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VarioString - Studer Innotec

1. sms 17 5 POWER UP OF THE EQUIPMENT ven vase quud nn te edo ee ee eR CUR ees 18 6 DISPLAY SYSTEM oia 19 6 1 Tho SEV EE e e 19 6 2 laure A le tele ee KEE 19 6 3 eet 2 19 6 4 EMO T T T 20 6 5 Charging current Indicator LEE 20 7 BAITERY CHARGING eia NAE A a 21 7 1 FS eel pU 21 7 2 BOTOM CYC EE 21 7 2 1 gio ER E 2 15212 AD OMIA PASO 2 tases T __ _ 2 7 2 3 moenlaexeaes q M _ 2 7 2 4 EGU ONIZOTIOMN siele 3 ES io 2 72 59 EECHER ee ee 22 79 Default battery charge cycle original settings ita een 22 7 4 REECH 22 8 CONFIGURING THE VARIOSTRING S ccsssccccsssscccssssccccsssscccessscccesssccceessecceeesseccessccceesseceeeees 23 8 1 Configuring the equipment by means of the internal DIP 23 8 2 Displaying the equipment status using the remote control 02 03 25 8 2 1 Displaying the status or a single unit system Re 25 8 2 2 Displaying the operating mode of the equipment Info n 15013 15014 15015 27 8 2 3 Displaying security errors Info n 15049 EE 27 User manual V 1 2 1 3 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 2 4 Displaying the values of a multi unit system EE 28 8
2. 38 RE 38 t 38 W IEE 38 14084 38 E 38 1710 38 4087 38 14088 38 38 MOTO ere ana 38 1409 1 39 W IEE 39 39 PNE 39 W IEE 39 W IEE 39 P 39 14098 39 Agen 39 W UE 39 PME 39 14102 39 14103 39 14104 39 14105 nr 39 14106 nr 39 W UE 39 141093 eene 39 39 TAII IPren 39 39 E seen 39 P URP MEME 39 E 39 PIC 39 UAM 39 PUE ME 39 4119 seen 39 14120 39 W IEE 39 AAA 37 14123 37 141 24 nn 37 W IEE 38 14126 MM 38 W IEE 38 V 1 2 1 W IEE 38 TID MN 37 O 38 ASEIN 38 A 38 EEN 38 I 4134 esten 38 W IEE 38 A A 38 noe cee ras 38 W IEE 38 14139 38 PAP MER 38 PP 38 39 I 4142 sen 38 DATA 39 M 39 AAS O 39 I 4146 39 isset 39 A ae 39 EE EE 39 14150 Lesen 39 W IEE 39 A A 39 4154 sese 39 W IEE 39 W IEE 39 A MRNA 39 W IEE 39 W I 39 I 4161 39 dri ME 39 W I 39 141 BA 39 W IEE 39 IDO MRNA 39 4167 isset 39 14168 Lene 39 TS 39 G EU 39 PIA 39 Ip RE 39 14173 39 14174 23 24 25 28 31 35 4175 isst 36 Ir MM 36 04179 36 0 36 W IEE 38 141891 38 14190 36 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString User manual V 1 2 1 53 Studer
3. VarioString MPPT solar charge controller f y y RAN f d 4 2 3 7 2 y A y 7 Y Y j Pa A m d e P f Ba E E 4 Pl L Y p gt ed 7 d pl A d SS A A Ko ze p 3 Le 4 ef A r Hl e a H F A P ore reet Ni V P t o ec 4 i A PT ie o A mg nn DENES EE d ae Le Ra eom N on poc N po 0 Nc J P n aa NM aeo eR o B ef Se EE M MN n ES em P n 8 n f ns x rage f PL S3 LEM c NN VarioString 6 Sg C a 4 Ne Nd M To Y nud i y TAN a A Sa QE M CN N N NS d NUM TN MAN P 4 wi p on A N e H Lt d PN n a A N N ES ie er SE d N N x X E b vd 1 d EN EN A N IE INS y A d Accessories Remote RCC 02 03 Temperature BTS 01 External auxiliary relay module ARM 02 Studer Innotec SA 2014 V 1 2 1 409P Studer Innotec SA VarioString 2 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString Contents 1 INTRODUCTION nace do 5 2 GENERAL
4. PV earth fault the battery earthing does not anymore match the selection made by parameters 14040 14041 and 14042 which establishes the type of earthing to be checked Alarm 082 PV overvoltage the solar generator has a voltage higher than 600V parallel or independent connection or higher that 900V series connection Message 083 170 171 no solar production for 48h no PV voltage has been detected for 48H The PV generator has probably been disconnected Check the protection devices fuse or circuit breaker and or check the wiring Message 084 equalization carried out indicates the end of the equalization cycle 8 3 CONFIGURING THE VARIOSTRING USING THE REMOTE CONTROL RCC 02 03 Many parameters are stored in the VarioString internal memory When a parameter is modified using the remote control REC 02 03 hereafter referred to as RCC it is sent to the VanoString and stored permanently If the RCC is removed from the system this parameter continues to be used by the VarioString with this modified value If the VarioString is disconnected and then connected again the new value can be retrieved from the memory This allows for example to pre program a VarioString at the workshop and to supply it to a customer ready for his specific application If the settings made using the DIP switches are disabled either because the Pos 1 off or because the parameter disabling the DIP switches 14174 yes the VarioString u
5. 4 3 3 Parallel connection of PV module strings To get the required charging power 2 or more strings can be connected in parallel Each string connected in parallel shall be composed of the same number of modules of the same type When using the two entries in parallel up to 26A it is necessary to physically connect the two negative terminals 3 and 5 as well as the two positive terminals 4 and 6 The number of strings connected in parallel depends on the power of each module The sum of the power of all the panels connected to a VarioString should not exceed the power that the VarioString can charge The number of strings to be connected in parallel must not exceed the maximum power see table below divided by the power of a string and rounded down to the nearest whole number For example with 12 modules of 110W in series connected to one of the independent inputs 3500 1320 2 65 gt 2 strings 2640W can be connected in parallel 14 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString If both VarioString inputs are connected in parallel for the strings of 12 Maximum modules in series mentioned above 5 strings could be connected in recommended power for parallel 7000 1320 5 3 gt 5 the solar generator The PV generator can be over dimensioned in order to get the required Battery VS 120 charging power even when solar irradiation is lower In this case a part 3500W input of the solar energy will be lost when the sol
6. Your installation is now in operation If the system requires specific configurations or settings carry them out immediately Settings must be programmed by means of the remote control RCC 02 03 as per chap 8 2 or by means of the internal DIP switches as per chap 8 1 Saving of data in the datalog is activated only after the VarioString has completed the automatic detection of the cabling type of the PV generators In the case that the cabling configuration is entered manually the datalog is activated immediately If the VarioString has been accidentally connected in reverse battery reverse polarity on the panel input it is likely that the protection device on the battery cables is open In such case recheck carefully the battery polarity the wiring and the internal fuse of the VarioString that protects against this situation If after having closed or replaced the protection device f the VarioString still does not work despite the correct polarity and voltage of the battery it must be brought back to the Seller for repair 18 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 6 DISPLAY SYSTEM The VarioString is fitted with a Set button and light indicators on the front of the equipment allowing a clear identification of the operating Dual Isolated String MPPT mode Solar Charge Controller 6 1 THE SET BUTTON 4 Status Charge A Error Charge The Set button can be used fo start manually an eq
