Outback Power

Product Training
Agenda

 Inverter/Chargers
 Charge controllers
 Batteries
 Product Overview
 Basic system sizing
  INVERTER/CHARGER BASICS
FXR INVERTER/CHARGERS
Inverter/Chargers 

 RADIAN “A” INVERTER/CHARGERS

 INVERTER SIZING REQUIREMENTS
 STACKING BASICS
 Basic Conversion Schematic
Symbol

AC Connection

DC Connection

No indication of input or output

 Charger/DC Power Supply

AC Input

DC Output
Solid State
Rectifier

Charger: Typically includes battery charge algorithm

Power Supply: Typically constant voltage
 Basic Inverter

DC Input

AC Output Solid State

Switching

Could be Grid-tie or Battery Based Inverter

 Basic inverter types used in Solar
 Battery Based Inverter
 Voltage Source Inverter
 Asynchronous Inverter
 Grid forming
 Delivers current required by load
 Needs batteries!
 Grid-Tie Inverter
 Current Source Inverter
 Synchronous Inverter
 Grid dependent
 Delivers all current
available
 Batteryless Grid-Tie

Advantages:
Simple system sizing
Simple Wiring
Easy FIT monitoring

Disadvantages:
No operation without grid
No ability to “shift” power

Sized to match array

 Battery Inverter Only

Question: “What size Load Panel

inverter do I need for my

10kw solar array?”

AC Output

Battery
 Basic Inverter/Charger

AC Input

Battery
Connection

AC Output

Has no ability to “blend” AC and DC energy

 Bi-Modal Inverter

AC Input
Bi-Directional

Battery
Connection

AC Output

Can “blend” AC and DC sources

AC input bi-directional
Simplified Internal Transfer Switch & H-
Bridge Diagram
FET 1

DC +
AC Out
Pass Thru Charge/Invert
FET 2
H-Bridge
AC In DC -

FET 2&4
FET 1&3

FET 3

Neutral DC -

FET 4

DC +
 Internal Transfer Relay

Grid In Grid In Grid In

AC Out AC Out AC Out
Gen In Gen In Gen In

Both pass thru relays open: Grid pass thru relay closed: Generator pass thru relay closed:
AC Output provided by Energy flow from grid to Energy flow from Generator to
“inverter” from batteries AC output. Can blend AC AC Output. Can blend AC and
and DC energy DC energy
Off-Grid DC Coupled

AC Output

Battery

AC2 Gen Input

On-Grid DC Coupled

AC Output

Main Panel

Battery AC1 Grid Input

AC2 Gen Input

 Off-Grid AC Coupled
Battery inverter
Load Panel
creates “grid” for
grid-tie inverter to
synch to

Grid-tie inverter should AC Output

be disconnected while
generator running to
Battery
prevent backfeeding
generator
AC2 Gen Input

Some method of charge

control must be
implemented
 On-Grid AC Coupled
Sub Panel
When grid is available,
grid tie inverter “sell”
energy not used by sub-
panel loads through
battery based inverter AC Output

Main Panel

Battery AC1 Grid Input

AC2 Gen Input

On-Grid DC and AC Coupled with
Generator Sub Panel

AC Output

Main Panel

Battery AC1 Grid Input

AC2 Gen Input

 OutBack FX Inverters/Chargers

• Pure sine wave output

• Off-grid/backup and grid-interactive models
• Sealed or vented
• Rugged, cast aluminum case
• Good heat dissipation
• Available in 12, 24, 32, 36,
and 48 Vdc
• Automatic internal AC transfer relay
• Programmable auxiliary modes
(12 Vdc / 0.7 Adc)
• Field-serviceable
• Stackable up to 10 inverters
 OutBack FX Inverters/Chargers
Models
 FX or VFX – Sealed or vented (Off-Grid)
 GTFX or GVFX – Sealed or vented (Grid-Interactive)
 M Series – Mobile/Marine (Off-Grid)
(sealed, switched neutral/ground bond)

 Extreme – Rugged, durable (Off-Grid)

(sealed, water-resistant, shock/vibration protected)

 Specific Markets:
 A Series for Domestic (60 Hz)
 E Series for International (50 Hz)
 Sealed vs. Vented FX Inverters/Chargers

