APsystems Microinverter Installation Manual
APsystems DS3 Series (DS3-S, DS3-L, DS3) Microinverters
For North America
APsystems Contact Information:
USA: ALTENERGY POWER SYSTEM Inc.
Website: Usa.APsystems.com
APsystems America
8701 N. Mopac Expy, Ste 160, Austin, TX 78759
EMAIL: info.usa@APsystems.com
Canada: APsystems Canada
Website: canada.APsystems.com
8701 N. Mopac Expy, Ste 160, Austin, TX 78759
EMAIL: info.canada@APsystems.com
Please scan the QR code for access to APsystems APPs and product information.
Table of Contents
- 1. Important Safety Instructions
- 2. APsystems Microinverter System Introduction
- 3. APsystems Microinverter DS3 Series Introduction
- 4. APsystems Microinverter System Installation
- 5. APsystems Microinverter System Operating Instructions
- 6. Troubleshooting
- 7. Replace a Microinverter
- 8. Technical Data
- 9. Wiring Diagram
- 10. APsystems Microinverters Installation Map
1. Important Safety Instructions
This manual provides essential instructions for the installation and maintenance of APsystems Photovoltaic Grid-connected Microinverters. To minimize the risk of electrical shock and ensure safe installation and operation, specific symbols are used throughout this document to highlight dangerous conditions and critical safety information.
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the APsystems website for the most recent updates: usa.apsystems.com/resources/library/ or canada.apsystems.com/resources/library/.
WARNING: Indicates a situation where failure to follow instructions may result in serious hardware failure or personnel danger. Exercise extreme caution.
NOTICE: Provides information important for optimized microinverter operation. Follow these instructions closely.
1.1 Safety Instructions
- Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the APsystems Microinverter without first disconnecting the AC power.
- Only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystems Microinverters.
- Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.
- Before installing or using the APsystems Microinverter, read all instructions and cautionary markings in the technical documents and on the APsystems Microinverter system and the solar array.
- Be aware that the body of the APsystems Microinverter acts as a heat sink and can reach temperatures up to 80°C. To reduce the risk of burns, do not touch the microinverter body.
- Do NOT attempt to repair the APsystems Microinverter. Contact APsystems Customer Support for an RMA number and replacement process. Damaging or opening the microinverter will void the warranty.
- Caution! The external protective earthing conductor connects to the inverter's protective earthing terminal via the AC connector. When connecting, connect the AC connector first to ensure inverter earthing, then make the DC connections. When disconnecting, open the branch circuit breaker first, maintain the protective earthing conductor connection to the inverter, then disconnect the DC inputs.
- Install AC breakers on the AC side of the inverter.
- CAUTION - Hot surfaces - Do not touch to prevent burns. Risk of electric shock: (a) Both AC and DC voltage sources are terminated within this equipment. Each circuit must be individually disconnected before servicing. (b) When the photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies DC voltage to this equipment. Warranty is void if the cover is removed. No user-serviceable parts inside; refer servicing to qualified personnel. This inverter has an integral ground-fault detector/interrupter (GFDI). This Utility-Interactive Inverter contains active anti-islanding protection (IEEE1547) and is tested per FCC/IC.
1.2 Radio Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RF exposure warning: This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided instructions. The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. End-users and installers must be provided with antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.
1.3 Symbols in lieu of words
- APsystems Trademark.
- Caution, risk of electric shock. [⚡]
- Caution, hot surface. [?]
- NOTICE, danger! This device is directly connected with electricity generators and public grid.
- Qualified personnel: A person adequately advised or supervised by an electrically skilled person to enable them to perceive risks and avoid hazards which electricity can create. For the purpose of the safety information in this manual, a "qualified person" is someone familiar with requirements for safety, electrical system, and EMC, and is authorized to energize, ground, and tag equipment, systems, and circuits in accordance with established safety procedures. The inverter and photovoltaic system may only be commissioned and operated by qualified personnel.
