Sol-ark 8k-2p-n Outdoor Hybrid Inverter Owner's Manual (+ PDF)

8K-2P-N Outdoor Hybrid Inverter

Product Information

The product is the Outdoor Sol-Ark 8K-2P. It is an outdoor solar
inverter and power management system.

Features:

8K-2P model
Designed for outdoor use
Includes installation guide and owner’s manual
Supports Wi-Fi and internet connectivity
Allows remote monitoring
Includes battery charging information
Provides troubleshooting guide and error codes
Comes with a limited warranty

Disclaimer:

Unless specifically agreed to in writing, Sol-Ark does not
provide warranty regarding the accuracy, sufficiency, or
suitability of any technical or other information provided in its
manuals or documentation. Sol-Ark assumes no responsibility or
liability for any loss or damage, whether direct, indirect,
consequential, or incidental, which might arise out of the use of
such information. The use of any such information will be entirely
at the user’s risk. Sol-Ark cannot be responsible for system
failure, damages, or injury resulting from improper installation of
their products.

Product Usage Instructions

Upon Receiving Shipment:

When you receive the shipment, refer to page 4 of the
installation guide for instructions on what to do.

Wire Gauge Guide:

To ensure proper wiring, refer to page 7 of the installation
guide for the wire gauge guide.

Wiring Diagrams:

For detailed wiring diagrams, refer to page 8 of the
installation guide.

Wi-Fi / Internet Connection:

To set up Wi-Fi or internet connection, follow the instructions
on page 19 of the installation guide.

Remote Monitoring Setup:

For instructions on setting up remote monitoring, refer to page
19 of the installation guide.

IP Address Setup Instructions (PC or Smartphone):

Follow the instructions on page 22 of the installation guide to
set up the IP address on your PC or smartphone.

GUI Screens:

To navigate and understand the GUI screens, refer to page 24 of
the installation guide.

Batteries:

Information about batteries can be found on page 36 of the
owner’s manual.

Battery Charging Information:

For detailed information on battery charging, refer to page 36
of the owner’s manual.

Modbus/RJ45 Application Note:

For specific applications involving Modbus/RJ45, refer to page
39 of the owner’s manual.

Troubleshooting Guide:

If you encounter any issues, consult the troubleshooting guide
provided on page 40 of the owner’s manual.

Troubleshooting Phasing Issues:

For troubleshooting phasing issues, refer to page 41 of the
owner’s manual.

Sol-Ark 8K Error Codes:

A list of error codes and their meanings can be found on page 42
of the owner’s manual.

Install Verification Checklist:

Before completing the installation, refer to the install
verification checklist on page 43 of the owner’s manual to ensure
all necessary steps have been followed.

Sol-Ark 8K Limited Warranty:

For information about the limited warranty provided by Sol-Ark,
refer to page 44 of the owner’s manual.

View Fullscreen

8K-2P-N OUTDOOR
OUTDOOR SOL-ARK 8K-2P INSTALL GUIDE & OWNER’S MANUAL
OUTDOO UPON RECEIVING SHIPMENT ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4 R SPEC SHEET ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
WIRE GAUGE GUIDE (COPPER)………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
WIRING DIAGRAMS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
PHYSICAL INSTALLATION ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 12 INVERTER COMPONENTS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………12 DECIDING BACKUP CIRCUITS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….12 SINGLE SYSTEM INSTALLS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13 MOUNTING THE SOL-ARK …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13 INTEGRATING BATTERIES (SOL-ARK POWERED “OFF”)………………………………………………………………………………………..13 E.M.P SYSTEMS ONLY ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..14 CONNECTING SOLAR PANELS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………14 INTEGRATING A GENERATOR………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….15 INTEGRATING SENSORS AND ACCESSORY PLACEMENT…………………………………………………………………………………………….16 POWERING-UP AND TESTING THE SOL-ARK 8K ……………………………………………………………………………………………………18 CHECK THE VOLTAGE ON EACH PV INPUT CIRCUIT …………………………………………………………………………………………………18
WI-FI / INTERNET CONNECTION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 REMOTE MONITORING SETUP ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….19 IP ADDRESS SETUP INSTRUCTIONS (PC OR SMART PHONE) ……………………………………………………………………………………..22
GUI SCREENS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 24
PROGRAMMING GUIDE ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26 MAIN SCREENS (TOUCHSCREEN) …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….27 BASIC SETUP ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………28 SYSTEM ALARMS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….29 BATTERY SETUP ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..29 GRID SETUP …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….31 LIMITER SENSOR AUTOMATIC SETUP………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..34
INSTALL TIPS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 35 OFF-GRID INSTALL TIPS ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….35 GRID-TIE / NO BATTERY INSTALL TIPS ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………35
BATTERIES ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 36 BATTERY CHARGING INFORMATION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………36 MODBUS/RJ45 APPLICATION NOTE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………39
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 40 TROUBLESHOOTING PHASING ISSUES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..41 SOL-ARK 8K ERROR CODES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..42
INSTALL VERIFICATION CHECKLIST ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 43
SOL-ARK 8K LIMITED WARRANTY ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 44

December 2nd, 2022

Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, SOL-ARK:
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY REGARDING THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY, OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Sol-Ark cannot be responsible for system failure, damages, or injury resulting from improper installation of their products.
The information included in this manual is subject to change without notice.
This version is for OUTDOOR MODELS ONLY; previous hardware versions of the Sol-Ark 8K are not
compatible with the wire diagrams and instructions contained herein.

PHONE EMAIL WEBSITE

December 2nd, 2022

Warning Symbols
This symbol indicates information that, if ignored, could result in minor injury or damage to the equipment.
This symbol indicates information that, if ignored, could result in serious injury, damage to the equipment, or death.
This symbol indicates information that is important but not hazard-related.

Warnings
Read this entire document before installing or using the Sol-Ark 8K inverter. Failure to follow any of the instructions or warnings in this document can result in electrical shock, serious injury, or death. Damage to the 8K inverter is also possible, potentially rendering it inoperable.
High Life Risk Due to Fire or Electrocution ONLY qualified persons should install the Sol-Ark 8K inverter.
The system must have Ground connections and Neutral connections. Ground MUST be bonded to Neutral ONLY ONCE in the circuit.
Solar PV+/PV- are UNGROUNDED. Note, you may ground PV Racking/Mounts, but doing so directly to the Sol-Ark will likely result in damage in the case of a direct lightning strike to the PV array.
DO NOT connect the grid to the Load Output Breaker.
DO NOT reverse the polarity of batteries. Damage WILL occur.
DO NOT exceed more than 500Voc on any MPPT on the Sol-Ark.
DO NOT use impact drivers to tighten any fasteners on the Sol-Ark.
MUST use Strain Reliefs ON ALL wires entering/exiting the Sol-Ark 8K user area.
MUST use conduit (or double insulated wire) for AC Wires entering/exiting Sol-Ark 8K user area.
ALL terminals/breakers including battery, MPPT, and AC breaker inputs should only have one conductor connecting to them.

December 2nd, 2022

Upon Receiving Shipment
Inspect Shipment
A. Compare the package condition to the condition of the package in the photo we sent you before it left our facility.
You must note any damage due to shipping with delivery driver before accepting the package otherwise the shipping company will deny any claim.
B. If damaged, contact us immediately at 972-575-8875 Ext. 3 Component Guide
A. Limiter Sensors included: 5/8″ CT sensors x2 (Included) B. Limiter Sensors if purchased: 15/16″ CT sensors x2 (Sold Separately) C. Limiter Sensors if purchased: 2″ CT sensors x2 (Sold Separately) D. Battery Temperature Sensor: for voltage adjustment E. Battery Cable Toroid x2 F. CAT 5 cable for parallel communications G. WIFI Dongle: For software updates and remote monitoring (use M4x10 screws to hold in) H. French Cleat: For wall mounting the Sol-Ark 8K

December 2nd, 2022

Spec Sheet

December 2nd, 2022

6″ minimum clearance

6″

Temperature Derating

DC: 90C-100C Shutdown @ 100C

AC: 75C-82C Shutdown @ 82C

Sol-Ark 8K Torque Values Application Note

Load Breaker Grid Breaker Gen Breaker Neutral / Ground Busbars Cover Screws Battery Connection

26.5 IN Lbs 26.5 IN Lbs 26.5 IN Lbs 26.5 IN Lbs 26.5 IN Lbs 90.0 IN Lbs

3 NM 3 NM 3 NM 3 NM 3 NM 10 NM

Do Not Use Impact Drivers to Tighten Any Fasteners on the Sol-Ark.