SEALED Inverter/Chargers:
• Humid climates without protective
enclosures for the system VENTED Inverter/Chargers:
• Coastal environments with corrosive salt • Dry, protected, indoor areas
air away from dust and organic
matter
• Dirty environments where air intake
openings can clog • Accessible, attended systems
• Boats where water can splash on • Inverter produces more power
the inverter
• NOTE: Not weatherproof; does not carry
a NEMA rating
 NEW FXR Inverters/Chargers

• Same modes as the Radian A series – including

GridZero
• 50/60 Hz Selectable
• ABC Charging
• Firmware upgradable
• Off grid and Grid-tied in same unit
• Only works with the HUB 10.3 & MATE3
• Can stack in:
o Series (eight inverters)
o 3-phase (nine inverters)
o Parallel (ten inverters)

Cannot be stacked with legacy FX Series

 Radian Series GS8048A, GS4048A
Inverter/Charger
 Pure sine wave
 Multiple AC Input Modes
 Grid Zero, Generator, Support,
Grid Tied, UPS, Backup, Mini Grid
 4.0 & 8.0 kVA continuous
 CEC Efficiency 92.5%
 Surge capacity of 16.97 kVA
(8.5 kVA for 4048A) – 100 ms
 120/240 split-phase voltage
 No balancing transformer required
 Dual AC inputs – Grid & Gen
 50/60 Hz selectable
 Advanced Battery Charging (ABC)
 Radian Series GS8048A, GS4048A
Inverter/Charger
 Automatic internal AC transfer relay
 Field-upgradable firmware
 Field-serviceable
 GS8048A has two identical 4 kVA power modules
 Separate control and AC board stack
 Better efficiency in low power
 Low tare loss - 30 W

 Redundancy
 Radian Series GS8048A, GS4048A
Inverter/Charger
• Dual auxiliary connections
• Front cooling vents – 3/8" clearance
requirements on sides
• Spring based wiring terminals – no torqueing
required
• Combines with GSLC load center
• Stack up to 10 inverters
• Can stack the GS4048A with GS8048A
• Mounting bracket makes installation easy
 Radian Offset Function

 Inverter and loads are connected to grid

 If excess RE is available, inverter offsets
grid usage with RE
 If RE generation exceeds the load there
will be no demand on the grid
 Works with GridZero, Support, Grid Tied,
and Mini Grid input modes
 Radian AC Input Modes

• GRIDZERO: Connects to grid but runs loads with battery/RE to “zero

out” grid draw. Not a selling mode. Cannot charge batteries. Only
uses grid for peak demands. Offset.
• GRID TIED: The only Grid Interactive (selling) mode. Battery backup
for selected loads. Offsets grid with excess battery/RE energy; sells any
other excess.
• GENERATOR: Generator is AC source. Wide tolerances for
problematic generators. No offset.
• BACKUP: Grid is AC source. Battery backup for selected loads. No
offset.
• UPS: Similar to Backup. Transfer function optimized for quick
response. No offset. Higher idle consumption.
• MINI GRID: Grid is AC source but is disconnected; loads run by
battery/RE. Only uses grid if battery/RE are insufficient. Offset.
• SUPPORT: AC source occasionally insufficient; battery power is used
to support AC loads. Offset.
 Choosing an OutBack Inverter/Charger

FX Series FXR- Radian Radian

Renewable Series (A series)
Grid/
No Yes Yes Yes
Hybrid
Sells to
Some versions 24V & 48V All versions All versions
Grid
Split-Phase Split-Phase
Single Phase 120V Single Phase (50/60Hz)
AC output 120/240V 120/240V
(60 Hz) 100-130V
(50/60 Hz) (60 Hz)
2 programs for 1 AC Input.
Dual External transfer
External transfer switch Yes Yes
AC input switch required
required
Sealed or
Both options Both options Vented only Vented only
Vented

Power 2 kVA to 3.6 kVA 2 kVA to 3.6 kVA 4 or 8 kVA 8 kVA

Surge
4.8 to 6 kVA 4.8 to 6 kVA 8 or 16 kVA 16 kVA
Rating
 Sizing Inverters – Watts vs. VA

