Solis S5 Single Phase Inverter Installation and Operation Manual

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Description

Solis S5 Single Phase Inverters integrate DRM and backflow power control function, suitable for smart grid requirements. This manual covers the S5 Single Phase Inverter models: S5-GR1P2.5K, S5-GR1P3K, S5-GR1P3.6K, S5-GR1P4K, S5-GR1P4.6K, S5-GR1P5K, S5-GR1P6K.

Front Panel View: Features LED lights, an LCD display, and 4 buttons.

Bottom View: Includes CT or Meter input, DC Switch, DRM port, DC input, RS 485 communication port, and AC output.

1.2 Packaging

When you receive the inverter, please ensure all parts are included:

• Inverter x1
• Back plate x1
• Fastening screw x2
• DC connector x2
• AC connector x1
• RJ45 connector x1
• WiFi/GPRS Stick x1 (Optional)
• User manual x1

If any parts are missing, please contact your local Solis distributor.

1.3 Product Storage

If the inverter is not to be installed immediately, follow these storage instructions and environmental conditions:

• Use the original box to repackage the inverter, seal with adhesive tape, and ensure the desiccant is inside.
• Store in a clean, dry place, free of dust and dirt.
• Storage temperature: -40°C to 70°C. Humidity: 0-95% non-condensing.
• Stack no more than four (4) inverters high.
• Keep boxes away from corrosive materials.
• Inspect packaging regularly. If damaged, repackage immediately.
• Store on a flat, hard surface, not inclined or upside down.
• After long-term storage, the inverter must be examined and tested by qualified personnel before use.
• Restarting after a long period of non-use may require inspection and removal of oxidation/dust.

2. Safety Instructions

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 ⚠️: Indicates important safety instructions; failure to follow could result in electric shock.
• CAUTION ⚠️: Indicates safety instructions; failure to follow could result in burns.

2.2 General Safety Instructions

• WARNING: Only devices compliant with SELV (EN 69050) may be connected to RS485 and USB interfaces.
• WARNING: Do not connect the PV array positive (+) or negative (-) to ground, as this could cause serious damage to the inverter.
• NOTE: The PV module used with the inverter must have an IEC 61730 Class A rating.
• WARNING: Electrical installations must comply with local and national electrical safety standards.
• WARNING: Do not touch any inner live parts until 5 minutes after disconnection from the utility grid and PV input.
• CAUTION: Risk of electric shock. Do not remove the cover; there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified technicians.
• WARNING: Over-current protective devices (OCPD) are required for circuits connected to the inverter to reduce fire risk. DC OCPDs must be installed per local requirements. All photovoltaic conductors must have disconnects complying with NEC Article 690, Part II. Solis S5 Single Phase Inverters feature an integrated DC switch.
• CAUTION: The PV array supplies DC voltage when exposed to sunlight.
• CAUTION: The inverter surface temperature can exceed 75°C (167°F). Do not touch the surface when operating to avoid burns. Keep the inverter out of reach of children.
• CAUTION: Risk of electric shock from energy stored in capacitors. Wait 5 minutes after disconnecting all power sources before removing the cover. Warranty may be voided if the cover is removed without authorization.

2.3 Notice For Use

The inverter is constructed according to applicable safety and technical guidelines. Use it only in installations meeting the following criteria:

• Permanent installation is required.
• Electrical installation must meet all applicable regulations and standards.
• Install according to the instructions in this manual and correct technical specifications.
• Startup: Switch the AC Main Switch ON first, then the DC isolator ON.
• Shutdown: Switch the AC Main Switch OFF first, then the DC isolator OFF.
• Single-phase inverters can be used in parallel per AS/NZS 4777.1 requirements.
• Single-phase inverters cannot be used in multiple-phase installations.

2.4 Notice for Disposal

This product must not be disposed of with household waste. It should be segregated and brought to an appropriate collection point for recycling to avoid environmental and human health impacts. Respect local waste management rules. ⏳

3. Overview

3.1 Front Panel Display

The front panel displays POWER and ALARM indicators, along with ESC, UP, DOWN, and ENTER buttons.