7. 2 52 al FEU 2 2 displaying the consolidated bad 34 4 Unde values for all the connected equipment The displayed values nai m unas 21 5 ode T Ej 2 57 Ej 21 3 can be selected as per the same procedure described in chap 8 2 1 1 Moreover the units can be viewed one by one by using the arrows up down after the SET button 2x when the VarioString image is with a black background 8 2 5 Displaying messages and event history The message system is the same as for an Xtender inverter charger or a VarioIrack MPPT solar charge controller and the alarm messages information are stored and displayed in the same list See the RCC remote control user manual 8 2 5 1 Message list Alarm 000 low battery voltage the battery voltage is lower than 40V for more than 30 seconds The VarioString continues to work until the battery voltage falls below 18V Message 012 management of the BTS temperature sensor this indication is given only if the sensor is connected to the VarioString when if is energized Switch off 014 EL Over temperature the warmest point inside the equipment has exceeded the allowed highest temperature The equipment stops operating lt starts again when the temperature drops back to a normal value Switch off 020 battery overvoltage the battery voltage is higher than 68V The VarioString turns off It starts again when the voltage returns to a normal value Alarm 081
8. 44 11 1 vanos 44 11 2 Comments on the wiring examples 11 1 44 12 MAINTENANCE OF THE INSTALLATION arica ic 45 13 PRODUCT ______ _______ 45 14 EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY csccccssscccsssccccsscccssscccssscecessceeesccceescceessceceseceeeseceeescceeescs 45 15 idiotas 46 lo TECHNICAL DADA aussi ot 50 16 1 e aee ei eere 50 OZ seti te Rm 50 Ee ii A Tm 50 EVN A RATE esse eo o o A 50 o SO mmm 50 so cem 5 OFAC Ce 51 INDEXOPPARAMEIERS gt ____________ ane dep 52 4 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 1 INTRODUCTION Congratulations You are about to install and use a device from the VarioString range You have chosen high tech equipment that will play a central role in the energy production of your solar electrical installation The VarioString has been designed to work as a solar battery charger Its advanced and completely configurable functionalities will guarantee a perfect functioning of your energy system When the VarioString is connected to batteries and photovoltaic panels if automatically recharges batteries in an optimum way with all the available solar power The VarioString can be connected to two strings of PV modules in different configurations series parallel or independent
9. INFORMATION cn EN 5 2 ADO TAS US Magos oUm Um T 5 2 2 eege UU M 6 2 3 Gea i e UT T m as 6 2 4 QUOI Mela le MOI ORI RS ad ne ee 7 2 4 1 Alias o aaa 2 4 2 exelente 2 5 OS OIG EE 8 3 MOUNTING AND INSTALLATION ssccccccsssssscccccssssscccccessssccceeessssccceeesseccceeesssecceeeesssecceeeaeeseees 8 ER ooo A E T _ 8 32 8 3 3 MOUNINO PIOC nai 9 3 4 5 are Da 9 A il coe 10 4 Elements of the i 10 4 2 omaes ES T Um 12 4 2 1 Precautions when USING the DASS E mm 12 4 2 2 me Dale aaa 13 4 2 3 Protection device of the battery tendent 13 4 3 PROTOYVO als generator Praia es 14 4 3 1 tT m 14 4 3 2 Serial connection chain or string of PV modules eese 14 4 3 3 Parallelconnecilon ol PY module ads 14 4 3 4 sare use of the photovoltaic mogsules ns 15 4 3 5 PROTSCIIOM ee 15 4 3 6 Cable sario ds ii 15 4 3 7 Parallel connection of several V GHOSTING ita 15 4 3 8 Extension of an existing installation ad 16 4 4 EMI AI m 16 4 4 1 EE EENHEETEN 17 4 5 eo AN 17 4 6 COMME ING
10. The RCC 02 03 or 232 should not be placed between two devices connected to the battery Xtender VarioTrack or VarioString E XTS XTM XTH XTS XTM XTH RCC 02 03 ge Communic atior US TO ommunication se lee Bus d 1 1 LS t a NN p CT Le gt x a _ gt 5 POWER UP OF THE EQUIPMENT It is imperative that the closing cover for the connection compartment is installed and screwed tight before energizing the installation There are dangerous voltages inside the cable compartment If soecial configurations or settings are required for the system and they are set via internal buttons or switches DIP switch see chap 8 1 they should be set before connecting the PV modules The connection of the VarioString must be carried out in the following order Any disassembly shall be carried out in the reverse order Before closing the protections and energizing the equipment check the polarity A Connecting the battery on the BAT and BAT terminals e Check that the VarioString switches on green LED NIGHT lights up on the Une tincelle apparait au moment de brancher le deuxi me p le de la batterie Ceci est normal B Connecting the photovoltaic panels on the PV and PV terminals e Check the PV voltage seen on the RCC if present e Check the operation of the charger and the effective charging of the batteries when It is sunny
11. The equipment must be stored in a dry environment at an ambient temperature between 20 C and 60 C Place the equipment at its mounting place at least 24 hours before commissioning in order to avoid thermal shocks and condensation problems 3 2 UNPACKING When unpacking check that the VarioString has not been damaged during transportation and that all accessories listed below are present Any fault must be immediately reported to the product distributor or the contact mentioned at the back of this manual Carefully check the packaging as well as the VarioString Contents in the VarioString box e VarioString e Installation and operation manual e Coble glands for the battery cables e Two pairs of solar cable connectors 8 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 3 3 MOUNTING PLACE The mounting place for the VarioString is particularly important and must fulfil the following criteria e Indoors IP20 Protected from water and dust in a location without condensation Protected from any unauthorized person In a place where the relative humidity does not exceed 95 In a place where the ambient temperature is between 20 and 55 C In mobile applications if is important to select a mounting place that ensures no vibration Protected from direct solar radiation or heat sources It should not be mounted directly above the battery or in a cabinet with the battery The ventilation vents should be clear at all times and at le
12. This configuration flexibility allows the user to optimise their installation The accuracy of the Maximum Power Point Tracking MPPT algorithm the high output and low internal consumption ensure an optimal valorisation of the energy produced by the PV modules The charge profile may be set freely according to the battery type or the operation mode The charging voltage is corrected depending on the temperature thanks to the optional external sensor BTS 01 The control display and programming unit RCC 02 03 optional allows an optimal setup of the system and guarantees the user a permanent control over all important parameters for the installation with a clear display interface Moreover it allows recording the system data in order to analyse later its functioning data logging The parallel operation of several chargers is possible and offers modularity and flexibility enabling an optimum dimensioning of your system according to your energy requirements The VarioString operates as an independent device but is also designed to be included info a Studer energy system together with the Xtender inverters chargers the BSP battery monitor the control display and programming unit RCC 02 03 the communication modules Xcom 232 and Xcom LAN GSM Working together these different devices have a synchronised behaviour for a better management of the battery and of the solar resource Please read this manual carefully to ensure the perfect start up
