Birdhouse Manual
Contents
1. NOW amp NN BP Completed cable ends 10 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 Important A small packet of silicone gel is included with the BirdHouse This is used to protect the connectors on the CAT 5 cable Only use a gel intended for protecting electrical connections of this type such as the gel that To Open Tear here ships with the BirdHouse Other types may interfere with the connections and may damage Wm the board or and or cable A Tear off the tip of the packet at the notch and squeeze out some gel You will want to get a good amount of gel in the connection You can put some inside the connector on the board and some on the connecter at the end of the cable as well It does not need to be oozing out just so that the connections are thoroughly coated Without the protective gel the connecters can corrode leading to failure of the system Apply silicone gel to Aux Relay Output these connectors The Aux Relay is active whenever the Birdhouse is in Alarm mode Alarm mode is an internal state that begins when the button is pressed while the disconnect switch is closed and ends when the switch is closed again after having opened NOTE The amber Solar Off LED corresponds to the state of the PV system regardless of how the disconnect switch was opened Shutting off the power manually at the disconnect illuminates the Solar Off LED but does not cause the Birdhouse panel to go to Al2. Telephone 360 403 7207 Fax 360 691 6862 Email info midnitesolar com customerservice midnitesolar com Web www midnitesolar com 22 Page
3. All that is required is a simple normally open disconnect switch closure such as a relay Connect the controlling device s switch wires to TB5 pins 1 amp 2 If no remote trip input is needed leave the remote trip pins disconnected Note that TB5 pin 1 is connected to the logic GND and may be used as a reference for voltage measurements for Birdhouse control signals however it is not connected to earth ground Combiner and Secondary MNBN Panels There are two Ethernet style RJ 45 jacks on the Birdhouse main board These are not network connectors These connectors carry low voltage signals power and voltage sensing leads to monitor and trip the disconnecting switch and other equipment These connectors are only for interfacing other MidNite Solar equipment such as disconnecting combiners shut off boxes other Birdhouses and MNBDM controllers They are wired identically Either connector may be used for the cable run to the disconnect The other is available for connection to additional Birdhouses if needed This feature allows up to three additional Birdhouse panels to be connected to a single disconnect in a series string The cables are straight through cables not crossover and are wired according to the T568B standard The cable connecting secondary Birdhouse panels to the primary Birdhouse panel or to each other can be any low voltage CAT 5 cable that meets local code However because of the high voltages inside the combiner or shut off b
4. For an RMA number contact MidNite Solar Inc 17722 67 Ave NE Arlington WA 98223 360 403 7207 Purchasers must prepay all delivery costs or shipping charges to return any defective MidNite solar product under this warranty policy Except for the warranty that the products are made in accordance with the specifications therefore supplied or agreed to by customer MIDNITE SOLAR MAKES NO WARRANTY EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WHICH EXCEEDS THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS HEREBY DISCLAIMED BY MIDNITE SOLAR AND EXCLUDED FROM ANY AGREEMENT MADE BY ACCEPTANCE OF ANY ORDER PURSUANT TO THIS QUOTATION MIDNITE SOLAR WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES LOSS OR EXPENSE ARISING IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF OR THE INABILITY TO USE ITS GOODS FOR ANY PURPOSE WHATSOEVER MIDNITE SOLAR S MAXIMUM LIABILITY SHALL NOT IN ANY CASE EXCEED THE CONTRACT PRICE FOR THE GOODS CLAIMED TO BE DEFECTIVE OR UNSUITABLE Products will be considered accepted by customer unless written notice to the contrary is given to MidNite Solar within ten 10 days of such delivery to customer MIDNITE SOLAR is not responsible for loss or damage to products owned by customer and located on MIDNITE SOLAR S premises caused by fire or other casualties beyond MIDNITE SOLAR s control This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied PH 360 403 7207 FAX 360 691 6862 Contact Information
5. or have not pressed the button the correct number of times 4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each Birdhouse in the system then close each disconnect switch by turning the red handle fully off and back on The Birdhouse setting will be retained as long as the units have power If all power is lost the option will revert to disabled FUNCTIONAL TEST The Rapid Shutoff System must be tested periodically It is recommended test the system upon first commissioning the when restoring power after rapid shutdown initiation or at minimum annually Note AC IN LED must be on when starting up or testing the solar system The on board batteries are intended to keep the system up during temporary AC interruptions only When the solar system is off verify that the SOLAR OFF LED is ON at each MNBH panel Turn MNBDM connected battery breakers on first then turn on combiners and shut off boxes Verify that the SOLAR ON LED comes ON at each MNBH panel and that the voice system says The Solar System has Been Switched On 3 When the voice system says The System is ready press the red shutdown button If the SOLAR ON LED goes off and the SOLAR OFF LED comes on the system is operational The voice system should say Rapid System Shutdown Initiated All Normally Energized Portions of the Solar System Should Now Be Off Treat All Solar Panels as Live Treat all Wiring With Caution 4 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to turn on the system 18 Page MidNite Solar MNBird
