Manuals+

APsystems ECU-C Energy Communication Unit

Installation / User Manual

Rev 1.5

© All Rights Reserved

Important Safety Instructions

Symbols replace words on the equipment, on a display, or in manuals:

1. Introduction

The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-C) is the information gateway for APsystems microinverters. It collects module performance data from each individual microinverter and transfers this information to an Internet database in real time. Through the APsystems Energy Monitoring and Analysis (EMA) software, the ECU-C provides precise analysis of each microinverter and module in your solar installation from any web-connected device. The ECU-C's integrated http webserver offers a simple and flexible network integration for data logging. The user-friendly browser-based interface allows quick access to your solar array.

Features:

The APsystems Microinverter system is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications and comprises three key elements:

Figure 1: Diagram illustrating the APsystems solar energy system architecture, showing PV modules connected to microinverters, which communicate with the ECU-C via Zigbee. The ECU-C connects to the internet via a router, allowing data to be sent to a server for monitoring via the EMA system. Also shown is the AC connection service.

2. Interface Explanation

2.1 Interface Layout

The ECU-C interface includes various ports. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate these ports.

Figure 2: Front view of the ECU-C showing ports from left to right: AC Input, Production CT, Consumption CT, Relay Output, Relay Feedback Input, and Reset button.

Figure 3: Rear view of the ECU-C showing ports from left to right: Port, DC, RS232, RS485, USB1, USB2, RJ45 Internet, and RJ45 Signal.

2.2 AC Input Port

The AC Input port connects power through the power line. For single-phase power, the L1 terminal must be connected.

Phase L1 L2 L3 N PE
Three Phase ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Single Phase ✔ ✗ ✗ ✔ ✔

NOTICE: The AC input power should be connected via a disconnector, especially when the current is larger than 1A.

2.3 DC Input Port

The DC Input port connects power through the 16V DC power line.

2.4 RJ45 Ethernet Network Port

The ECU-C allows communication with the EMA or login to the ECU-C's local page via the Ethernet network port, useful in the absence of wired LAN and WLAN. This port is used to set up the system and view system data.

NOTICE: Ethernet cable connection is recommended for stable communication.

2.5 RJ45 Signal (Only for Australia)

The RJ45 Signal port is designed for DRM0/5/6/7/8. It must be connected using the RJ45 connector provided in the package; otherwise, the inverters will not function correctly.

Figure 4: ECU-C unit with highlighted LED indicators and the RJ45 Signal port.

2.6 USB Interface

The USB interface is reserved for future use or specific functions.

2.7 Reset

Pressing the Reset button for three seconds or longer will automatically return the ECU-C to its default settings. The historical power generation data will not be cleared.

NOTICE: The historical power generation won't be cleared.

2.8 LED Indicators

3. Hardware Installation

3.1 Preparation

Before installing the ECU-C, ensure you have the following components:

3.2 Selecting an Installation Location for the ECU-C

1) Power Distribution Cabinet Installation

If installing the energy communicator in a power distribution cabinet:

Figure 5: Illustration showing the ECU-C unit being prepared for installation, with snap-fit mounts being released.

3.2.1 Mounting in a Cabinet

Figure 6: Diagram showing the attachment of mounting buckles to the ECU-C guide for cabinet installation.

NOTICE: Do not place the antennas inside a metal box, as this will block the signal.

2) Using a Wall Mount

When mounting the ECU-C to a wall, select a cool, dry indoor location.

Figure 7: Diagram indicating the dimensions for wall mounting the ECU-C, showing hole spacing of 110mm and 129.4mm.

3.3 Cable Connections

Figure 8: Illustration of the ECU-C unit highlighting the Power Connection Port on the top and the Network port on the bottom.

3.4 RJ45 Signal Connection

Plug the provided RJ45 connector into the RJ45 Signal port.

3.5 Internet Connection

There are three methods to connect the ECU-C to the Internet:

Option 1: Direct LAN Cable Connection

  1. Ensure the LAN cable is connected to the network port on the bottom of the ECU-C.
  2. Connect the LAN cable to a spare port on the broadband router.