December 2nd, 2022

Wire Gauge Guide (copper)

PV input: 10AWG

15.875mm (5/8in) 23.813mm (15/16in)

2/0 AWG Max

4/0 AWG Max

All AC Inputs/Outputs: 6-4AWG Small

All Sensors: 20-24AWG

Limiter

CT Sensors: 10′ Wire Included

Sensor

Batt Temp Sensor: 6′ Wire Included

RJ45 Cable: 7′ Included (Extendable up to 20′)

100A: 50mA

Large Limiter Sensor

Battery input: 2/0-4/0AWG (3/8″ Lugs)

–

15.875mm (5/8in)

200A: 0.1A

10 AWG Max

PV Panel Inputs 0′ 100′: 12 AWG 100′ 300′: 10 AWG

25.4mm (1.0in)

Max

– +

10mm (1/2in)
DC Battery Input

15.875mm (5/8in)
All AC Inputs / Outputs / Neutral Connections 0′ 100′: 6 AWG

0′ 12′: 2/0 AWG 12′ 20′: 4/0 AWG
4/0 AWG Max

100′ 200′: 4 AWG
4 AWG Max
All Sensor Inputs
6.35mm 0′ 100′: 24 AWG (1/4in) 100′ 400′: 23 AWG CAT 6

100A: 50mA
– +

Extensions for Limiter Sensors must be twisted pair

20 AWG Max Max

(Shielded CAT6 Recommended)
December 2nd, 2022

CAT 6
7

Wiring Diagrams
These Single Line Diagrams (SLDs) are examples of common use-cases for Sol-Ark inverters.
Sol-Ark does not provide custom diagrams; however, you may contact [email protected] for any questions about an existing SLD.
Diagram 1

December 2nd, 2022

CT Sensors are optional, but necessary to enable Peak Shaving. See pg. 16 and pg.34 for additional info.
8

Diagram 2

Diagram 3

December 2nd, 2022

1 0

December 2nd, 2022

Note: PV fuses are only required for >2 strings per MPPT

Diagram 4

Note: PV fuses are only required for >2 strings per MPPT

DiagrDaDimDaiagiga5rrgaarmmam521

December 2nd, 2022

Inverter Components

Physical Installation

A. LCD Touch Screen B. Power Button C. PV DC Disconnect Switch D. 250A Battery Breaker E. Battery Terminals (+/-)

F. Sensor Pin-Out Board G. Comms/Paralleling Ports H. AC Breakers (Grid 63A/Gen 50A/Load 63A) I. Neutral/Ground Bus Bar J. MPPT Charge Controllers

Deciding Backup Circuits
A. We recommend subpanels and require them if you have Arc-Fault / GFI breakers B. Ensure you keep the inverter within its amperage limits
· ON-Grid = 63A Continuous (pass-through) · OFF-Grid = 33.3A Conutuous | 67A Peak (10s) | 104A Peak (100ms) C. Verify each load circuit by measuring typical and max Amps with a clip-on Amp meter. Amps x 120V = Watts D. Install a subpanel for backup loads if you have Arc-Fault / GFI breakers, NOT a multi-circuit transfer switch

December 2nd, 2022

Single System Installs
A. Install Double Pole 60A breaker in Main Panel for Grid In/Out B. Best practice to install at the opposite end of the bus bar from the main breaker, which is usually at the bottom
of the breaker panel (see figure above)

Mounting the Sol-Ark
A. Keeping in mind Sol-Ark’s dimensions, find a suitable location for the system (s) B. NEMA 3R rating for Outdoor installations C. PROTECT the LCD screen from excessive UV exposure D. System weight = 78lbs (35kg). Securely attach to the wall. Affix a mounting board to studs using 6-8 screws E. Using 2-3 screws + washers (choose screw length and surface type) to mount the French Cleat to the board/wall F. Mount Sol-Ark on the installed French Cleat / Ensure Sol-Ark is level and sits properly G. Add two screws for the bottom mount

Integrating Batteries (Sol-Ark POWERED “OFF”)
A. Connect batteries to Sol-Ark as shown in Fig. B below B. Install included toroids (Part e. on pg. 4) on battery input cables as shown in Fig. A to the right C. Ensure the built-in battery disconnect is OFF while connecting batteries, or arcing may occur

Fig. A

Fig. B
Negative to Sol-Ark

Positive to Sol-Ark
PCC batts are stackable

Sol-Ark 8K is a 48V system. Do NOT wire the battery bank to any other nominal voltage.
When using 12V batteries do not exceed FOUR (4) batteries in series.
When using other battery chemistries, stay within the voltage range: MIN 43V-MAX 63V

Do NOT stack more than 2 banks high

Do NOT reverse polarity of batteries! Damage will occur!

December 2nd, 2022

E.M.P Systems Only
Suppressor installation
· If your system was purchased with Lightning / EMP Hardening, the vast majority of protection is in the Sol-Ark. However, you also have EMP suppressors that get installed on the power cords of appliances that are connected to the transfer switch. Although not critical, it is recommended they be installed as close as possible to the appliance.
· You also have EMP suppressors that get installed on both solar panel wires with a zip tie. Closer to the panel is better. If you purchased the panels from us, we already installed >150kV/m protection inside the solar panels.

Connecting Solar Panels
A. Sol-Ark has DUAL MPPTs for two separate PV input pairs B. MAX PV input = 11kW (± 5%) / system | 5.5kW / MPPT | MAX 500VOC PV | MAX ISC /MPPT 25A (limiting to 20A)

Damage will occur if PV VOC > 550V

C. Parallel strings per MPPT must be the same Voltage i. PV1 A/B must be the same voltage if using both strings ii. Panels on the same MPPT CAN face different directions
D. Ground the panel MOUNTS/FRAMES to any ground in the Home via 12AWG wire E. IF using Y-Connectors: Running two strings in parallel, totaling 20A (self-limiting) F. Connect the solar panel strings as indicated by the following diagram:

Each string can use separate wires
String minimum is usually 5 panels or 175V

December 2nd, 2022

Integrating a Generator
Generators < 10kW (GEN Breaker)– See Diagram 1-2
A. ONLY supports 240V / 208V generators | 50A breaker B. Connect the generator output to the “GEN” input breaker in the Sol-
Ark 12K user area C. THD of less than 15% preferred but not required

Standby Generators > 10kW (GRID Breaker)– See Diagram 1 (OFF-GRID)
A. Supports 220V / 240V / 208V generators | Depends on “Grid Type” selection | 63A breaker
B. Off-Grid / Whole-home Generator on ATS installations require selecting “GEN Connected to Grid Input” Home Screen Gear Icon Grid Setup Sell Control GEN Connected to Grid Input
C. Off-Grid = turn “Grid Sell” off | Only need CT’s (on Gen lines) if using Grid Peak Shaving (see below)

Increase Gen/Sol-Ark efficiency

1. Select “Limited to Load”

2. Select “General Standard”

3. Increase Grid frequency range: 55-65H

Weekly Gen Exercise
If the Sol-Ark is up to date with MCU version xx73 or newer, and your generator has two-wire start compatibility, you will experience weekly generator tests.
These tests occur at 8AM (local time) every Monday by default.
The test takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. During that time, the generator will auto-start and auto-stop.
The generator will not provide power during this test. The generator may charge the batteries if the batteries reach designated generator start point, however.

Grid Peak Shaving Mode (For Gen Connected to Grid Breaker)
A. Prevents the Sol-Ark from overloading generators B. Must place the CT sensors so that they measure L1 and L2 of the
generator’s output, pointing arrows on the CT’s towards the generator C. Sol-Ark contributes power above the “Power” value threshold to prevent
overloading the generator D. This mode will auto-adjust the Grid Charge Amperage to avoid overloads
Gen Start V or % (Grid Start if Gen on Grid Breaker)
Value batts need to reach BEFORE automatically starting a generator connected to the GEN breaker to charge the battery bank.
Sol-Ark will NOT charge batteries from a generator until the batteries reach this value.
Gen Start A (Grid Start if Gen on Grid Breaker)
This is how many amps (DC) you can pull specifically from the Generator to charge the batts. To ensure you do not overload a small Generator, you will want to adjust the GEN or GRID Start A value. Multiply value by # of Sol-Arks for actual current value into batteries.