6. the initial charge of the batteries If there is an emergency situation and voice messages are playing the batteries life will be shorter because of higher current demand They will recharge automatically when external power is restored The coin cell battery B1 allows the Birdhouse s internal microprocessor to keep track of time and go into low power mode to conserve batteries in the rare event of a complete power failure In normal operation there is no current drawn from the coin cell battery It should last 5 years or more However since it is a low cost component it is recommended that the coin cell battery be replaced at the same time as the 9 volt batteries 19 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 BATTERY REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE CAUTION Nickel Metal Hydride batteries produce high currents when short circuited Follow the procedure carefully to avoid damage to the unit Battery LED Board detail 1 IMPORTANT All batteries should be replaced at the same time including the lithium coin cell battery B1 2 IMPORTANT Batteries should be replaced at night or with the disconnect switch OPEN because power is supplied by the Disco power supply during daylight Otherwise you must disconnect the CAT 5 cables going to the combiner or shut off box and any other Birdhouses 3 IMPORTANT Do NOT place the Battery LED board on any electrically conductive surface or article such as a tool while there are
7. the unlikely event that the disconnect switch does not open due to ice corrosion damage etc the feedback monitoring software will NOT detect a change in switch position After several seconds the voice 17 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 system will give the message WARNING The Solar System Was Not Switched Off three times The message will be repeated on one minute intervals until either the switch is opened or the announcement is cancelled by the user OPTIONAL GOOD MORNING MESSAGE The Birdhouse Voice System has an optional message that sounds like a rooster crowing each morning when the solar panels begin to produce power This feature is provided to ensure users that the system is operating and is in normal power production mode This feature is disabled when shipped and may be enabled or disabled if enabled as follows 1 When in the normal operating mode press the red button at the Birdhouse to disconnect solar power at the combiner or shut off box 2 When the voice message finishes press and hold the red button five seconds to cancel any further announcements The disconnect switch will be open 3 After the Voice Announcement is Off message press the button three times within two seconds to toggle the state of the Good Morning message An acknowledgement is played if successful If the The solar system has been switched off message plays you have missed the two second window
8. Manual Rev J 4 2 15 OPERATION INITIAL POWER UP The AC IN LED should come on immediately when the unit is powered up The SOLAR ON and SOLAR off LEDs immediately reflect the state of the disconnect switch es The first time the system is powered up the Birdhouse should find that it needs to charge the Disco power supply capacitors After a couple minutes the capacitors will have reached full charge and the voice announcement will say The System is Ready This verifies the cable integrity and voltage feedback from the Disco power supply capacitor SOLAR ON LED The green LED on the left indicates that the disconnect switch is closed If there is any sunlight present high voltages will be present throughout the system SOLAR OFF LED The amber LED indicates that the disconnect switch is open In daytime there will still be hazardous voltages present on the PV string wiring up to the combiner or shut off box If the power was disconnected by pressing the button at the Birdhosue the red handle will still be in the ON position but the power is shut off internally AC IN LED The green AC IN LED indicates that local AC power is on In normal operation this LED should be ON LOW BATTERY LED The Birdhouse s internal batteries are continually monitored and recharged automatically as needed The LOW BATTERY LED indicates that the batteries have discharged to an unacceptably low level and in normal operation should be off If external power has bee
9. MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse Disconnect Panel User s Manual P N 10 192 1 REV J P Wir Wi SE AS S LAR nc SOLAR ON SOLAROFF ACIN BATTERY LOW SOLAR ON SOLAR OFF ACIN BATTERY LOW i e e E ei e ie ei SOLAR H SOLAR SHUT OFF SHUT OFF g NOTICE PRESSING THIS DISCONMECT SWITCH WILL D I AT QUIRE A MANUAL Notice of Copyright MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse Disconnect Panel User s Manual Copyright 2014 all rights reserved Disclaimer Unless specifically agreed to in writing MidNite Solar Inc a Makes no warranty as to the accuracy sufficiency or suitability of any technical or other information provided in its manuals or other documentation b Assumes no responsibility or liability for loss or damage whether direct indirect consequential or incidental which might arise out of use of such information The use of any such information will be entirely at the user s risk Contact Information Telephone 360 403 7207 Fax 360 691 6862 Email customerservice midnitesolar com Web www midnitesolar com MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J Contents SPECIFICATIONS Rene Re nn SERRES EN PRODUC I IONssssssiassssisinst i sbasssads ins e a Orna rE Ee skini rassin DESCRIPTION bisscsssescccseasesscasseancccezseesctssancsenasseeschsseanscseasseschssanesenaaseesessseanccsuneess THEORY GEOPERA TION onis Ea EErEE E SYSTEM DESIGN EE ESTA CLA TO H SELECHNG A LOCATION S POWER Sal KE MOUNTEN G
10. airsan e a E E sn TD ADS dan ae ce it acte ati amie Combiner and Secondary MNBN Panel INSTALLATION FROCEDURE in its i n OFERAS TON ss ste E E INIFHACPOWER UP E UT OLA ON LED EE OAR OFE LED apse ce tenet E E EE ansa ONE LOW BATTERY ED ea da deb nn a nd VOICE CR E FONCTIONS EE MAINTENANCE sredo E SR BATTERY REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE eegent eege ege eegEuEeg P RIODICINSPECTO NS a a a re sou PREPARING FOR RETURN SHIPMENT ssssssssssee 2 Page 4 2 15 MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS These instructions contain important safety and operating instructions for the MidNite Solar MNBH Disconnecting Panel that shall be followed during installation and maintenance of the power system lf you do not fully understand any of the concepts terminology or hazards outlined in these instructions please refer installation to a qualified dealer electrician or installer These instructions are not meant to be a complete explanation of a renewable energy system GENERAL PRECAUTIONS lf service or repair should become necessary contact MidNite Solar Inc Improper servicing may result in a risk of shock fire or explosion To reduce these risks disconnect all wiring before attempting any maintenance or cleaning Turning off the inverter will not reduce these risks Solar modules produce power when exposed to light When it is not possible to disconnect the power coming
11. arm mode so the Aux Relay will not activate In other words the AUX relay only activates when the Rapid System Shutdown process was performed in response to pressing the red button INSTALLATION PROCEDURE 1 Unpack the Unit Inspect for damage 2 Open the MNBirdhouse panel s large door and remove the six 8 flat head Philips screws holding the case on Carefully remove the case and place it in a safe location so it will not be damaged 3 Test the unit by TEMPORARILY installing battery shunt CON4 located near the right edge of the main circuit board The SOLAR ON OFF and the BATTERY LOW LEDs should flash After several seconds the voice system should say Please wait Self test in progress If this test fails the batteries may be completely discharged Batteries that have been discharged for a long time may be permanently damaged and should not be placed into service While good batteries will charge from line power it is recommended that all batteries be fully charged before putting the system into service Use a good quality smart charger such as the Tenergy model TN346 Avoid inexpensive timer based chargers If the unit does not operate with fully charged batteries call MidNite Solar s technical support for assistance 11 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 4 REMOVE the shunt from CON4 and place it in the shipping position until the entire installation procedure is completed to conserve battery
12. batteries installed on it High SHORT CIRCUIT currents will flow IMPORTANT Before proceeding shut off AC power at the circuit breaker panel 5 Open the Birdhouse panel s large door and remove the six 8 flat head screws holding the case on Carefully remove the case and place it in a safe location so it will not be damaged IMPORTANT Remove the shunt on CON4 See photo in the Installation section Remove the two screws holding the Battery LED board to the top of the unit Remove the board being careful not to damage the LEDs 8 Carefully slice through the silicone sealant holding the batteries to the circuit board or cut the tie wraps and remove the old batteries Dispose of the used batteries properly 20 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 9 Replace all four 9 volt batteries with new fully charged NiMH batteries Since the battery connectors cannot be conformal coated they are a potential point of corrosion Using a small amount of silicone grease on the battery terminals is recommended 10 Secure the batteries to the board Holes for tie wraps are provided but electrical tape also works well 11 Replace the 3 volt lithium coin cell battery B1 before reinstalling the Battery LED board There s more room to work around the area of the battery with the Battery LED board removed 12 Re install the Battery LED board 13 Re install the shunt on JP1 The voice system should say Self Test is in progr