13. current 14001 As a rule the limited charging current is used only if the equalization is started at the end of the absorption phase 8 4 5 6 5 Equalization duration 14022 30 min This parameter determines the equalization period The equalization phase starts as soon as the set battery voltage exceeds the absorption voltage When the period has elapsed the charger goes automatically to the following authorized phase If the voltage cannot be kept no sunshine clouds Countdown is paused 8 4 5 6 6 Equalization with fixed interval 14023 yes When this parameter is activated yes the battery charge cycle with an active equalization phase starts at the interval specified by the following parameter 14025 8 4 5 6 7 Days between equalizations 14024 26 days This parameter determines the number of days in between the equalizations This counter is reset to zero when the equalization is activated manually In the case of incomplete charging cycles for example when charging with solar generators this function is useful also to limit the repetition of the equalization cycles When the number of days is reached a new cycle is not initiated automatically The equalization will fake place during the following charge cycle 8 4 5 6 8 End of the equalization triggered by the current 14025 no Progressively during the equalization phase the charging current decreases naturally If the bulk phase has been carried
14. each position of the DIP switch Function Position Funct Priority of DIP switch The DIP switch parameter settings are prioritized over the parameter settings of the RCC Therefore if the parameter 14174 authorizes the use of the DIP switch and the position 1 of the DIP switch is activated in ON position the DIP switch will have priority over the parameter settings in the RCC In this case the following RCC parameter values will not be taken into account e Parameter related to the cabling of the PV modules 14002 e Parameters related to the battery cycle 14005 14009 14021 14017 14024 14008 14011 14023 On the contrary if the DIP switch is not activated position 1 of the DIP switch is off or parameter 14174 prohibits the utilisation of the DIP switch the parameters of the RCC related to cabling of the PV modules and the battery cycle will be utilized DIP switch 1 first from the left allows activating the settings defined by the DIP switch bank This activation will not be taken into account if the parameter 14174 does not allow it When the settings defined by the DIP switch bank are not activated the default parameters see list in chap 15 are applied These parameters can be modified by means of the remote control RCC 02 03 If the default parameters factory settings are modified the new values must be reported in the parameter table in chap 15 at the end of the manual which must re
15. independent connection 600 Vdc Connection in series 900 Vdc Parallel or independent connection 200 Vdc Connection in series 400 Vdc Series or indeoendent connection Maximum short circuit current 13A Parallel connection 26A Maximum open circuit voltage Voc Minimum functional circuit voltage 16 3 OUTPUT BATTERY Nominal battery voltage 48V Battery input voltage range 18V 38 68V 25 409C 120 A 60A par MPPT Charging phases adjustable threshold and 4 phases Bulk Absorption Floating Equalization duration Battery temperature compensation with 3mV C cell ref at 25 accessory BTS 01 adjustable 8 to 0 mV C cell 16 4 ENVIRONMENT 16 5 PROTECTION Polarity reversal of the PV generator Polarity reversal on the battery side Eo Reverse current at night no Overvoltage on the battery side no Over temperature 50 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 16 6 COMMUNICATION Network cabling Studer Communication bus Remote control and display RCC 02 03 Xcom 2321 Xcom LAN Xcom GSM English French German Spanish Datalogging With RCC 02 03 on SD card one point every minute 16 7 COMPLIANCE 2004 108 CE LV 2006 95 CE mu ROHS 2011 65 CE IEC EN 62109 1 2010 EMC electromagnetic compatibility IEC EN 61000 6 3 2011 IEC EN 61000 6 1 2005 User manual V 1 2 1 5 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 17 INDEX OF PARAMETERS a 0 nn 31 1
16. necessary 7 2 3 Floating phase 4 When the battery is completely charged a constant reduced voltage 14005 is applied on the battery This voltage prevents self discharge and keeps the battery at ifs maximum charge level and reduces to the minimum the water evaporation that would occur at a higher voltage 7 2 4 Equalization phase 3 The default battery cycle is suitable for a large number of batteries whether gel or not because the equalization phase is not activated This phase is allowed 14017 only tor open batteries with liquid electrolyte During this phase the set voltage limit for the battery 14021 is temporarily 14022 higher It allows on one hand to equalize the electrolyte density through mixing corrosion control and on the other hand to equalize the charge among the cells of the battery User manual V 1 2 1 21 Studer Innotec SA VarioString When this phase is authorized if can be started manually by pressing for 2 seconds the SET button on the front of the VarioString The countdown for the equalization time starts as soon as the equalization voltage 14021 is reached and lasts as long as the battery voltage Is higher than the absorption voltage 14009 When authorized the equalization phase is carried out at fixed intervals 14023 before the absorption phase The equalization phase may be applied after the absorption phase by modifying parameter 14019 During this phase the charge current va
17. out with a current appropriate for the battery if is not necessary to wait for a certain period to finish charging The equalization phase can be interrupted when the battery charging current goes under a certain threshold This can be used in order to reduce the equalization duration and the electrolysis phenomenon related to if 8 4 5 6 9 Current threshold to end equalization phase 14026 10 Adc This parameter determines at which current the equalization phase is considered finished The next phase starts when the charger current goes below this value 8 4 5 6 10 Equalization before absorption phase 14019 yes This parameter determines if during the charge cycle the equalization will take place before or after the absorption phase By default the equalization phase is carried out before the absorption phase 34 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString t h A equalization voltage B absorption voltage C floating voltage 8 4 5 7 New cycle 14027 Usually batteries are charged during the day via the PV generator then partially discharged during the night by the user The next day a charge cycle starts again bulk absorption floating To start a new complete charge cycle the battery should be discharged below the conditions set by the parameters 14029 to 14034 If these conditions have not been met because for example the installation has no users a new absorption phase will not be necessary as this w