Suppose PV production = 0W | Disabled TOU | Enabled Grid/Gen Charge: the batteries will be charged to “full” using the Grid or a Generator (if available) until the battery bank accepts only 5% of its rated capacity in Amperes. This value correlates to roughly 90-93% full for most batteries and is the generator’s default “OFF” signal. If producing PV, the system will use PV to charge the batteries to 100% full instead.

December 2nd, 2022

Integrating Sensors and Accessory Placement
Sensor Pin Out (Located in Sol-Ark user
(1,2) Batt Temp: Battery Temperature Sensor has no polarity and is needed for voltage correction when using lead acid batteries.
(+3, -4) CT1 & (+5,-6) CT2: Current transformers used for limited to home mode and peak shaving
(7,8) Gen Start Relay: Two wire start for generators, simple open or closed relay
(9,10) Gen On Relay: Not currently used
(B 11, B 12) Emergency Stop: Short these pins to initiate emergency stop. This will shutdown AC output from the inverter and initiate rapid shutdown of the PV.
(+13, -14) Optional 12V input signal for RSD
(+15, -16) 12V power supply for RSD transmitters: such as TIGO and Midnite Rated for a maximum of 1.2W (100mA @12V)

Battery Temperature Sensor

Fig. C

· Place between batteries with tape (See Fig. C).

· This sensor has no polarity and helps perform voltage charging adjustments

and capacity calculations.

Note: Lithium Batteries do NOT require a Temperature sensor.

Limiter Sensors (CT Sensors)
· Install sensors on incoming electrical service wires on L1 and L2 (see Diagrams Section) · Limited To Home Mode (meter zero) and Peak Shaving Modes require CT sensors · CT winding default ratio is 2000:1; however, this ratio is programmable · To ensure the sensors will fit, please check the wire size before ordering

GEN Start Signal (Two-Wire)
· The signal comes from a normally open relay that closes when the Gen Start state is active

CANbus & RS485
· To connect batteries to the Sol-Ark 8K via RJ45, you need to splice the end connecting to the Sol-Ark 8K · Use the middle two conductors · RS485 is SunSpec draft 4 (will not work with draft 3)

Wi-Fi Antenna (Dongle)
Remote monitoring and software updates require an internet connection through the Wi-Fi dongle

December 2nd, 2022

Emergency Stop Signal & PV Rapid Shutdown Signal
Pins 11 and 12 use a normally open & latching switch to connect the two emergency stop pins that cut off the RSD power supply when triggered, thus stopping the inverter AC output.
Pins 15 and 16 provide the 12V / 100mA signal power lost when the Sol-Ark shuts down using the front button.

· The Built-in 12V power supply in the user area of the Sol-Ark (Pins 15 and 16) is rated for 100mA (1.2W)
· Transmitter fits inside the user area of the Sol-Ark 8K but can cause interference (sometimes requires placing it outside of the user area)
· TIGO Optimizers are compatible with the Sol-Ark 8K (Do not use the built in 12V Power supply in the Sol-Ark user area to Power the Tigo Optimizer TX transmitter)
Misc. Hardware Recommendations
Disconnect / Transfer Switches: 200A Non-Fused Transfer Switch Model #TC10324R (GE) | 200A Fused Transfer Switch Model #DG224NRK (Eaton)
PV Fuses: 15A PV MC4 in-line fuse holder (ZOOKOTO or DPJ)
Electrical Panel: Any appropriately rated panel for your loads (Check local hardware stores for recommendations)

December 2nd, 2022

Powering-Up and Testing the Sol-Ark 8K
Check the voltage on each PV input circuit
A. Should be no higher than 500Voc Temp. corrected B. DO NOT connect PV+ OR PV- to GND C. Verify polarity (backward polarity shows 0V)

Turn ON with one of three sources of power:

1) PV

2) Grid 3) ON/OFF Battery

Check Grid Input Voltage
A. Measure L1 to Neutral and L2 to Neutral. Ensure 120Vac B. Measure L1 and L2Ensure 240Vac C. Check Neutral and Ground are ~0V AC D. Verify L1 voltage on AC in/out is 0Vac with the main L1
connection in the panel Same for L2
Check Battery Voltage
A. Turn on the battery switch (if using a Lithium battery) B. Turn on the built-in battery disconnect in the user area C. The voltage should be 45Vdc-60Vdc
Provide Power to Sol-Ark
A. Turn on Grid Breaker and Load Breaker B. Turn PV disconnect switch to the “ON” position C. Press the ON/OFF Button on the front, and the blue light
should turn on
Indicator LED’s
DC A. Green = DC Solar Panels are producing B. Off = Solar Panels are not producing
AC A. Green = Grid (or Gen or AC Coupled) is Connected B. Off = grid is not Connected
Normal A. Green = Sol-Ark 8K is working properly B. Off = Sol-Ark 8K is not working properly
Alarm A. Red = Alarm, check the alarms menu B. Off = No alarms

Power Cycle Sequence
1. Turn on the Built-In battery disconnect
2. Make sure that Sol-Ark 8K is properly connected to the batteries, panels, grid, etc. (see system wiring diagram).
3. Turn on grid power breakers.
4. Press the power button on the front of the unit.
5. Make sure Solar panel inputs are not connected to Ground, then Turn on DC disconnect switch.
6. Turn on load breakers.
7. Reverse the steps to turn off

December 2nd, 2022

Wi-Fi / Internet Connection
Remote Monitoring Setup
Ethernet Dongle
A. Open the dongle enclosure and thread the ethernet cable through the hole and plug into the RJ45 port B. Reassemble the dongle housing and plug dongle into Sol-Ark and secure with screws
If all is well, you will see solid red and green lights C. Register the dongle via the app or www.mysol-ark.com
Wi-Fi (Via Cell Phone or computer)
A. Plug Wi-Fi dongle into Sol-Ark B. Using your device look for an “EAP” network containing the last 5 digits of the dongle S/N C. Password: 12345678 D. Follow the instructions in the upcoming pages
You can access PowerView on a computer with the following link:
http://www.mysol-ark.com
Download PV Pro App

iPhone: (Will only show up as PV Pro) https://apps.apple.com/lk/app/powe rview-pro/id1247121391

Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/ details?id=com.elinter.app.powervie w&hl=en_US&gl=US

Attention Installers
If you plan to add an install to your installer account for monitoring multiple installs, you must first make the plant under the customer’s account.
Once created, the customer can share the plant, with Manager permissions, to the installer via the app (“…”under My Plants) or webpage (press the “…” next to the plant name in Power View).

PV Pro App Tutorial Video

December 2nd, 2022

PV Pro Website Tutorial Video
19

Create an Account and Sign In

Add a Plant

After filling the form click “Create Account”
Scan the QR code on the dongle while plugged in

On Plant Type, ALWAYS select Energy Storage (DC
coupling).
December 2nd, 2022

Make sure to pick a unique plant name. (I.E.”Last Name,
First four of Address”)
20

Connect the System to the Internet
If Wi-Fi paired with 10.10.10.1, select Done

If Location Services are not enabled, it will be requested

Select Distribution Network to pair Dongle with WIFI

Read and confirm conditions

Once you see this screen, go to your DEVICE’S Wi-Fi settings and connect to the Wi-Fi network that starts with:
EAP-#####
Password: “12345678” Return to app once connected
Select the local Wi-Fi network that will be providing the internet connection to the system
Do NOT select the dongle’s Wi-Fi network

The app will buffer for a few seconds
You will receive confirmation once connection is established

It takes about 60sec for the lights to turn on after setup Red LED: Connected to Sol-Ark and has power Green LED: Connected to Internet and Server Flashing Green LED: Connected to router but not server (usually a VPN or firewall issue)

December 2nd, 2022

Start Monitoring The Data

This screen is the real time view

Select your plant

Alarms

Graphed data

System info and programming

IP Address Setup Instructions (PC or Smart Phone)
Please Note that this method only achieves internet connectivity. For registration and
account management please use the app and/or www.mysol-ark.com
Connect to the Dongle Network
A. Settings Wi-Fi Select the Network with EAP- ##### (The last 5 digits of your SN number)

Password: 12345678
*Disclaimer*: The Wi-Fi dongle does not have internet; You still need to be connected to the dongle for this process.

