power Rate limit, Freq. Derate set, 10mins OV-G-V set, and Initial Settings.
• Enable logic interface settings: Configures the logic interface for DRM functionality (set to "ON" for DRM).
• Restore Settings: Resets special settings to default.
• HMI Update: Updates the LCD program.
• Internal EPM Set: Configures EPM settings (Model Select, Set Backflow Power, Fail safe ON/OFF).
• External EPM Set: For use with Solis external EPM devices (5G-EPM or Others-EPM).
• Restart HMI: Restarts the HMI.
• Debug Parameter: For manufacturer maintenance personnel.
• DSP Update: Updates the DSP.
• Power Parameter: Calibrates inverter output energy.

7. Maintenance

The Solis Mini Single Phase 4G Inverter requires minimal maintenance. Cleaning dust from the heat-sink with a soft brush can help dissipate heat and increase lifespan.

CAUTION: Turn off the inverter and wait for a cool-down period before performing any maintenance. Do not touch the inverter's surface when operating.

NOTE: Never use solvents, abrasives, or corrosive materials for cleaning.

8. Troubleshooting

The inverter is designed to meet international grid-tied standards. In case of failure, the LCD screen will display an alarm message, potentially stopping grid feed-in. Table 8.1 lists alarm messages, failure descriptions, and solutions.

Common alarm messages include:

• No power: Check PV input connections, DC input voltage, and PV+/- polarity.
• LCD initializing all the time: Check connector fixation on the main board and power board, and DSP connector.
• Over grid voltage/frequency: Adjust protection limits per local requirements or use user-defined functions.
• Reverse-GRID/Reverse-DC: Check AC and DC connector polarity.
• No grid voltage: Check connections and grid switch, and verify grid voltage at the inverter terminal.
• Over DC voltage/bus voltage: Reduce the number of modules in series.
• Over grid current/IGBT current: Check inverter inductor and driver connections.
• DC input overcurrent: Restart inverter or change power board.
• Grid current tracking fail: Restart inverter or contact installer.
• Over Temperature: Check inverter ventilation and ensure it's not exposed to direct sunlight in hot weather.
• INI-FAULT/DSP-B-FAULT/12Power-FAULT: Restart inverter or contact installer.
• PV ISO-PRO: Check PV isolation protection. Remove all DC input, reconnect, and restart one by one. Identify the faulty string and check its isolation.
• Leakage current protection: Check AC and DC connections and internal cable connections.
• RelayChk-FAIL: Restart inverter or contact installer.
• DCinj-FAULT: Restart inverter or contact installer.
• Screen OFF with DC applied: Do not turn off DC switches. Wait for irradiance to reduce, confirm string current is below 0.5A, then turn off DC switches. Damages from incorrect operations are not covered by warranty.

If the failure persists after restarting, contact your local distributor or service center. Provide the serial number, installation date, alarm message, PV array configuration, and your contact details.

9. Specifications

The specifications for various Solis 4G Mini Single Phase Inverter models are detailed below:

[1]: For Brazil products, the certificated PF range is 0.9 leading~0.9 lagging, but the actual range is 0.8 leading~0.8lagging.

Installation environment caution

Ginlong Solis installation parameters require adherence to local regulatory requirements, Australian Standards, and CEC guidelines. Consult technical data regarding environmental elements like sun exposure, heat, light, rain, noise, and airflow. Installations with unprotected exposure to direct sunlight must be avoided to prevent warranty voidance due to compromised operational life, component damage, decreased energy production, or overheating.

Installation Environment Cautions:

• Avoid small rooms, cupboards, or confined spaces with restricted airflow.
• Ensure unrestricted airflow around the inverter to prevent overheating.
• Do not install above heat sources like heating or air-conditioning units.
• Avoid installing on unprotected, exposed north or west-facing walls.
• Do not install directly onto flammable wall surfaces like wooden cladding; use a cement sheet barrier.
• Do not install in rooms or on walls directly abutting areas used for prolonged periods by people (e.g., bedroom walls).

Note: This product contains lethal voltages and must only be installed by qualified and accredited electrical or service personnel experienced with lethal voltages. Ginlong Technologies is not liable for defects or malfunctions arising from improper use, incorrect maintenance, tampering, or installation by unqualified persons.