[RE-wrenches] enphase AC carrier length

[Jason Szumlanski]

In some cases it is easier to locate the Envoy closer to the array and
run a long Cat5 cable to the router. Every situation is different. We
have even mounted the Envoy outside in a NEMA 4X box. I agree that the
Powerline Ethernet Bridge is a good tool, and sometimes wireless makes
sense. The IT part of the installation can definitely be a time drain in
some places, especially large homes.

 

Jason Szumlanski

Fafco Solar

 

From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Nick
Soleil
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:32 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] enphase AC carrier length

 

Hi wrenches:
    One thing to keep in mind is that a 15 inverter string contains 78'
of #14 just on the inverters output cables.  Depending on the homerun
length, it can be further.  Additionally, you will have the AC run back
to the distribution panel, and then the additional residential wiring
(#12 or #14) to the jack nearest to the router.  This can easily become
200' to 300' of wiring between the last inverter and the Envoy.
However, steps can be taken to minimize the issues, and I have always
found a resolution to my communication issues.
    Breaking the string into two 7-8 module parallel strings (and then
paralleling them at a j-box) can reduce the distance and voltage drop
from the Enphase inverter output cables. 
    I have installed many systems that have had communication issues
between the Envoy and the inverters.  In the past, I have installed new
receptacles or run CAT 5 from the Envoy to the router.  That is time
consuming, and there is a much easier way to deal with it. I have
resolved most of my communication issues by installing the 'Ethernet
Bridge' which is a 2nd power line carrier modem and its receiver.  This
product enables the Envoy to be located away from the router (and closer
to the array.)  The 'Ethernet Bridge' is a product offered by Enphase.

 

Nick Soleil
Project Manager
Advanced Alternative Energy Solutions, LLC
PO Box 657
Petaluma, CA 94953
Cell: 707-321-2937
Office: 707-789-9537
Fax: 707-769-9037

 

 

________________________________

From: Drake <drake.chamberlin at redwoodalliance.org>
To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Thu, November 4, 2010 2:31:36 PM
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] enphase AC carrier length

I was told 300 feet by an Enphase Rep.  We have a system that is at 
least that far from the Envoy.


At 11:14 AM 11/4/2010, you wrote:
>HI All,
>
>Is there a max length to the AC carrier signal for Enphase?
>
>I thought I did hear about a length, and in checking the website 
>could find no mention of it.
>
>Anybody know?
>
>thx,
>
>jay
>
>peltz power
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