English Warning Statement: This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
French Warning Statement: Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
2. APsystems Microinverter System Introduction
The APsystems Microinverter is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications and comprises three key elements:
- APsystems Microinverter
- APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU)
- APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web-based monitoring and analysis system
Figure 1: Diagram illustrating the APsystems Microinverter System. It shows PV modules connected to microinverters, which communicate wirelessly with an ECU. The ECU connects to the internet (via Ethernet or Wi-Fi) to send data to the EMA system. The system is connected to an AC Junction Box and then to a Distribution Panel.
This integrated system enhances safety, maximizes solar energy harvest, increases system reliability, and simplifies solar system design, installation, maintenance, and management.
Safety with APsystems Microinverters
In a typical string inverter installation, PV modules are connected in series, leading to high DC voltages (600Vdc to 1000Vdc) at the end of the string, posing a risk of electrical shocks or arcs. With APsystems microinverters, PV modules are connected in parallel. The voltage at the back of each PV module does not exceed the PV module's Voc (typically below 60Vdc for most modules used with APsystems microinverters). This low voltage is considered "safe to touch" by fire departments, negating the risk of electrical shock, arcs, and fire hazards.
APsystems Microinverters maximize PV energy production
Each PV module has an individual Maximum Peak Power Tracking (MPPT) control, ensuring maximum power is produced to the utility grid regardless of other modules' performance. If PV modules are affected by shade, dust, different orientation, or other factors causing underperformance, the APsystems Microinverter maximizes the array's performance by optimizing each module individually.
More reliable than centralized or string inverters
The distributed APsystems Microinverter system eliminates single points of system failure. APsystems Microinverters are designed to operate at full power at ambient outdoor temperatures up to 65°C (149°F). The inverter case is designed for outdoor installation and complies with the Type 6 environmental enclosure rating.
Simple to install
APsystems Microinverters are compatible with most 60 and 72-cell PV modules or 120 and 144 half-cut cell PV modules. For compatibility confirmation, use the online "E-decider" module compatibility tool or contact local APsystems Technical Support. Installation requires minimal accessories, offering installers versatility for different roof orientations or module orientations. End-users can also expand their system easily over time.
Smart system performance monitoring and analysis
The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU) is installed by plugging it into a wall outlet and connecting to a broadband router or modem via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. After installation and setup (refer to ECU Instruction Manual), the APsystems Microinverters automatically report to the APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web server.
3. APsystems Microinverter DS3 Series Introduction
APsystems' 3rd generation of dual-module microinverters, the DS3 product family, represents years of power conversion expertise and innovation. It offers high-efficiency, high-density power conversion to maximize the peak performance of today's high-capacity PV modules. The DS3 series provides unprecedented power output and is fully backwards compatible with QS1 and YC600 microinverters and accessories. It features 2 independent input channels with MPPT and encrypted wireless ZigBee communication. Its innovative, compact design makes it lighter while maximizing power production. Silicone-encapsulated components reduce stress on electronics, improve thermal dissipation, and enhance weatherproofing. Reliability is increased by 20% fewer components than previous generations. 24/7 energy access via apps or a web-based portal facilitates remote diagnosis and maintenance.
The DS3 series is grid-interactive and fully compliant with CA Rule 21 requirements. With its unparalleled performance, 97.3% efficiency, and increased reliability, the APsystems DS3 series is a significant advancement for residential and commercial solar installations.
Key Product Features:
- One microinverter connects to two solar modules.
- Max output power reaching 640VA, 768VA, or 880VA.
- Two independent input channels (MPPT).
- CA Rule 21 (UL 1741 SA) compliant.
- NEC 2020 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Compliant.
- Encrypted Wireless ZigBee Communication.
- Phase Monitored and Phase Balanced.
4. APsystems Microinverter System Installation
Installing a PV system with APsystems Microinverters is straightforward. Each microinverter mounts easily on the PV racking directly beneath the PV module(s). Low-voltage DC wires connect from the PV module to the microinverter, eliminating the risk of high DC voltage. Installation MUST comply with local regulations and technical rules.
Special Statement: Installation of an RCD breaker is advised only if required by the local electrical code.
WARNING:
- Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.
- Be aware that only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystems Microinverters.
- Before installing or using an APsystems Microinverter, read all instructions and warnings in the technical documents, on the APsystems Microinverter system, and on the PV array.