18. table to the right SE Example BEA Blinking 80 100A For a charge current of 65 A the LEDS 5 6 and 7 LED 3 are lit up continuously while the LED 8 is blinking Blinking 60 80A E Blinking 40 60A and detailed display of the VarioString s behaviour gt 40A see chap 9 1 LED 6 Blinking 20 40A ny 0 20A The RCC 02 03 remote control allows a complete 20 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 7 BATTERY CHARGING PROCESS 7 1 GENERAL POINTS The VarioString has many parameters that can be modified by the user or the installer in order to adapt the equipment to the energy system the best possible way The factory values of these parameters are reported in the table at the end of this manual These parameters can be modified by means of the remote control RCC 02 03 optional see chap 9 1 p 40 and for some of them a basic configuration can be done using the DIP switches 9 inside the equipment see chap 8 1 7 2 BATTERY CYCLE he VarioString is a fully automatic solar charge regulator designed to guarantee an optimum charge for most lead liquid acid lead gel or AGM batteries The battery charger enters automatically into operation as soon as the irradiation is sufficient and the photovoltaic panel voltage is higher than the battery voltage The Charge indicator 2 lights up or flashes depending on the on going charging phase t h The batteries can be fully charged by the su
19. the equipment Off the equipment is manually turned off by the operator or using a remote control 8 2 3 Displaying security errors Info n 15049 When a security error occurs the device will stop functioning A short text limited to 8 characters will appear on the display indicating which kind of error It is No error The unit is fully functional GroundBat The battery grounding mode is different from that chosen in the parameter settings chap 4 4 1 GroundPV The PV grounding in parallel or series mode is different from that chosen in the parameter settings chap 4 4 1 GroundPV The grounding of the MPPT input PV 1 is different from that chosen in the parameter settings chap 4 4 1 The grounding of the MPPT input PV2 is different from that chosen in the parameter settings chap 4 4 1 Overl PV A PV voltage over 600V has been detected in parallel mode or over 900V in series mode alarm 82 User manual V 1 2 1 27 Studer Innotec SA VarioString Text OverV_PV2 The max input current has been exceeded in PV2 Cabling A cabling error has been detected on the PV inputs or the cabling does not correspond to the selected mode chap 4 4 1 8 2 4 Displaying the values of a multi unit system When several Variostring units are REC TR arios tri na 3106 D connected to the remote p Phas Absocpt Fhas Charge control RCC 02 03 the screen n in VarioString MULTI appears Pru
20. the safe and efficient use of the VarioString Anyone who installs or uses a VarioString can completely rely on this user manual and is bound to observe all the safety instructions and indications here in The installation and commissioning of the VarioString must be entrusted to qualified personnel The installation and use must comply with the local safety instructions and standards in force in the country 2 3 CONVENTIONS This symbol is used to indicate safety instructions which if not followed could result in serious personal injury or death to the operator or the user This symbol is used to indicate a general danger for the user and or a risk of material damage and or the cancellation of the guarantee This symbol is used to indicate a procedure or function that is important for a safe and correct use of the equipment Failure to respect these instructions may lead to the cancellation of the guarantee or to a non compliant installation This symbol placed on the product indicates that its surfaces may reach temperatures higher than 60 C This symbol placed on the product indicates that its use must follow the instructions in the user s manual In general values important for the operation of the equipment for example battery voltage during absorption are not mentioned and the parameter number is indicated in the following format 000 The value of the parameter can be found in the table chap 15 In most cases thes
21. the status of auxiliary contacts b these fields are visible even if an ARM 02 is not Le Ep 8 21 EURE present b a 8 2 1 1 Choosing the displayed values To choose which values to display press the SET button to enter the first field which will appear with a black background To modify the field content use the SET button then by using the arrows consult the various displayable values and select them as permanently displayable values in the related field by validating with the SET button When no other value than the one initially displayed in the field is selected ESC key validates the initial choice The four fields can be scrolled and modified any time to display four of the values indicated in the table below info no Name Unit Description 15002 Phase Battery cycle phase Bulk Absorpt Equalize Floating R float Per abs 15003 PV type of wiring Unknown Independ Series Parallel Error PV voltage User manual V 1 2 1 25 Studer Innotec SA VarioString Info no Name Description 15010 Pov kW PV power PV operating mode Night Security OFF Charge ChargeV gt Charge ChargeP Chargelpv ChargeT 15014 PV operating mode Night Security OFF Charge Charge ChargeP Chargelpv Charge PV2 operating mode Night Security OFF Charge ChargeV usto Charge ChargeP Charge
22. 16A for 230Vac and 3A for 50Vac The contact is active when the neighbouring LED is lit up The relays are by default deactivated at without programming To program the functions on the auxiliary relays an RCC 02 03 remote control is necessary For the parameter description please see the programing section of chap 8 4 3 1 9 4 PARALLEL CONNECTION CABLE This cable allows for the quick and secure connection of two PV strings in parallel 42 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 10 EQUIPMENTS COMPATIBLE WITH THE VARIOSTRING When making hybrid energy systems VarioString units are often combined with Xtender inverter chargers mentioned below They then belong to a system where they are interconnected via the communication bus The full description of this equioment is available on our website www studer innotec com 10 1 XTENDER INVERTER CHARGERS The VarioString is compatible with the entire Xtender range and it allows making PV generator or PV network hybrid systems that are perfectly coherent The communication between the Xtender s and the VarioString s allow synchronizing the charging cycles of both systems When the function is activated using parameter 14036 the Xtender is the master of the charge profile and will impose the voltage limits set by its cycle It will remain so even if the equipment Xtender is turned off using the ON OFF button or the charger mode is prohibited On the other hand if the Xt