3.2 LED Status Indicator Lights

3.3 Keypad

The front panel has four keys: ESC, UP, DOWN, and ENTER. These are used for scrolling through options and modifying settings.

3.4 LCD

The two-line LCD displays inverter operation status, data, service messages, and alarm/fault indications.

4. Installation

4.1 Select a Location for the Inverter

Consider the following criteria when selecting a location:

• WARNING: Risk of fire
• Do not install in areas with flammable materials or gases, or in potentially explosive atmospheres.
• Ensure free air circulation to avoid overheating. Do not block airflow.
• Avoid direct sunlight and rain to prevent output power limiting and overheating.
• Consider ambient air temperature; use a sun shade if ambient temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F).

Recommended Installation Locations: Diagrams illustrate suitable locations under various conditions (e.g., sunny, rainy, windy).

4.2 Mounting the Inverter

Mounting Clearance:

• Install on a wall or strong structure capable of bearing the inverter's weight.
• Mount vertically with a maximum incline of +/- 5°.
• Maintain a minimum 12-inch clearance between inverters or objects.
• Ensure 20 inches clearance from the ground to the bottom of the inverter.
• Ensure 12 inches clearance from the front of the inverter to any object.

Mounting Steps:

1. Select mounting height and mark holes on the wall (consider expansion bolts for brick walls).
2. Ensure the bracket is horizontal, drill holes at the marks.
3. Fix the bracket to the wall using suitable expansion screws.
4. Lift the inverter, align the back bracket with the mounting bracket, and hang securely. Use M4*9 screws to lock the inverter to the bracket.

NOTE: Nothing should be stored on or placed against the inverter.

Visibility of the LED status indicator lights and LCD should be considered. Adequate ventilation is required for confined spaces.

4.3 Electrical Connections

The inverter uses quick-connect terminals. Refer to Table 4.1 for connection symbols:

4.3.1 Connect PV side of inverter

Follow these steps:

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

Before connecting: Ensure the PV array open circuit voltage is within the inverter's limit (Maximum 600Vdc for specified models).

NOTE: Verify the polarity of the PV array output voltage matches the DC+ and DC- symbols.

WARNING: Do not connect the PV array positive or negative pole to ground, as this can cause serious damage to the inverter.

DC Connector Assembly

Use approved DC cable for PV systems. Recommended cable cross-section is 4.0mm².

Assembly Steps:

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

CAUTION: If DC inputs are reversed or the inverter is faulty, do not turn off the DC switch, as this can cause DC arc and damage the inverter or lead to fire. Follow these correct actions:

• Use a clip-on ammeter to measure DC string current.
• If current is above 0.5A, wait for solar irradiance to reduce the current to below 0.5A.
• Only then, turn off DC switches and disconnect PV strings.
• To completely eliminate failure possibility, disconnect PV strings after turning off the DC switch to avoid secondary failures due to continuous PV energy.

Damages due to incorrect operations are not covered by warranty.

4.3.2 Connect grid side of inverter

Use 2.5-6mm² cable for AC connections. Cable resistance should be lower than 1 ohm. For wires longer than 20m, use 6mm² cable.

Connect the Line wire to 'L', Neutral wire to 'N', and Earth wire to 'PE' terminals.

AC Connector Assembly Steps:

1. Disassemble the AC connector and strip AC wires (approx. 7mm).
2. Fix wires into correct position with a torque of 0.8N.m. Ensure connection is secure by trying to pull the wire.
3. Insert Seal and Clamp Finger into the body, then tighten the nut to 2.5+/-0.5N·m.
4. Mate the plug and socket by pushing the locker completely and rotating it according to the marks.

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. Use OT terminals (M4), crimp the lug, and connect to the inverter's right side with a torque of 2N.m.

4.3.4 Max. over current protection device (OCPD)

Solis recommends installing breakers for overcurrent protection. Table 4.3 lists OCPD ratings for Solis S5 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.

Communication Function: Diagram illustrates connections for Wi-Fi and GPRS monitoring, including Router, Internet, Wi-Fi box, Smart phone monitoring, Web server, and PC monitoring.