Option 2: Wireless Connection

Utilize the ECU-C's internal WLAN. Refer to the section "Managing the WLAN Connection" (page 23) for details.

Figure 9: Diagram showing the ECU-C connected wirelessly to a router.

Option 3: Using a PLC Bridge

  1. Ensure the LAN cable is connected to the network port on the bottom of the ECU-C.
  2. Connect the LAN cable to the "send" unit of the PLC bridge.
  3. Connect a LAN cable from the "receive" unit of the PLC bridge to a spare port on the broadband router. Refer to the bridge user's manual for specific operating instructions.

Figure 10: Diagram illustrating the PLC bridge connection, where the ECU-C connects to a "send" unit, which communicates via power lines to a "receive" unit connected to the router.

NOTICE: The network cable can be used to connect the ECU-C directly to a PC. Connect one side to the ECU-C and the other to the PC. Then, change the IP address to 192.168.131.1 and the network mask to 255.255.255.0.

NOTICE: A PLC bridge uses power lines for communication and requires both a "send" and "receive" unit. The quality and length of the LAN cable can affect ECU-C communication quality. A network switch can be used to enhance communication quality if necessary.

3.6 Current Transformer Interface

By installing Current Transformers (CTs), the integrated meter in the ECU-C can measure production and consumption power and energy. It is mandatory to install CTs on both the production and consumption sides to enable the anti-backflow function. This function manages inverters individually, turning them on/off via PLC communication to ensure production is less than or equal to consumption.

Figure 11: Wiring diagram showing the connection of Production CT and Consumption CT to the ECU-C, along with the PV system, Distribution Box, and Home Load.

NOTICE: Please ensure the ECU-C is powered off when installing the transformers. APsystems can provide the current transformers; please contact APsystems or its distributors.

3.7 Contactor Connection

The ECU-C provides two contact driver signal interfaces and a two-way contact signal interface.

Interface Interface Description
R1L The first road contactor drives the output L, connected with the power supply interface L1.
R1N The first road contactor drives the output N, connected with the power supply interface N.
R2L Second road contactor driver output L, connected with the power supply interface L1.
R2N Second road contactor driver output N, connected with the power supply interface N.
A1 A2 First contact feedback signal input, non-polarity.
A3 A4 Second way contactor feedback signal input, non-polarity.

Figure 12: Illustration of the ECU-C unit showing the contactor connection terminals.

The ECU-C automatically detects and judges the current power grid environment, controlling the contactor's opening or closing through the drive signal interface. The feedback signal interface and the normally open (NO) contact of the contactor are often connected to inform the ECU that the contactor is effectively closed.

4. Basic Operation

4.1 Restore Factory Set Operation

The diagram below shows the connections on the bottom of the APsystems ECU-C.

Figure 13: Illustration of the bottom of the ECU-C unit, highlighting the RESET button.

To restore the ECU-C's factory settings, press the "Reset" button for three seconds or longer. The unit will automatically return to its default settings.

5. Local Network Interface

5.1 Connecting to the ECU-C via Local Wireless

  1. Turn on the Wi-Fi function on your PC or phone.
  2. Scan for the ECU's SSID, which is named "ECU-WIFI_XXXX" (where "XXXX" refers to the last 4 numbers of the ECU-C ID). Connect to the ECU-C's SSID. The first connection does not require a password.
  3. Using a standard web browser on your computer, enter the ECU's IP address 172.30.1.1. The ECU-C's "splash" screen will be displayed.

Figure 14: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C splash screen displayed in a web browser.

5.2 Home Screen

Select "Home" at the top of the page to display the Home Page.

Figure 15: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Home screen, showing system overview data.

The Home screen displays the following information:

5.3 Real-time Data Screen

a) Real Time Data

To view real-time system operation data statistics for your solar array, click "Real Time Data" from the ECU-C home screen.

Figure 16: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Real Time Data screen, displaying inverter-specific operational data.

b) Trend of System Power

To view system power over a period, click "Power" on the real-time data page.

