APsystems YC1000-3 3-Phase Microinverter

Important Safety Instructions

This manual contains important instructions to follow during installation and maintenance of the APsystems Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter (Microinverter). To reduce the risk of electrical shock and ensure the safe installation and operation of the APsystems Microinverter, the following symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditions and important safety instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! This manual contains important instructions for models YC1000-3-208/YC1000-3-480 that must be followed during Installation and maintenance of the Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter.

Specifications subject to change without notice - please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com

Radio Interference Statement

FCC Compliance: The equipment can comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules, which are designed to protect against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equipment could radiate radio frequency energy and this might cause harmful interference to radio communications if not following the instructions when installing and using the equipment. But there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, the following measures might resolve the issues:

• A) Relocate the receiving antenna and keep it well away from the equipment.
• B) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technical for help. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

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, please 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 is the heat sink and can reach a temperature of 80°C. To reduce risk of burns, do not touch the body of the Microinverter.
• ✔️ Do NOT attempt to repair the APsystems Microinverter. If it fails, contact APsystems Customer Support (206-855-5100) to obtain an RMA number and start the replacement process. Damaging or opening the APsystems Microinverter will void the warranty.
• ✔️ Do NOT expose the connection to directed, pressurized liquid (water jets, etc.).
• ✔️ Do NOT expose the connection to continuous immersion.
• ✔️ Do NOT expose the AC connector to continuous tension (e.g., tension due to pulling or bending the cable near the connection).
• ✔️ Use only the connectors and cables provided.
• ✔️ Do NOT allow contamination or debris in the connectors.
• ✔️ Use the cable and connectors only when all parts are present and intact.
• ✔️ Use the terminator to seal the conductor end of the Engage Cable; no other method is allowed.
• ✔️ To reduce the risk of fire, connect only to a circuit provided with 25 amperes maximum branch circuit overcurrent protection in accordance with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70.
• ✔️ a) Both AC and DC voltagesource are terminated inside this equipment. Each circuit must be individually disconnected before servicing. b) When the photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies a DC voltage to this equipment.
• ✔️ Warranty void if cover removed.
• ✔️ This Utility-Interactive Inverter contains active anti-islanding protection (IEEE1547) and is tested per FCC/IC.

APsystems YC1000-3 System Introduction

The APsystems Microinverter is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications, comprised of three key elements:

• APsystems Microinverter
• APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU)
• APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web-based monitoring and analysis system

Figure 1: System Diagram

The diagram shows PV modules connected to Microinverters. Each Microinverter is connected via an AC bus cable to a Branch J-box. From the J-box, AC power runs to a Meter and then to an AC Distribution Panel (including Ground, Neutral, and L1, L2, L3 lines). An ECU is shown communicating wirelessly with the Microinverters, and it connects to the internet (via Ethernet or Wi-Fi) to send data to the EMA system.

This integrated system improves safety; maximizes solar energy harvest; increases system reliability, and simplifies solar system design, installation, maintenance, and management.

APsystems Microinverters maximize PV energy production

The APsystems microinverter ensures top performance from the array by maximizing the performance of the module within the array when PV modules in the array are affected by shading.

More reliable than centralized or string inverters

The distributed microinverter system ensures that no single point of system failure exists across the PV system. APsystems microinverters are designed to operate at full power at ambient temperatures of up to +65°C (+149° F). The inverter housing is designed for outdoor installation and complies with the Type 6 environmental enclosure rating.

Simple to install

You can install individual PV modules in any combination of module quantity, orientation, different type and power rate (check on-line module compatibility or contact APsystems).

Smart system performance monitoring and analysis

The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU) is installed by simply plugging it into any wall outlet and providing it with an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection to a broadband router. After installing and setting the ECU (see ECU manual), the full network of APsystems Microinverters automatically reports to the APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web server. The EMA software displays performance trends, informs you of abnormal events, and controls system shutdown when it is needed. Reference the ECU Manual for installation and operation instructions.

APsystems Three-phase Microinverter YC1000-3

The APsystems YC1000-3 Microinverters connect with the Three-phase grid, and operate with most 60, 72, 84 and 96 cell PV modules. For more information, please see the Technical Data page (p.16) of this manual.

APsystems Microinverter System Installation

A PV system using APsystems Microinverters is simple to install. Each Microinverter easily mounts on the PV racking, directly beneath the PV module(s). Low voltage DC wires connect from the PV module directly to the Microinverter, eliminating the risk of high DC voltage. Installation MUST comply with local regulations and technical rules.

Special Statement! An AC GFCI device should not be used to protect the dedicated circuit to the APsystems microinverter even though it is an outside circuit. None of the small GFCI devices (5mA-30 mA) are designed for back feeding and will be damaged if back feed. In a similar manner, AC AFCIs have not been evaluated for back feeding and may be damaged if back feed with the output of a PV inverter.

