The Gefran RADIUS Home series of single-phase solar inverters are designed to convert direct current (DC) power from photovoltaic (PV) panels into alternating current (AC) power for feeding into the public power grid (utility). These inverters are user-friendly, operating automatically under normal conditions, and feature an intelligent internal controller that continuously monitors and adjusts system status for optimal performance.
Function Description:
The primary function of the RADIUS Home inverter is to maximize the conversion of solar energy from PV panels into usable AC electricity for grid injection. When the PV panel voltage is sufficient (typically above 120VDC), the inverter enters "Normal mode" and begins converting power. If the PV power is insufficient (below 100VDC), it enters a "Waiting" state, monitoring system status with minimal power consumption. In the event of grid problems or internal failures, the inverter transitions to "Fault mode," displaying error information on its LCD and illuminating a red LED. During periods of low or no sunlight, the inverter enters "Shutdown mode," ceasing operation and drawing no power from the grid. The inverter is designed to connect only to low-voltage systems (220-230VAC, 50/60Hz).
Important Technical Specifications:
The RADIUS Home series includes several models: APV 1700-2M-TL, APV 2300-2M-TL, APV 3100-2M-TL, APV 4400-2M-TL, and APV 5200-2M-TL, with varying power capabilities.
- Input Data:
- Max. DC power ranges from 1700Wp (APV 1700-2M-TL) to 5200Wp (APV 5200-2M-TL).
- Max. DC voltage varies by model: 450V for APV 1700-2M-TL, 500V for APV 2300-2M-TL and APV 3100-2M-TL, and 580V for APV 4400-2M-TL and APV 5200-2M-TL.
- MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) voltage range is 120V-450V for smaller models and 120V-500V for larger ones.
- All models feature a single MPP tracker.
- Max DC input Isc current ranges from 15A to 27A.
- Output (AC) Data:
- Nominal AC output (Pac nom) ranges from 1600W to 5000W.
- Max. AC power ranges from 1650W to 5000W.
- Nominal AC voltage range is 200V-250V for all models.
- AC grid frequency range is 50/60Hz, ±5Hz.
- Power factor (cos phi) is 1.
- Harmonic distortion (THD grid) is less than 3%.
- All models support single-phase AC connection.
- Efficiency:
- Max. efficiency is high, ranging from 97% to 97.8%.
- European efficiency (Euro ETA) is also very good, with values typically above 96%.
- Protection Devices:
- Includes DC reverse polarity protection, AC short-circuit protection, ground fault monitoring, and grid monitoring.
- Features an integrated all-pole sensitive leakage current monitoring unit.
- DC power switch is included in most models, except for APV ....-2M-TL-UK versions.
- General Data:
- Dimensions (W/D/H) vary by model, with smaller units measuring 362x329x131.5 mm and larger units 406x406x191.5 mm.
- Weight ranges from 11.5 kg to 21 kg.
- Operating temperature range is -25°C to +60°C, with power derating above +50°C.
- Noise emission (typical) is low, ≤25 dB (A).
- Consumption (operating/standby/night) is very low, <5W/<0.5W.
- All models are transformerless.
- Cooling concept is fanless.
- Installation is suitable for both indoors and outdoors (IP65 protection class).
- Standard warranty is 5 years, with an option to extend.
Usage Features:
The inverter is designed for straightforward operation.
- Automatic ON-OFF: The inverter automatically starts when sufficient DC power is available from the PV panel. It progresses through "Standby," "Waiting," and "Normal operation" states based on the PV string DC voltage.
- LCD Display: The front panel features an LCD display that shows the inverter's status, including power output, energy generated (today and total), total work time, PV voltage, AC voltage and frequency, serial number, model, software version, and communication address.
- LCD Control: The display can be controlled by "knocking" on the front panel. This allows users to:
- Brighten the display when dark.
- Cycle through different information screens.
- Set the display language.
- Adjust the LCD contrast.
- Initiate an auto-test.
- Select the grid frequency.
- Set the communication address.
- Communications: The RADIUS LightNET PC software allows users to monitor the inverter's operating state and log data via RS232 and Bluetooth. It supports multi-inverter monitoring and detailed real-time and historical data query, with multilingual support and compatibility with various Windows operating systems.
Maintenance Features:
The RADIUS Home inverter requires minimal service due to its robust design.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common system faults (e.g., Ground Fault, Isolation Fault, Grid Fault, No AC connection) and inverter failures (e.g., PV Over Voltage, Consistent Fault). The LCD display and LED indicators provide immediate feedback on detected issues.
- Safety Precautions: Users are warned not to remove the casing as there are no user-serviceable parts inside and high voltages can persist even after disconnection. Disconnecting both AC and DC sources and waiting at least 10 minutes before any internal access is crucial. The heat sink at the back of the inverter can become hot during operation and should not be touched.
- Installation Checks: The manual emphasizes checking the PV panel polarity, ensuring the maximum open circuit voltage (Voc) is within specified limits, and using appropriate MC (multi-contact) connectors for PV array terminals. Proper grounding and secure mounting are also highlighted.
- Warranty: A 5-year standard manufacturer's warranty is provided, with options for extension. Repaired or replaced parts under warranty are guaranteed for 12 months.
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