Figure 17: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Trend of System Power graph, showing power output over time.

c) Power Generation Statistics

Press "Energy" on the real-time data page to view the system's power generation statistics for your solar array.

Figure 18: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Power Generation Statistics screen, showing weekly energy production.

Figure 19: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Power Generation Statistics screen, showing monthly energy production.

Figure 20: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Power Generation Statistics screen, showing yearly energy production.

5.4 Administration Screen

a) Managing Inverter IDs

Inverter IDs must be programmed into the ECU-C for it to recognize the inverters. The ECU-C does not auto-sense inverters.

Initial Programming of the ECU-C with Inverter IDs: The "Enter Inverter ID" window field will be blank if no inverter IDs have been entered yet.

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page.

Figure 21: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page.

Manually Inputting Inverter IDs:

  1. Enter each 12-digit inverter ID.
  2. Once all IDs are entered, press "Update". The message "ID updated successfully!" will appear after a few seconds.

Using a Scanning Gun to Input Inverter IDs:

  1. Copy the scanned IDs into the ID Management box.
  2. Press "Update". The message "ID updated successfully!" will be displayed after a few seconds.

Adding Additional Inverter IDs

If the number of inverter IDs displayed on the page is less than the actual number of inverters installed:

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page. The ID Management page with the existing inverter IDs is displayed.

Figure 22: Screenshot showing the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page with existing IDs.

  1. Scroll down to the end of the existing list.
  2. Enter the new ID.
  3. Press "Update". The message "ID updated successfully!" will be displayed after a few seconds.

Deleting an Existing Inverter ID

If the number of inverter IDs displayed on the page is more than the actual number of inverters installed:

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page. The ID Management page with the existing inverter IDs is displayed.

Figure 23: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page before deleting an ID.

Figure 24: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page showing selected IDs for deletion.

  1. Highlight the IDs to be deleted from the list.
  2. Press "Update". The message "ID updated successfully!" will be displayed after a few seconds.

Modifying an Existing Inverter ID

If an inverter ID displayed on the page does not match the actual installed inverter ID, modify the incorrect ID in the "Input Inverter ID" section, then click "Update". The message "ID updated successfully!" will be displayed after a few seconds.

The ID Management page with the existing inverter IDs is displayed:

Figure 25: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page before modifying an ID.

Figure 26: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page after modifying an ID.

Clearing Inverter IDs

Pressing "Clear ID" deletes ALL of the inverter IDs from the list.

The ID Management page with the existing inverter IDs is displayed:

Figure 27: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C ID Management page after clearing IDs.

NOTICE: When swapping out an inverter, combine the above two steps: add the new inverter and delete the old one. Remember to perform the same process on the APsystems EMA, as the ECU-C and EMA need to be synchronized.

b) Changing the Date, Time Zone

It is critical for accurate power production reporting that the ECU-C is programmed with the correct date, time, and time zone.

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page.
  2. Select "Date, Time, Timezone". The Date, Time, Time Zone page is displayed:

Figure 28: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Date, Time, Time Zone configuration page.

  1. Adjust the correct date in the "Date Time" field.
  2. Select the correct time zone from the Time Zone pull-down menu.

NOTICE: You can skip step 3 by selecting the correct time zone. Selecting the correct time zone automatically updates both the date and current time.

c) Changing the Language

Users can switch language between English and Chinese.

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page.
  2. Select "Language". The Language management page is displayed:

Figure 29: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Language management page.

  1. Select the desired language from the "Current Language" pull-down menu.
  2. Press "Update".

d) Managing the Network Connection

The default network connection setting for the ECU-C is "DHCP," which allows the ECU-C to automatically establish a connection assignment from the router. The ECU-C can be assigned a static IP Address if the network design requires it.

  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page.
  2. Select "Network Connectivity". The Network Connectivity page is displayed:

Figure 30: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Network Connectivity configuration page.