December 2nd, 2022

Login to Web Portal using ANY Search Browser
A. Open Google or Safari type in the
search bar: 10.10.10.1
B. Scroll Down to “Wi-Fi Connection” C. Press “Scan” to search local networks
Select Your HOME Network
A. Find the home network B. Enter personal Wi-Fi Password C. DO NOT SELECT DONGLE NETWORK D. Select “Connect”

*Disclaimer* Connecting the dongle via the IP address only connects the dongle to the internet
*YOU MUST STILL CREATE AN ACCOUNT VIA THE POWER VIEW APP*

Save Your Information
If Successful you should see a Red and Green light on the Dongle showing a successful connection.
Red LED: Connected to Sol-Ark and has power. Green LED: Connected to Internet and Server Flashing Green LED: Connected to router but not server (usually a VPN or firewall issue)

December 2nd, 2022

Main Menus

GUI Screens

Basic Setup

December 2nd, 2022

Battery Setup
c
Grid Setup

December 2nd, 2022

Programming Guide

Sol-Ark Menus
Display Time Advanced Factory Reset Parallel

Basic Setup Battery Setup Grid Setting System Alarms

Batt Charge Discharge Smart Load

Limiter Sell Control Grid input FreqVolt PowFac

Brightness Beep Auto Dim

AM/PM Time Sync Year Month

Day Hour Minute Second

Solar Arc Fault ON Gen Peak Shaving Grid Peak Shaving Auto Detect Home Limit Sensors Clear Arc Fault
Factory Reset Lockout All Changes System Self check Test Mode
Parallel Master / Slave Modbus SN Phase A/B/C

Batt Capacity Use Batt V Charged

Max A Charge Use Batt % Charged

Max A Discharge No Battery

TEMPCO

BMS Lithium Batt

Activate Battery

Start V Start % Gen/Grid Charge A Float V

Absorption V Equalization V Equalization Days Equalization Duration

Shutdown V / % Low Batt V / % Restart V / % Batt Resistance

Batt Empty V

Use Gen Input as Smart Load Use Gen Input for AC Coupling Smart Load On & Off V / % Smart Load PV Watts

Grid Sell Limited Power to Home Limited Power to Load Time of Use

General Standard Ul1742 & IEE1547
UL1741SA Grid Reconnect Time

Power Factor Gen Connect to Grid Input Zero-Export Power Buffer

Grid Frequency Grid Type Protect parameters

L/HVRT L/HFRT
Q(V) FW VW Normal Ramp Rate Soft Start Ramp Rate

Alarm Codes

December 2nd, 2022

Main Screens (Touchscreen)

Detailed Volts View

· Top row = Total power for column

· Middle Row = Line 1/PV1 voltage, Amps, and Watts

(note: PV Voltage not to exceed 500V)

· Bottom Row = Line 2/PV2 voltage, Amps, and Watts

(note: PV Voltage not to exceed 500V)

· Batt Temperature will show -20°C if the temperature

sensor is not connected. Batt SOC % = % batteries are

charged

· DC Temp = Temperature of DC conversion electronics o Batt AC o PV Batt o AC Batt

· AC Temp = Temperature of AC conversion electronics o Batt AC o PV AC

· Grid Column o If selling to the Grid, Grid Watts = negative o If buying from the Grid, Grid Watts = positive o HM = power detected by the external current

Note: Reversed Grid Watt values may indicate incorrectly installed current sensors (reversed polarity). See Page 34.

sensors on the entire home L1 & L2

o LD = power detected using internal sensors on AC grid in/out breaker

PV Graphical View
A. Displays power production over time for the PV array B. Use up/down buttons to navigate between days C. Month view, Year view, and Total view

December 2nd, 2022

Grid Graphical View
A. Displays power drawn from and sold to the grid over time B. Bars above the line indicate power bought from the grid C. Bars below the line indicate power sold back to the grid
This view can help determine when the peak power is used in the Home and for Time of Use programing
System Setup Menu
A. ID = LCD serial #. Support uses the Wi-Fi serial #. B. COMM = LCD software version C. MCU = Inverter software version
Basic Setup
Display
A. Brightness adjustment B. Auto dim (must be enabled for the warranty to cover LCD screen) C. Enable/disable BEEP
Time
A. Set date and time for the system B. Set up to 3 seasons for Time of Use to follow
Gen Peak Shaving (Gen Limit Power)
Set the threshold at which the Sol-Ark will contribute to the generator to prevent large loads overloading the generator.
Load Limit Power
Set the total AC Output of the Sol-Ark, excess power will be curtailed. The default value is always the Maximum output of the inverter.
Grid Peak Shaving
Set the Sol-Ark’s threshold to begin contributing power to keep the power drawn from the grid below the threshold.
CT Ratio
Set the CT ratio; Default value is 2000/1. DO NOT change this value unless you speak with support, use of 3rd party CT sensors require our permission to not void warranty.
UPS Time
Set the delay to Sol-Ark’s UPS transfer time; When set to 0ms, the UPS transfer time will be 4ms.
Parallel (connecting multiple systems)
This tab does not apply to the Sol-Ark 8K, as it is a single-system solution.

December 2nd, 2022

System Alarms
A. Lists all recorded System alarms in chronological order

Battery Setup
Batt
Batt Capacity: enter the size of the battery bank connected to the system. Series = add Voltage | Parallel = add Amp-Hours
Max A Charge: set the max charge rate for the batteries (This also sets PV Battery charge rate)
Suggest 20%-30% of battery capacity for lead-acid
Max A discharge: set max discharge for battery bank (In off-grid mode, the battery bank will discharge 120% of this value for 10 seconds before the inverter shuts down to prevent battery damage)
TEMPCO: Temperature coefficient used in conjunction with the batt temp sensor to adjust optimal voltages for leadacid batteries
Use Batt V Charged: displays battery charge in terms of voltage
Use Batt % Charged: Battery voltage can be misleading for determining the % Charged. So, we use algorithms measuring power in and out to measure a true value for % Charged. It compensates for aging batteries also.
Charge
Float V: Set value appropriate for the batteries connected to the system
Absorption V: Set value suitable for the batteries connected to the system · Absorption will stop at 2% of the capacity of the battery bank and drop to float · Ex: 400Ah battery would be 8A
Equalization V: Set value appropriate for the batteries in use.
Days: the period between equalization cycles
Hours: period taken to equalize batteries
Note if Hours = 0 system will not equalize the batteries
Gen Charge: uses the gen input of the system to charge the battery bank from an attached generator. Start V: voltage at which system will AutoStart a connected generator to charge the battery bank Start percentage: Percent S.O.C at which system will AutoStart a corresponding generator to charge the battery bank A: Charge rate from the attached Generator in Amps (DC)
Size this value according to the generator size
Grid Charge: uses Grid input to charge batteries from grid or generator

December 2nd, 2022

Gen Exercise Cycle (Day & Time): Set a weekly Gen exercise schedule. (Day of the week/Time/Duration Length) Gen must have two-wire start connected to Sol-Ark. To disable the exercise, set the duration length to 0 min.
Discharge
Shutdown V: battery voltage at which the inverter will shut down (battery symbol on the home screen will turn red)
Low Batt: Low battery voltage (battery symbol on the home screen will turn yellow)
Restart: battery voltage at which AC output will resume
Batt Resistance: used in % SOC batt calculations
Batt Charge Efficiency: used in % SOC batt calculations
Batt Empty V: sets reserve capacity and improves % SOC calculations. It is not Batt_I adjusted
(Recommendations: 45V for AGMs, 48V for Lithium Iron Phosphate)
Smart Load (Gen Breaker)
A. This mode utilizes the Gen input connection as an output that only receives power when the battery exceeds a userprogrammable threshold.
B. Enable “Use gen input as load output” to power high power loads such as a water heater, irrigation pump, AC unit, pool pump, etc.
Smart Load OFF Batt Battery voltage at which the Gen Load will stop receiving power
Smart Load ON Batt Battery voltage at which the Gen Load will start receiving power
Using Gen load for a water heater, we recommend that only one leg (120V) be connected to the bottom element. This significantly reduces the power consumption of the water heater while retaining core functionality (it will heat water, only slower).
Gen Load is limited to 50A at 240V (Do not exceed!)
Solar Watts is for on Grid A. The system waits to turn on smart load until enough PV power is produced (when on grid)
AC Coupling Settings (” For AC Coupled Input”) A. To use the Gen input breaker as an AC coupled input, check the “For AC Coupled Input” box (this feature will also work with “Grid-Tied” Inverters) B. The meaning of Smart Load OFF Batt and Smart Load ON Batt change in this mode
Smart Load OFF Batt: The SOC at which the AC coupled inverter(s) are shut down when in off-grid mode
90% recommended
Smart Load ON Batt: The SOC at which the AC coupled inverter(s) are turned on when in off-grid mode
60%-80% recommended

