Comparison Must PH18-5248 PRO vs Must PV18-5248 PRO

The maximum allowable input power from solar panels, expressed in kilowatts (kW). Let us remember that 1 kW contains 1000 W.

When selecting an inverter based on this indicator, they are based on the total power of the solar panels involved in generating electricity. Moreover, it often makes sense to select models with an inverter input power slightly less than the maximum power of solar panels - for example, if they are shaded part of the time or for other reasons do not receive enough sunlight during the day. The power of the solar battery should not exceed the power of the inverter by more than 30%. However, for some inverters the excess can be only 10%, while for others it can be up to 100%. It is better to clarify this point in advance.

The operating range of the inverter is usually located between the starting voltage and the maximum voltage. This interval is indicated in volts.

Built-in Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) system for monitoring the maximum power points of photovoltaic modules in solar panels. It determines the most optimal ratio of voltage and current drawn from the solar panels, thereby ensuring maximum performance of individual strings (chains of series-connected panels). An MPPT controller is useful under any external weather changes, allowing solar panels to generate power even in cloudy conditions. Modern inverter models can contain either one or several MPPT trackers (up to six), which allow for the connection of multiple arrays with different orientations and angles of inclination, thereby eliminating the mutual influence of one array on another. Each MPPT controller output is designed to connect one string.

Strings in solar energy are chains of panels connected in series. With this connection method, the voltage of the solar panels is summed up, and the current remains constant, which allows you to significantly increase the power generation capacity while maintaining a fairly low current and without the need to use large-section wires.

Specifically, this paragraph indicates the maximum number of strings that can be connected to the inverter for solar panels.

— UPS function. Inverters with a UPS function automatically switch to battery-powered mode when there is insufficient power generation from solar panels or in cases where the main power source is disconnected. This ensures load redundancy. Note that switching may not occur instantly, but with a certain delay (about 10-30 ms).

— Connecting the generator. Inverters that support the generator connection function significantly increase the reliability and efficiency of autonomous solar energy systems. In practice, the function can be implemented in several basic ways. First, the system can automatically turn the generator on and off depending on the battery charge level or current power consumption, ensuring efficient use of resources and minimizing fuel consumption. Secondly, switching the load to the generator can be carried out when there is a shortage of electricity generation from solar panels. And thirdly, the generator can be used to maintain an optimal battery charge level so that the system is in full readiness at any time.

— Parallel connection. The inverter has special connectors through which two or more devices can be connected to a single electrical network. Parallel connection is used when one inverter is not able to pull the entire load from solar panels and the input power exceeds the capabilities of the device itself.

— Built-in monitoring. The presence of a built-in monitoring module on board the inverter, which collects information about the productivity of solar panels, allows you to monitor energy production and consumption, as well as monitor the performance of the system as a whole. Moreover, these parameters can often be viewed and controlled in real time (including through a mobile application for a smartphone). The monitoring module is usually connected to the Internet via a Wi-Fi network.

Connection interfaces provided in the inverter design for solar panels.

- RS232. A specialized communication interface used to directly connect the inverter to a computer. As a rule, the interface provides the ability to monitor solar generation systems around the clock using a local network. Also, the RS232 connector can be used to communicate several inverters with each other, or, less often, for software updates or service testing.

- RS485. A connector often used to connect several inverters to a central hub, which, in turn, connects to a computer. This connection can be useful for setting up a solar generation system or sending monitoring data over the network.

- USB. A standard USB port is often used for configuring equipment via a wired connection to a computer or for inverter firmware updates.

- LAN (RJ45). The presence of a LAN connector (RJ45) in the inverter design. Such ports are standardly used for wired connections in computer networks using a twisted pair cable.

- Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi communication module for wireless connection of the inverter to a computer, laptop or mobile phone. Using specialized software, you can receive monitoring data from the inverter directly “over the air” - transmitting information over a Wi-Fi network eliminates the...fuss with wires.

— Bluetooth. Option to wirelessly pair the inverter with smartphones, tablets or laptops via Bluetooth. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to monitor equipment performance and remotely control the inverter within range of the Bluetooth wireless network.

A method of removing heat from the heating elements of the inverter.

— Passive cooling. Passive is any type of cooling that does not involve forced heat removal and is carried out through natural heat transfer and convection. Its main advantage is the complete absence of noise. In addition, such devices are cheaper, do not consume energy to operate the cooling system, and take up relatively little space. On the other hand, passive cooling is significantly inferior to active cooling in terms of efficiency, and therefore is poorly suited for powerful devices.

— Active cooling (fans). Active cooling involves the forced removal of heat from device components through radiators with fans that “blow away” excess heat outside the case. Such systems are characterized by extremely high efficiency and can be used in inverters of any power. However, you will have to put up with increased noise levels, as well as significant dimensions and weight of the equipment. In addition, fans tend to draw dust into the case, and if they break down, the entire cooling system essentially fails. The cost of inverters with active cooling is significantly higher than models with a passive principle of heat removal from internal components.