4.3.6 Electrical connection diagram

Figure 4.21 provides a simple guidance for installing a solar system with a PV inverter. A DC isolator is required between the PV panels and the inverter.

4.3.7 Meter Connection (optional)

The inverter can work with a single-phase smart meter for Export Power Management and/or 24-hour consumption monitoring.

NOTE: Inverters are classified as 'Meter Model' or 'CT Model' based on hardware differences. Meter Models connect to smart meters; CT Models connect to smart sensors. Consult Solis Sales Rep.

NOTE: For Export Power Management, the smart meter can be on the grid or load side. For 24-hour consumption monitoring, it must be on the grid side.

Supported Meters:

• Direct Insert Type Meter (Max input current 60A, Model: DDSD1352-C)
• External CT Type Meter (120A/40mA CT supplied, Model: ACR10RD16TE)

Connection diagrams for Direct Insert Type Meters ('Meter in Grid' and 'Meter in Load') are provided.

4.3.8 CT connections (optional)

The inverter can work with a smart sensor for Export Power Management function.

NOTE: Smart sensors must be installed on the grid side. Consult Solis Sales Rep.

Connection diagram for a Smart Sensor is provided.

4.3.9 External Residual Current Device (RCD)

Solis inverters have an integrated RCD. If local regulations require an external RCD, Solis recommends a Type-A RCD with a threshold current higher than 100mA.

4.3.10 DRED port connections

DRED (Demand Response Enable Device) is required for AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 and supports Demand Response Mode (DRM). An RJ45 terminal is used for DRM connection.

NOTE: Solis inverters provide 12V power for DRED.

RJ45 Connector Assembly:

1. Insert the network cable into the RJ45 terminal.
2. Strip the insulation layer of the communication cable.
3. Connect wires to the RJ45 plug according to the standard line sequence (refer to Figure 4.28).
4. Use a network cable crimping tool to secure the connection.
5. Connect the RJ45 to the DRM port.

4.3.11 Earth Fault Alarm

Solis inverters comply with IEC62109-2 for earth fault detection. If an earth fault occurs on the PV side, the yellow alarm indicator flashes, and the LCD displays 'PVISO-PRO'. The inverter cannot start generating until the fault is resolved. Refer to the troubleshooting section.

5. Start & Stop

5.1 Start the Inverter

Follow these steps to start the inverter:

1. Switch the AC Main Switch ON.
2. Switch the DC Switch ON. The inverter will turn on if PV array voltage is higher than the startup voltage; the red POWER LED will light.
3. When both DC and AC sides supply power, the inverter is ready. It checks internal and grid parameters. The green LED flashes, and the LCD shows 'INITIALIZING'.
4. After 30-300 seconds, the inverter starts generating power. The green LED stays ON, and the LCD shows 'GENERATING'.

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

5.2 Stop the Inverter

Follow these steps in order:

1. Select 'Grid Off' in the inverter's LCD Advanced Setting.
2. Turn OFF the AC Switch between the inverter and the Grid.
3. Wait approximately 30 seconds for AC side capacitors to dissipate energy. The red POWER LED may light if DC voltage is above the startup threshold. Switch the DC Switch OFF.
4. Confirm all LEDs are OFF (approximately 1 minute).

CAUTION: Even if all LEDs are OFF, wait five (5) minutes after disconnecting the DC power source before opening the inverter cabinet, as DC side capacitors can take up to five (5) minutes to dissipate stored energy.

6. Operation

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

6.1 Main Menu

The Main Menu has four submenus:

• Information
• Settings
• Advanced Info.
• Advanced Settings

6.2 Information

Access operational data by selecting 'Information' and scrolling.

6.2.1 Lock screen

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

6.3 Settings

The Settings menu includes:

• 1. Set Time
• 2. Set Address

6.3.1 Set Time

Allows setting the time and date. Use UP/DOWN keys to adjust digits and ENTER to move between them. Press ESC to save and return.

6.3.2 Set Address

Used to set the address for multi-inverter monitoring (01-99). Default is '01'. Use UP/DOWN to set and ENTER to save.