December 2nd, 2022

When On-Grid, the AC-coupled inverter will always be on, and the will sell any extra power back to the grid. AC Coupled PV Arrays will not work WITHOUT grid sell enabled (while grid is available).
To use the LOAD breaker for AC coupling grid tied inverter(s)
i. You must select “For Micro Inverter Input” ii. The Gen Breaker is not used (even though the GEN breaker is not physically being used for this mode, AC
coupling on the LOAD breaker prevents the use of the GEN breaker) iii. Wire as show in the preceding example diagram labeled “Load side AC coupling example”
Some load-side AC coupling installs will require a line side tap instead of the 50A breaker shown in the example diagram
Grid Setup
Limiter
Grid Sell: maximum watts sold to grid
Limited To Home: Limits power produced by the system to match the demand of the Home
Limited To Load: Limits power produced by the system to match the demand of connected loads
Time Of Use: Control battery behavior w/ grid available
Time: When the System will sell batt/PV power to the Grid or Home Power(W): Max watts called from the battery only at each time Batt: The battery voltage or % at which the system will limit selling to the Grid or Home from the battery. The system will drain the battery until reaching that percent/voltage. Charge: Enables grid/gen charging up to the voltage or percentage specified on the line during a selected period. PV will always charge 100%. If using a generator, select the charge box for the times that may need the generator, and the Gen will charge the battery to the voltage of percentage specified in the “Batt” column. Sell: The sell check box allows the battery to be discharged for grid sell-back for that time slot
Note: If you need the batteries to never charge from the grid, uncheck the “Grid Charge” box under the charge tab of the battery menu.
Sell Control
General Standard: uses Protect Parameters in table
UL 1741 & IEEE1547: Enables sell compliant functionality
UL1741SA: Enables wider Freq, Voltage, and Power Factor
GEN connect to Grid Input: Enable if Generator connects to the AC Grid breaker
Zero Export Power: Power drawn from the grid at all times

December 2nd, 2022

Grid Input
Grid Frequency: Select the Grid Frequency connection Grid Type:
· 220V Single Phase (Call us before using) · 120/240V Split Phase (North America) · 120/208V 3 Phase Protect Parameters: (when Settings when the system will connect/disconnect from the grid. UL 1741 & IEEE1547 do not use these parameters.
We recommend widening the frequency range when connecting a generator to the grid breaker (55-65Hz)

If 120/208V, the L1 and L2 are phase specific. So, you may have to swap Grid L1 L2 for 208V applications. Inverter power cycle is required each time the input/output voltage is changed

Selecting Power Mode
Sol-Ark 8K will simultaneously use various power sources available to meet loads demand. The following power modes allow the user to determine the power sources available to the Sol-Ark 8K.

Limited Load / Self Consumption A. Sol-Ark will only power loads connected to it. B. It will not produce more power than the connected loads require. C. This mode will neither sell back to the Home nor Grid.

Limited To Home (Zero-Metering) Main Menu System Settings Grid Setup Limiter Limited to Home
A. Pushes power to the whole Home without selling back any excess to the grid (no net metering agreement required)
B. This mode requires the use of the limiter sensors C. Power source priority is the same as Grid Sell Back
Grid Sell Main Menu System Settings Grid Setup Limiter Grid Sell

Simultaneously select Grid Sell and Limited to Home
Load (light bulb) icon on the home screen now includes both the load breaker power and the home’s consumption.

A. This mode allows Sol-Ark 8K to sell back any excess power produced by the solar panels to the grid. Power source priority: 1. Solar Panels | 2. Grid | 3. Generator (Manual) | 4. Batteries (until reaching programmable % discharge)

Time Of Use (using batteries during peak power times) Main Menu System Settings Grid Setup Limiter Time Of Use

A. Use the batteries to reduce power consumption from the grid during a user programable peak pricing time.

Power source priority: 1. Solar Panels | 2. Batteries (programmable % discharge) | 3. Grid (control when Grid charges) | 4. Generator

December 2nd, 2022

FreqVolt (UL 1741SA must be enabled in “Sell Control” tab)
Puerto Rico Grid Compliance Settings:

Kauai Grid Compliance Settings:

HECO Grid Compliance Settings for O’ahu, Maui, Hawai’i:

HECO Grid Compliance Settings for Lana’I and Moloka’i:

PowFac Power Factor is programmable from 0.8 1.0

December 2nd, 2022

Limiter Sensor Automatic Setup
Requires Batteries, AC coupled panels must be off while detecting, and does NOT work for 208V installs. If you do not have batteries or are in 208V mode: verify CT sensor placement manually. A. Install limiter sensors as previously described (shown in all diagrams as well). Battery and grid connections also
required before starting auto-setup. B. Navigate to the “Advanced” Tab of the Basic Setup screen (follow the directions below to get there)
A. Touch the gear icon Touch the Basic Setup button Select the Advanced tab (see Fig. C) C. Select “Auto detect Home Limit Sensors” and press “OK” D. Wait for the Sol-Ark to finish its learning process (Sol-Ark will alternate sell back between legs and magnitude
automatically determining the correct settings for the sensors) E. Verify sensors were correctly configured (see Fig. D) if they are not correct, repeat the learn function

Fig. C

Fig. D

In Limited To Home Mode HM values will be close to zero. HM values should never be negative. If negative, the Limiter Sensors are not installed properly.

Possible Limiter Sensor issues: Sensors are facing wrong direction Sensors are on the wrong wire(s) Sensors are not fully closed on wire(s) Sensor Polarity is wrong (White = + BLK = -)

Verifying proper sensor direction: · Any loads in the home will show a positive HM (+) value in Watts
· Turning on solar panels and enabling Grid Sell should show a negative HM (-) in Watts if you are producing more power than the loads are consuming
· If you turn on limited power to Home mode, then HM: ~0 Watts to zero the meter (system matches the loads to within 99%)
If you installed limiter sensors (CTs) for Limited To Home selling mode, verifying the proper sensor placement and direction is critical. Remove one sensor from the main L1 connection, and the power should drop to 0W.

December 2nd, 2022

Install Tips
Off-Grid Install Tips
Sol-Ark 8K will automatically operate in Off-Grid Mode without the grid (under the same power priority as TOU).
A. Limiter Sensors are not required for completely Off-Grid installs unless using Grid Peak Shaving with a Gen connected to Grid input breaker.
B. The Grid input breaker on the Sol-Ark should be used as the Generator input (4-30kW generators) so that you maintain Smart Load output capability when off-grid. Smart Load will allow you to run high-power non-essential appliances (hot water, dehumidifier, heat pump, irrigation pump) on solar power instead of batteries. Therefore, you will use Grid Charge (default) in the Battery Setup/Charge menu.
C. When off-grid, there is no need for a transfer switch: connect the load output of the Sol-Ark to the whole home. D. Do not use Grid Sell or Limited To Home Modes Off-Grid. Only Limited power to load (default). E. The Auto Generator start functions as a 2-wire switch (closes the circuit when needing charging)
i. Auto Gen-start will be triggered when the battery voltage or percent reaches the level programmed in the battery setup menu. Then, the generator will continue to charge the batteries until they are about 95% full (this percentage is not programmable) before turning the generator off.
ii. When using the Sol-Ark to control a generator, an exercise function will turn on the generator once a week on Monday mornings at 8 AM by default
F. We recommend changing the “Grid Reconnect Time” under the Sell control tab of the grid setup menu to 30 seconds; otherwise, the Sol-Ark will not charge from the generator until it has been on for at least 5 minutes per the default value of 300 seconds.
G. Under setup for Grid/Sell Control, select General Standard and “GEN connect to Grid Input.” Then go to Grid input to widen the input frequency range to 55-65Hz to work with any frequency generator.
H. If you would like to use a wind turbine in conjunction with the Sol-Ark 8K, the turbine must have a 48V charge controller with a dump load to prevent overcharging the batteries. Connect the charge controller on the turbine to the battery bank the Sol-Ark is using, and the turbine will help charge the batteries.
I. Don’t forget to set the Battery capacity and reasonable charge rates.
Grid-Tie / No Battery Install Tips
A. Under Battery setup, select no Battery & disable Activate Battery (or system will beep).
B. Note: a whole system power cycle is required when changing the battery to no battery settings.
C. Under Grid Setup, select Grid Sell. D. Touch Battery Icon to see the Detailed Volts View to verify your inputs &
outputs.