23. 2 5 Disolaying messages event history 28 8 3 Configuring the VarioString using the remote control 02 03 28 8 3 1 MNercal ime COCK oo E io O a 27 8 4 Description of the Sica 27 8 4 1 CONS NOR de 27 8 4 2 Parameter EN en 27 8 4 3 Organisation of the VarioString configuration MENU ns 30 8 4 4 jose a Ae 3 8 4 5 Battery management and cycle 1 4003 ccccssscssccsssssssssesseesccccessncncccsesssssssesssesescccseres 32 8 4 6 Ss TOTES 39 8 4 7 Auxiliary 2414122 urraca 37 9 reel inq O 40 9 1 Remote control and programming centre RCC 02 03JI Re 40 7 2 FIC SETS Sensor RO de 4 9 2 1 Connecting the temperature sensor BIS O1 ns 42 dud Auxiliary relay module ER EE 42 9 4 GIN 9 m a 42 10 EQUIPMENTS COMPATIBLE WITH THE VARIOSTRING 43 10 1 a i ui Pe Beo NET 43 10 2 Battery status processor BSP 500 1200 43 10 3 Communication module 2321 43 104 Communication sels eu EE dd dadas 43 WIRING EXAMPLES E
24. 4001 21 27 31 32 34 1 4002 31 4002 32 EE eee 32 1 4005 21 23 32 14006 32 14007 32 23 33 1 4009 21 22 23 33 ATOLLO 33 14011 21 23 33 21 33 A e EE 21 33 AOLA 33 14017 21 22 23 33 EE 33 RM 22 34 14020 34 14021 21 22 23 34 21 34 22 34 1 4024 23 34 14025 34 E See 34 14027 35 14028 35 14029 35 35 ATOSI D 35 14032 35 35 AO ral 35 1 4035 32 34 4 14036 23 24 32 14037 35 37 14039 37 14040 17 20 28 35 14041 17 20 28 36 14042 17 20 28 36 14043 36 14044 36 14045 36 14046 36 MM 36 ee 36 14059 ee 37 14067 31 36 1 4068 31 36 14069 een 36 37 1407 1 37 38 37 92 14073 tn 38 14074 eese 38 14075 esten 38 14076 Lesen 38 days eee 37 tn 38 140793 38 14080
25. 4110 Contact activated below SOC 1 AUX 1 50 SOC Exper Expert 14112 Contact activated with the SOC 2 of battery AUX 1 No Exper 30 Exper 0 2 h Exper No Expert 14116 Contact activated below SOC 3 AUX 1 20 Exper Exper 90 SOC Exper 0 2 h Exper Expert Expert 14123 Operating mode AUX 2 Automatic N User manual V 1 2 1 4 Studer Innotec SA VarioString User Level ref Parameter Expert 14124 Combination of the events for the auxiliary contact AUX 2 AUX 2 Activated in night mode AUX2 Expert 14126 Activated in night mode AUX 2 Expert 14127 Delay of activation after entering night mode AUX 2 Activation time for the auxiliary relay in night mode Expert 14128 AUX 2 Expert 14130 VarioString is OFF AUX 2 Expert 14131 Battery undervoltage AUX 2 Expert 14132 Battery overvoltage AUX 2 Expert 14133 Earth fault AUX 2 Exper 134 PV error 48h without charge AUX 2 Expert 14135 Overtemperature AUX 2 Exper ulk charge phase AUX 2 Expert 14137 Absorption phase AUX 2 CD Co On Expert Expert 14139 Floating AUX2 S O Exper Expert 14141 Exper Expert Exper Exper Exper Expert Exper Exper Expert Exper Exper Expert Expert 14156 Contact activated with the temperature of battery AUX 2 Exper 4157 Contact activated over AUX 2 00 Exper Contact deactivated belo
26. Atender User manual V 1 2 1 43 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 11 WIRING EXAMPLES 11 1 VARIOSTRING RCC 02 Vera eis MEN Nes 4 zz ZEEES Lames 5 AAA AA ZG E cons RE gt di gt PAE Tq il gt E 4 4 d Sal IE 1 A f d VW 1 A Ti PER st SS E SES D JT E d H SS Sc 3 3 rf BEER D D 7 1 Refer to See chap 9 1 8 2 and 8 4 7 See chap 4 2 See chap 4 5 See chap 4 6 DC protection device See chap 4 2 3 Protective earth Main protective earth protective equipotential bonding connected to the conductive and accessible parts of the building and if possible connected to a standard earth electrode Protective earth for the The equipment is designed to be connected equipment protective earth Class to which they must be connected Protective earth for the One of the battery poles must be earthed The other battery configurations must meet the recommendations at chap 4 3 8 Protective earth for the solar The protective earth for the PV generator and its lightning generator protection device are connected separately to the main protective earth local equipotential bonding For two different PV strings eac
27. Innotec SA VarioString 54 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString User manual V 1 2 1 55 57 ND Studer Innotec SA Rue des Casernes 57 1950 Sion Switzerland Phone 41 0 27 205 60 80 Fax 41 0 27 205 60 88 infogstuder innotec com www studer innotec com
28. TS 01 The optional temperature sensor BTS 01 is supplied with 5m cable fitted with RJ11 6 type plugs It may be pp VarioString E Temp connected or disconnected at any time even when 5 the device is operating using the corresponding socket 6 marked BTS amp ARMO2 on the VarioString Plug the connector into the socket 6 until it clicks in The temperature sensor case may simply be stuck onto the battery or directly next to 1 The temperature sensor is automatically recognised and the correction of the voltage thresholds applied immediately BSP battery probe next to the battery is used BTS OI is not necessary The BSP module is fitted with a temperature sensor If both elements BTS 01 and BSP are present only the 5 is taken into account to correct the battery temperature max 300m 9 3 AUXILIARY RELAY MODULE ARM 02 his external module is mounted on DIN rail and connected to fhe same connector as the battery temperature sensor 6 by using a 5m cable supplied with The accessory If the connector 6 is already occupied by the battery temperature sensor BTS unplug the temperature plug in the ARM module in its place and connect the battery temperature sensor to the ARM module The auxiliary relay module allows the VarioString to have 2 independent relays each of which are fully programmable The maximum currents and voltages allowed by these contacts are
29. al Studer Innotec SA VarioString 4 4 1 Detecting an earthing fault The choice of earthing system for the DC circuit is an important factor for the individuals safety Once the decision is made the VarioString can check the continuity of the earth connection In case of failure of this connection the equipment turns off and the LED 3 lights up indicating the fault A permanent message requiring a validation is displayed on the RCC if present The parameters 14040 14041 and 14042 allow establishing the type of control to be carried out or the absence of control as set by default 4 5 LIGHTNING PROTECTION The VarioString has internal protections against lightning by means of surge protection devices These devices have an energy dissipation capacity limited to 3 5kA 8x20 us which guarantees a certain protection level but are not a total protection against lightning According to the installation site it is highly recommended to develop a protection strategy specific to your installation The strategies depend on various factors specific to each site therefore we recommend a professional approach to this issue Damages due lightning offen generate significant costs replacement of all electronics which are not covered by the manufacturer s warranty 4 6 CONNECTING THE COMMUNICATION CABLES The VarioString is fitted with 2 connectors RJ45 8 8 see chap 4 1 that enable to transfer information via a communicatio
