031-331-B1-001, Rev. A (11/2015)
031-331-B1-001, Rev. A (11/2015)
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5
PV Module Connections
Pole-mounted systems will use either Alpha Technologies' PWE-3 or PWE-6 enclosures. Refer to the
Alpha Pole Mount Installation
Guide
(745-968-C0) for complete installation and configuration instructions. Read and follow all safety instructions contained in
the manual.
IMPORTANT:
The enclosure must only be installed by qualified personnel.
Enclosure Installation
Mounting the Photovoltaic (PV) Module
PV modules are secured to the mounting rails using 1/4" x 3/4" bolts, with hardware tightened to a torque setting of 7 ft-lb.
Refer to
ET Solar Series Photovoltaic Modules User Manual
for additional information.
Warning: Electrical Hazard
Photovoltaic modules convert light energy to DC power and are designed for outdoor use. Proper design of support structures
is the responsibility of the system designer and installer. Cover modules with opaque material until modules are installed and
connected to the PV circuit breaker.
WARNING: Personal Injury
Due to the weight and size of the PV module, two installers are required to attach the PV module to the rails.
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2
1
2
PV module/SmartHarvest Charge Controller connections
PV module positive (+): Connect to the lower position of PV input circuit breaker.
PV module negative (–): Connect to the charge controller PV negative (–).
PV module/TriStar Charge Controller connections
PV module positive (+): Connect to the lower position of PV input circuit breaker.
PV module negative (–):
Connects directly t
o the negative bus bar.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
In systems configured with a SmartHarvest Charge Controller:
Connect PV module negative (–) directly to PV negative (–)
point on the charge controller.
In systems configured with a TriStar Charge Controller:
Connect PV module negative (–) to the negative bus bar; the connection
between the negative bus bar and PV negative (–) on the charge controller is pre-wired.
Each system requires the PV module connections to be made as shown above. Connecting the PV modules with reversed polarity
will damage the charge controller.
IMPORTANT:
All PV modules must be wired in series.
1/4" x 3/4" Bolt
Flat Washer
Flat Washer
Lock Washer
1/4" Nut
PV Module wiring to SmartHarvest Charge Controller
1
2
Positive (+)
Negative (−)
PV Module
Input
PV Module wiring to TriStar Charge Controller
1
2
PV Module
Input
Positive (+)
Negative (−)
Illustration courtesy of DPW Solar / Preformed Line Products