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EN-Rev IM/GN-BM-EU/1.8 Copyright © March, 2021. CSI Solar Co., Ltd.
www.csisolar.com
CORRECT CONNECTION OF CONNECTORS
Make sure that all connections are safe and properly
mated. The PV connector should not be subject to stress
from the exterior. Connectors should only be used to
connect the circuit. They should never be used to turn
the circuit on and off.
Connectors are not waterproof when unmated. When
installing modules, connector should be connected to
each other as soon as possible or appropriate measures
(like using connector endcaps) should be taken to avoid
moisture and dust penetrating into the connector.
Do not clean or precondition the connectors using
lubricants or any unauthorized chemical substances.
USE OF SUITABLE MATERIALS
Only use dedicated solar cable and suitable connectors
(wiring should be sheathed in a sunlight-resistant
conduit or, if exposed, should itself be sunlight-
resistant) that meet local fire, building and electrical
regulations. Please ensure that all wiring is in perfect
electrical and mechanical condition.
Installers may only use single-conductor cable listed
and labeled as USE-2 or PV wire which is 90°C wet rated
in North America, and single conductor cable, 2.5-16
mm² (5-14 AWG), 90°C wet rated in other areas (i.e. TUV
2PfG1169 or EN 50618 approved), with proper
insulation which is able to withstand the maximum
possible system open-circuit voltage. Only copper
conductor material should be used. Select a suitable
conductor gauge to minimize voltage drop and ensure
that the conductor ampacity complies with local
regulations (i.e. NEC 690.8(D)).
CABLE AND CONNECTOR PROTECTION
Secure the cables to the mounting system using UV-
resistant cable ties. Protect exposed cables from
damage by taking appropriate precautions (e.g. placing
them inside a metallic raceway like EMT conduit). Avoid
exposure to direct sunlight.
A minimum bending radius of 60 mm (2.36 in) is
required when securing the junction box cables to the
racking system.
Protect exposed connectors from weathering damage
by taking appropriate precautions. Avoid exposure to
direct sunlight.
Do not place connectors in locations where water could
easily accumulate.
5.2 GROUNDING
For grounding requirements in North America, a
module with exposed conductive parts is considered to
comply with UL 1703 only when it is electrically
grounded in accordance with both the instructions
presented below and the requirements of the National
Electrical Code. Any grounding means used with
Canadian Solar modules should be NRTL certified to UL
467 and UL 2703 standards. Please consult our
technical service team for the formal approval process.
For grounding requirements in other areas, although
the modules are certified to Safety Class II, we
recommend them to be grounded and that module
installation should comply with all applicable local
electrical codes and regulations. Grounding
connections should be installed by a qualified
electrician. Connect module frames together using
adequate grounding cables: we recommend using 4-14
mm² (AWG 6-12) copper wire. Holes provided for this
purpose are identified with a grounding symbol
(IEC 61730-1). All conductive connection junctions
must be firmly fixed.
Do not drill any extra ground holes for convenience as
this will void the modules warranty.
All bolts, nuts, flat washers, lock washers and other
relevant hardware should be made of stainless steel,
unless otherwise specified.
Canadian Solar does not provide grounding hardware.
The grounding method described below is
recommended for Canadian Solar.