  1. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically".
  2. Press "Update".

e) Managing the WLAN Connection

The ECU-C can operate in two modes: WLAN and Local Wireless Access. In WLAN mode, the ECU-C connects to a router via Wi-Fi. In Local Wireless Access mode, a user's phone or PC can connect to the ECU-C to access its local web interface.

WLAN Mode
  1. Select "Administration" at the top of the page.
  2. Select "WLAN", and click the "WLAN" tab.

Figure 31: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C WLAN configuration page showing available networks.

  1. The ECU-C will display available networks. Select the button next to the desired network. The SSID and a password entry field will be displayed. Enter the password and click "Connect". The WLAN Connectivity page is displayed.

Figure 32: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C WLAN Connectivity page after connecting to a network.

  1. If the ECU-C has connected to the router, it will display the SSID and IP address. You can now connect via PC or phone to the router. Enter the ECU-C's IP (e.g., 192.168.1.112) into a browser to access the local web.
Local Wireless Access Mode

Figure 33: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C WLAN status page showing connected devices.

  1. Scan the ECU-C's SSID on your PC or phone and connect to the ECU-C. Enter the ECU-C's IP address 172.30.1.1 (this IP is fixed) into a browser to access the local web.
  2. On the page, you can modify the SSID, Channel, Safe Type, and Password. If "Safe Type" is not selected, the password is hidden. The Local Wireless Access page is displayed.

Figure 34: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Local Wireless Access configuration page.

f) Firmware Update

Select the ECU-C upgrade package and click OK to upgrade the ECU-C firmware. The upgrade package can be downloaded at www.APsystems.com.

Figure 35: Screenshot of the APsystems ECU-C Firmware Update interface.

6. Remote ECU-C Management (EMA)

The ECU-C is designed with remote connectivity functionality, accessible through the APsystems Energy Monitoring & Analysis (EMA) website using installer login credentials. Changes made remotely via EMA take effect on the ECU-C's next reporting cycle. The ECU-C must first be installed with Internet connectivity.

The ECU-C remote functionality allows you to:

Additional ECU-C functions are available but not detailed in this document. For these features, please contact APsystems Technical Support:

NOTICE: This section assumes you have a working knowledge of the APsystems EMA.

  1. Log onto your APsystems EMA account. Your Customer List within the Installer Portal will be displayed.
  2. Select the customer's ECU-C you wish to manage and click on the username in the "Customer Account" column.

Figure 36: Screenshot of the APsystems EMA Installer Portal showing a customer list.

6.1 ECU-C Configuration/ECU-C Status Page

Access the ECU-C SETTING page under the Remote control page.

Figure 37: Screenshot of the APsystems EMA ECU-C SETTING page.

The ECU-C SETTING tab allows you to:

Set Time Zones

The ECU-C time zone can be set or adjusted remotely through the ECU-C setting tab. If the time zone is not set correctly, solar production data may not post properly on the EMA site.

Load Inverter IDs

Once the ECU-C is installed, you can access it remotely to add inverter IDs. Until the inverter IDs are loaded, the ECU-C cannot collect data from the inverters.

Update Inverter ID List

If an inverter is added or swapped for a new unit, the ECU-C's programmed list of inverters will need to be updated.

6.2 Setting the ECU-C Time Zone

  1. Click the remote control menu to enter the remote settings page.
  2. Select the "ECU-C SETTING" tab. The ECU-C Configuration page is displayed.

Figure 38: Screenshot of the APsystems EMA ECU-C Configuration page with the Time Zone pull-down field highlighted.

  1. Using the "Time Zone" pull-down field, select the appropriate time zone.
  2. Press "Send".

6.3 Managing Inverter IDs and Updating the Inverter ID List

  1. Select the "ECU-C SETTING" tab. The Inverter Links Configuration page is displayed.

Figure 39: Screenshot of the APsystems EMA Inverter Links Configuration page.

Figure 40: Screenshot of the APsystems EMA Operation Selection interface for managing Inverter IDs.