Additional Installation components from APsystems

• Bus Cable End Cap (sold separately)
• Bus Cable T-CONN Cap (sold separately)

Required Parts and Tools from you

In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, you will need the following items:

• An AC connection junction box
• Mounting hardware suitable for module racking
• Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware
• Continuous grounding conductor and grounding washers
• A Phillips screwdriver
• A torque wrench

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 be provided with an initiating device and (or with) status indicator which must be installed in a location accessible to first responders, or be connected to an automatic system which initiates rapid shutdown upon the activation of a system disconnect or activation of another type of emergency system.

The initiator shall be listed and identified as a disconnecting means that plainly indicates whether it is in the “off” or “on” position. Examples are:

• Service disconnecting means
• PV system disconnecting means
• Readily accessible switch or circuit breaker

The handle position of a switch or circuit breaker is suitable for use as an indicator. Refer to NEC for more information.

Additionally, in a prominent location near the initiator device, a placard or label must be provided with a permanent marking including the following wording:

'PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH RAPID SHUTDOWN' The term 'PHOTOVOLTAIC' may be replaced with ‘PV.'

The label requires reference NEC 690.65 to meet the audit requirements.

Installation Procedures

APsystems Microinverters are designed to only operate when they can sense power coming from the grid. Even if they are plugged into the solar array, they will not turn themselves on until they can read power from the grid.

Step 1 - Lay the AC bus according to the arrangement of APsystems Microinverter.

Step 2 - Attaching the APsystems Microinverters to the Racking.

Figure 2: Microinverter Mounting on Racking

The diagram shows a microinverter being attached to a solar panel mounting rail. It illustrates how the microinverter's mounting bracket connects to the rail.

• 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.

Step 3 - Connecting the APsystems Microinverter Cables to the AC bus cable.

Figure 3: AC Bus Cable Connection

The diagram shows an AC bus cable with multiple connectors. It illustrates connecting a microinverter's AC cable to one of the connectors on the bus cable, with a "Click" sound indicating a secure connection. It also shows using a "Bus Cable T-CONN Cap" to protect unused connectors.

Figure 4: AC Connector Interface

This figure shows a close-up of the AC connector interface, labeling the pins from left to right as PE (Protective Earth), N (Neutral), L3, L2, and L1.

Figure 5: Connector Pinout

A schematic representation of the AC connector pinout: PE, N, L3, L2, L1.

Step 4 - Connecting APsystems Microinverters to the PV Module.

Place the PV modules into position on the racking and connect the DC input cables to the microinverters based on optimum layout configuration (up to four PV modules per microinverter).

Figure 6: DC Input Connections

The diagram shows a microinverter with four DC input ports labeled CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4, each ready to receive a DC cable from a PV module.

Step 5 - Install a Bus Cable End Cap at the end of AC bus cable.

Figure 7: Bus Cable End Cap Installation

The diagram illustrates the process of installing a bus cable end cap. It shows wire stripping (30mm), assembling parts (Nut, Claw, Seal body, body), inserting wires into the body, and finally inserting the seal and clamp finger, then tightening the nut to a torque of 2.5±0.5NM.

Step 6 - Installing the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box.

Figure 8: AC Branch Circuit Junction Box Installation

The diagram shows a junction box being installed on PV racking. It illustrates connecting the AC bus cable to the junction box and wiring the conductors (L1-BLACK, L2-RED, L3-BLUE, N-WHITE, PE-GREEN).

• a. Install an appropriate junction box at a suitable location on the PV racking system (typically at the end of a branch of modules).
• b. Connect the open wire end of the AC bus cable into the junction box using an appropriate gland or strain relief fitting.
• c. Wire the conductors of the AC bus: L1- BLACK; L2 - RED; L3 - BLUE; N - WHITE; PE – GREEN.
• d. Connect the AC branch circuit junction box to the point of utility Interconnection.

Step 7 - Completing the APsystems Installation Map

Fill in the APsystems Warranty Cards, which provide system information and the installation map. Feel free to provide your own layout if a larger or more intricate installation map is required. The layout map provided is designed to accommodate labels in vertical or horizontal orientation to meet all the field PV connections.

• a. Each APsystems microinverter has removable serial number labels. Peel labels off, and affix one to the respective location on the APsystems installation map, and affix another to the PV module frame which is easy to see. The warranty cards can be obtained from the appendix of this manual or APsystems website: www.APsystems.com
• b. Fill out the warranty cards and email to APsystems at support@APsystems.com.
• c. Register the system using your Installer Account on the APsystems EMA. You can then use the EMA website to view detailed performance of the PV system.

Figure 9: Serial Number Label Placement

The diagram shows two serial number labels (e.g., 101123458044) being peeled off and affixed to an installation map and a PV module frame.

APsystems Microinverter System Operating Instructions

To operate the APsystems microinverter PV system:

1. Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each microinverter AC branch circuit.
2. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will start producing power after a five-minute safety delay period.
3. The APsystems microinverters will start to send performance data over wireless to the ECU. The time required for all the microinverters in the system to report to the ECU will vary with the number of microinverters in the system. You can verify proper operation of the APsystems microinverters via the ECU. See the ECU Installation and Operation Manual for more information.