 Watts = VA x Power Factor (PF); VA = Watts ÷ PF

 Resistive Loads have a PF = 1
 Capacitive & Inductive Loads have a PF < 1, and need an inverter sized
using VA, not Watts
 Inverters are specified on total connected VA
 Examples of Power Factor ranges
 Electronics (~0.8 - 0.9 PF)
 Magnetic Ballast CF bulbs (~0.5 - 0.8 PF)
 Electronic Ballast CF bulbs (~0.8 - 0.9 PF)
 LED lights (~0.9)
 Well pump motor (~0.7 - 0.8 PF)
 Sizing Inverters

Total Connected Watts and Surge Watts

Total 3 Estimated
LOADS QTY x WATTS = x =
W (if surge) Surge
CF Lights 10 x 15 = 150 x = 150
Refrigerat
1 x 230 = 230 x 3 = 690
or
TV 1 x 150 = 150 x = 150
Radio 1 x 50 = 50 x = 50
Well Pump 1 x 900 = 900 x 3 = 2,700
Freezer 1 x 280 = 280 x 3 = 840
AC TOTAL WATTS TOTAL WATTS +
1,760 SURGE 4,580

General Power Factor ÷0.8 ÷0.8

VA 2,200 Surge VA 5,725
 Collecting Information for Sizing Inverters
Total Connected Watts and Surge Watts

AC TOTAL VA 2,200 TOTAL VA + SURGE 5,725

PV Array Watts 3200

Inverter Sizing Information Inverter Choice

Load Connected VA
PV Watts
Load Surge VA
Grid Interactive or Off Grid
Generator needed?
Need dual AC inputs?
Corrosive Salt Air or
Excessive Dust?
High Humidity?
Only 120 volt loads?
240 volt loads?
2,200 Highest dictates continuous watt output
of grid-interactive inverters. Off-grid inverters
3200 sized to connected load watts.
5,725 Find inverter surge capability
 Grid Interactive or Off Grid Select inverter
Yes or No All inverters can interface with generator
Yes or No Radian has dual inputs
Yes or No Sealed or Vented
Yes or No Sealed or Vented
Yes or No Single FX inverter
Yes, No, Both 120/240 Radian, dual FX, or PSX-240 with single FX
 Stacking – FX Series
Stacking – Combining the output of 2 or
more inverters

 Series Stacking – 120/240 Vac

 Classic Series Stacking (FP2 - grid-tied)
 OutBack Series Stacking (off-
grid/backup only)
 Parallel Stacking
– 120 Vac
 Series/Parallel Stacking
– Up to 10 inverters (36 kW)
 3-phase Stacking
– 120/208 Vac wye
Charge Controllers

 Charge Controller Basics

 FM Series Charge Controllers
 Charge Controller Sizing Requirements
The Prime Directive
 The primary purpose of a charge controller is to
prevent overcharging batteries

 Some charge controllers can provide optimum

charging algorithms such as 3 stage charging

 Advanced charge controllers can maximize solar

harvest by allowing the array to operate at its
maximum potential
Relay Charge Controller

 No ability to affect either voltage or

current, simple slow switch
 No battery charge algorithm
capability, only high voltage
disconnect and low voltage HVD

reconnect. LVR

 Array nominal voltage must be the + _

same as battery nominal voltage

12 Volt Battery
Second Gen or PWM Charge
Controller
 No ability to affect voltage or
current, simple fast switch
 Battery charge algorithms such as 3
stage charging now available as
PWM operation allows array to
“hold” target voltage for period of Bulk

time. Float

 Array nominal voltage must be the + _

same as battery nominal voltage
 Can regulate power required by 12 Volt Battery
loads when battery full
Pulse Width Modulation Explained

 Voltage and current cannot On

be changed, but power

0% Duty
Cycle
OFF

delivered over time can 25% Duty

Cycle
On

OFF

On
50% Duty

By varying power delivered

Cycle


OFF

over time, target voltage/s 75% Duty

Cycle
On

can be held as in Bulk and

OFF

Float targets
On
100% Duty
Cycle
OFF
 Max Power Point Tracking
At 25 degrees C
Isc 5A

4A
Imp

 5A x 0V = 0 Watts 3A

 40V x 0A = 0 Watts 2A
 30V x 3.75 A =112.5 Watts
1A

0A
0V 10V 20V 30V 40V
Vmp Voc
Note low fill factor
Max Power Point Tracking
 Advantages
 MPPT allows greater harvest;
particularly in cold climates