Adding Complete List of Inverter IDs for a Newly Installed System

There are two approaches to add inverter IDs:

Option 1: Webpage
  1. Select "Add" in Operation Selection.
  2. Select "Inverters" then "select from below list".
  3. Select the inverter to be added.
  4. Press "Send".

Or, for specified inverter IDs:

  1. Select "Add" in Operation Selection.
  2. Select "Inverters" then "input the special ones".
  3. Enter all of the inverter IDs into the Inverter ID Field (one per line).
  4. Press "Send".
Option 2: Mobile Phone
  1. Log onto ArrayAPP.
  2. Select user account.
  3. Select Link ECU.
  4. Press "Send".

Delete IDs from Inverter List

1. Select Delete based on registration list:

  1. Select "Delete" in Operation Selection.
  2. Select "Inverters" then "select from below list".
  3. Select the inverter to be deleted.
  4. Press "Send".

2. Delete specified inverter ID:

  1. Select "Delete" in Operation Selection.
  2. Select "Inverters" then "input the special ones".
  3. Enter all of the inverter IDs into the Inverter ID Field (one per line).
  4. Press "Send".

3. Delete all:

  1. Select "Clear" in Operation Selection.
  2. Press "Send".

7. Technical Data

Parameter Specification
Model ECU-C
Communication Interface ZigBee
Communication Method 802.11g/n
Integrated Wi-Fi 10/100M Auto-sensing, Auto-negotiation
Ethernet Standard
USB Interface Standard
RS232 Standard
RS485 Standard
RJ45 110~277VAC, 50~60Hz Single Phase (3-Phase Optional)
AC Power Supply 12~16V
DC Power Supply 3W
Power Consumption 210 x 120 x 41mm (8.3'' x 4.7'' x 1.6'')
Dimensions (W×H×D) 500g (1.1Ibs)
Weight -40°C to +65°C (-40°F to 149°F)
Ambient Temperature Range Nature Convection; No Fans
Cooling Indoor - IP20 (NEMA 1)
Enclosure Environmental Rating Single Phase/ Three Phase
Grid Type Control external AC contact or relay
Relay Driver Get relay signal, could do anti-backflow control, and energy management
Relay Feedback For external control device connection
Digital Input Production and consumption metering
CT Sensor Integrated PV production metering (+/- 0.5% via CT) and optional consumption monitoring (+/- 2.5% via CT)
Meter Accuracy IEC/EN61010-1,EN61000-6-2, EN61000-6-4,2014/53/EU,EN301489-1/-17,EN62311, EN 300328
Compliance Specifications subject to change without notice. Please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com.

Revision: Rev 1.5, Dated 2018/1/16

Disposal of your old appliance

[WEEE symbol: crossed-out wheeled bin] Disposal of your old appliance

  1. When this crossed-out wheeled bin symbol is attached to a product, it means the product is covered by the European Directive 2002/96/EC.
  2. All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or the local authorities.
  3. The correct disposal of your old appliance will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.
  4. For more detailed information about disposal of your old appliance, please contact your city office, waste disposal service, or the shop where you purchased the product.

Contact Information

ALTENERGY POWER SYSTEM Inc.
www.APsystems.com

APsystems Jiaxing China
No. 1, Yatai Road, Nanhu District, Jiaxing, Zhejiang
Tel: +86 573 8398 6967
Mail: info@altenergy-power.com

APsystems Shanghai China
B403 No. 188, Zhangyang Road, Pudong, Shanghai
Tel: +86 021 3392 8205
Mail: info@altenergy-power.com

APsystems Australia
Suite 502, 8 Help Street, Chatswood NSW 2067 Australia
Tel: +61 (0)2 8034 6587
Mail: info@altenergy-power.com

APsystems America
600 Ericksen Ave NE, Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98110
Tel: 844-666-7035
Mail: info@APsystems.com

APsystems Europe
Rue des Monts dor ZAC de Folliouses Sud-Les Echets 01700 Miribel, France
Tel: +33-481 65 60 40
Mail: emea@APsystems.com

Models: ECU-C Energy Communication Unit, ECU-C, Energy Communication Unit, Communication Unit, Unit

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