SMA’s ‘Cluster Controller’ can monitor 75 string inverters

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  The 100 Mbit/s bus system provides plant operators with optimum data transmission rates for plant monitoring and fast processing of measured values, status updates, and plant control commands.

SMA Solar Technology has launched its new SMA ‘Cluster Controller,’ which is designed to support the monitoring and control of decentralised PV power plants in connection with its string inverters up to the megawatt range.  

Problem

The larger the PV plant, undiscovered faults or yield issues even on a small level can quickly become a major financial issue for plant owners. Accurate and comprehensive monitoring of plants has become an essential part of operations, which can reduce costs and improve yield.

Solution

The SMA Cluster Controller is claimed to offer reliable monitoring and control of up to 75 string inverters thanks to the Ethernet-based Speedwire fieldbus and use of a dual-core microprocessor. The 100 Mbit/s bus system provides plant operators with optimum data transmission rates for plant monitoring and fast processing of measured values, status updates, and plant control commands. Different connection options for the sensors enable plant operators to evaluate nominal plant power more precisely, according to the company. In addition to the status updates, the nominal plant power can be viewed using SMA’s Sunny Portal.  

Applications

Decentralised PV power plants

Platform

The flexible modular system solution can incorporate any number of Cluster Controllers, the Speedwire fieldbus, and the PV farm management system using the Power Plant Controller provides for the possibility to flexibly change the power output of PV plants. The modular system can be expanded as needed because additional clusters can be added conveniently.  

Availability

January 2013 onwards.