 DC to DC conversion allows array to

be wired at higher voltage than
battery bank as well as ability to limit
V Sense

DC/DC

current
I Sense

 Possible to use “grid-tie” modules in MPPT

battery based system

+ _

 Perturb, observe, and adjust Battery

Charge Controller Efficiency vs.
Harvest
Trace C-30A Trace C-40 Outback FM60
Relay Type CC PWM Type CC MPPT Type CC

Harvest: Good Harvest: Better Harvest: Best

Efficiency: 97.7% Efficiency: 99.5% Efficiency: 98%

Off I: .25 mW Off I: 7.2 Watts Off I: 1 Watt
Tare Loss: 16.8 Watts Tare Loss: 14 Watts Tare Loss: 40 Watts
SmartHarvest Charge Controllers

SCCPXX-50 SCCMXX-100
Type Bat V Watts Max Voc
SCCP05-50 PWM 12/24 60/120 25/50
SCCP10-50 PWM 12/24 120/240 25/50
SCCM10- MPPT 12/24 150/300 100
100
SCCM20- MPPT 12/24 300/600 100
100

Though not well documented, unit also has load control

capability
Regulating a wind generator
 Though both wind and solar create dc, they are very different
sources that must be treated differently
 Solar can simply be disconnected and go “open circuit” with no
detrimental results
 A solar charge controller would allow the wind generator to spin
freely with no load, most likely damaging the wind generator and
creating a very high spike voltage
 Need to use diversion mode for wind generator or rotating sources,
(note that specialty wind and hydro charge controllers exist)
Diversion Control
Series Charge
Control Diversion Control

Full Full
Basic Diversion Load Schematic

+
12 Vdc Aux

-
Properly Sized
Diversion Load
Diversion Load Sizing
• Diversion load needs to be sized
to approximately 125% of source
Watts
capacity
• Ensure load will draw proper
current and handle necessary
wattage
Amps Volts
Example: 1000 watt wind generator at 48 Vdc
1000 watts x 125% = 1250 load size
1250 watts/48Vdc = 26 amps dc
48Vdc/ 26 amps = 1.85 ohms
Volts
1.85 ohm load with at least 1250 Watt rating
Amps Ohms
Multiple Charge Controllers
Multiple Charge Controllers
Typical customer complaint: “My charge controllers
are fighting!”

 Behavior: As the batteries SOC rises, they accept

less current and the charge controllers do not
split it evenly due to tolerances

 Solution: Remove metering capability from

charge controllers so as to hide this harmless
behavior from customer

 Problem: None
 Why is load sizing important?
 Example Customer Request:
 “I need a parts list for a 200 amp system for a house”
200 amp service * 240 Vac equals 48kw continuous load
This would equate to 6 GS8048A units
48kw load * 24 hours in a day equals 1.152 Mwh
For 1 day autonomy at 50% dod, 48,000 ah battery bank
This would be the equivalent of 960 L-16 batteries

For a locations with 4 peak sun hours average

Using all relevant derating: 500kw solar array
Roy’s Opinion on Li-ion charging
 The term “Li-ion” can mean various topologies all with different
charge requirements and per cell voltages

 Unlike lead acid topologies, Li-ion internal impedance does not

increase with rising state of charge, therefore not inherently self
limiting

 I would never give advice on any voltage setpoints, whether

charging or discharging for any Li-ion topologies
Random Facts
 The concept of efficiency in a charge controller relates to conversion
efficiency only, not solar harvest which also takes into account the
effectiveness of the MPPT algorithm.

 Charge controllers do not inherently work with inverters…they

regulate charge to the batteries
 Specifying an OutBack Charge Controller

FLEXmax 60 FLEXmax 80
• Rated 80 A @ 40ºC
•Rated 60 A @ 40ºC
• Continuous MPPT
•Continuous MPPT algorithm
algorithm
• Rated for 150 Vdc
•Rated for 150 Vdc maximum open circuit
maximum open circuit PV PV input voltage
input voltage
• Top mounted cooling fan
•Internal cooling fan for easy access
•Fully MATE compatible • Fully MATE compatible
 OutBack FLEXmax Extreme

• IP54 sealed design for NEMA 3R rating

• Advanced thermal management with

passive cooling
• Full 80 Adc output –20oC to 45oC
• External fan pod option extends this to
60oC.
• Improved EMI signature
• Low tare loss of less than 1 Watt
• Advanced communications
option using AXS Card Modbus interface
 Maximum PV Input Watts per Charge
Controller

Nominal Maximum Array Size (Watts)

Battery Standard Test Conditions
Voltage FLEXmax 60 FM-80/FME
12 750 W 1,000 W
24 1,500 W 2,000 W
48 3,000 W 4,000 W
60 3,750 W 5,000 W

Controllers can be wired in parallel if array size is larger

than allowed by one controller for a given battery voltage.
 OutBack’s PV String Sizing Tool: Color Code

Array wattage more than CC output

Voc of array too high

Array wattage more than CC output

Array wattage and Isc too high

for CC rating

Vmp of array too low to charge batteries.

