BRConnect Gateway Instruction Manual

1. Scope of Delivery

The package includes:

• BRConnect
• Wall mount
• Power supply
• Instruction manual
• Mounting kit

Required Tools & Accessories:

• Hammer
• Drill & Pencil
• Torx T20 screwdriver
• Spirit level
• Ethernet cable
• 230V socket

2. Safety Instructions

A) General

The BRConnect must only be operated in accordance with its intended use and the specified technical data. Please follow all instructions provided in this manual and the warning notices on the BRConnect itself. Warning notices must always be clearly legible and must not be removed or altered. Applicable local laws, regulations, directives, and standards must be prioritized for operation, installation, uninstallation, and maintenance. The safety instructions in this manual are not exhaustive and serve as supplementary information.

B) Electrical Specialists

All work related to the product must be carried out by qualified electricians who comply with national and regional regulations. Read and follow all instructions carefully before installation. If you have uncertainties or need detailed information, contact the service hotline. Electrical work must comply with the 5 safety rules of electrical engineering. Only install an intact BRConnect with a complete scope of delivery. Use only the included accessories, especially the power supply. Do not modify the BRConnect. Pay particular attention to running voltage-free string cables through the BRConnect during assembly to prevent electric shocks.

C) End User

Under no circumstances should you carry out any work on the BRConnect yourself. Do not open the housing. Keep this instruction manual available for all product-related activities.

3. Product Overview

A) Assembly

The BRConnect is a gateway that, in combination with the M600-M and the BRC Power Manager, is used for data monitoring of the photovoltaic system at module level. Data from the M600-M is communicated to the BRConnect using powerline communication via DC cables and processed there. The end user can view this data via the BRC Power Manager App, making it possible to monitor the photovoltaic system.

For intended use, a fixed installation by a qualified electrician is required. Ensure compliance with specified technical data:

• The BRConnect is rated protection class IP40 and is intended for indoor use. Keep the device away from liquids, humidity, heat sources, and direct sunlight.
• The product is designed for ambient temperatures from -20°C to +55°C.
• The product is only approved for operation up to 2,000m above sea level.

The BRConnect has Ethernet and WiFi interfaces to provide data to the BRC Power Manager.

• WiFi standard: WiFi 4; 802.11n
• WiFi frequency range: 2.4 GHz

Deviating from the described use is considered improper use. The manufacturer assumes no liability for damage caused by improper use. Refer to the limited product warranty at https://brc-solar.de/downloads/.

B) Intended Use

The BRConnect is a gateway that, in combination with the M600-M and the BRC Power Manager, is used for data monitoring of the photovoltaic system at module level. Data from the M600-M is communicated to the BRConnect using powerline communication via DC cables and processed there. The end user can view this data via the BRC Power Manager App, making it possible to monitor the photovoltaic system.

In order to use the product as intended, a fixed installation is required, which must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with the explanations under point 4. When setting up the BRConnect, please ensure compliance with the specified technical data. Pay particular attention to the following information:

• The BRConnect is rated protection class IP40 and is therefore intended for indoor use. Please keep the device away from liquids, humidity and heat sources as well as direct sunlight.
• The product is designed for operation at ambient temperatures of -20°C to +55°C.
• The product is only approved for operation up to 2,000m above sea level.

The BRConnect has Ethernet and WiFi interfaces to provide the data to the BRC Power Manager.

• WiFi standard: WiFi 4; 802.11n
• WiFi frequency range: 2.4 GHz

If the use deviates from the use explained here, this is considered improper use. The manufacturer assumes no liability for damage caused by improper use. The information in the limited product warranty applies (https://brc-solar.de/downloads/).

C) LED Overview

4. Installation

1. Attach the wall mount: Mark the position with a pencil and spirit level, drill 4 holes (size 6mm) and sink 4 dowel pins, mount the wall mount with 4 screws, washers and a screwdriver.
2. Clip BRConnect onto the designated pins of the wall mount: Press evenly on both sides until you hear a click.
3. Pass string cable through cable bushing: Make sure that the string cable is voltage-free when passing through. Pay attention to the correct connection arrangement of the string cables, otherwise errors or inoperability may occur. Note the sticker on the top and peel it off.
4. Connect 24V and Ethernet: The BRConnect LED lights up briefly in blue, then flashes slowly in blue and waits for Bluetooth connection. Connect the string cable to the inverter with DC-switch off: Pay attention to correct polarity. Connect the string cable to the PV system, then switch on the DC-side of the inverter.

5. App Power Manager / Power Manager App

1. Install App: Available on App Store and Play Store.
2. Register, log in, and click the plus symbol (+) to set up a new plant. Internet connection is required for this.
3. Fill in general information and owner information.
4. Enter solar module and inverter data and select whether a battery storage or a wallbox is integrated.
5. Select 'Start configuration' to continue the setup, or 'Save & configure later'. The optimizers must already be installed, and the BRConnect must be powered for further setup.
6. Connect the BRConnect to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet. The app will then search for the available optimizers. BRConnect automatically waits for Bluetooth connection after starting. Select the BRConnect via the app and connect.
7. Enter how many optimizers (M600-M) are connected per string.
8. Create a string plan using drag & drop and place the optimizers.
9. Successful completion of the setup.

6. Operation and Maintenance

Only clean the BRConnect with a dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning agents or solvents. The BRConnect is maintenance-free; if a problem persists, contact support.

7. Replacement and Repair

The steps for dismounting the BRConnect must be carried out in the reverse order of installation (see Chapter 4):

1. Switch off the DC-side of the inverter.
2. Ensure that the string cables are voltage-free.
3. Remove the power supply to disconnect the BRConnect from the circuit.
4. Remove the Ethernet cable.
5. Release the string cables from the cable bushings.
6. Dismount the BRConnect by evenly removing it straight from the wall mount.

Repairs must not be carried out.

8. Disposal

The transport packaging can be recycled under local waste disposal. After use, the BRConnect and all associated components are to be disposed of as electronic waste in accordance with the laws applicable in the country.

9. Product Compliance and Contact

BRC Solar GmbH, located at Gehrnstraße 7 in D-76275 Ettlingen, Germany, declares that the product BRConnect complies with the basic requirements of the national directives if the installation instructions are observed and the product is used as intended. A complete declaration of conformity can be found on the website (www.brc-solar.de) of BRC Solar GmbH.