13. e If you are instructed to do so it is very important that you REMOVE the battery shunt CON4 on the main board See CON4 detail photograph in Step 2 of the Installation Procedure 21 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 MIDNITE SOLAR INC LIMITED WARRANTY MidNite Solar Power electronics sheet metal enclosures and accessories MidNite Solar Inc warrants to the original customer that its products shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship This warranty will be valid for a period of five 5 years on the MNBH Birdhouse and two 2 years on the included batteries Please visit www midnitesolar com or contact MidNite Solar for further details At its option MidNite Solar will repair or replace at no charge any MidNite product that proves to be defective within such warranty period This warranty shall not apply if the MidNite Solar product has been damaged by unreasonable use accident negligence service or modification by anyone other than MidNite Solar or by any other causes unrelated to materials and workmanship The original consumer purchaser must retain original purchase receipt for proof of purchase as a condition precedent to warranty coverage To receive in warranty service the defective product must be received no later than two 2 weeks after the end of the warranty period The product must be accompanied by proof of purchase and Return Authorization RA number issued by MidNite Solar
14. e typical in nature Details may vary Professional installation is recommended Attention The system status indicator shall be installed in a location in close proximity to the system actuator where the indication of shutdown can be clearly seen In general the Birdhouse should be located in a readily accessible location either on the outside of the building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance of the system conductors Additional panels might be located near roof access doors or ladders and one might be located at the central solar control point such as the inverter charge controller or battery cabinet Allow some space around the BirdHouse for ventilation The Birdhouse closest to the disconnect switch should be the one chosen for the cable connection to the switch This first Birdhouse is referred to as the primary unit Any others are referred to as secondary units Up to three secondary units can be wired to the primary unit as appropriate See System Layout Diagram page 8 POWER REQUIREMENTS Each Birdhouse requires an AC power connection It is recommended all Birdhouses be powered by a dedicated branch circuit The wiring should be enclosed in conduit and installed in accordance with local codes An internal box lug is provided for the safety ground MOUNTING Mount the Birdhouse to the wall in the desired location No brackets or mounting plate is necessary Waterproof sealant is recommended on the four mounting sc
15. ends to protect the connections and repel moisture 8 Ina similar manner connect the CAT 5 cable from any other Birdhouse unit s to J2 9 Connect the optional remote trip output from any other equipment such as alarm or fire detection systems to the Birdhouse panel s Remote Trip input at TB5 pins 1 amp 2 If either of the wires coming from the external equipment is grounded connect that wire to TB5 pin 1 The input is designed for a switch closure to GND Do NOT connect the Remote Trip input to a DC source 10 Optionally connect the alarm input of any other equipment such as an alarm system the Birdhouse AUX relay output connector TB4 The common is pin 1 the normally open contact is pin 2 and the normally closed contact is pin 3 The AUX relay provides a set of isolated 1 form C contacts and may be used to switch low voltage control signals 28V 1A as needed 11 When installation is complete and the system is ready to be energized remove the small plastic battery isolator from battery holder BH1 located at the upper right corner of the main logic board Battery Holder BH1 Detail gt W I ee D y Remove plastic isolator sree E e 12 Install battery shunt CON4 Refer to step 3 Replace the case and test the system Apply caulk sealant to the case to wall interface along the top edge of the case especially if the wall is not smooth such as lap siding or corrugated metal 14 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Man
16. esigned to be interfaced to a normally open switch This is a logic signal input No significant current or power is involved Do not connect the External Trigger to a DC voltage Instead use your voltage source to activate a small normally open relay 7 The AUX relay is a low current 1 form C relay for controlling other devices See the description in the MAKING CONNECTIONS section 8 This product is intended for operation in an environment having a maximum ambient temperature of 65 C 7 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 PV Array Inverter Inverter Disconnect J H F Combiner Inverter Inverter Disconnect a MNBDM 2 Combiner PV Array D yer High voltage UV resistant cable needed beyond this point Primary Secondary Secondary Birdhouse Birdhouse 1 Birdhouse 2 MNBDM 1 J AUX COM AC AC Safety RELAY N O Hot Neutral GND OUT N C EXTERNAL TRIGGER Alarm System etc SYSTEM LAYOUT DIAGRAM 8 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 INSTALLATION SELECTING A LOCATION NOTE The MNBirdhouse panel must be located and wired in compliance with local and national codes The following instructions ar