6.4 Advanced Info - Technicians Only

NOTE: Access is restricted to qualified and accredited technicians. Requires password entry.

The default password is '0010'.

After entering the correct password, the following information is accessible:

• Alarm Message
• Running message
• Version
• Daily Energy
• Monthly Energy
• Yearly Energy
• Daily Record
• Communication Data
• Warning Message
• Inspection

Screens can be scrolled manually. ENTER accesses submenus; ESC returns to the Main Menu.

6.4.1 Alarm Message

Displays the 100 latest alarm messages. Screens are scrollable.

6.4.2 Running Message

Provides running messages for maintenance personnel (e.g., internal temperature, standard number).

6.4.3 Version

Shows the inverter's model and software version.

6.4.4 Daily Energy

Check energy generation for a selected day. Use UP/DOWN to select date and ENTER to confirm.

6.4.5 Monthly Energy

Check energy generation for a selected month. Use UP/DOWN to select month and ENTER to confirm.

6.4.6 Yearly Energy

Check energy generation for a selected year. Use UP/DOWN to select year and ENTER to confirm.

6.4.7 Daily record

Shows history of settings changes (for maintenance personnel only).

6.4.8 Communication Data

Displays internal inverter data for service technicians.

6.4.9 Warning Message

Displays the 100 latest warning messages. Screens are scrollable.

6.4.10 Inspection

Used to check the current standard and enabled working mode.

6.5 Advanced Settings - Technicians Only

NOTE: Access is restricted to qualified and accredited technicians. Follow Section 6.4 to enter the password.

Select 'Advanced Settings' from the Main Menu to access options such as:

• Select Standard
• Grid ON/OFF
• 24H Switch
• Clear Energy
• Reset Password
• Power Control
• Calibrate Energy
• Special Settings
• STD. Mode Settings
• Restore Settings
• HMI Update
• Internal EPM Set
• External EPM Set
• Restart HMI
• Debug Parameter
• DSP Update
• Power Parameter

6.5.1 Selecting Standard

Select the grid's reference standard (e.g., AS/NZS 4777.2:2020 standards A, B, C, N; AS/NZS 4777.2:2015 standard AS4777-15).

NOTE: Firmware version can be checked here. 'A2' is the current version for AS/NZS 4777.2:2020.

NOTE: This function is for technicians only.

6.5.2 Grid ON/OFF

Used to start or stop the inverter's power generation.

6.5.3 24H Switch

Controls the 24-hour consumption function (enable/disable).

NOTE: When enabled, the inverter LCD remains active at night. If the grid malfunctions, the system may not recover automatically after grid restoration, but consumption data is recorded. The system restarts at sunrise, and meter data is uploaded for calibration.

6.5.4 Clear Energy

Resets the inverter's history yield. This function is for maintenance personnel only.

6.5.5 Reset Password

Sets a new password for 'Advanced Info.' and 'Advanced Information' menus.

6.5.6 Power control

Allows setting active and reactive power. Options include setting output power, reactive power, and power factor curves. This function is for maintenance personnel only.

6.5.7 Calibrate Energy

Allows recalibrating the total energy value if it differs due to maintenance or replacement. Data synchronizes with the monitoring website.

6.5.8 Special Settings

This function is for maintenance personnel only.

6.5.9 STD Mode settings

Contains 10 settings, including Working Mode Set, Power Rate Limit, Freq Derate Set, etc.

6.5.9.1 Working Mode Set

For Solis AU versions, modes include NULL, P Mode Settings (Volt-Watt), and Q Mode Settings.

• NULL: Inverter operates without a specific working mode.
• P Mode Settings (Volt-Watt): Inverter adjusts active output power based on grid voltage.
• Q Mode Settings: Includes modes like Disable, Volt-Var, Fixed-PF, Reac-Power, P-factor.

6.5.10 Restore Settings

Resets all special settings to their default values.

6.5.11 HMI Update

Used for updating the LCD program. This function is for maintenance personnel only.

6.5.12 Internal EPM Set

This section covers Export Power Management (EPM) and 24-Hour Consumption Monitoring using smart meters or sensors.

