BRConnect Gateway Instruction Manual

Table of Contents

1. Scope of Delivery
2. Safety Instructions
3. Product Overview
4. Installation
5. Power Manager App
6. Operation and Maintenance
7. Replacement and Repair
8. Disposal
9. Product Compliance and Contact

1. Scope of Delivery

The BRConnect Gateway package includes:

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

Required tools and accessories:

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

2. Safety Instructions

A) General

The BRConnect Gateway must only be operated in accordance with its intended use and specified technical data. Adhere to all instructions provided by BRC Solar GmbH in this manual and warning notices on the BRConnect unit. Warning notices must remain legible and unaltered. Always prioritize applicable local laws, regulations, directives, and standards for operation, installation, uninstallation, and maintenance. The safety instructions in this manual are supplementary.

B) Electrical Specialists

All work on the BRConnect Gateway must be performed by qualified electricians who comply with national and regional regulations. Carefully read and follow all instructions before installation. 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 included accessories, especially for the power supply. Do not modify the BRConnect. Ensure string cables are voltage-free during assembly to prevent electric shocks.

C) End User

Do not perform any work on the BRConnect Gateway yourself. Do not open the housing. Keep this instruction manual available for all product-related activities.

3. Product Overview

A) Assembly

The BRConnect Gateway features:

• LED indicators
• 24V DC connection
• Reset button
• LAN Ethernet socket
• Cable bushings for String 1, String 2, and String 3
• Connections for String 1 (+/-), String 2 (+/-), and String 3 (+/-)

B) Intended Use

The BRConnect Gateway is a gateway that, in conjunction with the M600-M and BRC Power Manager, monitors photovoltaic system data at the module level. Data from the M600-M is communicated via powerline communication over DC cables to the BRConnect and processed there. The end user can view this data via the BRC Power Manager App. A fixed installation by a qualified electrician is required. The BRConnect has an IP40 protection rating and is intended for indoor use, away from liquids, humidity, heat sources, and direct sunlight. It operates in ambient temperatures from -20°C to +55°C and is approved for operation up to 2,000m above sea level. It features Ethernet and WiFi (WiFi 4; 802.11n, 2.4 GHz) interfaces for data provision to the BRC Power Manager.

C) LED Overview

4. Installation

1. Attach the wall mount: Mark positions with a pencil and spirit level, drill 4 holes (6mm diameter), insert 4 dowel pins, and mount the wall mount using 4 screws, washers, and a screwdriver.
2. Clip BRConnect onto the wall mount: Press evenly on both sides until you hear a click.
3. Pass string cable through cable bushing: Ensure the string cable is voltage-free. Connect string cables correctly to avoid errors. Peel off the sticker on top. Connect the string cable to the inverter with the DC switch off, paying attention to polarity. Connect the string cable to the PV system, then switch on the DC-side of the inverter.
4. Connect 24V and Ethernet: The BRConnect LED will briefly light up blue, then flash slowly blue, waiting for Bluetooth connection.

5. Power Manager App

1. Install App: Available on the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Register and Log In: Click the plus symbol to set up a new photovoltaic installation. An internet connection is required.
3. Fill in Information: Provide general and owner information.
4. Enter Data: Input solar module and inverter data. Select if a battery storage or wallbox is integrated.
5. Select Setup Option: Choose to start configuration immediately or save and configure later.

After startup, the BRConnect automatically waits for Bluetooth connection. Use the app to select and connect the BRConnect. Ensure the BRConnect is powered and the LED is flashing blue (Bluetooth pairing mode is active). If the LED is not flashing blue, restart the BRConnect.

Video instructions for assembly and app setup are available.

6. Operation and Maintenance

Clean the BRConnect Gateway only with a dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning agents or solvents. The BRConnect is maintenance-free. For persistent issues, contact technical support.

7. Replacement and Repair

Dismounting steps are the reverse of installation (see Chapter 4): Switch off the inverter's DC side. Ensure string cables are voltage-free. Remove the power supply. Disconnect the Ethernet cable. Release string cables from bushings. Dismount the BRConnect by pulling it straight from the wall mount. Do not attempt self-repairs.

8. Disposal

Transport packaging can be recycled locally. Dispose of the BRConnect Gateway and associated components as electronic waste according to applicable country laws.

9. Product Compliance and Contact

BRC Solar GmbH, Gehrnstraße 7, D-76275 Ettlingen, Germany, declares that the BRConnect product complies with basic requirements of national directives when installed and used as intended. A complete declaration of conformity is available on the BRC Solar GmbH website (www.brc-solar.de).