30. and operation of your system It contains all necessary information regarding the operation of the VarioString charger The installation of such a system requires special expertise and may only be carried out by qualified personnel familiar with the local standards in force 2 GENERAL INFORMATION 2 1 ABOUT THIS USER MANUAL This manual contains necessary information and procedures to install configure use and troubleshoot the VarioString solar charge controllers It does not contain information about photovoltaic modules PV or batteries of various brands that can be connected For this kind of information please refer to the instructions of each specific manufacturer It covers the following models and accessories e MPPT solar charge controller VarioString VS 120 e Temperature sensor BTS O1 e External auxiliary relay module ARM 02 This manual is an integral part of the equipment and must be available for the operator and or the installer at all times Always keep if close to the installation User manual V 1 2 1 5 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 2 2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS This manual contains important safety instructions Read carefully the safety and operation instructions before using the VarioString Take into consideration all warnings mentioned both on the equipment and in this manual strictly following all instructions regarding its operation and use This user manual is intended to serve as a guideline for
31. ar irradiation is higher because the VarioString will reach its current limit and curtail power output The VarioString has a current limit At any given time the maximum power of the VarioString depends on the charging phase voltage of the battery For example if the charging phase is Bulk and the battery voltage is 50V the maximum power output is 120A 50V 6000VA Even if more solar energy is available the battery charge current will not exceed 120A 4 3 3 1 Maximum current of the solar generator The maximum current of the solar generator sum of the short circuit currents for all the strings connected in parallel is 26A 13A per input In any case the VarioString will limit the charging current battery to its rated current of 120A 4 3 4 Safe use of the photovoltaic modules The VarioString is meant for PV generators supplying up to 600Vdc 900Vdc in series This voltage is dangerous for human beings During the installation or the maintenance of the system if is imperative to make sure that no dangerous volfage may surge in the system The disconnection device must be open and secured against any accidental reclosing 4 3 5 Protection devices Wiring protection devices fuses circuit breakers Connecting the PV generator to the VarioString must be installed in accordance with local standards and regulations in force The DIN VDE 0100 712 standard prescribes a switching device on all poles between the PV generato
32. arioString The auxiliary contact will only become deactivated when the battery has risen above a certain voltage and a certain time period both values independent of the activation parameters This voltage and time period for deactivation is also programmable The contact can also be deactivated when the battery has reached the floating phase e Battery voltage 1 activated 14091 14143 no e Battery voltage 1 14092 14144 46 8 e Delay 1 14093 14145 1 min e Battery voltage 2 activated 14094 14146 no e Battery voltage 2 14095 14147 47 8 e Delay 2 14096 14148 10 min e Battery voltage activated 14097 14149 no e Battery voltage 3 14098 14150 48 5 Vdc e Delay 3 14099 14141 60 min e Battery voltage to deactivate the auxiliary contact 14100 14152 54 Vac e Delay to deactivate 14101 14153 60 min e Deactivate if battery in floating phase 14102 14154 no 8 4 7 5 Contacts activated by the battery temperature 14103 14155 You can activate an auxiliary contact according to the battery temperature This function is available with the battery temperature sensor 5 or with the battery status processor BSP Two distinct levels allow the contact to switch ON and OFF at different temperatures e Contact activated with the battery temperature 14104 14156 no e Activation temperature for the auxiliary contact 14105 14157 3 C e Deactivatio
33. ast 20 cm from all obstacles that could alter the ventilation of the device e Given the norm IEC EN 62109 1 the degree of pollution in the installation area should be at maximum PD2 e The support for the VarioString and the environment in which it is contained should not be flammable The presence of a heat source may significantly reduce its rated power Similarly insufficient ventilation may lead to the overheating of some internal components of the equipment In this case the device will automatically limit its power as long as this abnormal situation persists As far as possible reduce exposure to sudden temperature variation important heat variation may create undesired and harmful condensation inside the equipment 3 4 FIXING DIMENSIONS The VarioString is a heavy equipment 8kg and must be mounted to a support wall designed to bear such a load It is imperative to ensure a complete and safe fastening of the equipment If simply hung it may fall down and cause severe damages Upper support screw screw into the wall a 6 8 mm diameter screw without washer until there is 2 mm between the head of the screw and the wall Hang the device from the screw If deemed necessary the upper support screw can be fully tightened after hanging the device In theory this is only necessary in mobile applications To access the upper support screw to fully tighten it remove the Upper plastic grate Lower support screws remove the lowe
34. attery manufacturer in agreement with the battery manufacturer and under the responsibility of the installer 4 2 1 Precautions when using the batteries The batteries should only be chosen dimensioned and installed by qualified personnel trained in this specific area When working with batteries a second person is required in order to give assistance in case of problems Lead acid batteries with liquid or gelled electrolyte produce a highly explosive gas during normal Use Avoid source of sparks or fire in the immediate vicinity of the batteries The batteries must be kept in a well ventilated place and installed so as to avoid accidental short circuits when connecting Never try to charge frozen batteries Sufficient fresh water and soap must be kept close at hand to allow adequate and immediate washing of the skin or eyes affected by accidental contact with the battery acid In the event of accidental contact of the eyes with acid they must be washed carefully with cold water for 15 minutes Then immediately consult a doctor The battery acid can be neutralized with baking soda among other things A sufficient quantity of baking soda should be available for this purpose Particular care is required when working close to the batteries with metal tools Tools such as screwdrivers open ended spanners etc may cause short circuits Sparks created by short circuits may cause the battery to explode Therefore these kinds of tools mus
