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900-00272-01-001 Rev A
The Catch-All Section
This section contains miscellaneous information.
PV Self-Tests
NOTE:
A failed self-test DOES NOT mean that a ground fault or arc fault has occurred. A failed
self-test indicates the circuit is not functioning properly.
There are three separate self-tests SkyBox runs before beginning PV production.
1. Ground Fault Self-Test. This tests the ground fault detection/interruption (GFDI) circuit for proper function.
A failed test alert would show as
SC - PV GFDI Self-Test Failed
.
2. Arc Fault Self-Test. This tests the arc fault circuit interruption (AFCI) circuit for proper function. A failed test
alert would show as
SC - PV AFCI Self-Test Failed
.
3. IRD Test. This tests for PV input line impedance imbalance. If the array is grounded, intentionally or not, this
test will fail. A failed test alert would show as
SC – PV Impedance OOR
.
Figure 20 PV Self-Test Failure Alert
The GFDI and AFCI self-tests DO NOT test the array for a ground fault or an arc fault. These self-tests verify
the operability of the detection circuits. If a self-test fails, there may be an issue with the detection circuit.
If any of these tests fail and you wish to re-run the tests, cycle the PV disconnect switch open then shut. The
tests should re-run automatically. If not, under the
P V
tile, three pages down, a manual button can be found
for each individual test.
Sometimes, other equipment may interfere with the self-tests and cause them to fail. The IRD test, for
example, may fail due to an excessive marine layer or rain. This specific test is very sensitive and will
automatically re-test after the array voltage increases by 15 Vdc.
All PV faults are persistent through power cycles. This means power cycling the unit will not clear the fault.
For instance, if you find the fault in the evening, the fault can’t be cleared until the following morning when PV
voltage is present and greater than 250 Vdc.