17. ess And the LEDs should reflect the current state of the disconnect switch 14 Restore AC power The AC ON LED should come on 15 Re install the case 16 Restore solar power and test the system Reseal the case to wall interface with caulk as shown in the detail on page 12 PERIODIC INSPECTION While leakage and terminal corrosion is extremely rare with modern batteries it is not impossible and may be exacerbated by environmental conditions such as extreme heat dust moisture or salty ocean air Of course the main cause of battery leakage and corrosion is leaving them in a discharged state for a long time as well as repeated overcharging neither of which should ever happen if the unit is functioning properly The red BATTERY LOW LED will come on if the batteries are undercharged However for security and peace of mind it is recommended that the Birdhouse panel cover be removed once every 2 years for inspection especially the batteries and connectors on the Battery LED board particularly if units are exposed to the elements PREPARING FOR RETURN SHIPMENT Prior to returning any product to the factory please contact MidNite Solar to obtain an RMA number and receive shipping instructions IMPORTANT To avoid any possibility of damage due to battery leakage or corrosion it is recommended that used batteries be removed from the MNBH Disconnect Panel and not returned to MidNite Solar unless you are instructed to do so by Customer Servic
18. from the Photovoltaics by an external means such as a combiner cover the modules with an opaque material before servicing any connected equipment Do not work alone Someone should be in the range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid when you work with or near electrical equipment Remove rings bracelets necklaces watches etc when working with photovoltaic modules or other electrical equipment Power from an illuminated photovoltaic array makes a very effective arc welder with dire consequences if one of the welded pieces is on your person INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES CONSERVER CES INSTRUCTIONS Ces instructions contiennent des informations importantes pour utiliser le Midnite Solar MNBH panneau de d connexion en toute s curit Il faut qu on les suivre dans l installation et entretien de cet appareil Avant l utilisez cet appareil lis et comprends toutes les instructions et avertissements Si vous ne comprenez pas l une des concepts ou des instructions contenu dans cette manuel consulter un agent specialise Si des reparations sont n cessaires contactez MidNite Solar pour plus des informations Danger de choc lectrique et de risque de brulure Rien a d panner a l int rieure du cette appareil Ne pas ouvrir le couver Pour toute r paration ou service d entretien consulter un agent sp cialis Il ya peut tre plusieurs sources d alimentation dans cette system Debrancher toutes les interrupteurs avant t
19. harging even after years of service In normal operation the capacitor is kept charged by solar power Backup circuits in the Birdhouse monitor the capacitor voltage and recharge it as needed during times of darkness or whenever power is removed such as for maintenance The system is designed to fail safely so that if all power fails or if any cable becomes damaged or unplugged the trip sense circuit on the DiscoPSB will trip the disconnect switch As well as monitoring the combiner capacitor voltage the Birdhouse monitors the disconnect switch position and Disco PSB output voltage Once the Birdhouse has sent the trip signal to the DiscoPSB it continues to monitor the disconnect switch s position and updates the LED status when the disconnect switch is known to be open If the button is pressed and the green LED goes off and the amber LED comes on you can be assured that the disconnect switch has opened The audio system will play a message that the solar system has been shut off A second message is provided for the unlikely event that the disconnect switch does not open or is 6 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 slow responding Software will detect this condition and the voice will say that the solar system was not shut off SYSTEM DESIGN Safe reliable and efficient operation of the rapid shutoff system depends on proper system design The shutoff system components have been designed for flexibility in interconnec
20. house User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 MAINTENANCE CAUTION Nickel Metal Hydride batteries produce high currents when short circuited Follow the instructions carefully to avoid damage to the batteries or unit BATTERIES There are four rechargeable 9 volt Nickel Metal Hydride Ni MH batteries in the Birdhouse They are found on the LED Battery board P N 8 026 10 located inside the unit at the top of the main logic board There is also a 3 3 volt lithium coin cell battery located on the main logic board at the top right corner below CON2 The 9 volt batteries are series connected to form a 36 volt battery Together they serve as a backup power source for the Birdhouse in case of power failure or disconnection of the AC grid They were included in the Birdhouse design for triple redundancy to assure that the disconnect switch trip capacitor on the DiscoPSB will always be kept charged These batteries operate the Birdhouse logic and supply reserve power to recharge the disconnect switch trip capacitor In normal operation the batteries are kept charged by solar power in the daytime and from the AC DC power source at the Birdhouse at other times The only time the batteries actually supply power the unit is when no other power is available If all external power is removed and there is no emergency i e the Birdhouse voice system is not operating the batteries will power the unit for up to 16 hours depending upon the temperature battery age and
