[RE-wrenches] Seaward Solarlink

[Chris Mason]

Yep, I bought one for testing modules and installations. The kit is
designed for European installations where the connection to the inverter is
via MC4 or Sunlink connectors. You can disconnect the inverter, connect the
Seaward, and test the system. Similarly the strings are plugged into the
bottom of the combiner, so you can test each of the strings quickly.

The NEC method requires hard wired connections and conduit, so there is
nowhere to connect the test set. I have suggested Seaward provide 1000V
rated alligators clips so we can test the strings at the fuseholder. I
bought some Fluke test leads with the intention of putting MC4 connectors
on them as an adapter, have not done that yet as I got to like them on my
Fluke!

For string testing, we use a long lead and test at each end of the string
instead of at the combiner.

The set is very useful for testing modules. We have a shipment of used
modules and I wanted to test every unit prior to installation. That is very
quick to do.
The ability measure the irradiance and temperatures and record that with
the module performance to a dataset is useful, and one way to stand out
from the crowd. It makes commissioning very professional. I wish we could
input the bar code at the same time.
The Solar Survey 200R irradiance meter is also a very useful temperature
logger for testing solar thermal installations and for checking module
temperatures.

My only gripe, other than the connection issue, is with module performance.
I really wanted the system to be able to give me the module rating. I would
like to download the data and see the actual module performance, adjusted
for irradiance and ambient/module temperature. As it is, I get the Voc and
Isc.
Nice piece of kit, very useful,  great way to test for ground faults,
ground resistance, Voc and Isc, very quickly and to record the results to
your computer. I think in time we will be required to do this for
certification as the British are.







On Wed, Feb 13, 2013 at 5:25 PM, Kirk Herander <kirk at vtsolar.com> wrote:

> Hello,****
>
> ** **
>
> Can anyone provide user feedback on the Seaward PV test/commissioning
> equipment? I’m thinking of making the $2K investment in their Solarlink
> kit. Thanks.****
>
> ** **
>
> Kirk Herander****
>
> VT Solar, LLC****
>
> dba Vermont Solar Engineering****
>
> NABCEPTM Certified Inaugural Certificant****
>
> NYSERDA-eligible Installer****
>
> VT RE Incentive Program Partner****
>
> 802.863.1202****
>
> ** **
>
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-- 
Chris Mason
President, Comet Systems Ltd
www.cometenergysystems.com
Cell: 264.235.5670
Skype: netconcepts
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