- Be aware that installation of this equipment includes the risk of electric shock.
- Do not touch any live parts in the system, including the PV array, when the system is connected to the electrical grid.
NOTICE: Even if not required by local electrical code, it is strongly recommended to install surge protection devices in the dedicated AC box.
4.1 Additional accessories supplied by APsystems:
- AC Y3 Bus cable
- AC Y3 Bus Cable End Cap
- AC Y3 Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap
- AC Y3 Bus Cable Unlock Tool
- ECU
- AC connectors male/female
4.2 Other required accessories not supplied by APsystems:
In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, you may need the following items:
- An AC connection junction box
- Mounting hardware suitable for module racking
- Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware
4.3 PV Rapid Shut Down Equipment
This product is PV Rapid Shut Down Equipment and conforms with NEC-2014 and NEC-2017 Section 690.12 for AC and DC conductors, when installed according to the following requirements:
- Microinverters and all DC connections must be installed inside the array boundary.
- The array boundary is defined as 305 mm (1 ft.) from the array in all directions, or 1 m (3 ft.) from the point of entry inside a building.
This rapid shutdown system must include an initiating device and status indicator, installed in a location accessible to first responders, or be connected to an automatic system that initiates rapid shutdown upon activation of a system disconnect or another type of emergency system. The initiator must be listed and identified as a disconnecting means that plainly indicates its "off" or "on" position. Examples include:
- Service disconnecting means
- PV system disconnecting means
- Readily accessible switch or circuit breaker
The handle position of a switch or circuit breaker serves as an indicator. Refer to NEC for more information.
Additionally, a placard or label must be provided in a prominent location near the initiator device with permanent marking including the wording: 'PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH RAPID SHUTDOWN'. The term 'PHOTOVOLTAIC' may be replaced with 'PV'. The label requires reference NEC 690.65 to meet audit requirements.
4.3 Installation Procedures
4.3.1 Step 1 - Verify that grid voltage matches microinverter rating
4.3.2 Step 2 – Y3 AC Bus Cable distribution
a. One end of the AC bus cable is used to access the junction box into the power grid.
b. Wire the conductors of the AC bus: L1 - BLACK; L2 - RED; PE - GREEN.
Wiring color codes may differ according to local regulations. Check all installation wires before connecting to the AC bus to ensure they match. Improper cabling can irreparably damage the microinverters; such damage is not covered by the warranty.
Do NOT carry the microinverter by the AC cable. This may cause the AC cable to partially or fully disconnect from the unit, resulting in no or poor operation.
4.4.3 Step 3 - Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the Racking
a. Mark the location of the microinverter on the rack, with respect to the PV module junction box or any other obstructions.
b. Mount one microinverter at each of these locations using hardware recommended by your module racking vendor.
Figure 2: Illustration showing microinverter mounting on racking. Includes a detail of an M8 bolt (not supplied by APsystems) and a grounding washer, with a warning about potential hand injury.
Install the microinverters (including DC and AC connectors) under the PV modules to avoid direct exposure to rain, UV, or other harmful weather events. Allow a minimum of 1.5 cm (3/4'') below and above the casing of the microinverter for proper airflow. The racking must be properly grounded as per local electrical code.
4.4.4 Step 4 - Ground the system
The Y3 AC Bus cable has an embedded PE wire, which may be sufficient for grounding the entire PV array. However, for areas with special grounding requirements, external grounding may be needed, using the grounding lug supplied with the Microinverter.
Figure 3: Shows the grounding lug connection point on the microinverter.
4.4.5 Step 5 - Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable
Insert the microinverter AC connector into the trunk cable connector. Ensure you hear a "click" to confirm a robust connection.
Figure 4: Illustration showing the AC connector being plugged into the bus cable connector, with a "click" indicator.
Figure 5: Shows the AC bus cable connectors.
Best Practice: Use the AC Bus Cable Unlock Tool to disconnect the connectors.
4.4.6 Step 6 - Install a Bus Cable End Cap at the end of AC bus cable
Figure 6: Shows the AC connector interface with L1, PE, and L2 terminals.