21. ir inherently hazardous voltages from the building wiring in case of emergencies or system maintenance The Birdhouse works in conjunction with MidNite Solar disconnecting combiners with a DiscoPSB installed MidNite Shut off boxes and Battery Disconnect Modules to provide the ability to disconnect power at the voltage source before sending personnel into the building or onto the roof Disconnecting power requires the simple press of a single button The panel s LED display gives system status and an automated speech synthesis system gives further situation specific instructions DESCRIPTION The Birdhouse is housed in an attractive weather resistant enclosure designed for mounting near rooftop access points such as doors and ladders however it may be mounted at any location up to 500 meters from the disconnecting enclosure There can also be up to three additional Birdhouse units to provide PV disconnect capability in other areas of the building as required by the installation The Birdhouse has four LEDs which show the current state of the system and features a large push button inside of a magnetically latched access door Reflective side labels clearly identify the Birdhouse panel as the Rapid System Shutdown point Simply open and press the big red button to disconnect power at all the disconnect devices connected to the system The Birdhouse also features a voice announcement system that audibly gives the appropriate instructions to remind person
22. n off for several hours the LOW BATTERY LED may come on In this case it may remain on for a while after power is restored but it typically will not remain on longer than 20 minutes If the LOW BATTERY LED comes on unexpectedly or remains on for a long time after restoring AC power a problem may exist with the batteries or charging circuits The unit should be inspected and repaired as necessary VOICE SYSTEM When the Birdhouse completes its self test it will detect the disconnect switch Once the Disco power supply Capacitor is fully charged the voice system will say The system is ready Note that if there is no initial charge on the capacitor this may take a few minutes Thereafter the voice system will speak only when the button is pressed the disconnect switch is closed or a problem is detected with the system that requires attention When the button is pressed software waits for the position feedback signal from disconnect switch and MNBDM controllers to be received When it senses that all switches have opened the voice system announces Rapid System Shutdown Initiated All Normally Energized Portions of the Solar System Should Now Be Off Treat All Solar Panels as Live Treat all Wiring With Caution This announcement repeats at one minute intervals until the disconnect switch is closed or the announcement is cancelled by the user To cancel the voice announcement at the Birdhouse press and hold the red button for five seconds In
23. ndards and Requirements All installations must comply with national and local electrical codes Professional installation is recommended Wiring must be done in accordance with the National Electrical Code ANSI NFPA 70 Use Class 1 wiring methods for field wiring connections to terminals of a Class 2 circuit Use only 14 gauge AWM wire Select the wire gauge used based on the protection provided by the circuit breakers fuses This manual provides safety guidelines and installation information for the MNBirdhouse Disconnect Panel It describes in general terms how the Birdhouse connects to and controls MidNite Solar disconnecting combiners shut off boxes and the Battery Disconnect Module but does not give details on combiner installation or connections to equipment other than the Birdhouse Refer to the MidNite Solar Disconnecting Combiner User s Manual for details on installing your specific combiner This manual does not provide brand specific information about other components in the system such as photovoltaic panels batteries inverters etc Contact the manufacturer of all other components in the system for relevant technical data Maximum open circuit voltage and Maximum short circuit current for Photovoltaic modules must be calculated using the manufacturers published ratings temperature coefficients and the expected local irradiance which will be present in the end use installation 4 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Re