All O.K.
Batteries

 Battery Basics
 Battery Charging and Setpoints
 RE, GH and NC Series Batteries
 Battery Sizing Requirements
 Battery Comparisons
Cycling Recharge
Battery Type Application Maintenance Safety Cost
Ability Ability

Watering is
required Spillable Lowest initial
Flooded More tolerant cost
Off-grid,
Equalization Operated upright Good deep of improper
Lead Acid central
only cycle life recharge
office/telco cycle is Has cost of
Wet-Cell periodically voltages
Must be vented maintenance
required

Maintenance-
grid- Free
interactive, Sealed Charge
Lead Acid off-grid, UPS Superior shelf
Spill Proof Good cycle voltage must
Moderate
VRLA and backup life ability at initial cost
Leak Proof be limited
power, 50% DOD
emergency Does not require
vehicles, equalization

Must be used with

an onboard battery
Charge
Deep cycle, management Superior
Lithium- peak shaving.
Maintenance-
system to prevent cycling
conditions Very high
ion Free must be initial cost
Hybrid EV’s over-charge / ability
controlled
over-discharge /
thermal runaway
 Terminology

Days of Autonomy = # days batteries run

loads without recharging

Cycle = one charge and discharge

SOC 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

DoD 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

SOC (State of Charge) =

available % of total capacity
DOD (Depth of Discharge) =
removed % of total capacity
 Ways to Determine SOC

1. Measure voltage of battery at

rest (no charging or discharging)

2. Battery monitor (FNDC) –

uses shunt to keep track of amp-hours
in or out of battery to read SOC Battery Status
Bat 28.5 V 52.6 A 85%
Min 24.1 V 5:55 50%
Max 29.4 V 11:58 90%
3. Hydrometer or Refractometer to measure Days Since Parms Met 1.5 12:15
9/20/12
specific gravity of electrolyte (wet-cell batteries)

1.265
100% SOC Voltage (at rest)
Wet-Cell Batteries = 12.6 to 12.7 V
Outback RE Batteries ≥ 12.8 V
 Battery Capacity
200 Ah x 12 V = 2400 Wh
EnergyCell 200RE – 12 volt
Discharge Rated Rated Usable Wh Usable Wh
Hours Ah Wh (50% DOD) (80% DOD)
1 103 1236 618 989
8 158 1900 950 1,520
12 168 2016 1008 1,613
20 178 2136 1068 1,709
24 181 2172 1086 1,738
100 200 2400 1200 1,920

2400 Wh x 50% = 1200 Wh

OutBack recommends using a maximum of 50% discharge for cycling
applications and 80% max for occasional cycling applications.
 What Affects Battery Capacity?

• Ambient Temperature of = Battery capacity

battery bank

= Battery cycle life

For example
• DOD vs. Cycles Daily 20% DOD, 3300 cycles.
Daily 80% DOD, 675 cycles.

• Rate of Discharge Rate goes Capacity goes

 3-Stage Charging

Battery SOC
• 70% to 90% after Bulk
Voltage stage
• 100%+ after absorption
Current

OutBack systems include temperature-compensated charging

(when RTS installed).
 Programming Set Points

Bulk and Float Voltage

Follow battery manufacturer
specifications

Voltage
Current

Absorb Time ~ 2 - 3 hours for OutBack RE Battery

Float Time = Absorb Time for OutBack AGM batteries

 Long Float Times
Voltage

Absorptio Absorption
n Set
Point

Float Float
Set
Point
Bulk
No Charge
No (AC removed)
Charge Time

Charges from Bulk to Float and remains in Float until AC loss

• FX Inverter: Charger = ON
• Radian Inverter: Input Mode = GENERATOR
• Radian GS(A) & FXR: Float Time = “24/7” setting with any Input Mode which
charges batteries
 Absorb-Silent-Float
Voltage
Absorption
Absorptio
n Set Silent Silent Silent
Point
Float Float Float Float
Set
Point Float Float Float
Timer Timer Timer
Re-Float
Set
Point
No Bulk
Charge Time