Cover any unused connectors with a Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap to protect them.
Figure 7: Illustration of applying a Y-CONN Cap to an unused connector.
Figure 8: Steps for installing a Bus Cable End Cap: A. Strip cable jacket (25mm-30mm). B. Insert the cable end into the seal. C. Rotate the nut with 3.3 N·m until the latching mechanism meets the base.
4.4.7 Step 7 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules
Figure 9: Shows a microinverter with DC input connectors.
NOTICE: When plugging in the DC cables, the microinverter should immediately blink green ten times. This indicates the microinverter is functioning correctly. This check function starts and ends within 10 seconds of plugging in the unit. Pay careful attention to these lights when connecting the DC cables.
WARNING: Double-check that all AC and DC wiring is correctly installed. Ensure that none of the AC and/or DC wires are pinched or damaged. Make sure all junction boxes are properly closed.
Figure 10: Shows correct (green checkmarks) and incorrect (red crosses) DC cable connections to the microinverter's two input channels.
WARNING: Each PV panel must be carefully connected to the same channel. Do not split positive and negative DC cables into two different input channels, as this will damage the microinverter and void the warranty.
4.4.8 Step 8 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to Grid
Figure 11: Wiring diagram showing a DS3 microinverter connected to a solar panel, AC bus cable, and then to a meter and distribution panel, with L1, L2, and PE connections indicated.
NOTICE:
- Please install bi-polar circuit breakers with the proper rated current or according to local regulations, which are mandatory for grid connection.
- Leakage current breakers or AFCI/GFCI breakers are not recommended for installation.
4.4.9 Step 9 - AC Extension Cable
Figure 12: Diagram showing a Bus Cable End Cap, DS3 microinverters, and Male/Female AC Connectors, illustrating the connection of an AC extension cable.
When an AC extension cable is needed, users can connect the AC bus cable and AC extension cable in a junction box or use a pair of male/female AC connectors provided by APsystems as an optional accessory.
4.4.10 Step 10 - Complete the APsystems installation map
a. Each APsystems Microinverter has 2 removable serial number labels.
b. Complete the installation map by affixing the ID label of each microinverter in the correct location.
c. The second serial number label can be affixed to the solar module frame, which helps confirm the microinverter's position later without dismantling the PV module.
Figure 13: Shows a microinverter with two serial number labels (e.g., 703000000001) being applied to the unit and the solar module frame.
NOTICE:
- The layout of the microinverters' serial number installation map is suitable for a typical installation.
- The Installation Map is available in the appendix of this manual.
- Use the ECU_APP (available in the EMA Manager) to scan the serial numbers on the map when setting up the ECU (see ECU instruction manual for more info).
5. APsystems Microinverter System Operating Instructions
To operate the APsystems microinverter PV system:
- Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each microinverter AC branch circuit.
- Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will start producing power after approximately one minute of waiting time.
- Microinverter data will be available in the EMA Manager APP or in the EMA web portal.
Alternatively, LED sequences can indicate microinverter status (see Section 6.1).
NOTICE: Once the ECU has been commissioned properly, the APsystems Microinverters will start sending performance data to the ECU. The time required for all microinverters in the system to report to the ECU will vary depending on the number of microinverters in the system.
6. Troubleshooting
Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PV system is not operating correctly.
6.1 Status Indications and Error Reporting
Operation LEDs, when accessible and visible, provide a good indication of the microinverters' status.
6.1.1 Start up LED
Ten short green blinks when DC power is first applied to the Microinverter indicate a successful microinverter startup.
6.1.2 Operation LED
- Flashing Slow Green (5 sec. gap): Producing power and communicating with ECU.
- Flashing Slow Red (5 sec. gap): Not producing power.
- Flashing Fast Green (2 sec. gap): Not communicating with ECU for over 60 minutes, but still producing power.
- Flashing Fast Red (2 sec. gap): Not communicating with ECU for over 60 minutes and not producing power.
- Steady Red: Default; indicates DC side ground fault protection. See Section 6.1.3.