24. nel in the area that there may still be voltages present near the PV panels and to use caution Internal rechargeable batteries provide temporary backup power in case of external power cutoff or failure The Birdhouse also has a remote trip input and a software activated relay to allow the unit to be interfaced to other equipment such as an alarm system THEORY of OPERATION The heart of the system is the disconnecting combiner or shut off box which feature an electrically trippable disconnect switch to cut the power internally when triggered by a low voltage control signal When the button at the Birdhouse is pressed a trigger signal is sent to the DiscoPSB disconnecting power supply board which causes the disconnect switch to open breaking the connection between the PV buss bar and the DC power wiring exiting the combiner The connection between the buss bar and the DC power wiring exiting the enclosure is broken Power will be off beyond the combiner or shut off box However during the day voltage will still be present from the PV panels up to that location The low voltage trip signal from the Birdhouse is supplied via a 600 volt rated CAT 5 cable from the combiner or shut off box to Birdhouse units typically at ground level Power for tripping the disconnect switch is stored in a long life electrolytic capacitor on the DiscoPSB The Capacitor is oversized to be able to store enough energy to trip the disconnect switch numerous times without rec
25. oute d entretien ou nettoyage Ne travaillez pas seul Quelqu un devrait toujours tre a proximit pour vous aider en cas d une situation d urgence Retirer bagues bracelets colliers montres et quelles choses comme ga ll ya risque des blessures graves s il ya un court circuit Cela pourrait ruiner votre journ e Le c blage doit tre fait en conformit avec le National Electrical Code ANSI NFPA 70 Utiliser des m thodes de c blage de cat gorie 1 pour les connexions de c blage sur des terminaux d un circuit de classe 2 Utilisez uniquement des fils de AWM de calibre 14 1 0 S lectionnez le type de c ble utilis sur la base de la protection pr vue par les disjoncteurs fusibles Merci pour avoir achete des produits de MidNite Solar 3 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 SAFETY WARNINGS used throughout this document are as follows WARNING Warnings identify conditions or practices that could result in personal injury or loss of life CAUTION Cautions identify conditions or practices that could result in damage to the unit or other equipment MNBIRDHOUSE INSTALLATION GUIDELINES AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS The following important restrictions apply unless superseded by local or national codes For routine user approved maintenance Turn off all circuit breakers including those to the solar modules batteries and related electrical connections before performing any maintenance Sta
26. ox the CAT 5 cable that connects the primary Birdhouse to the combiner or shut off must be rated for 600 volts and be UV rated for weather and sun exposure See System Layout Diagram page 8 MidNite Solar or your installer can provide more information on cable requirements It is recommended that only genuine Molex RJ 45 plugs Molex p n 44915 0001 be used to terminate MidNite Solar s ruggedized 600 volt CAT 5 cable While all CAT 5 plugs look similar and generally fit the receptacles there are important differences in the copper diameter and insulation thickness they are designed to be used with which effects how well they crimp the wire plus the overall quality of retail parts can be inferior Avoid purchasing similar looking connectors from hardware stores or electrical suppliers unless you have tested them and are certain that they work properly The wrong connector can be very difficult to assemble properly and may become intermittent The proper connectors are available from MidNite solar p n 9 497 1 O O G BI BV G Br Br 568B Right TIA EIA 568B CAT 5 Ethernet cable end connections General cable crimping instructions Cut cable to length and strip 0 9 of the outer jacket at each end Strip 0 5 of the inner jacket at each end Place 2 0 50 pieces of heatshrink on cable Arrange wires and push fully into connector Crimp connector at each end Perform functional test Shrink heatshrink in place at ends
27. power Shipping Position Place jumper on only one pin to disconnect battery from circuit Place jumper on both pins for normal operation 12 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 5 Identify the MNBirdhouse mounting location and secure the chassis to the wall sealing the mounting screws with caulk as necessary Chassis Sealing Detail back side view Apply sealant to mounting locations four places on back of chassis 6 Route the 120 240 volt AC power circuit from the building s distribution panel via appropriate conduit into the Birdhouse as required Main Board Connection Detail Power Remote Trip Aux Relay TB3 Aux Relay N C N O Common Remote Trip Logic Gnd AC Line AC Neutral Safety Gnd 13 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 Connect the line side black or red of the 120 240 volt AC power to TB3 pin 1 Connect the neutral side white to TB3 pin 2 Connect the safety ground green to the chassis box lug located below the main circuit board TB3 pin 3 pin 3 on the PCB is also a chassis ground connection shown open Main Board Connection Detail Disconnect and Secondary MNBirdhouse Panel Connections TB3 J1 In from disconnect or secondary Birdhouse s J2 Out to secondary Birdhouse s 7 Connect the 600 volt UV rated CAT 5 control cable to the disconnect at J1 Use a small amount of silicone grease on all cable