Charges to Absorption, goes Silent, and periodically

Floats
• FX or VFX inverter: Charger = AUTO
• Radian GS: Input Mode = BACKUP or UPS
• Radian GS(A) & FXR: Input Mode = GENERATOR, BACKUP or
UPS
 Selling or Offset

Voltage
Absorption
Set Point

Absorption
Float Float Silent
Sell
Set
SetPoint
Point Float
Silent
Re-Float Timer
Set Point
Sell/Offset Sell/Offset
Bulk

No Charge Time

Charges to Absorption, Offsets/Sells, and will alternate

between Silent and Float
• GTFX or GVFX inverter: Charger = AUTO
• Radian & FXR: Input Mode = GRID TIED, MINI GRID, or SUPPORT
 OutBack EnergyCell GH Batteries
12V battery
 Backup Energy Storage
− 12 volt
− Similar charging set points to
EnergyCell RE battery.

 For Float applications

– Grid-interactive/Standby
– 80% DOD for occasional outages
– Long float life – 15 years

 Two sizes available

− 220GH – 220 Ah @ 100-hour rate
− 200GH – 200 Ah @ 100-hour rate
 OutBack NanoCarbon Batteries
2V &12V battery
 Partial State of Charge (PSoC)
− Maximizes overall cycle life up to 44% versus traditional VRLA batteries in
PSoC
− Similar cycle life to RE battery when charged to 100% regularly
 Applications
– Grid-zero/Support applications
– Applications with limited sun-hours
– Off-grid with irregular charge
– SGIP or Arbitrage - if unable to reach full charge before peak loads
applied
12V Sizes 2V Sizes
106NC – 106 Ah @ C/100 1000NC – 1000 Ah @ C/100
170NC – 170 Ah @ C/100 1500NC – 1500 Ah @ C/100
200NC – 200 Ah @ C/100 2000NC – 2000 Ah @ C/100

Note: ~ 10% increase in initial cost over RE battery

EnergyCell RE and GH DOD vs. Cycles

RE and GH Battery Cycle Life Comparison

7000

6000

5000

Number of Cycles

4000

3000
RE Battery

2000

1000

0
GH Battery
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120%
Depth of Discharge
Energy Cell GH Float Life

GH
Battery

RE
Battery

Wet
Cell
Battery

Source: Ronald Paredes, OutBack Power

 Example 1: Battery Sizing
with Backed-up Load Estimation
Calculating Average Daily AC and DC load
Total 24 AVG Wh/Day
LOADS QTY x WATTS = WATTS x Hours =
CF Lights 8 x 18 = 144 x 16 = 2,304
Refrigerator 1 x 690 = 690 x 6 = 4,140
Laptop/modem 1 x 80 = 80 x 12 = 960
TV/Cable 1 x 90 = 90 x 6 = 540
Freezer 1 x 620 = 620 x 6 = 3,720
AC AVG
DAILY LOAD 11,664 Wh

• 11,664 Wh ÷ 0.9 (inverter efficiency) = 12,960 Wh

• Watt-hours needed to run loads for 24 hours = 12,960 Wh
• Choose the right battery bank
Example 1: Choosing a Battery
Usable capacity Usable capacity
EnergyCell
at C/24 rate at C/24 rate
200RE 50%DoD 80%DoD
4
4,344 Wh 6,950 Wh

8,688 Wh 13,900 Wh

13,032 Wh 20,851 Wh

Watt-hours to run loads for 24 hour period = 12,960 Wh

 Example 2: Battery Backup Sizing
Based on Budget

Calculating Average AC and DC load

LOADS QTY x WATTS = Total W

CF Lights 10 x 21 = 210
Refrigerator 1 x 490 = 490
TV 1 x 200 = 200
Laptop/Mode
m 1 x 100 = 100
AC TOTAL WATTS 1000

• Budget dictates 8 OutBack RE200 batteries

• Outage is 8 hours
• How long can these loads operate from
the batteries?
 Example 2: Determining Load
Run Time on Battery
EnergyCell Usable 50% Usable 80%
capacity at capacity at
200RE C/8 rate C/8 rate

