©1999 Trace Engineering
2.0 INSTALLATION
3
Pre-Installation (continued)
Batteries:
The battery voltage MUST match the voltage requirements of the inverter. To determine the correct
voltage for the system, check the last two digits on the inverters model number. For example, the DR1512 is
a 12 volt inverter and requires a 12 V dc battery system. The SW4024 is a 24 volt inverter and requires a 24
V dc battery system.
PV Arrays:
The optional controller is designed to work with a wide variety of PV array systems. DO NOT connect
the controller to an array operating at more than 110 V dc.
WARNING: WHENEVER A PV ARRAY IS EXPOSED TO SUNLIGHT, A SHOCK HAZARD EXISTS AT THE
OUTPUT CABLES OR EXPOSED TERMINALS. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF SHOCK DURING
INSTALLATION, DISCONNECT THE ARRAY, OR COVER IT WITH AN OPAQUE (DARK) MATERIAL
BEFORE MAKING ANY CONNECTIONS TO THE POWER PANEL.
Main Service Panel:
The main input to the Power Panel requires a minimum 60 amp breaker for each 120 V ac inverter. A
15 amp breaker is required for all 230 V ac inverters.
Sub-Panel:
Loads backed up by the Power Panel will need to be rerouted from the main service panel to a sub-
panel. This can be done several different ways, depending upon the installation. Always refer to electrical
codes for safe wiring practices.
AC Circuit Breakers:
Always use a properly rated circuit breaker. Depending upon the application, circuit breakers used to
protect the load can be removed from the main service panel and put into the sub-panel ONLY if the two
panels are from the same manufacturer and are the same type of service panel.
Wire Routing:
Determine all wire routes both to and from the Power Panel. Possible routing scenarios include:
AC Input wiring from the main service panel to the Power Panel
AC Input wiring from the generator to the Power Panel
DC Input wiring from the PV array to the Power Panel
DC Input wiring from the batteries to the Power Panel
AC Output wiring from the Power Panel to the sub-panel
Battery Temperature Sensor cable from the Power Panel to the batteries
Remote Control cable to the Power Panel
DC Ground from the batteries to an external ground rod
Load circuit wiring rerouted from the main service panel to the sub-panel
Check for existing electrical or plumbing prior to making cuts in the walls. Cut holes in the walls at
appropriate locations for routing wiring/cables.
Plywood Backing:
A 4' x 8' x 3/4" plywood backing may be used to provide additional wall support. It should run the entire
height of the wall (floor to ceiling). For aesthetic purposes, pre-paint the plywood.
NOTE: 3/4" plywood backing is required for supporting walls where the total weight exceeds 300 lbs (136 kg).