28. rew locations Electrical connections are made to the building wiring and external equipment using screw terminal connectors along the bottom edge of the main board Connections to the Disco Power supply board the MNBDM and additional Birdhouse panels are made via the RJ 45 Ethernet style jacks Cables and other wiring can be pulled to the Birdhouse through standard thin wall conduit Knockouts in the chassis support backside or bottom cable entry MAKING CONNECTIONS The field wiring terminals shall be connected using the following wire types Copper and copper clad Conductors Only Use 90 C copper wire For conduit hubs use only UL Listed raintight or wet location hubs for entry into the enclosure The UL Listing of the Rapid Shutdown Controller model MNBH requires that the CAT 5 conductor torque and outputs must be connected only to the MidNite Solar approved Power Supply Board Power The Birdhouse requires a nominal 120 volt AC connection to the building wiring and a cable connection to the DiscoPSB Connect the AC hot wire typically black or red to TB3 pin 1 Connect the AC Neutral white to TB3 Pin 2 Connect the safety ground green to the chassis box lug below the main board 9 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 Remote Trip Input An optional remote trip input is provided to interface an alarm output from other devices such as fire alarm systems door interlocks and security systems to the Birdhouse
29. ting to other devices as needed for a particular installation There are a few considerations to keep in mind as follow See System Layout Diagram page 8 1 The MNBirdhouse Birdhouse MNBDM Battery Disconnect Module and MNDiscoPSB Combiners and Shut off boxes should always be connected in a linear string NO loops This ensures fail safe operation in the event that a cable becomes damaged or unplugged 2 Do NOT install trippable devices between individual Birdhouses All Birdhouses must be together on one end of the string Disco Power Supply Boards Disconnecting Combiners Shut off boxes and MNBDMs may be intermixed if needed 3 All Birdhouse panels should be wired on a dedicated 120 240VAC circuit if possible The power is negligible however the AC connector will accept up to 14 wire typical for a 15A branch circuit 4 The simplest system consists of a single Birdhouse and a single disconnect enclosure MNBDM devices are optional 5 Battery based systems typically need to disconnect batteries and inverters as well as rooftop PV panels The MNBDM controllers can be used for shutting off other circuits by interfacing a shunt trip circuit breaker to your load The only caveat is that the MNBDM needs a 24 48 volt DC power source which is not provided by the Birdhouse Refer to the MNBDM documentation for details 6 The External Trigger input may be used to shut down the system from another device such as an alarm system It is d
30. ual Rev J 4 2 15 THE MIDNITE SOLAR BIRDHOUSE MEMORY BACK UP BATTERY REMOVE PAPER TAB THAT SAYS REMOVE TO ACTIVATE SYSTEM BACK UP BATTERY JUMPER PLACE SMALL BLACK JUMPER OVER BOTH PINS TO ACTIVATE BATTERIES 5 0 Seecee8 e ep e Lt DA TER dw IG OH E R uy JO TO REMOTE Ty QU DISCONNECT R IN BUILDING FIRE A ID ALARM OR OTHER DRY CONTACT V SWITCH TO 120 VAC FROM SUBPANEL CAT V CABLE TO OTHER BIRDHOUSES AUX RELAY OUTPUT DISCONNECTING CONNECTIONS TO COMBINERS INVERTER SHUT BUILDING FIRE OFF BOXES SOB S OR ALARMS ETC BATTERY DISCONNECT MODLI FS 15 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 12 Sealing the MNBirdhouse Enclosure to Exterior Wall On an uneven surface it is recommended to mount a flat panel to the wall and mount the Birdhouse on the flat panel Don t Do This SOLAR SHUT OFF Inside view of a Birdhouse that wasn t sealed The PCB area of that same Birdhouse against the elements The snow went through The fine powdery snow had no trouble finding its gaps in back from an uneven mounting surface way in through the unsealed edges Some of the like most siding mounting holes were left unused providing more When this snow melts it could drip down inside access to insects and the elements The battery causing problems insulator tab was not removed either 16 Page Careful installation can save a lot of problems later MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User
31. v J 4 2 15 SPECIFICATIONS Power 120 240 volt 50 60Hz AC power from a recommended dedicated circuit 1 5 watt nominal 1 2 Amp internal fast acting fuse non replaceable Connector accepts up to AWG 14 wire Chassis lug for safety ground wire Solar Power 48 volts DC 20mA nominal from the DiscoPSB current limited 145mA max Remote Trip Input Normally Open N O switch closure to GND Internally pulled to 48 VDC when inactive Do not connect to a DC voltage Interface using a relay Aux Relay Output 1 form C relay contacts Rated 1A 120VAC 24 VDC Batteries 9 volt rechargeable NiMH 180mAh or greater Varta P N 5122 V7 8H or equiv Qty 4 3 0 volt lithium coin cell CR1216 Qty 1 Display LEDs Solar ON Green Solar OFF Amber AC In Green Battery Low Red Environmental Temperature 40C to 85C exclusive of batteries 40C to 65C in storage with batteries installed less than 30 days 20C to 65C operating OC to 65C batteries charging Weight 4 lb 80z 2 05kg Enclosure Type 3R RainProof Symbols used in this manual Equipment Ground Direct Current Supply M Alternating Current Supply O On Off Y Phase Symbol 5 Page MidNite Solar MNBirdhouse User Manual Rev J 4 2 15 INTRODUCTION The MidNite Solar Birdhouse is a firefighter service technician s control device designed for disconnecting rooftop photovoltaic PV panels batteries and inverters with the
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