7,603 Wh 12,164 Wh

Inverter
efficiency 6,843 Wh 10,947 Wh
(Wh x 0.9)
Run time =
6.8 hr 10.9 hr
Wh/1000

Example with C/8, DOD 80%:

12,164 Wh x 0.90 (inverter efficiency) = 10,947 Wh (AC load)
10,947 Wh ÷ 1,000 W = 10.9 hrs
 Determining Maximum
Charging Current

GS8048 Inverter/Charger Ratings

Default Minimum Maximum

Charger limits 30 Aac 0 30 Aac

30 Aac x 240 Vac = 7,200 Wac

EnergyCell EnergyCell
170RE 200RE
Maximum Charging
46.14 Adc 53.4 Adc
Current per String

53.4 Adc x 48 Vdc = 2,563 Wdc

How do we reconcile these current limits?

 Determining Maximum
Charging Current
Maximum AC Charging Amps =
# of battery strings x (DC max charge amps x DC battery bank voltage ÷ 0.85 charger efficiency ÷ Vac)

Example: Radian with one string of EnergyCell 200 RE

53.4 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac = 12.5 Aac
1 string

Example: Radian with two strings of EnergyCell 200 RE

2 x (53.4 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac) = 25 Aac
2 strings

Example: Radian with one string of EnergyCell 200 RE

3 x (53.4 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac) = 37.5 Aac  30 Aac Max*

3 strings *30 A is the maximum current limit for the GS8048A

 Determining Maximum
Charging Current
Maximum AC Charging Amps =
# of battery strings x (DC max charge amps x DC battery bank voltage ÷ 0.85 charger efficiency ÷ Vac)

Example: Radian with one string of EnergyCell 220GH

118.8 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac = 28 Aac
1 string

Example: Radian with one string of EnergyCell 220GH

2 x (118.8 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac) = 56 Aac  30 Aac*
2 strings

Example: Radian with one string of EnergyCell 220GH

3 x (118.8 Adc x 48 Vdc ÷ 0.85 ÷ 240 Vac) = 84 Aac  28 Aac*

3 strings *30 A is the maximum current limit for the GS8048A

 Integrated Battery Rack

 Two or three shelf options

 Fully assembled; includes

– Interconnects
– Cabling
– Disconnects
– Overcurrent Protection
 Supports 8 or 12 RE or GH batteries

 Holds 4 or 6 ‘8D’ batteries

NOTE: When installing batteries, place the remote

temperature sensor on the side of the middle battery.
Product Overview

 Communication Products
 Optics RE
 FlexNet DC Battery Monitor
 FlexPower Systems
 Communication Devices for FP1
Communications
Manager (HUB10.3) MATE3
FLEXnet
DC

1 9 8 7 6 5
Ethernet
0 HUB
Port
Port

1st MATE Port

Port 3

FLEXmax
80

Laptop
Port 1

FX Series
Inverter/Charger
Port 2
 Communication Devices for FP2 – FX series

Communications Manager
FLEXmax 80 (HUB10.3) MATE3
FLEXnet
DC
HUB
Port

Port 5

Port 4 1st MATE Port

Port 3

Port 2 Ports 6 – 10 can be

Slave used for additional
Inverter devices.

FXR series stacking:

Port 1 Master in Port 1,
Master L2 Master in Port 7
Inverter
 Communication Devices for the FP-Radian

FLEXmax 80
MATE3
Charge
Controllers
FLEXnet HUB
DC Port

5
Radian
Inverter Port 4
1st MATE Port
Port 3

Port 2

Port 1

Communications Manager
(HUB10.3)
 Hot Keys & Soft Keys

Inverter Events
Hot Key Hot Key
Charger AC Input
Hot Key Hot Key
Generator Favorites
Hot Key Hot Key

Soft Keys
(x4)
 Optics RE
Monitor and Control Your OutBack System

Use any internet connected

device
View energy use and
production
Historical performance and
event data
Email notification and alerts
Remote control access
Eliminate unnecessary site visits
 Optics RE
Optics RE Setup