Troubleshooting

Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PV system does not operate correctly:

Status Indications and Error Reporting

Start up LED

Three (3) short green blinks, when DC power is first applied to the microinverter, indicates a successful microinverter start up. It is important to understand that this "start up" sequence occurs once the first module is connected to the microinvert and is successfully generating DC power. The "start up" sequence does NOT reoccur as additional modules are connected to the same microinverter.

Operation LED

• Flashing Slow Green (10 sec. gap) - Producing power and communicating with ECU
• Flashing Fast Green (2 sec. gap) - Producing power and not communicating with ECU over 60 minutes
• Flashing Red - Not producing power
• Steady Red - Electrode assembly ground fault protection

Other Faults

All other faults are reported to the ECU. Refer to the ECU Installation and Operation Manual for a list of additional faults and troubleshooting procedures.

Troubleshooting a non-operating APsystems Microinverter

To troubleshoot a non-operating APsystems Microinverter, Follow the steps below in order:

1. Verify the utility voltage and frequency are within ranges shown in the Technical Data section of this manual.
2. Check the connection to the utility grid. Verify utility power is present at the inverter in question by removing AC, then DC power. Never disconnect the DC wires while the microinverter is producing power. Re-connect the DC module connectors and watch for three short LED flashes.
3. Check the AC branch circuit interconnection between all the microinverters. Verify each inverter is energized by the utility grid as described in the previous step.
4. Make sure that any AC breaker are functioning properly and are closed.
5. Check the DC connections between the microinverter and the PV module.
6. Verify the PV module DC voltage is within the allowable range shown in the Technical Data of this manual.
7. If the problem persists, please call APsystems Technical Support.

Replace a microinverter

Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PV system does not operate correctly:

Follow the procedure to replace a failed APsystems Microinverter.

A. Remove the APsystems microinverter from the PV Module, in the following order:

1. Disconnect the AC by turning off the branch circuit breaker.
2. Cover the module with an opaque cover.
3. Disconnect the first AC connector in the branch circuit.
4. Disconnect the PV module DC wire connectors from the microinverter.
5. Remove the Microinverter from the PV array racking.

B. Remove the opaque cover, install a replacement Microinverter to the rack. Remember to observe the flashing LED light as soon as the new Microinverter is plugged into the DC cables.

C. Connect the AC cable of the replacement Microinverter.

D. Close the branch circuit breaker, and verify operation of the replacement Microinverter.

Technical Data

YC1000-3 3-Phase Microinverter Datasheet

*Meets the standard requirements for Distributed Energy Resources (UL 1741) and identified with the CSA Listed Mark

Note 1: Utility Interconnection Voltage and Frequency Trip Limits and Trip Times

*Programmable through ECU in field to meet customer need.
**Depending on the local regulations.

Specifications subject to change without notice - please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com

© All Rights Reserved

2021/8/10 REV4.1

Wiring Diagram

Sample Wiring Diagram - 208Y/120V Three Phase

Figure 11: Wiring Diagram for 208Y/120V Three Phase System

The diagram illustrates a typical wiring setup. It shows multiple SOLAR PANELS connected to YC1000-3 Microinverters. The AC output from the microinverters is connected via an AC BUS CABLE (with conductors BLACK-L1, RED-L2, BLUE-L3, WHITE-N, GREEN-PE) to an AC JUNCTION BOX. A BRANCH END CAP is installed on the end of the AC bus cable. From the junction box, connections go to a METER and then to a DISTRIBUTION PANEL (120V/208V THREE PHASE), which includes a 15 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER PER BRANCH CIRCUIT. The ECU (ENERGY COMMUNICATION UNIT) is shown communicating wirelessly with the microinverters.

Sample Wiring Diagram - 480Y/277V Three Phase

Figure 12: Wiring Diagram for 480Y/277V Three Phase System

Similar to Figure 11, this diagram shows SOLAR PANELS connected to YC1000-3 Microinverters. The AC BUS CABLE (BLACK-L1, RED-L2, BLUE-L3, WHITE-N, GREEN-PE) connects to an AC JUNCTION BOX. A BRANCH END CAP is installed on the AC bus cable. The junction box connects to a METER and then to a DISTRIBUTION PANEL (277V/480V THREE PHASE), protected by a 15 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER PER BRANCH CIRCUIT. The ECU (ENERGY COMMUNICATION UNIT) is shown communicating wirelessly with the microinverters.

YC1000-3 Accessory

Wiring Diagram

Diagram of Accessory Components

This diagram shows various accessory components used with the YC1000-3 system. Labeled components include: 1. Bus Cable, 2. Bus Cable End Cap, 3. Bus Cable T-CONN Cap, 4. DC Male Connector Cap, 5. DC Female Connector Cap, 6. AC Connector (Male), 7. AC Connector (Female), and 8. DC Extension Cable. The diagram illustrates how these connect to the microinverters and the Grid.

Accessories Summary

APsystems Microinverter & Energy Communication Unit Installation Card

The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation. Each APsystems microinverter has a removable serial number label located on the mounting plate. Peel the label and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map.

Installation Map Template

A grid is provided with rows labeled A, B, C and columns numbered 1 through 21, serving as a template to record microinverter serial numbers and their physical locations within the PV array.