December 2nd, 2022

Batteries

Battery Charging Information

4-Stage Charging

The MPPT has a 4-stage battery charging algorithm for rapid, efficient, and safe battery charging. The figure below

shows the stage sequence.

MPPT Charging Algorithm

Bulk Charge Stage

In the Bulk Charge stage, the battery is not at a

100% state of charge and has not yet reached

the Absorption voltage setpoint. The controller

will deliver 100% of available solar power to

recharge the battery.

Absorption Stage
When the battery has reached the absorption voltage setpoint, we use constant-voltage regulation to maintain battery voltage at the absorption setpoint, preventing heating and excessive battery gassing. The battery is allowed to come to a full state of charge at the absorption voltage setpoint. Absorption lasts until batteries charge at 2% of the programmed Ah size.

Float Stage
After the Absorption stage charges the battery fully, the MPPT reduces the battery voltage to the float voltage setpoint. If batts have 100% charge, there can be no more chemical reactions, and all the charging current turns into heat and gassing. The float stage provides a meager rate of maintenance charging while reducing the heating and gassing of a fully charged battery. The purpose of float is to protect the battery from long-term overcharge.

Battery Charging Setpoint Examples (48V)

Battery Type Absorption

Float Stage Equalize Stage

Stage

(every 30 days 3hr)

AGM / PCC Gel Wet
Lithium

14.4v (57.6v) 14.1v (56.4v) 14.7v (59.0v) 14.1v (54.6v)

13.5v (53.6v) 13.5v (54.0v) 13.7v (55.0V) 13.2v (54.3v)

14.4v (57.6v) Default
14.7v (59.0v) 14.1v (54.6v)

Calculating Battery Bank’s Amp-Hours (PCC 230)

Battery Voltage / Amp Hours / Total Amp

Max Charge/

Count Battery

Battery

Hours @48V Discharge Amp

12V

230Ah 230Ah 230Ah 230Ah

230Ah 460Ah 690Ah 920Ah

100A 185A 185A 185A

· Batteries in series: ADD VOLTAGES
· Batteries in parallel: ADD AMP-HOURS

December 2nd, 2022

Sol-Ark PCC-230 Battery Batt Capacity: 230Ah x #Parallel_Batteries (1 parallel = 4 Batt in series, 2 = 8 Batt, 3 = 12 Batt, 4 =16 Batt) Max A Charge: 100A x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Discharge: 100A x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Grid Charge: 50A x #Parallel_Batteries TEMPCO: -5mV/C/Cell Float V: 53.6V Absorption V: 57.6V Equalization V: 57.6V Equalization Days: 30 Equalization Duration: 3 Hours Recommended Shutdown V / Percentage: 47.0V & 20% Recommended Low Batt V / Percentage: 47.5V & 35% Recommended Restart V / Percentage: 52.0V & 50% Battery Resistance: 35mOhms (8 Batt) or 25mOhms (16 Batt) Battery Charge Efficiency: 99% Battery Empty Voltage: 45V
Generation 2 Fortress Battery-eVault18.5 Batt Capacity: 360Ah x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Charge: 150A (100A for life) x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Discharge: 160A x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Grid Charge: 100A x #Parallel_Batteries TEMPCO: 0mV/C/Cell BMS Lithium Batt: 04 Float V: 54.2V Absorption V: 54.4V Equalization V: 55.5V Equalization Days: 30 Equalization Duration: 1 Hours (tops off battery) Recommended Shutdown V / Percentage: 51.3V & 20% Recommended Low Batt V / Percentage: 51.7V & 30% Recommended Restart V / Percentage: 51.9V & 40% Battery Resistance: 5mOhms Battery Charge Efficiency: 99% Battery Empty Voltage: 46V Simpliphi Power: PHI 3.8 Battery 48V Batt Capacity: 75Ah x # Batt Max A Charge: 37.5A x # Batt (20A for better lifespan) Max A Discharge: 37.5A x # Batt (34A for better lifespan) Max A Grid Charge: 20A x # Batt TEMPCO: 0mV/C/Cell BMS Lithium Batt: Not Selected Float V: 55.6V Absorption V: 56V Equalization V: 56V Equalization Days: 30 Equalization Duration: 2 Hours (tops off battery) Recommended Shutdown V / Percentage: 50.2V & 20% Recommended Low Batt V / Percentage: 50.6V & 30% Recommended Restart V / Percentage: 51.0V & 40% Battery Resistance: 24mOhms ÷ (battery Count) Battery Charge Efficiency: 99% Battery Empty Voltage: 46V

Time 1:00AM 5:00AM 9:00AM 1:00PM 4:00PM 9:00PM

Watts 1500*Par_Batts 1500*Par_Batts 1500*Par_Batts 1500*Par_Batts 1500*Par_Batts 1500*Par_Batts

SOC 70% 70% 70% 100% 70% 70%

GridCharge

These settings will charge the batteries off solar only. Discharge the batteries down to a maximum of 70% full.
Limited To Home mode will not sell to the grid from the batteries (only the home will use battery power). The 100% time slot is to ensure that the batteries are properly cycled each day.

Time 1:00AM 5:00AM 9:00AM 1:00PM 5:00PM 9:00PM

Watts

SOC

6000*Par_Batts 40%

GridCharge

These settings will charge the batteries off solar only. Discharge the batteries down to a maximum of 40% full.
Limited To Home mode will not sell to the grid from the batteries (only the home will use battery power).

Time

Watts

SOC

GridCharge

1:00AM 1000*Batts

40%

5:00AM 1000*Batts

40%

9:00AM 1000*Batts

40%

1:00PM 1000*Batts

40%

5:00PM 1000*Batts

40%

9:00PM 1000*Batts

40%

December 2nd, 2022

Blue Ion 2.0 Battery Batt Capacity: 40Ah x #Parallel_Batteries (4 Parallel = 160Ah, 6 = 240Ah, 8 = 320Ah) Max A Charge: 160A w/ 4 Batteries, 185A w/ 6+ Max A Discharge: 160A w/ 4 Batteries, 185A w/ 6+ Max A Grid Charge: 160A w/ 4 Batteries, 185A w/ 6+ TEMPCO: 0mV/C/Cell BMS Lithium Batt: 03 (eGauge) / 00 (Namaka Box) Float V: 55.2V Absorption V: 55.2V Equalization V: 55.2V Equalization Days: 30 Equalization Duration: 1 Hours (tops off battery) Recommended Shutdown V / Percentage: 47.0V & 20% Recommended Low Batt V / Percentage: 49.0V & 30% Recommended Restart V / Percentage: 52.0V & 40% Battery Resistance: 5mOhms Battery Charge Efficiency: 99% Battery Empty Voltage: 46V
Dyness B4850 Battery Module Batt Capacity: 50Ah x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Charge: 50A (25A for life) x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Discharge: 50A x #Parallel_Batteries Max A Grid Charge: 50A x #Parallel_Batteries TEMPCO: 0mV/C/Cell BMS Lithium Batt: 01 Float V: 53.8V Absorption V: 54.0V Equalization V: 54.0V Equalization Days: 30 Equalization Duration: 1 Hours (tops off battery) Recommended Shutdown V / Percentage: 47V & 20% Recommended Low Batt V / Percentage: 48V & 30% Recommended Restart V / Percentage: 49V & 40% Battery Resistance: 5mOhms Battery Charge Efficiency: 99% Battery Empty Voltage: 46V

Time 1:00AM 5:00AM 9:00AM 1:00PM 4:00PM 9:00PM

Watts

SOC

8000*Par_Batts 40%

GridCharge

Time 1:00AM 5:00AM 9:00AM 1:00PM 5:00PM 9:00PM

Watts

SOC

2400*Par_Batts 40%

GridCharge

December 2nd, 2022

MODBUS/RJ45 Application Note
BMS Lithium Batt Modes (Subject to Change):
00: CANBus Battery mode Inverter also acts a ModBus slave with slave ID set by “ModBus SN Setting” (Pg. 29) 01: Storz ModBus Protocol 02: Pylontech ModBus Protocol 03: Old Blue Ion + eGauge / Polarium ModBus Protocol 04: Fortress Power ModBus Protocol 05: Kilovault HAB ModBus Protocol 06: Battery or Battery Controller is ModBus master and writes battery data to inverter’s BMS registers (not currently in use).