• Requirements
Chrome, Safari, Firefox or IE web browser
Laptop, tablet or smartphone with internet access
OutBack Gateway
 (MATE3 or AXS Port)
 MAC Address – Press Port key or get from label
 Firmware version 003.xxx.xxx or higher – upgrades
on OutBack website
 Optics RE
Optics RE Setup
• Step 2 – Create and Account
Go to www.opticsre.com and click Create an Account
Fill out all fields, agree to terms and click CREATE account button
Go to your email account and click on link to confirm
 Optics RE
Optics RE Setup

• Step 3 – Create a Profile

Go to www.opticsre.com and sign in
Click on Launch The Profile Setup (or click on Accept Invitation)
 Enter MAC Address
 Proceed through the menus to complete Profile Setup
 FLEXnet DC Battery Setup
 Enter Battery Ah
 Set charged voltage 0.2-0.4
Vdc below charger settings
 Set Return (End) Amps to 2-
3% of Battery Ah (a little high
is best)
 Battery Charge Factor (BCF)
is 94% default
 Charge Termination Control
 Uses FLEXnet DC Battery
Settings
 If charge parameters are met
then Absorb cycle is
terminated for all OutBack
devices
 Best way to charge batteries!
 Pre-wired Systems vs.
Custom Selected
Pre-wired systems
• Fast easy installation
• NEC-compliant installation
• Pre-tested, pre-wired panel
• Cost effective
• Just add batteries, add PV, and hang on the wall
• 46 configurations available

Custom-selected systems
• Building block architecture
• Modular design units can be stacked
together for higher power
 Pre-wired Systems:

Ideal for smaller power

applications

• Cabins
• Remote outposts
• Backup power systems
• Communication sites
 Pre-wired Systems:

Ideal for applications with medium-sized

power requirements
• Mid-sized Homes
• Larger Remote Outposts (e.g. Visitor Centers, Ranger Stations)
• Light Commercial Systems
• Backup Power Systems
 FLEXpower Radian:

Ideal for applications with medium-

to large-sized power requirements

• Large Homes
• Light Commercial Systems
• Backup Power Systems
• Dual Input Sources
System Sizing

 Load Calculating Requirements

 Solar Array Sizing Requirements
 Generator Sizing Requirements
 Step 1: Profile System Loads
Calculating Average Daily AC and DC load
Hours
Quantit Total per Average
Loads* y x Watts = Watts x day = Wh/day
Lights 6 x 20 = 120 x 8 = 960
Stereo 1 x 20 = 20 x 3 = 60
Computer/
Network 1 x 40 = 40 x 8 = 320
TV/Cable 1 x 115 = 115 x 6 = 690
Bat Chargers 5 x 5 = 25 x 3 = 75
Water Pump 120v 1 x 740 = 740 x 2 = 1480
Clothes Washer 1 x 300 = 300 x 0.5 = 150
Refrigerator 1 x 200 = 200 x 6 = 1200
AC Average
AC Total Watts 1,560 W 4,935 Wh
Daily Load
*All loads are 120 Vac
 Step 3: Size PV Array to Load
Total ÷ Peak ÷ Battery ÷ Controlle ÷ PV ÷ Derate = PV
Wh/ Sun Efficiency r Temp Factor Array
day Hours Efficiency Loss ** Watt
* s
5,423 ÷ 5 ÷ 80 % ÷ 96 % ÷ 0.88 ÷ 0.85 = 1,888

Summary: 1,888 W of PV

Use OutBack Power's String Sizing Tool to determine the

wiring configuration and charge controller size
*PV Temp Loss takes into account temp losses averaging about 88% of the module's STC rating.

**Derate Factor includes losses such as module production tolerance, module mismatch, and wiring/dust losses.
 AC Generator Choices
 Common Rules of thumb for generator sizing:
 “Equal to the size of the inverter stack”
 “Twice the size of the inverter stack”

In reality, generator is often already chosen or installed

 Generators best avoided:
 Generators with auto start transfer switch
 Inverter based generators due to low surge capacity
 Generators without 2 wire start capabilities…..if auto-start is desired
 AC Generator Sizing
 Absolute Minimum Generator Size:
 Proper voltage and decent waveform
 Practical Minimum Generator Size:
 Equal to the size of inverter stack, runs loads and some battery charging
 Ideal generator size:
 Twice the size of inverter stack, runs loads and max battery charging
 Maximum Useful Generator Size:
 Inverter stack transfer relay size x system voltage x 1.25
 This would allow maximum generator utilization at 80% of gen output