Outback Inverters [RE-wrenches]
Matt Tritt
solarone at charter.net
Mon Apr 12 22:38:15 PDT 2004
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Gary,
I second the opinion of the bypass assembly. We used a large SQD bypass
instead and used the 50 amp breakers to protect individual inverters.
I would like to see a CD program for each individual configuration that
could be programmed prior to installation, or at least done with a
laptop in the field through the Mate.
Matt T
-----Original Message-----
From: Gary Higbee [mailto:gary at windstreamsolar.com]
Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 10:03 PM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: Re: Outback Inverters [RE-wrenches]
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Wrenches,
It has been very refreshing to work with these folks. I felt good things
about Outback quite a while ago--when they were working on some great
metalwork and I didn't have a hint yet of anything very electronic. The
metal worked, and so have the electronics--so far. Christopher was a
huge help when I was working on a project that required touch-safe fuse
holders in PSPV's for 35 strings of small modules (for an integrated
roof-mounted array), since there wasn't a small enough breaker. As well,
in a couple early inverter installs I had high "search mode" current,
and Outback provided the changeout boards, which were easy to install
(no sending in 100 pounds of transformer and such--let's hear it for
field serviceability!).
A recent quad VFX3648 install was briefly challenging, due to poor
documentation. Fortunately I had some papers Outback had provided at a
recent technical seminar, and I was able to adapt to this specific
configuration. Alan Sindelar suggested a "Programming Guide" for various
configurations, which I strongly second. We're seeing some wonderful
applications here, and I will say that I felt truly challenged to figure
out how to set up the quad stack. The nice thing is that I expect this
documentation will happen soon--thanks to this engineering-driven
company.
I'm attracted to the technology in this product, but am concerned about
what would happen if one of the inverters in this quad stack goes down.
Yes, it's nice to watch the HUB10 scanning away--but what if something
in this complex integrated system gets sick? How about some procedures
(that my clients can
understand) to run a minimal system on 1 inverter if the hub goes down,
or on 2-3 inverters if one or two go down or one quits? And what if it's
the Master? What-if's and clear documentation matter so much when the
lights go out...
OK, while I'm at it how about a dramatically better quad bypass? This is
a very poor mechanical assembly, and no matter what I've done I have not
been able to get the thing to feel right. I ended up manufacturing a
back brace to firmly hold the QOU2100 assembly in place, as it was very
sloppy simply clipped into the DIN rail. Even then the mechanics of the
assembly simply don't work. I've needed to caution my client to make
sure to wiggle the plate down slowly and switch the four 50 amp breakers
down first before the 100 amp is flipped down to the inverted on (and
bypassed) position--and to not start the generator until all the
switches are in the correct position. Robin and I discussed options,
including a wider mounting bracket that will accommodate the clips that
come with these larger breakers. This would help with the mechanical
stability of the 100 amp breaker assembly, but it still may not cure the
problem with the whole switching assembly working right. The mechanics
here seem challenging--though I am hopeful that Outback will come up
with a much better version and provide it to those of us who have
versions that don't work.
Bottom line in my experience--great folks to work with, an excellent
product line, some challenges we expect to experience in any
cutting-edge company, and a keen interest in hearing what we have to
say and to evolve quickly. Especially important is that I have the
confidence that these folks will meet the challenge. OK, so how about
the above items?
Thanks,
Gary
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~ Windstream Solar ~
Gary Higbee (gary at windstreamsolar.com)
(541 ) 607-1818 (Eugene)
(541) 954-3881 (Cell)
Solar, wind, and hydro site analysis and system design
Components dealer and installation assistance
Energy Trust of Oregon contracted system inspector
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Your opinion counts! We’re conducting a survey for a
computer service/repair company. When you complete our
survey, you will also be entered into a drawing for one of
ten $100 prizes. Just click
http://click.topica.com/caab6Pibz8Qcsbz9JC9f/ Val Rad
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