35. c SA VarioString 15 PARAMETER LIST User Level Parameter HE IUE value 120Ade ee SE Basic _ 14005 Floating voltage 544Vdc ___ Expert 14006 Force phase of floating Expert 14008 Absorption phase allowed Yes Basic _ 14009 Absorption voltage 57 6Vde Force absorption phase AE Expert 14011 Absorption duration Expert_ 14012 End of absorption triggered by the current No Expert 14013 Current threshold to end absorption phase 10 Ade Basic 14017 Equalization allowed No S Expert_ 14018 Force equalization __ _ S o Expert 14019 Equalization before absorption phase Yes Expert 14020 Equalization current 80 Ade ___ Basic 14021 Equalization voltage 624 Vde Expert 14022 Equalization duration Omn Expert 14023 Equalization with fixed interval el Expert 14024 Days between equalizations B days Expert 14025 End of equalization triggered by current No Expert 14026 Current threshold to end equalization phase 10 Ade Expert 14028 Force a new cycle _ Expert 14029 Voltage level 1 to start a new cycle 488Vdc Expert 14030 Time period under voltage level 1 to start a new cycle 30min Expert 14081 Voltage level 2 to start a new cycle 472 Expert 14032 Time period under voltage level 2 to start anewcycle 2sec Expert 14033 Cycling re
36. ccessive phases 1 to 4 described hereunder 7 2 1 Bulk phase 1 The bulk phase is the stage when the voltage of the battery rises thanks to the maximum available current up to 120 A produced by the photovoltaic generator depending on the irradiation at the time If is important that the max battery charge current be set according to the battery specifications to prevent damaging them This current can be limited with parameter 14001 maximum output current It is possible that these currents are not reached if the generator power is not sufficient because of its dimensioning solar power silicon temperature crystalline cell or because the ambient temperature is excessive or the ventilation is insufficient 7 2 2 Absorption phase 2 The absorption phase can be disabled by parameter 14008 The maximum voltage that can be reached will be the floating voltage 14005 It is the case when charging a Li lon battery This charging phase of a limited duration 14011 allows the battery to absorb a maximum of power while limiting its voltage 14009 As soon as this absorption voltage is reached the duration of the phase is counted down as long as the voltage remains higher than the floating phase 14005 If the charging current is lower than the end of absorption voltage 14013 whereas the voltage limit is reached the absorption phase is considered finished The end of the absorption triggered by the current 14012 can be enabled if
37. ctor Sunclix for positive pole of solar generator n 1 a Socket for connection of accessories 7 Only fhe mentioned original accessories can be BTS 01 or ARM 02 battery temperature connected e OB CIOE sensor and auxiliary relay module Codes EE RJ45 connector used for connecting equipment of the Xtender family These connections must be the remote control RCC 02 03 a carried out only with original Studer cables he switch must be placed in position O towards Termination switch 8 when both connectors are used 10 Configuration switches DIP switch possible configurations are described Real time clock battery The equipment is fitted with a battery lasting type CR 2032 about 10 years 10 V 1 2 1 User manual VarioString Studer Innotec SA VarioString d V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 4 2 CONNECTING THE BATTERY The VarioString is a device which DC battery connection is to be connected exclusively to a battery Most of the time lead acid batteries with liquid VLA VRLA or gelled GEL and AGM electrolyte may be used It can be easily configured to create charge profiles that are compatible with these various types of lead acid batteries The use of other battery types like Ni Cd Li ion or other is possible if the charge profile is properly programmed in accordance with the specifications of the b
38. d to access the SD card slot during updating for example Reference number Studer Innotec Dimensions H x mm REC 02 170 x 168 x 43 5 RCC 03 130 x 120 x 42 2 Both remote control models are supplied with a 2m cable Cables of specific lengths 5m 20m and 50m can be ordered Item reference CAB RJ45 8 xx The length in metres is specified by xx It is possible to connect up to 2 RCC or Xcom to a single VarioString and up to 3 RCC or Xcom to a system with several VarioString or Xtender units The termination switch of the communication bus Com Bus 8 remains in position T terminated except when both connectors 7 are used In this case and only in this case the switch must be placed in the O open position 9 2 TEMPERATURE SENSOR BTS 01 The operating voltages for lead batteries vary depending on the temperature A temperature sensor is optionally available to correct the battery voltage and guarantee an optimum charge for whatever battery temperature The correction factor given by the temperature sensor is set by parameter 1 4035 A single temperature sensor connected to one of the devices is enough in a system containing several VarioString connected to the same battery bank multi system Reference no for the temperature sensor including a 5m cable BTS 01 Dimensions Hx 58 51 5 x 22mm User manual V 1 2 1 4 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 9 2 1 Connecting the temperature sensor B
39. e AND function 8 4 7 3 Contacts activated by an event 14077 14129 Different states and events within the installation can be used to activate the auxiliary contacts The events can be combined with each other to create complex functions User manual V 1 2 1 3 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 7 3 1 Contacts activated in night mode 14073 14125 The auxiliary contact can be activated with the function night mode When the night mode is activated and the activation delay is up the auxiliary contacts will be active for a predefined time period If the activation time is set to zero the auxiliary contact will remain permanently activated until the end of the night mode e Activated in night mode 14074 14126 no e Delay of activation after entering night mode 14075 14127 1 min e Activation time for the auxiliary relay in night mode 14076 14128 1 min 8 4 7 3 2 VarioString is ON 14188 14189 no The contact is activated if the VarioString is switched ON 8 4 7 3 3 VarioString is OFF 14078 14130 The contact 15 activated if the VarioString is switched OFF 8 4 7 3 4 Battery undervoltage 14079 14131 no The contact is activated in the event of battery undervoltage 8 4 7 3 5 Battery overvoltage 14080 14132 no The contact is activated in the event of battery overvoltage 8 4 7 3 6 Earth fault 14081 14133 no The contact is activated in the event of an earth fa