Find our full list of currently supported battery communications
www.sol-ark.com/battery-partners
Our Battery Communications Integration Guide can also be found here
www.sol-ark.com/support

Use the information below at your own risk; the warranty will not cover any damage caused by the improper use of the communications protocols. Read-Only Modbus Map available upon request at [email protected]

Combined RS-485 and CANBus Pin 1 or 8 is RS-485 B- (Data -) Pin 2 or 7 is RS-485 A+ (Data +) Pin 4 CAN High Pin 5 CAN Low Pin 6 is GND

Baud 9600 8bits data One stop bit, no parity Does not require termination

Incorporating 3rd Party ModBus Devices:
If your device utilizes BMS Lithium Batt 00, you need to set the inverter Modbus SN to 01. The default ModBus SN is 00.

December 2nd, 2022

Troubleshooting Guide

LCD is not powering on
· Check all connections- at least one of the following power sources is required: PV/Grid/Battery · Try pressing the power button, touchscreen, or navigation buttons
Panels are connected, but DC Light is not on
· PV voltage must be 150V-425V | It’s night
Panels are not producing
· Check for proper wiring on all solar panel connections · Turn PV disconnect “ON” · Check that the PV input voltage is not greater than 425V · If the system says PV = 0V, check the PV polarity
Panels are not producing much power
· PV Wire Strip Length: 5/8″. Your batteries are charged; you can test Grid Sell to verify.
The system does not keep batteries charged
· Check the charge setting in the Charge Menu
Auto Gen-Start is not working
· Check to make sure your generator is compatible with Auto Start · Make sure that the Auto Gen Start wire is adequately connected to the Sol-Ark 8K and the generator
Normal LED isn’t on
· Sol-Ark 8K is in pass-through-only mode, with only a Grid connection. · Sol-Ark 8K is not working correctly (Call us)
The alarm light is on
· Check the system alarms menu to identify the alarm
Grid HM value is negative when it should be positive (only applies in limited home mode)
· Limiter Sensors are backward, L1/L2 sensors are swapped, or incorrectly wired L1/L2 sensors. Try Auto Learn.
AC Overload Fault or Bus Unbalance Fault
· Check Transfer Switch/Subpanel wiring · Check for large loads that consume more than the inverter rating (EX: AC units over 3 tons)
The system connects to the grid and quickly disconnects
· With a DMM, verify your Neutral wire connection (should be 0 Vac referenced to GND) · Check your Freq is set to 60Hz, and the 8K measures 120V on L1 / L2 vs. N. · If overloading: verify 120/240V grid input and load output wires are not swapped. · If 120/208V, the L1 and L2 are phase-specific. So, you may have to swap Grid L1 / L2 for 208V applications.
DC Overload Fault
· Check PV voltage · Make sure you have not wired more than two (2) solar strings in parallel
System is beeping
· Check the system alarms menu to see which alarm has been triggered. Most alarms will self-reset. · There is no battery connected. If not using a battery, select no battery and disable activate batt in Batt menu.
Turn off the center button, remove AC Grid and PV Power for the 30s (screen is dead), and then power up to fully reset the system.

December 2nd, 2022

Battery cable sparks when connected
· Put the built-in battery breaker in the off position before connecting or disconnecting the batteries.
The battery symbol on the home screen is red
· The battery is under-Voltage or over-Voltage
The battery symbol on the home screen is yellow
· The battery is low, or the charge/discharge current is close to the programmed limit (which is ok)
The grid symbol on the home screen is yellow
· Grid parameters are out of specified range, or the grid is down
System has restarted
· It happens if the system is overloaded, the battery voltage is greater than 63V, or the Software update
Batteries were connected backward
· The battery breaker will trip. It can cause damage!
Why is the LCD screen still on when the power button is off?
· If PV or Grid power, LCD stays on, but the inverter and loads are off.
The Batt % meter is not reaching 100%
· The system needs to go through a small discharge/charge cycle first to calibrate the battery
The generator setup is reading 0Hz
· Select “General Standard” instead of UL1741. Then widen the frequency range to 55Hz-65Hz.
Color Touchscreen is Frozen
· Press and hold the escape button [] for 7-10 seconds
Troubleshooting Phasing Issues

If the Sol-Ark screen shows Grid Phase Wrong there is a phasing issue with your wiring and it may cause overload faults (F18, F26, F34) even with the Load breaker off and WILL CAUSE DAMAGE if left unchecked.
Single Sol-Ark: To locate the improperly wired phases, measure L1 to L1 (Top Screws) between the Grid and Load breaker; you should see 0V AC. Repeat for L2 to L2 between the Grid and Load breaker. Attempt to correct the wiring until you are only reading 0V AC between L1 to L1 & L2 to L2.
Make sure to correct both the Grid and Load wiring; they both need to be correct.
If the error persists, you will need to check your AC wiring beyond the inverter and may also need to verify that the phases are properly labeled coming from your meter.

December 2nd, 2022

Sol-Ark 8K Error Codes

Fault
F1 F8

Instruction
DC Inversed Failure GFDI_Relay_Failure

F13 Grid_Mode_change F15 AC_OverCurr_Failure F16 GFCI_Failure

F18 Tz_Ac_OverCurr_Fault

F20 Tz_Dc_OverCurr_Fault

F22 Tz_EmergStop_Fault F23 Tz_GFCI_OC_Fault
F24 DC_Insulation_Fault F25 AC_Active_Batt_Fault
F26 BusUnbalance_Fault
F29 Parallel_CANBus_Fault F30 AC_MainContactor_Fault F31 Soft_Start_Failed F34 AC Overload Fault F35 AC_NoUtility_Fault F37 DCLLC_Soft_Over_Cur F39 DCLLC_Over_Current F40 Batt_Over_Current F41 Parallel_System_Stop F45 AC_UV_OverVolt_Fault F46 Parallel_Aux_Fault
F47 AC_OverFreq_Fault F48 AC_UnderFreq_Fault F55 DC_VoltHigh_Fault F56 DC_VoltLow_Fault
F58 BMS communication fault F60 Gen_Volt_or_Fre_Fault F61 Button_Manual_OFF F63 ARC_Fault F64 Heatsink_HighTemp_Fault

