Manual topology
In manual mode you define how the array is connected. It is enabled with Design mode → Manual.
What you define
Each row of the table is one MPPT input:
| Field | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Plane | Which roof plane it takes modules from |
| Modules in series | How many modules each string has |
| Strings in parallel | How many identical strings hang from that input |
| Inverter | Which inverter it belongs to (if there are several) |
A plane can feed several MPPTs. The strings of one input share the same orientation and the same module model.
What the engine checks
While you edit, it validates each row against the inverter and shows you the reasons if something does not comply: maximum voltage, MPPT range and current. Details in Electrical validation. It also checks:
- that those modules fit on the chosen plane;
- that you do not use more MPPT inputs than the inverter has;
- the total DC/AC ratio.
Batteries
Set the number of batteries (or leave it on automatic so that the engine sizes the capacity from your night-time consumption).
Wiring diagram
The connection diagram of the strings you define is drawn, with the inverter and the battery.
Legal range
The application calculates the legal range of total modules by checking each value, and distributes a total number of modules among the planes in legal strings when you ask it to. Use it as a guide.
Start in automatic
Many people run the automatic sizing, look at the proposed configuration and switch to manual to fine-tune it (for example, one module fewer on a plane). That way you start from something that already complies.