FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America
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PD-5-200-03 NA | REV 2.1 | 02771_UG_NA_24OCT12
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Limit module connectors to 10 or fewer plug cycles.
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Do not pull lead wires tight at any time. After installation, the connected wire must not be under stress or tension.
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Do not use junction box assembly or lead wire strain relief loops to secure excess wire or to bear weight in excess
of a module’s own wire and mated connector pair.
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Connector bodies and cables should not be tightly secured at both ends to any mounting structure to allow for
thermal expansion and contraction.
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Secure wire or connected components so that no loose wires or components are hanging within 1.5 feet (0.46m)
of the ground in free field applications, and so that wire/components are hanging clear of roof coverings or pooled
water in rooftop applications.
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Ensure connectors are fully mated.
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Ensure wire securement methods, such as use of cable ties, do not damage wire insulation. The minimum module
lead wire bend radius is 5 times wire diameter. Observe minimum bend radius specifications on all other PV
system wiring.
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Ensure wires are not in contact with sharp edges of the mounting structure to avoid abrading the wire sheath.
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Inspect and maintain wire management requirements over the life of the plant.
Modules with different FS Series numbers (i.e. FS 2 vs. FS 3) have significantly different electrical operating
characteristics and should not be interconnected within the same inverter to prevent power output loss and
voltage imbalance conditions that may create the risk of reverse current overload.
Components used to interconnect the modules must be compatible with the connectors, and provide proper system
operation and fault protection as required by any applicable codes. Field wiring must be rated for 90°C, and be of a type
approved for use in accordance with the NEC.
When connecting First Solar FS Series 3 PV Modules in a series string, ensure that the system design voltage limit is not
exceeded. For 1000VDC applications, this is typically ensured by limiting series strings to 15 modules or less.
FS Series 3 PV Modules are designed for interconnection with grid-tie PV inverters. For off-grid applications, modules must
be coupled with maximum power point tracking (MPPT) charge controllers or otherwise maintained at their maximum
power point. All inverters must meet the technical requirements specified in First Solar Application Note PD-5-310 and must
be approved for module compatibility by First Solar prior to installation. When connecting modules or module strings in
series ensure inverter ratings are appropriate.
Open circuit exposure may accelerate module efficiency loss and should therefore be minimized. First Solar requires that
modules not be operated in open circuit conditions for more than ninety (90) cumulative days to avoid a potential reduction
in energy output over the life of the modules.
Modules must not be operated under short circuit conditions for extended durations. Short circuit operation is not an
approved mitigation technique for open circuit exposure.
4.3.1 Grounding Method
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