Common Cause/Remedy
If you have parallel systems and turn one system off, you with get this notification. Not a fault.
Current Leakage from inverter AC output to Ground, check Ground and neutral are connected at the main panel It can happen when not using batteries or if Grid Input settings are changed. This is a notification, NOT a fault. If you switch from No Batt to Battery mode, Power the System down completely to restart. It is usually caused by Loads too large for the inverter. If off-grid, the battery discharge amps are programmed too low. Overloads can result in F15, F18, F20, or F26. Ground fault. Check PV+ or PV- wiring (which must be ungrounded). Exposed PV conductors + rain can also cause. Check that the neutral line and Ground are not double-bonded (common with portable generators).
Overloaded the Load Output: reduce loads. Wiring Short on the AC Side can also cause this error. Overloads can result in F15, F18, F20, or F26.
It is typically caused by DC current from the battery that is too large (ex: 4 Ton AC Unit). Overloads can result in F15, F18, F20, or F26. Initiated Emergency Stop; see sensor pinout table.
PV Ground fault. Check PV+ or PV- wiring (which must be ungrounded or damage can occur). Typically caused by pinched PV wire grounding the PV+ or PV-. Grounded PV wire can cause F20, F23, or F26. An exposed PV conductor combined with moisture is faulting (can cause F16, F24, F26).
No battery connection to the Inverter and Activate Battery is enabled. Disable Activate Battery in settings while no battery is connected. Too much load on one leg (L1 or L2) Vs. the other leg or DC loads on the AC output when off-grid. Grounded PV wire can cause F20, F23, or F26. Usually, a communication error for parallel systems, check cables and MODBUS addresses
Contact Sol-Ark.com
Soft Start of large motor failed
AC Overload or load shorted. Reduce heavy loads.
Grid connection lost
Software DC overcurrent
Hardware DC overcurrent Batteries exceeded their current discharge limit
If one system faults in parallel, this normal fault will register on the other units as they disconnect from grid
Grid under voltage causes a disconnect. This will self-reset when grid stabilizes. Cannot communicate with other parallel systems. Check Master = 1, Slaves are 2-9, ethernet cables are connected. Grid over Frequency (common in power outages) causes a disconnect. Will self-reset when grid stabilizes. Grid under Frequency (common in power outages) causes a disconnect. Will self-reset when grid stabilizes.
PV may be higher than 500V. Battery voltage should not be above 59V or 63V (depending on the model).
Batteries are overly-discharged, inverter is off grid and exceeded programmed batt discharge current by 20%, or Lithium BMS has shut down. If battery settings are incorrect, this can also happen. Sol-Ark is programmed to BMS Lithium Battery Mode but cannot communicate with a BMS
Generator Voltage or Frequency went outside the allowable range
The parallel Slave system turned off without turning off Master
It can be a lousy PV connector/connection. And sometimes a false alarm due to powerful lightning storms.
Check the built-in fans are running; ambient temp may be too high

December 2nd, 2022

Install Verification Checklist

For the installer to complete AFTER the system is operational. The purpose is to protect the installer, homeowner, and inverter.

1. The 8K installed in a location where the LCD is protected from direct sunlight and has 6″ clearance left and right for cooling Y/N

2. Are all the battery lugs tightened?

Y/N

3. 8K should connect to the grid, 8K 63A load/Grid breakers ON, batteries connected, PV input on, and ON button on. With the

inverter running, the Backup load’s panel and Grid-connected:

A. Did any breakers trip?

Y/N

B. Did the inverter overload?

Y/N

4. If you have problems, please take pictures of these and email them to [email protected]

A. Battery icon screen, showing detailed voltages (the screen shown below) B. Sol-Ark 8K with batteries and user wiring area 5. Load and solar test

This checklist must be filled out and submitted to register your
warranty. Please visit:

A. Press the battery icon for the detailed voltages screen.

B. Is the batt temp sensor working?

Y/N

C. Turn on many loads for the Backup circuits. Are solar panels producing enough

https://www.sol-ark.com/registeryour-sol-ark/

power to match the load (provided there is enough sun)?

Y/N

D. Program Full Grid Sell Mode. If there are enough panels and sun or light loads in the entire house, the Grid HM

measurements will be negative on both L1/L2. Are they negative (solar selling back to the grid)?

Y/N

E. Program limited power to home mode. The Grid HM sensors will be near zero or slightly positive. Are they both near

zero and canceling out the whole home power?

Y/N

F. You have verified the limit sensors are correctly installed. An auto-learn function corrects any mistakes in CT limiter

wiring (provided you have batteries and in 120/240V). Program in the correct Grid mode the customer will use.

6. Did you program the correct Ah for the battery bank and max Amps charge/discharge?

Y/N

7. Did you program the correct battery charge voltages for your battery type?

Y/N

8. Turn off the AC breaker so 8K is operating in an off-grid mode for several minutes. Are appliances still powered?

Y/N

9. Turn off the PV input, running only on batteries for several minutes. Are appliances still powered?

Y/N

10. Turn on the PV input and AC Grid inputs.

11. Did you set up the Wi-Fi plug to the customer’s internet?

Y/N

12. Absolutely important for software updates. Did you help the customer register system on Monitoring App?

Y/N

13. Does the customer have a standby generator or a small portable Generator?

Y/N

A. Did you turn off UL1741/IEEE1547 (use General Standard) and reprogram grid freq. range to 55-65Hz?

Y/N

B. Did you enable Gen charging and adequately set the charge current if using a small gas generator on Gen inputs? Y/N

14. If EMP protected, did you install EMP Suppressors on essential appliance cords?

Y/N

_______________________ Installer Name

_______________________ Installer Signature

____________________ Date

_______________________ Customer Name

_______________________ Customer Signature

____________________ Date

December 2nd, 2022

Sol-Ark 8K Limited Warranty

5-Year Limited Warranty for SOL-ARK (Portable Solar LLC) Products. Sol-Ark provides a Five-year (5) limited Warranty (“Warranty”) against defects in materials and workmanship for its Sol-Ark products (“Product”). The term of this warranty begins on the Product(s) initial purchase date or the date of receipt of the Product(s) by the end user, whichever is later. This must be indicated on your installer’s invoice and bill of sale. This warranty applies to the original Sol-Ark Product purchaser and is transferable only if the Product remains installed in the original use location. Please call Sol-Ark to let us know if you are selling your Home and give us name and contact of the new owner.

The warranty does not apply to any Product or Product part that has been modified or damaged by the following:

Installation or Removal (examples: wrong voltage batteries, connecting batteries backwards, damage due to water/rain to

electronics, preventable damage to solar wires.)

Alteration or Disassembly Normal Wear and Tear

Accident or Abuse Unauthorized Firmware updates/software updates or alterations to the software code

For Info/Purchasing:

Corrosion

[email protected] | ext.1

Lightning: unless using EMP hardened system, then Portable Solar will repair product Repair or service provided by an unauthorized repair facility Operation or installation contrary to manufacturer product instructions

For Tech Support/Warranty Claim:

Fire, Floods or Acts of Nature Shipping or Transportation

[email protected] | ext.2

Incidental or consequential damage caused by other components of the power system Any product whose serial number has been altered, defaced or removed

For Administrative Help:

Any other event not foreseeable by Portable Solar, LLC

ext.3

Sol-Ark (Portable Solar LLC) liability for any defective Product, or any Product part, shall be limited to the repair or replacement of the Product, at Portable Solar LLC discretion. Sol-Ark does not warrant or guarantee workmanship performed by any person or firm installing its Products. This warranty does not cover the costs of installation, removal, shipping (except as described below), or reinstallation of Products or parts of Products. LCD screen and fans are covered for 5 years from date of purchase.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO SOL-ARK (PORTABLE SOLAR LLC) PRODUCTS. SOL-ARK EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ITS PRODUCTS. SOL-ARK ALSO EXPRESSLY LIMITS ITS LIABILITY IN THE EVENT OF A PRODUCT DEFECT TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY AND EXCLUDES ALL LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY LIABILITY FOR PRODUCTS NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR USE OR LOST REVENUES OR PROFITS, EVEN IF IT IS MADE AWARE OF SUCH POTENTIAL DAMAGES.
Return Policy – No returns will be accepted without prior authorization and must include the Return Material Authorization (RMA) number. Please call and talk to one of our engineers to obtain this number at 972-575-8875.
Return Material Authorization (RMA) A request for an RMA number requires all of the following information: 1. Product model and serial number; 2. Proof-of-purchase in the form of a copy of the original Product purchase invoice or receipt confirming the Product model number and serial number; 3. Description of the problem; 4. Validation of problem by Technical Support, and 5. Shipping address for the repaired or replacement equipment. Upon receiving this information, the Sol-Ark representative can issue an RMA number.
Any product that is returned must be brand new, in excellent condition and packaged in the original manufacturer’s carton with all corresponding hardware and documentation. Returns must be shipped with prepaid freight and insured via the carrier of your choice to arrive back at Portable Solar within 30 days of your initial delivery or pick-up. Shipping charges will not be refunded.
All returns are subject to a 35% restocking fee. No returns will be accepted beyond 30 days of original delivery. The value and cost of replacing any items missing (e.g. parts, manuals, etc.) will be deducted from the refund. If you have any questions regarding our return policy, please email us at [email protected] or call us at the number above during regular (M-F) business hours.
Sol-Ark 8K Install Operational Verification Checklist Questionnaire must be filled out, signed, and dated to secure full warranty coverage.

December 2nd, 2022