GARD – Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
A l e n c o n S y s t e m s L L C - P a g e
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8
Interfacing with the GARD
8.1 Unit Power
To power ON the GARD, apply > 200V to the GARD Input.
The unit is powered directly from the PV strings, which means that the operation is not possible
until at least one of the strings is capable of providing 200V. All relays, which connect to the
outputs, are de-energized, when the unit is off.
As soon as you power the GARD, you can access the HUB using the PODD. The two files
necessary to ensure communication with the board is –
metadata File
Hub_Config File
Both these files would be pre-loaded onto the PODD or be provided to you by Alencon via secure
file transfer. Once the PODD is setup, applying minimum voltage or external 24 V will turn ON the
GARD boards, allowing two way communications with the HUB.
8.2 Control System
All protection tasks, controls and communication are handled by the microcontroller. The controller
monitors all currents and voltages, monitors and control the AFD, control relays, communicates
with SCADA and controls individual inputs and output indicators.
The GARD is an autonomous protective device that requires very minimum human intervention to
operate. It can be configured to startup as soon as auxillary power is provided. Once power is
available, it will complete a series of self-tests before closing the relay contacts.
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Further information
For more information on DC-Coupled products and solutions, please visit
https://alenconsystems.com/
Contact us @
https://alenconsystems.com/alencon-and-you/
For technical support please email:
or call
+1 (215) 816-3366