6.1.3 GFDI Error
A solid red LED indicates the Microinverter has detected a Ground Fault Detector Interrupter (GFDI) error in the PV system. Unless the GFDI error is cleared, the LED will remain red, and the ECU will continue reporting the fault. Please contact your local APsystems Technical Support.
6.2 ECU_APP
The APsystems ECU_APP (available in the EMA Manager APP) is the recommended tool for on-site troubleshooting. When connecting the ECU_APP to the ECU hotspot (refer to the ECU User Manual for detailed information), installers can check microinverter status (production, communication), ZigBee signal strength, grid profile, and other insightful data.
6.3 Installer EMA (web portal or EMA Manager APP)
Before going on site for troubleshooting, installers can also check information remotely using their installer account via the web or the EMA Manager APP (see EMA Manager APP User Manual for details). Access to module data (DC, AC, voltages, and currents) provides initial indications of potential issues.
6.4 Trouble Shooting Guide
Professional installers can refer to the APsystems Troubleshooting Guide available at usa.apsystems.com/resources/library/ or canada.apsystems.com/resources/library/ (in the libraries section) for more in-depth guidelines on troubleshooting and fixing PV installations powered by APsystems microinverters.
6.5 APsystems Technical Support
The APsystems local Technical Support team is available to assist professional installers in becoming familiar with APsystems products and to troubleshoot installations when needed.
WARNING: Do not attempt to repair APsystems Microinverters. Please contact your local APsystems Technical Support.
Important Disconnection Procedures:
- Never disconnect the DC wire connectors under load. Ensure that no current is flowing in the DC wires prior to disconnecting.
- Always disconnect AC power before disconnecting the PV module wires from the APsystems Microinverter.
- The APsystems Microinverter is powered by PV module DC power. AFTER disconnecting the DC power, when reconnecting the PV modules to the Microinverter, watch for the quick red light followed by ten short green LED flashes.
6.6 Maintenance
APsystems microinverters do not require any specific regular maintenance.
7. Replace a Microinverter
Follow the procedure to replace a failed APsystems Microinverter:
A. Disconnect the APsystems Microinverter from the PV Module, in the following order:
- Disconnect the AC by turning off the branch circuit breaker.
- Disconnect the inverter AC connector from the AC Bus.
- Disconnect the PV module DC wire connectors from the microinverter.
- Remove the Microinverter from the PV array racking.
B. Install a replacement Microinverter to the rack. Observe the flashing green LED light as soon as the new Microinverter is plugged into the DC cables.
C. Connect the AC cable of the replacement Microinverter to the AC bus.
D. Close the branch circuit breaker and verify proper operation of the replacement Microinverter.
E. Update the microinverter in the EMA Manager through the "Replace" function and update the system's map with new serial number labels.
8. Technical Data
For technical data, please refer to the datasheet.
WARNING:
- Be sure to verify that the voltage and current specifications of your PV module are compatible with the range allowed on the APsystems Microinverter. Please check the microinverter datasheet.
- The DC operating voltage range of the PV module must be within the allowable input voltage range of the APsystems Microinverter.
- The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV module must not exceed the specified maximum input voltage of the APsystems.
Document Revision: 2022/10/27 REV1.5
9. Wiring Diagram
9.1 Sample Wiring Diagram - Split Phase
Diagram Description: A split-phase wiring diagram for a solar panel array connected to APsystems microinverters and an ECU. The diagram shows multiple solar panels connected in series to microinverters. The microinverters are connected to a bus cable with an end cap. The bus cable connects to an AC junction box, which then connects to a distribution panel. Wire colors for the AC bus are indicated: BLACK for L1, RED for L2, and GREEN for PE. The ECU (Energy Communication Unit) is shown connected to the system.
10. APsystems Microinverters Installation Map
The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation. Each APsystems microinverter has two serial number labels. Peel one label and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map.
Installation Map Template
| Installer: | PV module type: | Qty: | Microinverter type: | Qty: | Sheet | of | N | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owner: | Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 | Column 4 | Column 5 | Column 6 | Column 7 | |||
| Row 1 | ||||||||||
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| Row 5 | ||||||||||
| Row 6 | ||||||||||
| Row 7 | ||||||||||
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| Row 10 | ||||||||||
