The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-R) serves as the central information gateway for APsystems microinverters, collecting performance data from each individual microinverter and transmitting it to an Internet database in real time. This device is designed for utility-interactive grid-tied applications and integrates seamlessly with the APsystems Energy Monitoring and Analysis (EMA) software. The ECU-R provides precise analysis of each microinverter and PV module within a solar installation, offering a user-friendly interface to access solar array performance via a web-based portal or a dedicated mobile application.
Function Description
The primary function of the ECU-R is to act as a data logger and communication hub for a solar PV system. It gathers individual PV module and microinverter statistics, facilitating real-time communication between the microinverters and the EMA server. This process requires no additional wiring beyond the initial setup, simplifying installation and integration. The ECU-R is a key component in a system that typically includes APsystems microinverters, the ECU-R itself, the EMA Manager APP for installers, the EMA APP for end-users, and the web-based EMA monitoring and analysis system.
The ECU-R features various ports and indicators to support its functions. On the rear, it includes a Reset button, a Wi-Fi antenna connector for WLAN communication with a router, a power connection port, an RJ45 Signal port (specifically for Australia for DRMO connection), an RJ45 Ethernet network port for LAN communication with a router, and a Zigbee antenna connector for communication with the microinverters. On the side, it has a USB port (North America ONLY) for cellular communication using an external 4G dongle, and an AP button to activate the ECU-R's Wi-Fi hotspot.
The device's status is indicated by two LEDs: LED1 illuminates green when the ECU is powered on, and LED2 illuminates green when the ECU is actively exchanging data with the EMA server. If microinverter UIDs have not been entered or if the ECU cannot connect to the EMA server, LED2 remains off.
Usage Features
The ECU-R is designed for straightforward installation and operation. For installation, it can be wall-mounted in a cool, dry indoor location using drywall screws or wall anchors, or placed on a flat surface near a power outlet. When installing outdoors, it must be housed in a waterproof box, with antennas placed outside for optimal communication. Extension antennas (Wifi 2.4GHz with SMA connectors male/female) can be used if needed, though they are not supplied by APsystems.
Connecting the ECU-R to the internet can be done via two methods:
- Direct LAN cable connection: An Ethernet cable connects the ECU-R's network port to a spare port on a broadband router.
- Wireless connection: The ECU-R's internal WLAN can be used to connect to a Wi-Fi network.
Commissioning the ECU-R is primarily done through the EMA Manager APP on a smartphone or tablet. The process involves:
- Activating the ECU-R hotspot by pressing the AP button.
- Connecting the smartphone/tablet to the ECU-R hotspot (named ECU_R_216xxxx, mimicking the ECU-R serial number) using the default password "88888888".
- Opening the EMA Manager APP and selecting "ECU APP" to access the commissioning tool without requiring a login or password.
Within the ECU-R user interface, several features are available:
- ID Management: Installers can input microinverter UIDs (12-digit serial numbers starting with 4, 5, 7, or 8) manually or by scanning them with a smartphone/tablet. After entry, pressing "Sync" registers the microinverters with the ECU-R. The ECU-R's own UID (starting with 216-) should not be entered here.
- Historical ID: If the inverter list is accidentally emptied, this feature allows quick restoration of the inverter ID list using the same mobile phone.
- Delete UID: Incorrect or typo-ridden microinverter UIDs can be selected and deleted, followed by a "Sync" to remove them from the ECU-R.
- Grid Profile: Users must select the correct grid profile by choosing the country and then the city from the workspace menu. This ensures the microinverters operate correctly and produce optimal performance.
- Time Management: The ECU-R's date and time settings can be manually adjusted or automatically synchronized with the smartphone/tablet's time and time zone using the "Time quick setting" option.
- ECU Network Settings (WLAN/LAN):
- WLAN: Users can select an available Wi-Fi network (SSID) and enter its password. If the smartphone/tablet loses connection to the ECU hotspot during this process, it may need to be reconnected.
- LAN: If using a wired connection, the ECU-R can automatically obtain an IP address from the router (preferred) or be configured with a fixed IP address, requiring manual entry of IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, preferred DNS server, and alternate DNS server.
- The internet connection status can be checked on the ECU APP's home page, indicated by green bullets for hotspot connection and internet connection.
- Module Page: This page displays the registered microinverters and their associated PV modules (defaulting to 2 PV modules for dual microinverters and 4 for quad microinverters). Even if some DC channels are not connected, the APP will show the maximum number of panels connectable to a given microinverter. Clicking "Panel" provides detailed information, including inverter UID, PV module DC power, grid voltage, frequency, and temperature.
- Data: This menu allows users to view detailed system-level data, broken down by day and month.
- Inverter Connection Progress: This menu shows the connection progress and communication quality between microinverters and the ECU. A "100%" status indicates successful connection. Microinverters with "OK" status are properly connected.
- Automatic System Check: After commissioning, this menu helps check proper communication and production of each microinverter and provides basic troubleshooting tips for issues like input short circuits.
- ECU AP Settings: This feature allows users to change the default password of the ECU-R hotspot. If the ECU is reset, the password reverts to "88888888".
- Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Registration: This menu is exclusively for DIY installers to create their EMA account, allowing them to access their system via the EMA APP after the ECU is commissioned and connected to the local internet.
- Settings: This basic menu allows users to change the language of the interface, with options including English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese.
Maintenance Features
The ECU-R is designed for minimal maintenance, primarily focusing on ensuring proper connectivity and data flow.
- Reset Functionality: The Reset button allows the ECU-R to return to its default settings if needed, which can be useful for troubleshooting or reconfiguring the device.
- Troubleshooting via APP: The "Automatic System Check" feature within the EMA Manager APP provides basic troubleshooting tips for communication and production issues, helping installers diagnose and resolve common problems.
- Password Management: The "ECU AP Settings" allows for changing the hotspot password, which is a security maintenance feature. Users are reminded that a reset will revert the password to the default.
- Firmware Updates: While not explicitly detailed as a user-initiated feature, the mention of "Specifications subject to change without notice. Please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com" implies that firmware updates are available and should be applied to maintain optimal performance and access new features.
- Disposal: The manual includes clear instructions for the disposal of the old appliance in accordance with the European Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE), emphasizing separate disposal from municipal waste streams to prevent negative environmental and health consequences.
- Battery Safety: A critical maintenance note is provided regarding the coin/button cell battery within the device. Users are warned not to ingest the battery due to chemical burn hazards and are advised to keep new and used batteries away from children. Professional replacement of the battery is recommended.
Overall, the APsystems ECU-R is a robust and user-friendly device designed to provide comprehensive monitoring and management of solar PV systems, with features catering to both professional installers and end-users.
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