SunSniffer adds rapid shutdown function to solar module-level monitoring system

November 16, 2016
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
Rapid shutdown function integrated into module-level monitoring system. Image: SunSniffer

SunSniffer is to launch its first junction boxes with the special monitoring sensor and a rapid shutdown function for solar modules.

Problem

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

In 2017, a revised version of the US National Electrical Code (“NEC 2017”) comes into effect, which then requires module-level rapid shutdown. SunSpec Alliance reacted on that and drafted specifications for the communication signal supporting module-level rapid shutdown (Communication Signal for Rapid Shutdown, SunSpec Interoperability Specification).

Solution

SunSniffer developed a sensor that not only provides a unique module-level monitoring system, including module-level temperature measurement, analysis via artificial intelligence and a simulation engine, but additionally is able to rapidly shut the system down according to the requirements of NEC 2017. LEONI and QC Solar together with SunSniffer developed the respective junction boxes with the embedded sensor.

Applications

PV module junction box sensor for US rapid shutdown.

Platform

The SunSniffer sensor measures voltage and temperature at each single module, and the simulation engine in combination with artificial intelligence allowsthe system to detect even the smallest error – with accuracy of under 1%, according to the company. The SunSniffer system not only detects errors, it analyses and identifies them, provides detailed instructions to operators in what, where and how to be repaired or swapped, and ensures complete documentation.

Availability

Market release will be December, 2016.

Read Next

November 5, 2025
IPP Sol Systems has selected Solv Energy as the EPC services provider for a 209MW solar PV plant in Texas, US. 
Sponsored
November 5, 2025
PV Tech spoke with Symons Xie, general manager of Anker SOLIX APAC, at All-Energy Australia 2025, where the organisation outlined its strategy for establishing a major presence in Australia's rapidly growing home battery and energy storage market.
November 3, 2025
Dr KT Tan, CTO at Viridian Solar, chronicles how the expansion of solar raises questions about supply chain transparency and ethical sourcing.
October 28, 2025
GoldenPeaks Capital secures EUR114 million (US$132 million) financing package for two solar PV Portfolio in Poland.
October 27, 2025
Waaree Energies has secured four solar module supply contracts totalling 692MW – three for projects in India and one in the US through its subsidiary.
October 27, 2025
Premier Energies has acquired a 51% stake each in transformer maker Transcon and inverter producer KSolare Energy. 

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Webinars
November 12, 2025
10am PST / 1pm EST
Solar Media Events
November 25, 2025
Warsaw, Poland
Solar Media Events
December 2, 2025
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Solar Media Events
March 10, 2026
Frankfurt, Germany