• Function 1: Internal Export Power Management: Dynamically limits export power using a smart meter or sensor to achieve zero injection.
• Function 2: 24 Hour Consumption Monitoring: Monitors load consumption data via a smart meter for the Solis monitoring system.

User Scenarios: Instructions are provided for using Function 1 only or both Functions 1 and 2.

6.5.12.1 Mode Select

Selects the EPM mode: EPM OFF, Meter in Load, Meter in Grid, Consumption Monitor, or Current sensor.

NOTE: For 'Current sensor' mode, sub-settings include 'CT Sampling Ratio' and 'CT Link Test'.

• CT Sampling Ratio: Defines the CT sampling ratio. Default is 3000:1.
• CT Link Test: Checks CT direction. Requires specific conditions for validity.

6.5.12.2 Soft Hard Lmt Set

Configures Soft Backflowpower, Hard Limit, and Hard Backflowpower for export control.

NOTE: Positive values allow export; negative values indicate stricter control.

6.5.12.3 Fail safe ON/OFF

Activates an alarm (and stops generation) if the CT/Meter connection is lost, preventing potential backflow power.

NOTE: Mandatory in UK (G100 regulation). Optional elsewhere. Behavior differs if failsafe is ON or OFF when connection is lost.

6.5.12.4 Meter Select

Defines the correct meter connected to the inverter. For single-phase inverters, select '1PH Meter' and the corresponding model.

6.5.13 External EPM Set

Use only when Solis external EPM device is connected. Options: 5G-EPM or Others-EPM.

6.5.14 Restart HMI

Restarts the HMI. For maintenance personnel only.

6.5.15 Debug Parameter

For manufacturer maintenance personnel only.

6.5.16 DSP Update

Updates the DSP. For maintenance personnel only.

6.5.17 Power Parameter

Calibrates inverter output energy. For grid operators; do not change.

6.6 AFCI function

The built-in AFCI function detects DC arc faults and shuts down the inverter to prevent fires.

6.6.1 Enable the AFCI function

Path: Advanced Setting -> Password: 0010 -> Special Settings -> AFCI Set -> AFCI ON/OFF -> ON.

WARNING: The 'AFCI Level' is reserved for Solis technicians. Do not change sensitivity to avoid false alarms or malfunctions. Solis is not responsible for damages from unauthorized modifications.

NOTE: The setting reflects the current ON/OFF status of the AFCI function.

6.6.2 Arc Fault

If a DC arc is detected during normal operation, the inverter shuts down and displays an alarm (e.g., 'ARC-FAULT').

Resolution: Inspect the DC circuit, ensure cables are fastened. After fixing the issue, press 'ESC' for 3 seconds to restart the inverter.

7. Maintenance

The Solis S5 Single Phase Inverter requires no regular maintenance. Cleaning dust from the heat sink with a soft brush can help dissipate heat and prolong its life.

CAUTION: Do not touch the inverter surface when operating, as parts may be hot. Turn off the inverter (Section 5.2) and wait for it to cool down before maintenance.

The LCD and LED status indicator lights can be cleaned with a damp cloth.

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

8. Troubleshooting

The inverter is designed to meet international standards. In case of failure, the LCD displays an alarm message, and the inverter may stop feeding into the grid. Table 8.1 lists common alarm messages, failure descriptions, and solutions.

NOTE: If an alarm message appears, turn off the inverter, wait 5 minutes, then restart. If the failure persists, contact your local distributor or service center. Have the following information ready: Serial number, distributor/dealer, installation date, problem description (alarm, LEDs, readings), PV array configuration, and your contact details.

9. Specifications

Detailed specifications for Solis S5 Single Phase Inverter models:

S5-GR1P2.5K

S5-GR1P3K

S5-GR1P3.6K

S5-GR1P4K

S5-GR1P4.6K

S5-GR1P5K

S5-GR1P6K

10. Appendix

10.1 Built-In DC Isolator Specification

A DC-PV2 switch, complied to AS60947.3:2018, is used as the isolating device within the inverter. Ratings are as follows: