Sunny Mini Central

SMC 5000A / 6000A

Inverter for three-phase grid feeding
PV plants

Installation Guide Version 1.4 SMC50A_60A-11:SE3706

IME-SMC50A_60A
SMA Technologie AG Table of Contents

Table of Contents
1 Notes on this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7
1.1 Validity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7
1.2 Target group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7
1.3 Explanation of the symbols used: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7
2 The Sunny Mini Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Appropriate usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 Overview of the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.4 Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.5 Special features:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.5.1 LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .15
2.5.2 Sunny Display . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .15
2.5.3 OptiCool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .16
2.5.4 Electronic Solar Switch (ESS). . .. .. .. .. .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .17
3 Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.1 Handling of the Sunny Mini Central . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.2 Responsibility of the installer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4 Mounting the unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.1 Required tools and materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.2 Selecting an installation site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.3 Mounting the Sunny Mini Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5 Electrical Connection . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . 31
5.1 Required tools and materials . . . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . 31
5.2 Connection procedure . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . 32
5.3 Connection of the DC input . . . . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . 32
5.3.1 Prerequisites: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
5.3.2 Connection of the PV strings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

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5.3.3 Reverse Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

5.4 Connecting the AC output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
5.4.1 Prerequisites: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
5.4.2 Connecting the AC output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
5.4.3 The line circuit breaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
6 The communications interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
6.1 Connecting RS232, RS485, Sunny Beam . . . . . . . . 52
6.1.1 Jumper functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
7 Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central. . . . . . 55
7.1 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.1.1 Setting the language of the Sunny Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
7.2 LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
8 Hand-over to the operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
9 Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central. 63
9.1 Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
9.2 Opening of the Sunny Mini Central . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
9.3 Closing of the Sunny Mini Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
10 Troubleshooting / Problem solving . . . . . . . . . . 67
10.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
10.2 The Red LED Illuminates Continuously . . . . . . . . . . . 68
10.2.1 Ground Fault Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
10.2.2 :Checking the varistors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
11 Maintenance and cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
11.1 Checking heat dissipation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
11.1.1 Cleaning the fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
11.1.2 Checking the fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
11.1.3 Cleaning the handle covers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
12 Decomissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
12.1 Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

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12.2 Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
12.3 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
12.4 Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
13 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
13.1 Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
13.2 Sunny Mini Central SMC 6000A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
13.3 General data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
13.4 Sunny Mini Central operating parameters . . . . . . . . 87
13.4.1 Explanation of the operating parameters . .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .87
13.4.2 Parameter settings for Germany . . . . . . . . .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .92
13.4.3 Country-specific parameter settings . . . . . .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .94
13.4.4 Non-modifiable parameters. . . . . . . . . . . .. ... .. .. .. .. .. .95
13.5 Explanations and certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
13.5.1 CE declaration of conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
13.5.2 SMA grid guard certificate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
14 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
15 Contact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

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 SMA Technologie AG

Seite 6 SMC50A_60A-11:SE3706 Installation Guide

SMA Technologie AG Notes on this manual

1 Notes on this manual

1.1 Validity
These installation instructions cover correct installation and commissioning of type Sun-
ny Mini Central SMC 5000A and SMC 6000A SMA inverters.

1.2 Target group

Only trained electricians approved by the responsible power supply company may in-
stall and commission the inverters. The instructions are based on the assumption that
you, the installer, are familiar with electrical installations and know the corresponding
rules and regulations.

1.3 Explanation of the symbols used:

This symbol indicates a fact that when not observed could result in dama-
ge to components or danger to persons. Please read these sections espe-
cially carefully.

This symbol indicates a fact that is important for optimum operation of the product.
Read these sections carefully to ensure optimum operation of your product.

This symbol identifies an example.

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Notes on this manual SMA Technologie AG

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SMA Technologie AG The Sunny Mini Central

2 The Sunny Mini Central

2.1 Appropriate usage
The Sunny Mini Central is a photovoltaic inverter and serves to feed solar energy from
solar modules converted using photovoltaics into a low voltage grid with a rated volta-
ge of 220 to 240 V and 50 Hz or 60 Hz.

Do not use the Sunny Mini Central for purposes other than those described
here. Alternative uses, modifications to the inverter as well as installing
components not recommended or sold by SMA void the warranty and
operating permission.

Principle of a solar system with a Sunny Mini Central

SMC 5000A or SMC 6000A

L1

Distribution

L2

Electricity grid

L3

Photovoltaic Sunny Mini

modules Central

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The Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

2.2 Overview of the device

The following diagram gives a schematic overview of the various components and con-
nection points inside the SunnySunny Mini Central Mini Central SMC 5000A and SMC
6000A with the cover removed:
D E F

C G

M L K J I

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SMA Technologie AG The Sunny Mini Central

A Varistors (page 70)

B Connection terminals for communication (page 51)
C Socket for communications Piggy-Back (RS232, RS485, Radio) (page 51)
D Jumper for communication (page 51)
E Sunny Display (page 56)
F Jumper for fan testing (page 75)
G Operating status LEDs (page 59)
H Connection terminals for mains cable (AC) (page 39)
I Cable duct for mains cable (AC) (page 39)
J Flat connection for grounding the cable shield for RS232 and RS485 commu-
nications (page 51)
K Cable feed-throughs for communication (page 51)
L Connection plug for ESS (page 17)
M PV input plugs (DC) (page 32)

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The Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

2.3 Dimensions

242 mm

468 mm

613 mm

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SMA Technologie AG The Sunny Mini Central

Wall mounting bracket and rear panel

0,2

7,0

2,0 1,0 1,2 7,6

1,2 2,0
2,2

8,5 2,6 2,6 7,8 11,0 2,2 8,6

43,3

Holes for wall mount

Specifications in cm

48,7

Holes for optional single-use

screws as theft protection

0,9 (4 x)

1,2 1,2
5,8 2,5 2,5 5,8

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The Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

2.4 Identification
Type plate
You can identify the Sunny Mini Central with the aid of the type plate (see figure be-
low). The type plate is found on the right-hand side of the enclosure (when viewed from
the front). It contains information regarding the device type, serial number, device-spe-
cific key data, the CE mark and SMA contact information.
The following is an example of a Sunny Mini Central SMC 6000A type plate.

Device Type Serial number

Sunny ntral
MiniCe
www. .de
SMA Technologie AG
Hannoversche Straße 1 - 5
Photovoltaik Wechselrichter 34266 Niestetal, Germany
Photovoltaic inverter Hotline: +49 561 - 9522 - 499
Typ Serien-Nummer
Type SMC 6000A Serial Number 2000133108
Max. Betriebsspannung* Nenn-Betriebsspannung
DC Photovoltaic string inverter*
600 V AC Nominal operating voltage
230 V
Country-specific
Betriebsspannungsbereich* Nenn-Betriebsfrequenz
DC Operating voltage range* 213 - 600 V AC Nominal operating frequency
50 / 60 Hz standard for the
Nenn-Betriebsspannung Nenn-Ausgangsleistung automatic
DC Nominal operating voltage
270 V AC Nominal output power
6000 W
disconnection unit
Max. Eingangsstrom Max. Ausgangsleistung
DC Max. input current
26 A AC Max. output power
6000 W defining the
Betriebstemperaturbereich Max. Ausgangsstrom factory preset
Operating temperature range -25... + 60 °C AC Max. output current
26 A RMS
settings of the
Geräte-Schutzart Mit selbsttätiger Schaltstelle VDE 0126
Enclosure
IP 65 AC With disconnection unit -1-1 (2.06) device

Lasttrennschalter nach DIN EN 60947-3

* Weitere wichtige Informationen in der Technischen Beschreibung

* For more details see technical description

In case the device is equipped

with the Electronic Solar
Switch (ESS), this is indecated
with the text above.

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SMA Technologie AG The Sunny Mini Central

2.5 Special features:

2.5.1 LEDs
The Sunny Mini Central is fitted with an operating status
indicator, the three LEDs on the cover at the front, as (Green)
standard. The are green, yellow and red and can indi- (Red)
cate the operating status of the Sunny Mini Central via (Yellow)
various blink codes. A detailed explanation of the dif-
ferent blink codes can be found in the operating manu-
al of the Sunny Mini Central.

2.5.2 Sunny Display

The Sunny Mini Central is equipped with a display in
the lid of the case as standard. The illumination of the
Sunny Display is activated by tapping on the lid of the
case. Tapping again switches the Sunny Display to the
next message. The display continues after 5 seconds if
it is not tapped. It shows a series of messages one after
the other, which describe the yield values and the ope-
rating status. A detailed explanation of the different
messages can be found in the operating manual of the
Sunny Mini Central. After two minutes, the illumination
of the Sunny Display switches itself off automatically.
The Sunny Display can be set to the languages Ger-
man, English, French and Spanish (see chapter 7.1.1
„Setting the language of the Sunny Display” (Page
58)).

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The Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

2.5.3 OptiCool
The Sunny Mini Central comes equipped with the patented Opti-
Cool dual-chamber cooling system. At the same time, the inver-
ter's enclosure is integrated into the temperature management
and now serves not only to incorporate and protect the internal
components but also as a cool air and heat distributor.
As the central component of passive heat abstraction, the heat
sink is integrated into the enclosure, thus dividing it into two cham-
bers.

The front chamber containing the electronic components is es-

pecially sealed and thus protected against infiltration by water,
dust or dirt. In addition, the heat sink, functioning as a partition
wall, provides enough space for the installation of the heat-pro-
ducing components.

The rear housing chamber contains the components which de-

velop high amounts of heat, depending on their function, such
as chokes, which are especially enclosed and are, thus, unsus-
ceptible to external influences.
Two active cooling units are affixed to the underside of the se-
cond chamber which have been specially designed for this pur-
pose. According to the temperature of the power conductor
and the inductive components, they switch themselves on auto-
matically and vary the speed as necessary for an even heat ba-
lance within the device.
The air current provided by the fan is particularly well chan-
neled via a current tunnel and expels the waste heat both from
the heat sink and the other components in this area.
OptiCool makes for low component temperatures throughout the inverter. This leads to
high levels of reliability and excellent performance behaviour even with high ambient
temperatures which both impact considerably on the economic viability of the inverter
and, therefore, the PV system as a whole.

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SMA Technologie AG The Sunny Mini Central

2.5.4 Electronic Solar Switch (ESS)

The Sunny Mini Central can be equipped with the "ESS" in-
tegrated electronic DC circuit breaker, which fulfills all re-
quirements for the installation standard for photovoltaic
systems (VDE 0100-7-712) valid from June 2006. To ac-
cess the DC input plugs in order to disconnect the PV gene-
rator from the inverter, you only need to pull on a grip
handle on the base of the inverter, which immediately inter-
rupts the current flow on the DC side. At the same time, this
activates an electronic switch inside the device. This switch
reliably prevents the arcing that usually occurs when sepa-
rating the inverter from the PV generator. But the inverter is
not de-energized yet! In order isolate the PV generator completely, the DC input plugs
have also to be removed. When closed, the ESS does not cause line losses. You can
find further information on the ESS in the enclosed instruction manual of the ESS, if the
Sunny Mini Central is equipped with one. The ESS is only available ex works and can-
not be retrofitted.

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The Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

Page 18 SMC50A_60A-11:SE3706 Installation Guide

SMA Technologie AG Safety instructions

3 Safety instructions
3.1 Handling of the Sunny Mini Central
The Sunny Mini Central has a weight of approx. 63 kg. Min. two people
must carry the unit or a suitable transport trolley must be used. Steel-cap-
ped shoes must be worn.

Follow the instructions in the pictograms, signs and labels on the inverter
and ensure that they are legible at all times.

Do not install the Sunny Mini Central

• on inflammable materials,
• in areas where there are easily inflammable substances,
• in potentially explosive areas!

Check the system design using the "Sunny Design" design program
(www.SMA.de) or by calling the Sunny Boy Hotline before installing the-
Sunny Mini Central. Overvoltages may lead to the destruction of the Sun-
ny Mini Central.

Open and close the Sunny Mini Central as described in Chapter 9 „Ope-
ning and closing of the Sunny Mini Central” (Page 63) only and follow the
safety instructions there.

Work on the Sunny Mini Central with the cover removed must be carried
out by a qualified electrician! High contact voltages are present in the de-
vice. Before working on the Sunny Mini Central with the cover removed,
the AC and DC voltages must be disconnected from the Sunny Mini Central
and the capacitors must be discharged (wait for 20 minutes after isolating
the AC and DC voltage).

When working on the Sunny Mini Central and handling the components,
remember to observe all ESD safety regulations. Electronic components
are susceptible to electrostatic charge. Discharge any electrostatic charge
by touching the grounded enclosure before handling any electronic com-
ponent.

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Safety instructions SMA Technologie AG

The temperature of individual parts of the case and of components inside

the Sunny Mini Central can reach over 60°C. Touching could result in
burns!

Avoid contact with the PV modules when they are running, as a minimal
displacement current could flow and cause a secondary accident due to
shock. Therefore, maintenance work may only be performed on the solar
generator when it is disconnected. This can be done by activating the Elec-
tronic Solar Switch (ESS) for example. Disconnecting the inverter from the
mains grid is not sufficient.

General safety rules for working on photovoltaic systems:

1. Disconnecting the device

Before you start to work on the unit, disconnect all wires which could
carry voltage to the area you are working on!

2. Ensure that the device cannot be reconnected.

Prevent the device being reconnected by marking it, blocking or lo-
cking it!

3. Ensure that the unit is voltage free.

Use a voltage tester to ensure that the unit is voltage free. Ensure that
all poles of the unit are free of voltage.

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SMA Technologie AG Safety instructions

3.2 Responsibility of the installer

Each person carrying out work on electrical devices is responsible for the
safety of the persons involved and for the safety of the devices.

Be sure to always observe the standards and regulations applicable at the

installation site.

This installation guide, the operating instructions and the operating instructions of in-
stalled components must be kept in the immediate vicinity of the inverter, and must be
available to installation, operating, maintenance and cleaning staff at all times.
The inverter may only be used when it is technically perfect and safe to operate. All
safety features must be accessible at any time and their correct operation must be tested
regularly.
Read this installation guide carefully and be sure to observe all prescribed safety regu-
lations when installing and commissioning the system, as well as the technical connec-
tion requirements of the local energy supplier and all applicable national provisions of
the country in which the system is installed.
The information regarding operational safety refers to the regulations of the European
Union valid at the time the inverter is produced. The installer is obliged to make sure
that the mentioned safety measures comply with the regulations valid at the time and to
observe new regulations when installing the inverter. Outside the European Union, the
laws on occupational safety applicable in the deployment location of the device and
the respective national requirements must be adhered to.
In addition to the work safety measures in this installation guide, the general safety and
accident prevention regulations which apply where the inverter is installed and the valid
environmental protection regulations must be observed and followed.
Follow all instructions in this installation guide completely and without restrictions.

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Safety instructions SMA Technologie AG

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SMA Technologie AG Mounting the unit

4 Mounting the unit

4.1 Required tools and materials
Number Tools/Material Purpose
1 Drill Drilling the holes for the wall bracket
2-4 Dowels with a diameter of 10 mm Insert in the holes in the wall for the
(for attaching to a concrete or stone wall mount
wall, for example)
2-4 8 mm x 60 mm hexagon bolts to Attaching the wall bracket to the
DIN 571 standard, stainless steel wall
type
(for attaching to a concrete or stone
wall, for example)
1 Appropriate wrench Attaching the wall bracket to the
wall
1 Allen key (5 mm) Attaching the Sunny Mini Central to
the wall bracket
1 Steel bar with max. diameter of 30 Poss. for carrying the Sunny Mini
mm Central (slide through the rear hou-
sing opening)

Optional for anti-theft protection:

2-4 Dowels with a diameter of 10 mm Insert in the holes in the wall for the
(for attachment to a concrete or anti-theft screws (if desired)
stone wall, for example)
2-4 Corresponding single-use screw sys- Anti-theft protection of the Sunny
tems (8 mm) Mini Central (if desired)
1 suitable screwdriver Secure the single-use screws to the
anti-theft protection (if desired)

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Mounting the unit SMA Technologie AG

4.2 Selecting an installation site

No. Checkpoint Control
Location
1 The installation location and attach-
ment type is suitable for the weight
of approx. 63 kg and the dimensi-
ons of 468 mm x 613 mm x 242
mm (width x height x depth ) of the
Sunny Mini Central.

613 mm
468
mm mm
2
24

63 kg
2 The Sunny Mini Central is accessible at any time (e.g. not mounted
on roofs that are difficult to access).
3 The Sunny Mini Central can be removed from the installation loca-
tion easily (by two people), in spite of its weight of 63 kg.
4 The Sunny Mini Central is not mounted
• on inflammable materials,
• in areas where there are easily inflam-
mable substances,
• in potentially explosive
areas.
5 The Sunny Mini Central is not exposed to direct sunlight, in order
to avoid yield losses of the PV system.
6 The ambient temperature is always between -25 °C and +60°C.

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SMA Technologie AG Mounting the unit

No. Checkpoint Control

7 The Sunny Mini Central is installed in such a
way that it is not possible (e. g. for children) to
unintentionally unplug the DC plug connec-
tors.
Unintentionally pulling out the DC plug con-
nector under load can damage the plug and
result in bodily injury or death!
Position
8 The Sunny Mini Central is mounted vertically on a wall, or if it is
absolutely necessary, tilted back to an angle of max. 45°.

9 The Sunny Mini Central is installed so that it is not slanting forward.

10 The Sunny Mini Central is not installed horizontally.
11 The Sunny Mini Central should ideally be installed at eye level to
allow operating conditions to be read at all times.

Foundation
12 The Sunny Mini Central is mounted on a solid surface.
13 In domestic installations, the Sunny Mini Cen-
tral should not be mounted on plasterboard
walls or similar as otherwise audible vibra-
tions are likely to result.
The Sunny Mini Central makes noises when
in use which can, in the domestic setting, be
seen as a nuisance.

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Mounting the unit SMA Technologie AG

No. Checkpoint Control

Safety clearances
14 The following minimum clearances to walls, other devices or ob-
jects must be observed to guarantee sufficient heat dissipation.

Direction Minimum
clearance
sides 30 cm
top 30 cm
underside 30 cm
front 5 cm

15 If serveral Sunny Mini Central units are installed in areas where

high ambient temperatures are to be expected, the individual Sun-
ny Mini Central units must be far enough apart to ensure that the
individual Sunny Mini Central units do not intake the cooling air of
the neighbouring unit.
If necessary, increase the clearances and ensure that the device is
sufficiently ventilated.
16 The Sunny Mini Central must be mounted in a
manner that the inverter cannot be touched
accidentally!
The temperature of individual parts of the case
and of components inside the Sunny Mini Cen-
tral can reach over 60°C. Touching could re-
sult in burns!

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SMA Technologie AG Mounting the unit

4.3 Mounting the Sunny Mini Central

Only use the original wall bracket for installation.

When mounting the device, be sure to take into account the weight of the
Sunny Mini Central of 63 kg.

Step Instructions
Installing the wall mount
1 For mounting the wall bracket, use two to four of the six holes in the middle.
2 Mark the positions of the drill holes by using the wall bracket as a drilling
template (see page 13 for a sample)
3 Drill the holes, insert the dowels and
secure the wall bracket with screws
using corresponding washers.

Recommended bolts: 8 mm x 60 mm hexagon bolts to

DIN 571 standard, stainless steel
type
Recommended dowels: SX10

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Mounting the unit SMA Technologie AG

Step Instructions
Mounting the Sunny Mini Central
4 When transporting and installing the A
Sunny Mini Central, use the ergonomic
handles at the top and bottom at the si- B
des of the Sunny Mini Central (A), or
the housing opening, by inserting a
steel bar (B), for example, (diameter
max. 30 mm).

4 Hook the Sunny Mini Central using the

mounting holes on the rear face into
the wall bracket.

5 Fix the Sunny Mini Central to the wall

bracket using the two enclosed M6 x 8
mm bolts an both sides of the Sunny
Mini Central.
Fasten the bolts so that they are hand-
tight.

6 Make sure the Sunny Mini Central is positioned securely on the bracket.

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Step Instructions
7 Close the recessed handles with the
handle covers provided in the accesso-
2
ries kit.
They are required to adequately pre-
vent insects entering the unit. Should 1
the handle covers break, new ones
can be ordered from SMA (page
103).

Step Instructions
Optional anti-theft protection
8 To protect the Sunny Mini
Central against theft, the
rear face can be secured to
the wall at the bottom using
2 so-called single-use bolts.
The other two holes are spa-
re, in case you take down
the Sunny Mini Central and
then mount it again, and the screw stumps from the first single-use
bolts still stick out of the wall.
The exact position of the holes can be seen in the illustration of the
rear panel in chapter 2.3 „Dimensions” (Page 12).
The inverter can then only be taken down by cutting the single-use bolts with
an angle grinder!

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5 Electrical Connection
5.1 Required tools and materials
Number Tools/Material Purpose
2-8 DC plug connector for the connecting cables of the solar
modules for connection to the Sunny
Mini Central
1 Multimeter with DC input voltage ran- Check the connecting wires of the so-
ge up to at least 600 V lar modules for correct polarity and
ensure that the maximum input volta-
ge of the Sunny Mini Central is not
exceeded
1 Cable with external diameter bet- AC connecting cable
ween 11 and 25 mm
1 Stripping pliers Stripping the AC cable
1 Flathead screwdriver 1 x 6 mm or Using the screw clamps for the AC
Phillips screwdriver PZ2 Pozidrive connection
1 Allen key (5mm) Opening and closing the housing co-
ver
1 Line circuit breakers Power circuit fuse
(See page 47 for layout)

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5.2 Connection procedure

When connecting the unit to the power supply, follow the sequence descri-
bed here only!

The following illustration shows the assignment of the individual housing ducts on the
base of the Sunny Mini Central.

A B A C D E

A Plug connectors for connecting the PV strings

B Optional plug connector for connecting the ESS (Electronic Solar Switch)
C Cable feed-throughs for optional communication via RS232, RS485 or radio
(PG16)
D Cable feed-through for grid connection (AC) (11 mm - 25 mm)
E Not used

5.3 Connection of the DC input

5.3.1 Prerequisites:
For connecting the DC input, the following conditions must be satisfied:

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1. The connected strings must consist of modules of the same type and number and
should have an identical orientation and tilt.
2. The connecting wires of the solar modules must be equipped with plug connectors
to allow the eight DC plug connectors of the Sunny Mini Central to be connected
to it.
A pre-assembled set for connecting the free cable ends from a string is available
as an optional accessory from SMA:
Connection set Order code Max. current
per connector
Multi-contact 3mm SWR-MC 21.0 A
Multi-contact 4 mm MC-SET 30.0 A
Tyco TYCO-SET 30.0 A

3. Make sure that the following limit values at the DC input of the Sunny Mini Central
are not exceeded:
Device maximum input voltage maximum input current
SMC 5000A 600 V (DC) 26.0 A (DC)
SMC 6000A 600 V (DC) 26.0 A (DC)

4. Check the system desing and the string size using the design program "Sunny De-
sign" which is available to download free at www.SMA.de.

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5.3.2 Connection of the PV strings

The inverter has to be disconnected from the grid, before connecting the
PV strings.

To connect up the PV strings, follow these steps:

Step Instructions
1 Make sure the connecting cables of the
solar modules have the right polarity and do
not exceed the maximum input voltage of
the Sunny Mini Central (see section5.3.1
„Prerequisites:” (Page 32)).

Warning! Dangerously high voltages may be present. Dan-

ger of death! Make sure that you only use measuring de-
vices with a DC input voltage range up to at least 600 V!
2 Taking one DC plug connector at a time, measure the direct current voltage
between one DC plug connector of a string and earth potential.
If the measured voltages are constant and their total is roughly the same as
the open circuit voltage of the string, then there is a ground fault in this string.
Its approximate location can be deduced from the relationships between the
voltages.
3 Attention! Do not connect strings to the Sunny Mini Central
that contain a ground fault until you have fixed the ground
fault in these strings!
4 Repeat step 2 for each string.
5 Connect up the faultless PV generator strings
as indicated on the right.

6 Close the unused DC input sockets with the caps included in the delivery.

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5.3.3 Reverse Current

Advice on generator configuration for PV systems using the Sunny Mini
Central
In contrast to the "Sunny Boy" string inverters, in the PV generator of a system using the
"Sunny Mini Central", three and more strings are usually connected in parallel. This
does not sound particularly spectacular but it has practical consequences because, in
such large generators, certain faults which are totally uncritical in string systems must be
allowed for. Short circuits can cause wrongly directed module current, leading to a so-
lar module being subjected to so-called reverse current, which may be several times
more than the normal maximum current (short circuit current) of the solar module.
How does reverse current occur?
In principle, reverse current can only occur when modules are connected in parallel
and the open circuit terminal voltage (open circuit voltage UPV 0) of the individual pa-
rallel strings is different. In normal operation, this is adequately avoided when the
strings are of the same length. Since shadowing of the modules has no significant effect
on UPV 0, even in this situation no significant reverse current occurs.
Under fault-free operation of a correctly laid out PV generator, no excessive reverse cur-
rent can occur!
Reverse current can only occur due to a fault in the solar generator (e.g. short circuit in
one or more modules) that causes the open circuit terminal voltage of a module string
to be significantly lower than the open circuit terminal voltage of other parallel strings.
In the worst case, the voltage on the faulty string may lie within the MPP voltage (UMPP)
of the remaining generator elements. The internal diode structure of the solar cells cau-
ses reverse current to flow through the faulty generator string that, depending on the
amount of current, may lead to excessive heating or destruction of the modules in this
string.
Among other symptoms, the following faults may lead to reduction of the open circuit
terminal voltage of a generator string and subsequent reverse current in parallel-con-
nected systems:
• Short circuit in one or more modules,
• Short circuit in one or more cells in a module,
• Double ground fault in a module and/or the cabling.

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Despite the fact that these faults are very unlikely, and extremely rare in practice, pre-
ventative measures must still be taken. After all, these types of faults carry a high poten-
tial for damage and danger, since all modules in the affected string may be damaged
and the local heating may also cause secondary damage.
Reverse current into the faulty string =
Total current of the remaining strings

+ L

- N

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How can reverse current in the modules be prevented?

First we must explain that bypass diodes which are the current state-of-the-art in module
construction do not influence the reverse current in the module, but only reduce the ef-
fect of any shadowing which may occur.
In order to prevent or to limit the reverse current into the modules, the following stan-
dard methods can be applied:

1. String technology
All components in a string (modules, wire diameter, plug connectors) must be designed
as reverse current for the remaining generator short-circuit current. In case of parallel
connection of max. two strings, this is always the case, since the resulting reverse current
of a (defect) string can reach no higher value than the value of the short circuit current
of the (intact) string.

2. String diodes
The so-called string diodes connected in series with the individual strings prevent any
reverse current in the corresponding string. Disadvantage: The diode is always connec-
ted in series to the corresponding generator string, the string current flows through it and
leads to correspondingly high continuous losses. Moreover, the failure of the diode
may cause the loss of the safety function or lead to the failure of the entire string.

3. String fuses
String fuses connected in series to the individual strings can limit the reverse current in
the corresponding string to the permitted maximum. The losses at the string fuses are
considerably lower than in string diodes. Failure of a string fuse can be detected by
monitoring the fuse or by intelligent fault monitoring of the solar generator.
Only the first option is viable for low-cost systems.

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Design notes
The following must be checked or ensured above all:
T
Step Verification
1 Do all the strings have the same number of series-connected modules?
2 How high is the maximum reverse current in a defective string at nominal
conditions?
Example: generator with 4 strings of modules with 5 A short circuit current
The maximum reverse current is 3 x 5 A = 15 A.
3 Are the modules suitable for such a reverse current?
4 If not: Have appropriate measures been taken in order to avoid these cur-
rents (e.g. string fuse in each string)?
5 Are the plug connectors of the modules and the inverter suitable for such a
reverse current?
6 Is the string wiring suitable for such a reverse current?

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5.4 Connecting the AC output

5.4.1 Prerequisites:
For connecting the AC output, the following conditions must be satisfied:
1. Connection requirements
When connecting the inverter to the public grid, follow the connection require-
ments of the local grid operator.
The Sunny Mini Central is designed for operation on 220 V - 240 V grids. Additi-
onally, it is equipped with an automatic grid frequency identifier and can thus be
connected to a 50 or 60 Hz system without further parameterization.
The following limit values for the AC output apply:
Limit values for AC output
Voltage range 198 V ... 253 / 260 Va
(default setting per DIN VDE 0126-1-1)
Voltage range 180 V ... 265 V
(adjustable operating range)
Frequency range 47.5 Hz ... 50.2 Hz
(default setting per DIN VDE 0126-1-1)
Frequency range 50 Hz 45.5 Hz ... 54.5 Hz
(adjustable operating range) 60 Hz: 55.5 Hz ... 64.5 Hz

a) The Sunny Mini Central can temporarily feed power into the grid with a
maximum output voltage of 260 V. However, DIN VDE 0126-1-1
stipulates that the 10-minute average must not exceed a voltage of 253 V.
That means, if the grid voltage is constantly 254 V (e.g.), the inverter
disconnects itself from the grid. In this case, contact the local grid operator
for assistance.
DIN VDE 0126-1-1 only applies in Germany. See section 13.4.3 „Coun-
try-specific parameter settings” (Page 94) for all other preset country va-
lues of your inverter.

2. Grid impedance
Due to a high grid impedance, a high line resistance and / or a high voltage at
the feed-in point, a high AC voltage may result at the connection point of the Sunny
Mini Central . In Germany, the 10-minute average of the output voltage (Uac) of
the Sunny Mini Central is limited to 253 V according to DIN VDE 0126-1-1. If the
Sunny Mini Central records that the 10-minute average exceeds this voltage limit,
or if the 260 V limit is exceeded, it switches off immediately and displays a grid
error message. If surge voltage protection is not required in the relevant grid area

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(outside Germany), it is deactivated by means of presetting the LdVtgC parameter

(see chapter 13.4 „Sunny Mini Central operating parameters” (Page 87). In this
case, only the disconnection parameter Uac-Max applies.
The following diagram shows the power output the inverter can feed into the grid
per phase without leading to a switch-off because of a too high AC voltage.
Grid impedance [Ohm]

Output [kW] per phase

The following variables are needed to get en estimate of it.

- Grid voltage without mains feeding
- Grid impedance at the terminal of the Sunny Mini Central
The diagram shows the respective curves for a grid voltage without mains supply.
A maximum possible feed-in power per phase (X axis) is obtained for the respec-
tive curves depending on the grid impedance (Y axis).

The maximal feeding power per phase is approximately twice as high with a three
phase connection and with a symmetric feeding power.

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Example:
- The grid voltage without mains supply is 230 V.
- The grid impedance at the terminal is 1.0 Ohms.
Grid impedance [Ohm]

Output [kW] per phase

The power read on the X axis is approx. 5.8 kW per phase.

Consequently, only one Sunny Mini Central may be installed per phase in this ex-
ample. A higher output per phase, without causing a switch-off because of AC
overvoltage, requires better connection conditions for the Sunny Mini Central (e.g.
a cable with a larger cross-section).

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3. Cable connection
The connection terminals in the Sunny Mini External Wire cross-
Central are suitable for wire cross-sections diameter section
of up to 25 mm².
The external diameter of the cable must
therefore be between 11mm and 25mm. If
you use a cable with a cross-section smal-
ler than 14mm (11mm minimum), the rub-
ber bushing in the screw fitting must be replaced by the one included with the
inverter at delivery.
Strip approx. 16 mm of the insulation from the conductors of the cable. The con-
nection is made with three wires (L, N, PE).

4. Wire design
Do not use cables where the losses will exceed 1.0 %.
For optimum operation of the inverter, the grid impedance of the AC cable must
not exceed 1 Ohm. This is necessary, amongst other things, for the correct opera-
tion of impedance observation. The conductor cross-section should be dimensio-
ned so that line losses do not exceed 1 % at the nominal power. Line losses
depending on the cable length and cross-section are shown in the graphs below.
Multi-wire cables with copper forward and return conductors are used.
Use the following diagrams to check your wire design:

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Line losses of the Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A

Do not use cables where the losses will exceed 1.0 %

Line losses

Cable length

The following maximum cable lengths are possible for the different cable cross-sec-
tions:
Cable cross-section 4.0 mm² 6.0 mm² 10.0 mm² 16.0 mm² 25.0 mm²
Max. cable length 12.4 m 18.6 m 31.1 m 49.7 m 77.7 m

The neutral conductor has no load in three phase connections with symmetric
feeding power and the cable losses are reduced by 50 %. The maximum cable
length is therefore twice as long.

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Line losses of the Sunny Mini Central SMC 6000A

Do not use cables where the losses will exceed 1.0 %

Line losses

Cable length

The following maximum cable lengths are possible for the different cable cross-sec-
tions:
Cable cross-section 4.0 mm² 6.0 mm² 10.0 mm² 16.0 mm² 25.0 mm²
Max. cable length 10.3 m 15.5 m 25.9 m 41.4 m 64.8 m

The neutral conductor has no load in three phase connections with symmetric
feeding power and the cable losses are reduced by 50 %. The maximum cable
length is therefore twice as long.

5. Line circuit breaker:

The selection of the correct line circuit beraker depends on various factors. For de-
tailed information for the rating of a line circuit breaker, please refer to chapter
5.4.3 „The line circuit breaker” (Page 47).

No loads may be connected to this po-

wer circuit.

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5.4.2 Connecting the AC output

To connect up the AC output, follow these steps:

Step Instructions
1 Check the grid voltage.
For Germany, the following applies: If the grid voltage is constantly higher
than 253 V, the Sunny Mini Central will not be fully operational. In this case,
contact the local grid operator for assistance. The inverter can temporarily
feed power into the grid with a maximum output voltage of 260 V. However,
the 10-minute average must not exceed 253 V.en, der 10-Minuten-Mittelwert
darf jedoch 253 V nicht überschreiten.
2 Isolate the grid connection (switch the line
circuit breaker to its "off" position), make
sure it cannot be switched back on, and test
to make sure no voltage is present. Off!
1. 2. 3.

3 Make sure that the PV generator is not connected to the inverter.

4 Remove the screws that secure the housing
cover of the Sunny Mini Central. Put the
screws and the washers to one side so that
they do not get lost. Pull the cover forward
to remove it.

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Step Instructions
5 Connect the earth wire (PE) of the mains
cable to the right terminal of the terminal
block (see figure on the right).
The PE cable must be 5 mm longer as the L
and N cables!

PE

PE conductor connection
6 Connect the mains cable as shown in the
L N
figure. Use the supplied cable feed-through.
"L" and "N" must not be swapped!

„L“ and „N“ connection

7 Secure the housing cover by evenly tightening the two middle screws first.
Then tighten the four remaining screws as well and do not forget to also re-
attach the washers. The indentations of the washers must face toward the
housing cover. The screws must be tightened with approximately 6 Nm
torque in order to guarantee both the sealing of the enclosure and the groun-
ding of the cover.
Attention! The teeth of the lock washers ensure the groun-
ding of the cover. Make sure that the teeth of all six was-
hers face toward the housing cover!

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5.4.3 The line circuit breaker

Factors that determine the selection
Various factors should be taken into account when selecting line circuit breakers. These
include, for example:
• The type of cable used (conductor material and insulation)
• Ambient temperatures affect the cables (higher temperatures result in a reduced
maximum ampacity).
• Method of routing the cable (reduces the ampacity of the conductor)
• Bundling cables together (reduces the ampacity of the conductor)
• Loop impedance [Z] (in the event of a body contact this limits the current that can
flow and therefore determines the response behavior of the circuit breaker)
• Adequate separation between the circuit breakers to avoid excessive heating
• Selectivity
• Protection class of the connected load (VDE 0100, part 410, protection against
electric shock)

When installing the fuses, please always take the information in the manufacturer's
data sheets into account, e.g. in terms of installation distance and heat impact.

Besides that, observe the following standards in all cases:

• DIN VDE 0298-4 (Cable routing and current-carrying capacity)
• DIN VDE 0100; part 430 (Protective measures; protection of cables and
cords against overcurrent)
• DIN VDE 0100; part 410 (Protective measures; protection against electric
shock)
• as well as country-specific standards applicable at the installation site.

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Rating of the circuit breakers

Example for the thermal rating of a line circuit breaker in a photovoltaic electrical
power unit operated in parallel with the low-voltage grid.

We assume a PV system with 9 Sunny Mini Central inverters and with three inverters
per phase.

Required technical data of the Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A / SMC 6000A
• Maximum output current = 26 A / 26 A
• Maximum permissible fuse protection for the Sunny Mini Central = 40 A

The choice of cable together with the way it is routed, ambient temperatures and other
underlying conditions limit the maximum fuse protection for the cable.
• In our example we assume that the chosen cable (6 mm²) is ideally routed and
can take a nominal current of 32.2 A.

Selecting a line circuit breaker:

• The maximum possible nominal current for the cable used and the maximum pos-
sible fuse protection for the Sunny Mini Central limit the maximum possible nominal
current for the line circuit breaker.
• In our example, 32 A is possible (SMC 6000A)
• Additionally, check the thermal suitability of the line circuit breakers.

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Example for the thermal selection of a 32 A line circuit breaker with B sensitivity
with no gap between the circuit breakers:

When selecting line circuit breakers, a number of load factors need to be taken into
account. These can be found in the respective data sheets. For example, one manufac-
turer's circuit breaker may be designed for an ambient temperature of 50°C.

Load factors according to data sheet specifications:

• Reduction through permanent load >1h = 0.9 a
• Reduction when 9 circuit breakers are arranged side-by-side without gaps = 0.77b
• Increase in nominal current as a result of ambient temperatures of 40 °C in the
circuit breaker panel = 1.07 c
Result:
The nominal load current for the line circuit breaker is calculated as:
Ibn = 32 A x 0.9 x 0.77 x 1.07 = 23.7 A

Summary:
The selected line circuit breaker cannot be used in our example case since the maximum
current-carrying capacity for fault-free operation is lower than the maximum output cur-
rent of the inverter used. It will trip under rated operating conditions!

Solution 1:
Use a 35 A line circuit breaker. As a result, the maximum current-carrying capacity
would be 26 A (Ibn = 35 A x 0.9 x 0.77 x 1.07 = 26 A) and the line circuit breaker
will not trip under rated operating conditions.
However, you should consider the underlying conditions once again. In this case, you
cannot use the previously selected 6 mm² cable.

Solution 2:
Increase the distance between the line circuit breakers to 8 mm. This would mean that
the reduction factor is 0.98 instead of 0.77. As a result, the maximum current-carrying
capacity would be 30 A (Ibn = 32 A x 0.9 x 0.77 x 1.07 = 30 A) and the line circuit
breaker will not trip under rated operating conditions.

Recommendation by SMA: Solution 2:

a. Permanent loads of longer than 1 hour are possible in photovoltaics.

b. When only one circuit breaker is used, this factor = 1.
c. Because the circuit breakers are rated for 50 °C.

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As well as the thermal rating of the circuit breakers, of course the applicable DIN VDE
standards also need to be taken into account. The main ones that apply here are:
• DIN VDE 0100; part 410
• DIN VDE 0100; part 430
• DIN VDE 0298, part 4

In special applications the relevant standards must be followed.

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SMA Technologie AG The communications interface

6 The communications interface

Installation or replacement of the communications interface is only to be
carried out by a trained electrician.

The communications interface is used to communicate with SMA communication de-

vices (e.g. Sunny Boy Control, Sunny WebBox) or a PC with appropriate software (e.g.
Sunny Data Control). Depending on the selected communications interface, up to 2500
inverters can be interconnected. Detailed information on this topic can be found in the
communication device manual, or on the Internet at www.SMA.de.
The detailed wiring diagram for the individual communications interfaces can be found
in the communication device manual. This wiring diagram includes:
• specifications of the necessary cable type
• which of the inverter's connections are used
• whether jumpers need to be mounted, and if so, which jumpers
• whether the cable shield needs to be connected to the PE

The next pages will describe the following:

• the housing feed-throughs for the communications interface
• the permitted cable route in the Sunny Mini Central
• the location of the PE connector
• the location of the screw terminals for connection of communication wires
• the location of the jumper slots
• the location of the interface port
With the Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A and SMC 6000A , communication via
Powerline is not possible.

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6.1 Connecting RS232, RS485, Sunny Beam

When opening the Sunny Mini Central, follow all the safety instructions as
described in chapter 9 .

Electrostatic discharges are an acute danger to the Sunny Mini Central and to the
communications interface. Ground yourself by touching PE or an uncoated part of
the enclosure before removing the communications interface from the packaging,
and before touching any components within the Sunny Mini Central.

Read the communication device manual before beginning installation work.

Further wiring details can be found there.

Step Instructions
1 Open the inverter as described in section 9.
2 Guide the PG screw fitting over the communication cable.
3 Thread the cable through the cable feed-through (A) on the Sunny Mini Cen-
tral.
4 Screw the PG screw fitting onto the Sunny Mini Central.
5 Sheathe the cable inside the Sunny Mini Central using the silicone tube pro-
vided. The silicone tube is imperative for safety reasons. Without this silicone
tube, the interface is not to be operated.
6 Lay the cable in area (B) as shown in the figure to the right.
7 Ground the cable shield at the PE connector (C) if the terminal connection
diagram of the communication device indicates this as necessary.
8 Connect the communication wires to screw terminal strip (D) as described in
the terminal connection diagram of the communication device. Note down
the connector color coding for the respective pin numbers. Connecting the
receiver incorrectly can cause the devices to be damaged.
• Pin 2 color: ______________________
• Pin 3 color: ______________________
• Pin 5 color: ______________________
• Pin 7 color: ______________________
9 Connect the jumpers (E) if the terminal connection diagram of the communi-
cation device indicates this as necessary. The table shown to the right provi-
des an overview of the jumper functions.

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SMA Technologie AG The communications interface

Step Instructions
10 Plug the communications interface to the left of the board (F).
11 Close the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.

E
D
C

B A

A Enclosure feed-throughs in the base of the Sunny Mini Central

B Cable route (gray surface)
C PE connector
D Screw terminals for connection of the communication wires
E Jumper slot
F Interface port

6.1.1 Jumper functions

Jumper A Jumper B Jumper C
RS232 - - -
RS485 Termination Bias 1 Bias 2
Sunny Beam - - -

A detailed description of the jumper functions can be found in the communication

device manual.

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SMA Technologie AG Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central

7 Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central

You can start up the Sunny Mini Central when

• the housing's cover is securely screwed shut

• the DC cables (PV strings) are fully connected and the unused DC plug connectors
on the bottom of the housing are closed using the protective caps
• the AC (mains) cable is connected correctly and
• the line circuit breaker is laid out correctly.

How to start up the inverter

Step Instructions
1 First of all, switch the line circuit breaker to
On!
the "on" position.

2 Now look at the LED or the display to check

whether the Sunny Mini Central is in a fault-
free operating status. If this is the case,
commissioning was successfully completed.
If the Sunny Mini Central shows other mes-
sages or blink codes than those described
below, see the operating manual of the Sun-
ny Mini Central for their precise meaning
and possible solutions

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7.1 Display
After a normal grid connection of the Sunny Mini Central, it takes approx. one minute
until the following display messages are shown alternately. For this, the DC and AC con-
nections must be wired correctly and the circuit breaker must be switched on. The dis-
play messages shown before that only have the purpose of indicating the initialization
of the Sunny Mini Central and the process of controlling whether the power supply re-
quirements are fulfilled.

Display Description
Feeding Operation

E-today 0 Wh The energy generated today and the current opera-

Mode MPP ting mode are displayed first.

Pac 903W The current feed-in output and the solar generator vol-
Vpv 260V tage are displayed after 5 seconds or when you tap
the housing cover.

E-Total 0 Wh After a further 5 seconds, or when you tap again, the

h-Total 0h total energy produced and the time the converter has
been connected to the grid are displayed. Then the
cycle begins again.

In Case of Failures

E-today 0 Wh In case of a failure, the message "Disturbance" will be

Mode Disturbance indicated in the status bar.

Disturbance The exact error message follows.

Vac-Bfr For example, if the "Disturbance" message shown
here is displayed immediately after connection, it
may be due to the fact that the AC wire is not correct-
ly connected or the circuit breaker is not switched on.

at: 261V If a measured value is responsible for the fault

present: 245 V condition, then the value measured at the time of the
fault is displayed. If another measurement is possible,
the current value is displayed in the second line.
Please refer to the operating manual of the Sunny Mini Central to read the
exact explanation of the error and status messages!

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Display Description
PV Overvoltage
!PV-Overvoltage! If the message shown on the left side
!DISCONNECT DC ! appears, the AC and DC cables must
be disconnected from the Sunny Mini
Central again immediately. There is a
risk of damage to the Sunny Mini
Central resulting from excessive DC
input voltage!
1. Check the DC input voltage again to make sure
it is within the limits stated in section 5.3.1
„Prerequisites:” (Page 32). If the string voltages
are too high, contact the planner / installation
engineer of the PV generator for assistance.
2. If despite checking the DC input voltages the
display message occurs again when the PV
generator is connected to the Sunny Mini
Central, disconnect the PV generator from the
Sunny Mini Central again and contact SMA
(see section 15 „Contact” (Page 103)).

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Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

7.1.1 Setting the language of the Sunny Display

You can set the language of the Sunny Display using the switches on the underside of
the display components inside the Sunny Mini Central . Proceed as follows:
1. Open the Sunny Mini Central as described in chapter 9.2 „Opening of the Sunny
Mini Central” (Page 64).
2. Set the switches for the required language, as shown below.

Position of the switches for

language configuration

Language Switch S2 Switch S1

German B B
English B A
French A B
Spanish A A

3. Close the Sunny Mini Central as described in chapter 9.3 „Closing of the Sunny
Mini Central” (Page 65).

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SMA Technologie AG Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central

7.2 LEDs
After a normal grid connection of the Sunny Mini Central, it takes approx. one minute
until the green LED is continuously on. For this, the DC and AC inputs must be correctly
connected and the circuit breaker must be activated. The blink codes shown before that
only have the purpose of indicating the initialization of the Sunny Mini Central and the
process of controlling whether the power supply requirements are fulfilled.

Working mode
(green) The Sunny Mini Central is in the normal wor-
The green LED king mode.
(red) is on. The green LED is continuously on.

(yellow)

In case of failures
In case the Sunny Mini Central detects an error, this is indicated through a blink code
of the yellow and red LEDs.
For example, if the yellow LED lights for 5 seconds immediately after connection, then
goes out for 3 seconds and then flashes briefly twice, there is a grid fault. In this case,
that may be due to the fact that the AC cable has not yet been cabled correctly or that
the line circuit breaker has not been switched on yet.

The yellow LED illuminates

two times in quick succession.

This code is repeated three

times and then begins again.

Please refer to the operating manual of the Sunny Mini Central to read the exact
explanation of the blink codes.

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PV overvoltage

If the blink code shown below appears, the AC and DC cables must be dis-
connected from the Sunny Mini Central again immediately. There is a risk
of damage to the Sunny Mini Central resulting from excessive DC input
voltage.

The yellow LED illuminates four

times in quick succession.

This code is repeated three times and

then begins again.

1. Check the DC input voltage again to make sure it is within the limits stated in chap-
ter 5.3.1 „Prerequisites:” (Page 32). If the string voltages are too high, the PV ge-
nerator's planner / installer should be called upon for assistance.
2. If despite checking the DC input voltage the blink code occurs again when the PV
generator is connected to the Sunny Mini Central , disconnect the PV generator
from the Sunny Mini Central again and contact SMA (see chapter 15 „Contact”
(Page 103)).

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SMA Technologie AG Hand-over to the operator

8 Hand-over to the operator

After installing the Sunny Mini Central successfully, hand the system over to the opera-
tor.. To do so, please use the following check list
No. Checkpoint Control
What the operator should know:
1 Operating principles of the PV system
2 Switching the PV system on and off
3 Meaning of the LEDs and display messages
4 Maintenance and cleaning (handle covers, LEDs, display,...)
5 Handling of additional communication components
6 Contact partner in case of a failure
7 Keep the documents to hand close to the Sunny Mini Central

The following documents are handed out to the operator:

1 Operating manual of the Sunny Mini Central
2 Installation manual of the Sunny Mini Central
3 Declaration of conformity of the Sunny Mini Central
4 If necessary, all manuals for additional components (interfaces,
data logger, etc.)
5 Data sheet for the solar modules used
6 Diagram of the layout of the solar modules and their wiring
7 Current circuit diagram of the unit
8 The complete registration and commissioning documents of the lo-
cal energy supply company

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SMA Technologie AG Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central

9 Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central

9.1 Safety instructions
Inappropriate opening or closing of the Sunny Mini Central may cause se-
rious injury to persons or material damage. The Sunny Mini Central may
therefore only be opened and closed by trained electricians in compliance
with the safety regulations.

Be sure to observe the safety instructions given in chapter 3 „Safety in-

structions” (Page 19), especially the general safety rules for working on
electrical systems.

The temperature of individual parts of the case and of components inside

the Sunny Mini Central can reach over 60°C. Touching could result in
burns!

Work on the Sunny Mini Central with the cover removed must be carried
out by a qualified electrician! High contact voltages are present in the de-
vice. Before working on the Sunny Mini Central with the cover removed,
the AC and DC voltages must be disconnected from the Sunny Mini Central
and the capacitors must be discharged (wait for 30 minutes after discon-
necting the AC and DC voltage).

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Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central SMA Technologie AG

9.2 Opening of the Sunny Mini Central

Follow the sequence described below and all safety instructions in Chap-
ter 9.1 „Safety instructions” (Page 63)!

Step Instructions
1 Switch the line circuit breaker to its "off" po-
sition, make sure it cannot be switched back
on, and test to make sure no voltage is pre-
sent. Off!
1. 2. 3.
2 Disconnect the PV generator from the Sunny
Mini Central by disconnecting the DC plug
connectors for all strings.

3 Wait for 30 minutes for the capacitors inside the Sunny Mini Central
to discharge!
4 Remove the six screws from the housing
cover and pull the cover forward smoothly.
Put the cover, the screws and the washers to
one side so that they do not get lost.

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SMA Technologie AG Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central

9.3 Closing of the Sunny Mini Central

Follow the sequence described below and all safety instructions in Chap-
ter 9.1 „Safety instructions” (Page 63)!

Step Instructions
1 Secure the housing cover by evenly
tightening the two middle screws with the
corresponding washers first. The
indentations of the washers must face
toward the housing cover. The screws must
be tightened with approximately 6 Nm
torque in order to guarantee both the
sealing of the housing and the grounding of
the cover. Then tighten the four remaining
screws as well.
If you should lose a screw or washer, the
Sunny Mini Central accessories kit contains
a spare screw and spare washer.
Attention! The teeth of the lock washers ensure the groun-
ding of the cover. Make sure that the teeth of all six washers
face toward the housing cover!
2 Connect the PV generator by connecting the
DC plug connectors of the Sunny Mini
Central with the ones of the strings. Close
the unused DC input sockets with the caps
included in the delivery.

3 Switch the line circuit breaker to the "on"

position. On!

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Step Instructions
4 Check whether the display or the LEDs on
the Sunny Mini Central indicate that the
device is functioning correctly (see section 7
„Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central”
(Page 55)).

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SMA Technologie AG Troubleshooting / Problem solving

10 Troubleshooting / Problem solving

The Sunny Mini Central is a complex high-technology device. As a result, the possibili-
ties for fixing faults on site are limited to just a few items. Should the Sunny Mini Central
display other blink codes or display messages than those described in chapter 7 „Com-
missoning of the Sunny Mini Central” (Page 55), please refer to the operating manual
of the Sunny Mini Central to find the exact explanation of the display message or the
blink code and details on troubleshooting.
Please do not attempt any other repairs than those described here, but instead use the
24-hour replacement service (the Sunny Mini Central is made ready for shipping within
24 hours and then given to a shipping company) and the repair service of SMA Tech-
nologie AG.

Inappropriate problem solving may cause serious injury to persons or ma-

terial damage. Faults must therefore be corrected by a trained electrician.

10.1 Overview
Green Red Yellow Status
illuminates is not illuminated is not illuminated OK (working mode)
continuously
illuminates is not illuminated Failure
continuously
illuminates OK (initialization)
continuously
flashes quickly is not illuminated is not illuminated OK (stop)
(3x per second)
illuminates is not illuminated Failure
continuously
flashes slowly is not illuminated is not illuminated OK (waiting, grid
(1x per second) monitoring)
briefly goes out illuminates is not illuminated Failure
(approx. 1 x per continuously
second)
is not illuminated is not illuminated OK (derating)
illuminates is not illuminated Failure
continuously
is not illuminated is not illuminated is not illuminated OK (night shutdown)
illuminating/flashing Failure
illuminates is not illuminated Failure
continuously
illuminating/flashing Failure

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10.2 The Red LED Illuminates Continuously

10.2.1 Ground Fault Testing

If the red LED on the Sunny Mini Central glows contiuously, it should be checked whe-
ther there is a ground fault in the PV generator.

Follow the safety instructions in chapter 9.1 „Safety instructions” (Page

63) and proceed as follows:

Step Instructions
1 Disconnect the Sunny Mini Central from the
AC grid (switch the line circuit breaker to its
"off" position), make sure it cannot be
inadvertently reconnected and test to make Off!
sure no voltage is present.
1. 2. 3.
2 Disconnect the DC plug connectors for all
strings.

3 Taking one DC plug connector at a time,

measure the voltages between one DC plug
connector of a string and earth potential.
Pay attention to all safety instructions!

Warning! Dangerously high voltages may be present.

Danger of death! Make sure that you only use measuring
devices with a DC input voltage range up to at least
600 V.

4 If the measured voltages are constant and their total is roughly the same as
the open circuit voltage of the string, then there is a ground fault in this string.
Its approximate location can be deduced from the relationships between the
voltages.

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Step Instructions
5 Repeat points 3 and 4 for each string.
Event Measure
You have found a ground Restart the Sunny Mini Central as described
fault. from step 7 onwards, but without
reconnecting the faulty string. The PV
generator's installation engineer has to fix the
ground fault before you can reconnect this
string.
You have found no ground It is likely that one of the thermally monitored
fault. varistors is defective. In this case, proceed as
described in section 10.2.2 „:Checking the
varistors” (Page 70).

6 Reconnect the PV generator by

reconnecting the DC plug connectors of the
Sunny Mini Central with the ones of the
strings. Close the unused DC input sockets
with the caps included in the delivery.

7 Switch the line circuit breaker to the "on"

position. On!

8 Check whether the display or the LEDs on

the Sunny Mini Central indicate that the
device is functioning correctly (see section 7
„Commissoning of the Sunny Mini Central”
(Page 55)).

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10.2.2 :Checking the varistors

Varistors are wearing parts. Their functioning diminishes with age or following repeated
responses as a result of overvoltages. It is therefore possible that one of the thermally
monitored varistors has lost its protective function. You can now check these varistors in
the following way, paying attention to the safety instructions in chapter 9.1 „Safety in-
structions” (Page 63):

Step Instructions
1 Open the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.2 „Opening of the
Sunny Mini Central” (Page 64).
2 Use a continuity tester to check all the varistors and see if there is a conduc-
ting connection between connectors 2 and 3. The positions of the varistors in
the Sunny Mini Central can be seen in the diagram in section 2.2 „Overview
of the device” (Page 10).
Event Measure
There is a conducting It is likely that there is a different fault in the
connection. Sunny Mini Central which has activated the
blink code.
Close the Sunny Mini Central again as descri-
bed in chapter 9.3 „Closing of the Sunny
Mini Central” (Page 65) and contact the
SMA hotline to discuss further steps.
There is no conducting The respective varistor is not working and
connection. must be replaced.
The varistors are specially manufactured for
use in the Sunny Mini Central and are not
commercially available. They must be
ordered directly from SMA Technologie AG
(SMA order code: MSWR-TV6).
To replace the part, proceed to step 4.

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Step Instructions
3 Replace the varistor concerned with a new
one as shown in the drawing to the right.
Ensure the varistor is installed the right way
round! If you do not receive a special tool Insert the tool to
for operating the terminal clamps with your open the termi-
replacement varistors, please contact SMA. nal clamp
As an alternative, the terminal contacts can
be operated using a suitable screwdriver.
Since the failure of one varistor is generally
Remove the
due to factors that affect all varistors in a si-
varistor
milar way (temperature, age, inductive
overvoltages), you should replace both va-
ristors, not just the one that is obviously de-
fective.
The pole with the small
loop (crimp) must be fit-
ted to terminal 1 when
replacing the varistor

If no replacement varistors are locally

available, the Sunny Mini Central can
temporarily run without them. To do this,
remove the varistors you identified as
being faulty as described above and in
their place, bridge the terminals 2 and 3
with a length of wire.

Attention! An input modified in this way is no longer

protected against overvoltages! Replacement varistors
should be obtained as soon as possible. In systems with
a high risk of overvoltages, the Sunny Mini Central must
not be operated without varistors.

4 Close the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.3 „Closing of the Sun-
ny Mini Central” (Page 65).

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SMA Technologie AG Maintenance and cleaning

11 Maintenance and cleaning

The Sunny Mini Central has been constructed for low maintenance. To guarantee safe
operation, it is usually adequate to observe the following principles:

• Check the Sunny Mini Central visually for damage approximately every two
months.
• Check regularly whether the display and the LEDs indicate that the device is func-
tioning correctly. If necessary, correct faults using the explanation of the blink co-
des and display messages contained in the operating manual of theSunny Mini
Central.
• This information can also be obtained by using one of the communications options.
• Check the heat dissipation as described in chapter 11.1 „Checking heat dissipati-
on” (Page 73), if, during a visual inspection, you notice a marked build-up in the
fan guard or the inverter is increasingly observed to be in derating mode (see ex-
planation of the blink codes and display messages in the operating manual of the
Sunny Mini Central).
• If necessary, clean the LEDs and the display with a damp cloth. Solvents, abrasives
or corrosive liquids must not be used!

11.1 Checking heat dissipation

11.1.1 Cleaning the fans

If the fan guards are only covered in loose dust, they can be cleaned with a vacuum-
cleaner. If you do not achieve satisfactory results with a vacuum-cleaner, you can dis-
mantle the fans for the sake of cleaning.
The Sunny Mini Central is fitted with two fans on its underside. In order to clean the fans,
proceed as follows:

DC AC

Plastic cover

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Maintenance and cleaning SMA Technologie AG

Step Instructions
1 Disconnect the Sunny Mini Central from both the DC and AC connections,
paying attention to the safety instructions in section 3 „Safety instructions”
(Page 19).
2 Wait for the fans to stop rotating.
3 Push the four latches at the sides at the top and bottom of the black plastic
cover to one side and remove it carefully with the fan grates mounted be-
hind. Clean the fan guards with a soft brush, a paint brush, a cloth or com-
pressed air. If the fans are very dirty, you can clean them following the
procedure laid out from step 4 onwards.
4 The fans are attached to the housing via Snap-fits for dismant-
three snap fits. Press the two front snap ling the fan
fits back and the rear snap fit forwards.

5 Remove the fans by pulling them downwards slowly and carefully. The fan
cables are long enough that you can lift the fans far enough out to disconnect
the internal plug in the Sunny Mini Central. To do so, unlock the correspon-
ding plugs and remove them. You can now take out the fans and clean them.
6 Clean the fans with a soft brush, a paint brush or a cloth and water. Under
no circumstances should you use compressed air to clean the fans as this can
cause them damage.
7 After cleaning, replace everything in reverse order. Subsequently check that
the fans are functional as laid out in the next section.

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11.1.2 Checking the fans

If necessary, there are two different ways to check the fans are functional:
• Set the "Fan Test" parameter to "1" in the installer mode (using Sunny Data, Sunny
Data Control, the Sunny Boy Control data logger or the Sunny WebBox).
• Place the jumper on the controller board (the jumper required to check the fans is
included in the Sunny Mini Central accessories kit).

Check the fans as follows:

Step Instructions
Setting the Parameter
1 Ask for the Installer Password from the SMA Hotline (for contact information
see page 103).
2 Set the „Fan Test“ parameter in the installer mode to „1“ (using Sunny Data,
Sunny Data Control, the Sunny Boy Control data logger or the Sunny Web-
Box).
3 Check the fans’ air-flow. The Sunny Mini Central sucks air in from underneath
and then blows it back out on the upper sides. Look out for any unusual noise
which could indicate incorrect installation or that the fans are faulty.
4 Set the „Fan Test“ parameter back to „0“ when you have finished checking
the fans.

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Maintenance and cleaning SMA Technologie AG

Step Instructions
Setting the Jumper
1 Open the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.2 „Opening of the
Sunny Mini Central” (Page 64).
2 Place the jumper on the controller board socket, as laid out below.

Jumper position for

checking the fans

3 Close the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.3 „Closing of the Sun-
ny Mini Central” (Page 65).
4 The Sunny Mini Central recognizes the jumper only once the system has
been restarted (i.e. all LEDs must have gone out before a restart).
5 Once you have put the jumper in position, you must restart the Sunny Mini
Central. Check the fans' air-flow. The Sunny Mini Central sucks air in from
underneath and then blows it back out on the upper sides. Look out for any
unusual noise which could indicate incorrect installation or that the fans are
faulty.
6 Once you have checked the fans, you must set the Fan-Test parameter back
to 0 and remove the jumper following the instructions laid out in section 9
„Opening and closing of the Sunny Mini Central” (Page 63).

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11.1.3 Cleaning the handle covers

There are handle covers on either side of the Sunny Mini Central. The Sunny Mini Cen-
tral sucks air in from underneath via the fan and blows it out again on the upper sides.
For optimum hat dissipation within the device, you have to clean both handle covers.
Proceed as follows when cleaning the handle covers:

Step Instructions
1 The handle covers of the Sunny Mini Central
are to be found on the sides of the housing.
Place your fingers in the space between the
top of the housing and the handle covers
and gently pull the handle covers out of their
bracket.

2 Clean the handle covers with a soft brush, a paint brush or compressed air.
3 Insert the handle covers back into the Sunny Mini Central. The handle covers
can only be inserted on the right or left side of the Sunny Mini Central respec-
tively. "links/left" or "rechts/right" is printed on the inside of the handle covers
to help you identify the sides.
4 The handle covers must not be removed permanently, because
otherwise the device is not protected against the entrance of
insects! Should the handle covers break, new ones can be ordered
from SMA (contact: see page 103).

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SMA Technologie AG Decomissioning

12 Decomissioning
12.1 Disassembly
You must follow the sequence described below and all safety instructions
in chapter 3 and 9.1!

Step Instructions
1 Switch the line circuit breaker to its "off" po-
sition, make sure it cannot be switched back
on, and test to make sure no voltage is pre-
sent. Off!
1. 2. 3.
2 Disconnect the PV generator from the Sunny
Mini Central by disconnecting the DC plug
connectors for all strings.

3 Open the Sunny Mini Central as described in section 9.2 „Opening of the
Sunny Mini Central” (Page 64).
4 Disconnect the AC cable.
5 Close the Sunny Mini Central with the six screws and the corresponding was-
hers.
6 Remove the two screws on the left and right
side of the Sunny Mini Central that attach it
to the wall bracket.

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Decomissioning SMA Technologie AG

Step Instructions
7 If necessary, use an angle grinder to remove the single-use screws for anti-
theft protection.
8 Remove the Sunny Mini Central upwards, keeping it in vertical position.
Remember that the Sunny Mini Central weighs 63 kg!

9 When transporting the Sunny Mini Central,

use the ergonomic handles at the top and A
bottom at the sides of the Sunny Mini Cen-
tral (A) or the housing opening by sliding a B
steel bar (B) through it, for example (diame-
ter maximum 30 mm).

12.2 Packaging
If possible, please pack the Sunny Mini Central in the original packaging. If this is no
longer availagle, a similar box can be used which can withstand the weight of the Sun-
ny Mini Central (63 kg) has a handle system and can be closed fully.

12.3 Storage
Store the Sunny Mini Central in a dry place where ambient temperatures are always
between -25°C and +60°C.

12.4 Disposal
Dispose the Sunny Mini Central according to the currently applicable disposal regula-
tions for electronic waste at the installation site. It is also possible to send the Sunny Mini
Central to SMA for disposal. Shipping costs paid by sender. Mark the Sunny Mini Cen-
tral as "ZUR ENTSORGUNG“ (FOR DISPOSAL"). Contact details are on page page
103.

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SMA Technologie AG Technical data

13 Technical data
13.1 Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A
Description Short Setting
descr.
PV generator connection data
Max. input open circuit voltage UPV 0 600 V
(based on -10 °C cell temperature)
Input voltage, MPP range UPV 213 V ... 600 V @ UACmin
(246 V ... 600 V DC @ 230 V AC)
Max. input current IPV max 26 A
Max. input power PDC 5750 W
All-pole isolator on the DC input side DC plug connector
Surge voltage protection Thermally monitored varistors
Voltage ripple Upp < 10% of the input voltage
Personal protection Insulation monitoring
(Riso > 1 MW)
Operating consumption <7W
Reverse polarity protection Short circuit diode

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

Description Short Setting

descr.
Grid connection data
Nominal output power PACnom 5000 W
Peak output power PACmax 5500 W
Nominal output current IACnom 21.7 A
Max. output current: IACnom 26 A
Harmonic distortion of output current KIAC <4%
(at KUgrid < 2 %, PAC > 0.5 PACnom)
Short-circuit strength Current control
Nominal operational voltage UACnom 230 V
Operating range, grid voltage UAC 198 ... 253 V / 260 Va
(in the area of application of
DIN VDE 0126-1-1)
Voltage range UAC 180 V ... 265 V
extended operating range)
Nominal operating frecuency fACnom 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Operating range, grid frequency fAC 47.5 Hz ... 50.2 Hz
(in the area of application of
IN VDE 0126-1-1)
Frequency range fAC 50 Hz: 45.5 Hz ... 54.5 Hz
(extended operating range) 60 Hz: 55.5 Hz ... 64.5 Hz
All-pole isolation on grid side Independent disconnection device
(SMA grid guard 2)
Power factor cos phi 1
Overvoltage category III
Test voltage (50Hz) 2 kV
Test surge voltage 4 kV (serial interface: 6 kV)
Own consumption in night mode 0.25 W

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SMA Technologie AG Technical data

Description Short Setting

descr.
Efficiency
Max. efficiency ηmax 96,1 %
European standard efficiency ηeuro 95,2 %

Weight
Weight 62 kg (approx.)

a) The Sunny Mini Central can temporarily feed power into the grid with a maxi-
mum output voltage of 260 V. According to DIN VDE 0126-1-1, however, the
10-minute average must not exceed a voltage of 253 V. That means, if the grid
voltage is constantly 254 V (e.g.), the inverter disconnects itself from the grid.
In this case, contact the local grid operator for assistance.
DIN VDE 0126-1-1 only applies in Germany. See chapter 13.4.3 „Country-
specific parameter settings” (Page 94) for all other preset country values of your
inverter.

Efficiency curve of the SMC 5000A

The efficiency of the Sunny Mini Central depends mainly on the input voltage of the con-
nected PV strings. The lower the input voltage, the higher the efficiency.
Overall efficiency [%]

Output power [W]

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

13.2 Sunny Mini Central SMC 6000A

Description Short Setting
descr.
PV generator connection data
Max. input open circuit voltage UPV 0 600 V
(based on -10 °C cell temperature)
Input voltage, MPP range UPV 213 V ... 600 V @ UACmin
(246 V ... 600 V DC @ 230 V AC)
Max. input current IPV max 26 A
Max. input power PDC 6300 W
All-pole isolator on the DC input side DC plug connector
Surge voltage protection Thermally monitored varistors
Voltage ripple Upp < 10% of the input voltage
Personal protection Insulation monitoring
(Riso > 1 MW)
Operating consumption <7W
Reverse polarity protection Short circuit diode

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SMA Technologie AG Technical data

Description Short Setting

descr.
Grid connection data
Nominal output power PACnom 6000 W
Peak output power PACmax 6000 W
Nominal output current IACnom 26 A
Max. output current: IACnom 26 A
Harmonic distortion of output current KIAC <4%
(at KUgrid < 2 %, PAC > 0.5 PACnom)
Short-circuit strength Current control
Operating range, grid voltage UAC 198 ... 253 V / 260 Va
(in the area of application of
DIN VDE 0126-1-1)
Voltage range UAC 180 V ... 265 V
(extended operating range)
Nominal operating frequency fACnom 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Operating range, grid frequency fAC 47.5 Hz ... 50.2 Hz
(in the area of application of
DIN VDE 0126-1-1)
Frequency range fAC 50 Hz: 45.5 Hz ... 54.5 Hz
(extended operating range) 60 Hz: 55.5 Hz ... 64.5 Hz
All-pole isolation on grid side Independent disconnection device
(SMA grid guard 2)
Power factor cos phi 1
Overvoltage category III
Test voltage (50Hz) 2 kV
Test surge voltage 4 kV (serial interface: 6 kV)
Own consumption in night mode 0.25 W

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

Description Short Setting

descr.
Efficiency
Max. efficiency ηmax 96,1 %
European standard efficiency ηeuro 95,2 %

Weight
Weight 63 kg (approx.)

a) The Sunny Mini Central can temporarily feed power into the grid with a maxi-
mum output voltage of 260 V. According to DIN VDE 0126-1-1, however, the
10-minute average must not exceed a voltage of 253 V. That means, if the grid
voltage is constantly 254 V (e.g.), the inverter disconnects itself from the grid.
In this case, contact the local grid operator for assistance.
DIN VDE 0126-1-1 only applies in Germany. See Chapter 13.4.3 „Country-
specific parameter settings” (Page 94) for all other preset country values of your
inverter.

Efficiency of the SMC 6000A

The efficiency of the Sunny Mini Central depends mainly on the input voltage of the con-
nected PV strings. The lower the input voltage, the higher the efficiency.
Overall efficiency [%]

Output power [W]

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13.3 General data

General data
Protection type to DIN EN 60529 IP65
Dimensions (w x h x d) 468 mm x 613 mm x 242 mm (approx.)

External interfaces
Data transmission over separate Optional,
data cable RS232 / RS485, electrically separated
Wireless data transmission Optional

13.4 Sunny Mini Central operating parameters

Unauthorised changes to the operating parameters may result in:
• Injury or accidents as a result of changing the internal safety routines
in the Sunny Mini Central.
• Voiding the Sunny Mini Central's operating approval certificate.
• Voiding the guarantee of the Sunny Mini Central.
Never change the parameters of your Sunny Mini Central without express
authorization by the local energy supply company and instructions from
SMA.

13.4.1 Explanation of the operating parameters

Name Explanation
ACVtgRPro Surge voltage protection (only relevant for Germany).
The Sunny Mini Central can feed into the public grid in Germany
with up to 260 V AC. However, DIN VDE 0126-1-1 stipulates that
the average AC voltage over 10 minutes must not exceed 253 V. If
the 10-minute average exceeds the threshold value of 253 V, the
Sunny Mini Central disconnects itself from the grid. Once the 10-mi-
nute average returns to a value of less than 253 V, the Sunny Mini
Central returns to "Working" mode. If surge voltage protection is not
required in the relevant grid area (outside Germany), it can be
deactivated by means of presetting the LdVtgC parameter. In this
event, only the fast cut-off via the Uac-Max parameter intervenes.
AntiIsland-Ampl Amplification of the AntiIsland process
(deactivated for GER by setting AntiIsland-Ampl = 0)

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

Name Explanation
AntiIsland-Freq Repetition rate of the Antilsland process
(deactivated for GER by setting AntiIsland-Ampl = 0)
Control Current regulation switching. If the operating parameter "Control" is
set to "Auto", the inverter automatically chooses the optimal type of
current regulation. If the operating parameter "Control" is set to
"Grid", the inverter regulates on the grid side. If set to "Bridge", the
inverter regulates on the bridge side. This setting can be a corrective
measure in the event of difficult grid characteristics. Discuss the alte-
ration of this parameter with the SMA hotline.
Default Used for setting the country specific information.
• GER/ENS: Country-specific parameter settings for Germany in
accordance with DIN VDE 0126 (4.99)
• GER/VDE0126-1-1: Country-specific parameter settings for
Germany in accordance with DIN VDE 0126-1-1
• SP/RD1663: Country-specific parameter settings for Spain
• AUS/AS4777: Country-specific parameter settings for Australia
• IT/DK5950: Country-specific parameter settings for Italy
• GB/G83: Country-specific parameter settings for Great Britain
• Other: Here, parameter settings can be defined for countries
for which no predefined setting exists.
• Trimmed: If country-specific parameters have been changed,
"trimmed" is shown in the display.
• Off_Grid: Setting for inverters which are operated in a stand-
alone grid. More detailed information can be found in the Sun-
ny Island manual.
dFac-Max Maximum "Mains frequency change" before the mains monitoring
system disconnects the device from the mains supply.
dZac-Max Maximum "Mains impedance change" before the mains monitoring
system disconnects the device from the mains supply.
E_Total Total energy yield for the inverter. This change may be necessary
when you exchange your Sunny Mini Central and want to use the
data from the old device.
Fac-delta- Maximum frequency, above (Fac-delta+) and below (Fac-delta-) the
mains frequency, before the mains monitoring system disconnects
Fac-delta+
the device from the mains supply.

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Name Explanation
Fac-Limit delta For setting the frequency-dependent output derating in the operating
mode "Off Grid". Further information on this topic can be found in
the Sunny Island instruction manual.
Fac-Pderating Frequency-dependent output limitation
Fac-start delta For setting the frequency-dependent output derating in the operating
mode "Off Grid". Further information on this topic can be found in
the Sunny Island instruction manual.
Fac-Tavg Averaging time of grid frequency gaging
Fan-Test When you set the "Fan test" parameter to "1" you can check whether
the fan is functioning.
Hardware-BFS Hardware version of the operation control unit (BFR)
h_Total Total hours of operation for the inverter. This change may be neces-
sary when you exchange your Sunny Mini Central and want to use
the data from the old device.
I-NiTest Setting the impulse for impedance monitoring.
This parameter only functions when the Sunny Mini Central is deac-
tivated (disconnected on the AC side) or in "Stop" mode.
Inst.-Code Parameters for grid monitoring can only be changed after entering
the SMA grid guard password.
KI-Wind-Reg Control factors in Turbine mode. Further information on this topic can
be found in the Windy Boy instruction manuals
KP-Wind-Reg
LdVtgC Compensation for the voltage drop in the cabling.
With this parameter, the voltage drop between the inverter and the
grid connection point is taken into account. The 10-minute average
voltage at the inverter connection must not exceed the sum of ACVt-
gRPro plus LdVtgC. The parameter LdVtgC is preset to 0 V for Ger-
many. In grid areas in which the additional surge voltage protection
(see parameter ACVtgRPro) is not required, the parameter LdVtgC
is preset to 50 V. Thus, the surge voltage protection is deactivated
for these grid areas (253 V + 50 V = 303 V) and only the parameter
Uac-Max applies.
Memory function • Default parameter: Returns all parameter values to the factory
setting.
• Reset Betriebsdaten: Returns all user level parameter values to
the factory setting.
• Reset Fehler: Resets a permanent fault.

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

Name Explanation
Operating Operating mode of the Sunny Mini Central:
Mode • MPP: Maximum Power Point
• Turbine Mode: Operating mode for Sunny Mini Central on a
wind energy plant
• UKonst: Constant voltage mode (Desired voltage is defined in
"Usoll-Konst")
• IKonst: Operating mode for test purposes
• Stop: Disconnection from mains network, no operation
• Off Grid: Operating mode for Sunny Mini Central in a stand-
alone grid.
Plimit Upper limit for AC output power
Pmax Output limitation of the inverter
P-Wind-Mid Parameters for adjusting the inverter in Turbine mode. Further infor-
mation on this topic can be found in the Windy Boy instruction ma-
P-Wind-Ramp
nuals
Ripple-Ctl-Frq The Ripple-Ctl-Frq, Ripple-Ctl-Lev, Ripple-Ctl-Rcvr paramters are in-
tended to handle ripple control signals with Sunny Mini Centrals.
Ripple-Ctl-Lev
These parameters are not available for all Sunny Mini Centrals. The-
Ripple-Ctl-Rcvr se parameters may only be changed after prior agreement with
SMA Technologie AG.
SMA-SN Serial number of the Sunny Mini Central
Software-BFR Firmware version of the operation control unit (BFR)
Software-SRR Firmware version of the current control unit (SRR)
Speicher/ • Permanent: Modified parameters are stored in the EEPROM
Storage and can be used even when the Sunny Mini Central has been
restarted.
• Volatil: Prevents the parameters from being stored in the EE-
PROM, the parameters are only stored until the next restart.
T-Max-Fan Temperature for the maximum fan speed.
T-Start The period the Sunny Mini Central waits after the Upv-Start value
has been reached.
T-Start-Fan The fan starts to run at minimum speed at this temperature.
T-Stop The period the Sunny Mini Central waits before disconnecting from
the mains supply when Upv drops below the grid peak voltage.

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Name Explanation
T-Stop-Fan If after a temperature increase the inverter cools down to below this
threshold value, the fan switches itself off again.
Uac-Max Lower (Uac-Min) and upper (Uac-Max) limits of the allowable AC
voltage (Self contained power system recognition), before the mains
Uac-Min
supply monitoring system disconnects the device from the mains sup-
ply.
Uac-Tavg Averaging time of grid frequency measuring
UDC WindMax Parameters for adjusting the inverter in Turbine mode. Further infor-
mation on this topic can be found in the Windy Boy instruction ma-
UDC WindMid
nuals
UDC WindStart
Upv-Start The DC voltage required before the Sunny Mini Central begins fee-
ding power into the mains supply.
Usoll-Konst PV desired voltage for constant operational voltage. These parame-
ters are only important when the "Betriebsart" parameter is set to U-
konst.

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13.4.2 Parameter settings for Germany

Grayed out parameters are only displayed in installer mode. The table below contains
the parameters that are applicable in Germany.

Name Unit Value range Factory setting

SMC 5000A SMC 6000A
ACVtgRPro V 230 ... 300 253 253
AntiIsland-Ampl * grd 0 ... 10 0 0
AntiIsland-Freq * mHz 0.1 ... 2000 500 500
Control Auto, Grid, Auto Auto
Bridge
Default * GER/VDE0126- GER/VDE0126-1-1 GER/VDE0126-1-1
1-1,
GB/G83,
AUS/AS4777,
USA/UL1741,
IT/DK5950,
Off_Grid,
SP/RD1663,
Other, trimmed
dFac-MAX * Hz/s 0,1 ... 4,0 4 4
dZac-MAX * mOhm 0.35 ... 20000 685 670
E_Total kWh 0 ... 200000 0 0
Fac-delta- * Hz 0.1 ... 4,5 2.45 2.45
Fac-delta+ * Hz 0.1 ... 4,5 0.19 0.19
Fac-Limit delta Hz 0 ... 5 2 2
Fac-start delta Hz 0 ... 5 1 1
Fan test 0 ... 1 0 0
h_Total h 0 ... 200000 0 0
Inst.-Code
I-NiTest * mA 0 ... 25000 16000 16000
Memory function no function no function

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Name Unit Value range Factory setting

SMC 5000A SMC 6000A
Operating Mode MPP, Ikonst, MPP MPP
Stop, Turbine
Mode,
U-konst,
Off_grid
Pmax W 0 ... 6050 5500 6000
P-Wind-Mid W 0 ... 6000 2000 2000
P-Wind-Ramp W/s 10 ... 2000 1000 1000
Ripple-Ctl-Frq Hz 105 ... 1605 1605 1605
Ripple-Ctl-Lev % 0.5 ... 8 8 8
Ripple-Ctl-Rcvr disable,enable, disable disable
auto
Riso-Min kOhm 0 ... 10000 1000 1000
Speicher / Permanent, Permanent Permanent
Storage volatile
T-Max-Fan grdC 0 ... 110 90 90
T-Start * s 5 ... 1600 10 10
T-Start-Fan grdC 0 ... 110 70 70
T-Stop s 1 ... 3600 2 2
T-Stop-Fan grdC 0 ... 110 50 50
Uac-Max * V 230 ... 300 260 260
Uac-Min * V 160 ... 230 198 198
UDC WindMax V 1 ... 600 450 540
UDC WindMid V 1 ... 600 315 450
UDC WindStart V 1 ... 600 200 250
Upv-Start V 250 ... 600 300 300
Usoll-Konst V 250 ... 600 600 600

Parameters designated with * are safety-related grid monitoring parameters. To

change the SMA grid guard parameters, you must enter you personal SMA grid
guard password (Inst.-Code). Please call the SMA Hotline to obtain your personal
SMA grid guard password.

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

13.4.3 Country-specific parameter settings

The settings made for the Sunny Mini Central ex works are on the type plate (see
section „Type plate” (Page 14).

Sunny Mini Central SMC 5000A

The parameters listed below represent country-specific settings and are only displayed
in installer mode. All other parameters are international and can be viewed in the table
in section 13.4.2.
Name Unit Country settings
Germany Australia Great Italy Spain
Britain
ACVtgRPro V 253 253 253 253 253
Default GER/ AUS/ GB/ IT/ SP/
VDE0126-1-1 AS4777 G83 DK5950 RD1663
dFac-Max Hz/s 4 0.25 0.2 0.20 2
dZac-Max mOhm 685 20000 350 350 350
Fac-delta- Hz 2.45 0.19 0.5 0.29 0.98
Fac-delta+ Hz 0.19 0.19 0.5 0.29 0.98
I-Ni-Test mA 16000 8000 0 0 0
LDVtgC V 0 50 50 50 50
T-Start s 10 45 180 10 10
Uac-Min V 198 205 209 198 199
Uac-Max V 260 265 261 262 250

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Sunny Mini Central SMC 6000A

The parameters listed below represent country-specific settings and are only displayed
in installer mode. All other parameters are international and can be viewed in the table
in section 13.4.2.
Name Unit Country settings
Germany Australia Great Italy Spain
Britain
ACVtgRPro V 253 253 253 253 253
Default GER/ AUS/ GB/ IT/ SP/
VDE0126-1-1 AS4777 G83 DK5950 RD1663
dFac-Max Hz/s 4 0.25 0.2 0.20 2
dZac-Max mOhm 670 20000 350 350 350
Fac-delta- Hz 2.45 0.19 0.5 0.29 0.98
Fac-delta+ Hz 0.19 0.19 0.5 0.29 0.98
I-Ni-Test mA 16000 8000 0 0 0
LDVtgC V 0 50 50 50 50
T-Start s 10 45 180 10 10
Uac-Min V 198 205 209 198 199
Uac-Max V 260 265 261 262 250

13.4.4 Non-modifiable parameters

Grayed out parameters are only displayed in installer mode. The following parameters
are displayed in the parameter list but cannot be changed:
Name Unit Factory setting
SMC 5000A SMC 6000A
Fac-Pderating
Fac-Tavg ms 160 160
Hardware-BFS
Plimit W 5500 6000
SMA-SN
Software-BFR
Software-SRR
Uac-Tavg ms 80 80

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

13.5 Explanations and certificates

13.5.1 CE declaration of conformity

CE Declaration of Conformity
for utility interactive inverters

Product: Sunny Mini Central

Type: SMC 5000, SMC 5000A, SMC 6000, SMC 6000A,
SMC 6000TL, SMC 7000TL, SMC 8000TL
We declare that the above specified devices are compliant with the regulations of the European
Community, in terms of the design and the version fabricated by SMA. This especially applies
for the EMC Regulation defined in 89/336/EWG and the low voltage regulation defined in
73/23/EWG.

The devices are compliant with the following standards:

EMC:
Emission: DIN EN 61000-6-3: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-4: 2002-08
DIN EN 55022: 2003-09, Class B
DIN EN 61000-3-11:2001-04
Utility Interference: DIN EN 61000-3-12: 2004-06 (Draft)
Immunity: DIN EN 61000-6-1: 2002-08
DIN EN 61000-6-2: 2002-08
Safety: DIN EN 50178: 1998-04
Semiconductor-Converter: DIN EN 60146-1-1: 1994-03

The above mentioned devices are therefore marked with a CE sign.

Note:
This declaration of conformity becomes invalid in case
· the product is modified, complemented or changed,
· and/or components, other than those belonging to the SMA accessories, are installed in the product,
· as well as in case of incorrect connection or inproper usage
without explicit written confirmation by SMA.

Niestetal, 13.03.2006
SMA Technologie AG
SMC-CE-11:BE1106

i.V. Frank Greizer

(Head of Development Department Solar Technology)

SMA Technologie AG
Hannoversche Straße 1-5
34266 Niestetal
Tel. +49 561 9522 – 0
Fax +49 561 9522 – 100
www.SMA.de
info@SMA.de

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SMA Technologie AG Technical data

13.5.2 SMA grid guard certificate

The Sunny Mini Central is equipped with the "SMA grid guard 2" independent discon-
nection device and it is covered by the industrial trade association "SMA grid guard"
import certificate.

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Technical data SMA Technologie AG

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SMA Technologie AG Glossary

14 Glossary
AC
Abbreviation for "Alternating Current"

Central inverter
An inverter concept in which all PV modules are connected to each other (in series and/
or parallel) and which uses a single inverter for feeding energy into the mains supply
network.

DC
Abbreviation for "Direct Current"

Derating
English for "reduction": a controlled reduction in performance, usually dependent on
component temperatures. Compared with the normal process of completely shutting
down the device, the effect on the external power network is smaller with derating.

Grid impedance
The grid impedance is a characteristic grid specification, which is determined by the
grid's infrastructure, as well as by the number of power suppliers and power consumers.
If supply to the grid section drops out due to a grid shutdown on the part of the adjacent
supplier (medium voltage transformer), the grid impedance changes abruptly. In order
to detect this occurrence, and to prevent an unwanted stand-alone grid, SMA grid gu-
ard measures the grid impedance and disconnects the inverter from the grid in the event
of a jump in impedance.

Inverter
A device for converting the direct current (DC) from the PV generator into alternating
current (AC), which is used by most normal household devices and especially for fee-
ding energy into an existing mains supply network. Inverters for PV-systems usually con-
tain one or more MPP-trackers.

Mains coupled system

A PV system that is connected to the mains supply grid of an external energy supplier.

Maximum Power Point "MPP"

The operational point (current / voltage) of the PV generator at which the highest pos-
sible performance under the prevailing conditions is achieved. The actual MPP changes
constantly depending (e.g.) on the level of solar irradiation and the cell temperature.

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Glossary SMA Technologie AG

MPP tracker
The operational point (current / voltage) of the PV generator at which the highest pos-
sible performance under the prevailing conditions is achieved. The actual MPP changes
constantly depending (e.g.) on the level of solar irradiation and the cell temperature

Multi-string inverter
An inverter that combines the advantages of several string inverters (separate MPP con-
trol of individual strings) and a central inverter (lower performance specific costs).

PV
Abbreviation for "Photovoltaic", describes the conversion of solar energy into electrical
energy.

PV generator
Technical device for the conversion of light energy into electrical energy. This normally
also describes all installed and electrically connected solar modules in a PV system.

PV-module
See "Solar module"

PV system
Describes the complete collection of components needed for the acquisition and utiliza-
tion of solar energy. As well as the PV generator, this also includes the Sunny Boy or
Sunny Mini Central, for example, in the case of grid-coupled systems.

SMA grid guard

Part of an "independent disconnection device for electrical power units". This is a man-
datory safety device that prevents power from a solar energy system being fed into a
deactivated grid. In the Sunny Boy / Sunny Mini Central, this function is assumed by
the "SMA grid guard".

Solar cell
An electronic component that generates electrical energy when irradiated with sunlight.
Since the voltage produced by a solar cell is very small (ca. 0.5 V), several solar cells
are combined to form a solar module. The most common material presently used for
solar cells is Silicon, which is manufactured in different forms (monocrystalline, polycrys-
talline, amorphous) In addition to different mechanical variations, that are usually desi-
gned to increase the level of efficiency, completely new materials are currently being
tested (Cadmium Telluride, Cadmium Indium Sulphide, Titanium Dioxide and many
others.)

Solar energy
"Sun energy", i.e. energy from sunlight (solar radiation).

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SMA Technologie AG Glossary

Solar module
A collection of solar cells in an enclosure that protects the sensitive cells from mechani-
cal stresses and allows easy installation.

Stand-alone grid system

An energy generation system that is completely independent of any external power
sources.

String
Describes a group of solar modules electrically connected in series.

String inverter
An inverter concept that avoids the disadvantages of the central inverter concept. The
PV generator is split into individual strings, each of which feeds the grid by means of its
own string inverter installed close to the generator. This greatly simplifies installation,
and the yield losses caused by manufacturing deviations or variations in shadowing of
the solar modules are greatly reduced.

Varistor
In the Sunny Boy and Sunny Mini Central, the varistors serve to guard against atmos-
pheric overvoltages, e.g. nearby lightning strikes. They divert overvoltages in order to
protect the electronics in the Sunny Boy or Sunny Mini Central. During operation, varis-
tors are subject to a certain degree of ageing. Varistors which have already been ope-
rating for a considerable period of time, or have already needed to divert
overvoltages, become highly resistive. Thermally monitored varistors detect increased
temperature (which suggests such "ageing"). If one of the varistors is no longer functio-
nal, the inverter triggers a fault message.

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Glossary SMA Technologie AG

Page 102 SMC50A_60A-11:SE3706 Installation Guide

SMA Technologie AG Contact

15 Contact
If you have any questions or technical problems concerning the Sunny Mini Central,
please contact our hotline. Please have the following information available when you
contact SMA:
• Inverter type
• Serial number of the Sunny Mini Central
• Type and number of modules connected
• Communication method
• Blink code or display of the Sunny Mini Central

Address:

SMA Technologie AG
Hannoversche Strasse 1 - 5
34266 Niestetal
Germany

Tel.:+49 (561) 95 22 - 499

Fax:+49 (561) 95 22 - 4699
hotline@SMA.de
www.SMA.de

Installation Guide SMC50A_60A-11:SE3706 Page 103

Legal restrictions SMA Technologie AG

The information contained in this document is the property of SMA Technologie AG. Publishing its content,
either partially or in full, requires the written permision of SMA Technologie AG. Any internal company
copying of the document for the purposes of evaluating the product or its correct implementation is allowed
and does not require permission.

Exclusion of liability
The general terms and conditions of delivery of SMA Technologie AG shall apply.
The content of these documents is continually checked and amended, where necessary. However,
discrepancies cannot be excluded. No guarantee is made for the completeness of these documents. The latest
version is available on the Internet at www.SMA.de or from the usual sales channels.
Guarantee or liability claims for damages of any kind are exlcuded if they are caused by one or more of the
following:
• Improper or inappropriate use of the product
• Operating the product in an unintended environment
• Operating the product whilst ignoring relevant, statutory safety regulations in the deployment location
• Ignoring safety warnings and instructions contained in all documents relevant to the product
• Operating the product under incorrect safety or protection conditions
• Altering the product or supplied software without authority
• The product malfunctions due to operating attached or neighboring devices beyond statutory limit values
• In case of unforeseen calamity or force majeure

Software licensing
The use of supplied software produced by SMA Technologie AG is subject to the following conditions:
This software may be copied for internal company purposes and may be installed on any number of
computers. Supplied source codes may be changed or adapted for internal company purposes on your own
responsibility. Drivers may also be transferred to other operating systems. Source codes may only be published
with the written permission of SMA Technologie AG. Sub-licensing of software is not permissible.
Limitation of liability: SMA Technologie AG rejects any liability for direct or indirect damages arising from the
use of software developed by SMA Technologie AG. This also applies to the provision or non-provision of
support activities.
Supplied software not developed by SMA Technologie AG is subject to the respective licensing and liability
agreements of the manufacturer.

Trademarks
All trademarks are recognized even if these are not marked separately. Missing designations do not mean that
a product or brand is not a registered trademark.
SMA Technologie AG
Hannoversche Straße 1-5
34266 Niestetal
Germany
Tel. +49 561 9522-0
Fax +49 561 9522-100
www.SMA.de
E-mail: info@SMA.de
© 2006 SMA Technologie AG. All rights reserved.

Page 104 SMC50A_60A-11:SE3306 Installation Guide

Sales
Solar Technology

SMA Technologie AG
www.SMA.de
Hannoversche Strasse 1–5
34266 Niestetal, Germany
Tel. : +49 561 9522 4000
Fax: +49 561 9522 4040
E-mail: info@SMA.de
Freecall: +800 SUNNYBOY
Freecall: +800 7 8 6 6 9 2 6 9

SMA America, Inc. SMA Ibérica Tecnología Solar, S.L.

Grass Valley, California, USA Barcelona, Spain
E-mail: info@SMA-America.com E-mail: info@SMA-Iberica.com

SMA Solar Technology China SMA Italia S.r.l.

Beijing, P.R. China Milan, Italy
E-mail: info@SMA-China.com E-mail: info@SMA-Italia.com

SMA Technology Korea Co., Ltd.

Seoul, Korea
E-mail: info@SMA-Korea.com

Innovation in Systems Technology

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