Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the Enphase Microinverter without first removing AC • power. Be aware that the M215 has field adjustable voltage and frequency trip points that you must set • before the system can produce power. Only an authorised installer with the permission and following requirements of the local electrical authorities should make adjustments.
M215 Installation and Operation The Enphase Microinverter System The Enphase Microinverter System is the world’s most technologically advanced inverter system for use in grid- connected applications. This manual details the safe installation and operation of the Enphase Microinverter. The three key elements of an Enphase Microinverter System include the: Enphase M215 Microinverter •...
M215 Installation and Operation How the Microinverter Works The Enphase Microinverter maximises energy production from your photovoltaic (PV) array. Each Enphase Microinverter is individually connected to one PV module in your array. This configuration means that an individual Maximum Peak Power Point Tracker (MPPT) controls each PV module. This ensures that the maximum power available from each PV module is exported to the electricity network regardless of the performance of the other PV modules in the array.
Compatibility and Capacity The Enphase M215 Microinverters are electrically compatible with most 60-cell PV modules. For more information, see Technical Data on page 24 of this manual.
M215 Installation and Operation Parts and Tools Required In addition to the microinverters, PV modules, mounting rail, and associated hardware, you will need the following. Enphase Equipment Enphase Envoy™ Communications Gateway • Engage Cable, as needed • NOTE: Order the correct Engage Cable type. Use 5G2.5 Engage Cable at sites with three- phase service, or use 3G2.5 Engage Cable at sites with single-phase service.
M215 Installation and Operation Installation Procedure Installing the Enphase Microinverter System involves several key steps. Each step listed below is detailed in the following pages. Step 1 – Measure AC Voltage at the Electricity network connection Step 2 – Install the AC Branch Circuit Junction Box Step 3 –...
AC branch circuits that contain the maximum allowable microinverters. This is due to high inherent voltage rise on the AC branch circuit. For more information, refer to our Technical Brief, Voltage Drop Considerations for M215, at http://www.enphase.com/support/downloads.
M215 Installation and Operation Step 3 – Position the Enphase Engage Cable The Engage Cable is a continuous length of 2.5 mm , outdoor rated cable with integrated connectors for microinverters. These connectors are preinstalled along the Engage Cable at intervals to accommodate PV module widths.
M215 Installation and Operation Step 5 – Dress the Engage Cable a. Attach the Engage Cable to the mounting rail using clips or tie wraps. NOTE: There are two release-holes in the drop connector on the cable. These are not for mounting but are used to disconnect the connector.
M215 Installation and Operation Step 6 – Connect the Microinverters a. Remove and discard the temporary shipping cap from the Engage Cable and connect the microinverter. There are two latching mechanisms within the connectors. Listen for two clicks as the connectors engage. Ensure that both latching mechanisms have engaged.
M215 Installation and Operation Step 7 – Terminate the Unused End of the Engage Cable Terminate the far end of the Engage Cable as follows. a. Remove 60mm (2.5 inches) of the cable sheath from the conductors. b. Slide the hex nut onto the Engage...
M215 Installation and Operation Step 8 – Connect the Engage Cable to AC Junction Box(es) a. Connect Engage Cable into the AC branch circuit junction box using an appropriate gland or strain relief fitting. The Engage Cable requires a strain relief connector with an opening of 1.3 cm (0.5 inches) in diameter.
M215 Installation and Operation Step 11 – Build the Virtual Array When the system is energised and the Envoy detects all the installed microinverters, you can create the virtual array in Enlighten from the installation map you created. Once the virtual array is built, Enlighten displays a graphic representation of the PV system.
M215 Installation and Operation Commissioning and Operation WARNING: Be aware that only qualified personnel must connect the Enphase Microinverter to the electricity network. WARNING: Ensure that all AC and DC wiring is correct. Ensure that none of the AC and DC wires are pinched or damaged.
M215 Installation and Operation Troubleshooting Adhere to all the safety measures described throughout this manual. Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PV system does not operate correctly. WARNING: Do not attempt to repair the Enphase Microinverter; it contains no user-serviceable parts.
M215 Installation and Operation Troubleshoot an Inoperable Microinverter To troubleshoot an inoperable microinverter, follow the steps in the order shown. WARNING: Be aware that only qualified personnel should troubleshoot the PV array or the Enphase Microinverter. WARNING: Never disconnect the DC wire connectors under load. Ensure that no current is flowing in the DC wires prior to disconnecting.
M215 Installation and Operation Disconnect a Microinverter from the PV Module To ensure the microinverter is not disconnected from the PV modules under load, adhere to the following disconnection steps in the order shown: 1. De-energize the AC branch circuit breaker.
M215 Installation and Operation Install a Replacement Microinverter 1. Verify that the AC branch circuit breaker is de-energised. 2. With the silver side of the microinverter facing up and the black side facing down, attach the replacement microinverter to the mounting rail using hardware recommended by your mounting rail vendor.
Technical Data Technical Considerations The Enphase M215 Microinverters are electrically compatible with most 60-cell PV modules. Be sure to verify the voltage and current specifications of your PV module match those of the microinverter. For more information, refer to our list of compatible PV modules at http://www.enphase.com/support/downloads.
M215 Installation and Operation Technical Specifications Enphase M215 Microinverter Parameters Topic Unit Typical DC Parameters Recommended maximum input power MPPT voltage range Operating range Maximum DC input voltage Minimum / Maximum start voltage Maximum DC input short circuit current Maximum DC input current 10.5...
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M215 Installation and Operation Enphase M215 Microinverter Parameters Topic Unit Typical Features and Compliance Dimensions, not including mounting bracket 17.3 cm x 16.4 cm x 2.5 cm (approximate) (6.8” x 6.45” x 1.0”) Weight 1.6 Kg (3.5 Lbs) Enclosure environmental rating...
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