40. e values can be modified with the remote control RCC 02 03 see chap 9 1 The parameter table available at the end of this manual chapter 15 must be kept updated in case the parameters are modified by the operator or the installer If an authorised person modifies a parameter not included in the list advanced parameters the number of the modified parameter s the specifications of the parameter s and the new value set are to be indicated at the end of the table All values that are not followed by a parameter number may not be modified All digits and letters in brackets or in square brackets in the text of this manual refer to items represented in illustrations with a circle 6 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 2 4 QUALITY AND WARRANTY During production and assembly of the VarioString each unit undergoes several checks and tests which strictly comply with established procedures The manufacturing assembling and testing of each VarioString are completely carried out in our factory in Sion CH The equipment warranty depends upon the strict application of the instructions in this manual The VarioString MPPT solar charge controller has a 5 year warranty starting from the date of production against material and manufacturing faults A defective product will either be repaired or replaced at the discretion of Studer Innotec 2 4 1 Exclusion of warranty No warranty claims will be accepted for damages resu
41. ection El b a M10 cable lug b bolt M8x30 d c washer e d ceramic washer e fusible Battery cables must also be as short as possible and the cross section must comply with the regulations and standards in force Tighten the clamps on the Battery inputs sufficiently Each VarioString is connected directly to the battery using ifs own protective device All ofher consumers or sources are connected directly to the battery through their own protective device Lead batteries are usually available in 2V 6V or 12V blocks In most cases in order to get the correct operating voltage for using the VarioString several batteries must be connected in series The capacity of the batteries can be increased using a parallel connection of several battery strings Some battery manufacturers limit the use or advice against parallel connection of battery strings Strictly conform to the manufacturers instructions of use In multi unit systems Connected to the same communication bus all VarioStrings must be connected to the same battery bank 4 2 3 Protection device of the battery The battery cables must be as short as possible The recommended cable cross section is 50mm2 and the protection devices battery side must be 125A The protection device must be installed as close as possible to the battery The recommended cross section of battery cable is valid for lengths up to 3m Beyond this length it is recommended to over
42. ender is turned off using the main ON OFF button de energized the VarioString operates with its programmed values The charging current of the equipment add up with no priority When the Xtender charging current is for example set to 100A and the VarioString supplies 120A the battery charging current may be 220A during the bulk phase 10 2 BATTERY STATUS PROCESSOR BSP 500 1200 This module supplied with a 500 or 1200A shunt allows measuring the current voltage and temperature of the battery If calculates and supplies the system with all the information obtained from these measurements such as the state of charge time before discharge history of the state of charge over 5 days etc 10 3 COMMUNICATION MODULE XCOM 2321 This isolated RS232 module allows accessing most of the values and parameters of the equipment connected to the communication bus It also features an SD card for the acquisition of measured data settings and history of the event generated by the equipment 10 4 COMMUNICATION SETS XCOM LAN GSM hese two sets provide the possibility to control the Xtender VarioTrack and VarioString systems via the Xcom web portal anywhere there is internet access via the local network or via the GSM network The access to internet can be done with a Le smartphone tablette or notebook computer St LA Xcom 2 i Atender RS 232 wes LANES LE WAT a Xcom 2 232i
43. er 4 3 2 Serial connection chain or string of PV modules To get the optimum voltage the PV modules shall be connected in series to form a string with the desired voltage When using the two entries in series the terminal of the PV1 entry 6 should be connected to the pole of the PV generator The terminal of the PV2 entry 3 should be connected to the pole of the PV generator and a bridge should be made between the entries 4 and 5 The open circuit voltage of the string must be lower than 600V under any temperature and irradiation conditions A 10 to 20 margin is recommended in order to cover these unknowns When the two inputs are used in series maximum open circuit voltage should not surpass 900V To establish the maximum numbers of the PV modules connected in series in the same string use the following formula 600V Uoc 1 1 Example 600 22 1 1 24 79 The result must be rounded down i e 24 modules of 22 Voc in series for the above example The table below gives an idea of the possible arrangements for common PV modules according to the number of cells or their type 36 cell 60 cell 72 cell Thin film module module module module Voc lt 23V Voc lt 37 V Voc lt 45V Voc lt 110V 23 For independent parallel inputs ____35 22 1 8 4 Foor the two inputs in series Beware of the PV module temperature The above values are for modules under standard test condition STC
44. er will keep the battery at floating voltage 8 4 6 System 14037 8 4 6 1 Block manual programming DIP switch 14174 no See Basic Settings chap 8 4 4 1 8 4 6 2 Type of battery grounding 14040 no control This parameter allows the VarioString to constantly verify the state of the battery grounding connection if desired In the event of an error the VarioString stops until the battery grounding is re established It is possible to ground either of the battery terminals User manual V 1 2 1 35 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 6 3 Type of PV grounding 14041 no control This parameter allows the VarioString to constantly verify the state of the PV grounding connection during its use in series or parallel mode In the event of an error the VarioString stops until the PV grounding is re established It is possible to ground either of the PV terminals 8 4 6 4 Type of PVI grounding 14175 no control Type of PV2 grounding 14042 no control The same as the preceding parameter but for the MPPT inputs PV1 and PV2 in independent mode 8 4 6 4 1 Type of MPP tracking 14043 P amp O This parameter allows setting the type of algorithm used by the VarioString to establish its operating point in series or parallel cabling mode P amp O Maximum Power Point MPP search algorithm This algorithm is fully automatic and searches the MPP of your system OC ratio With this mode the VarioString makes an open circuit vol
45. ersonnel User manual V 1 2 1 29 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 3 Organisation of the VarioString configuration menu Level m Parameter Expert 14003 MANAGEMENT AND CYCLE Z oZ o Ooo o Expert 14004 Floating phase 0 Expert 14007 Absorption phase gt Z gt S Expert 14016 Equalization phase _ gt Z gt S O Expert 14030 Time period under voltage level 1 to start a new cycle 14031 Voltage level 2 to start a new cycle Expert 14032 Time period under voltage level 2 to start a new cycle Minimal delay between cycles 14037 Expert 14180 of MPPT algorithm S 30 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString Level User ref Parameter Expert 14044 PV voltage fixed for PV in series 8 4 3 1 Auxiliary relay parameters A list of the auxiliary relay parameters can be found at the end of this manual in chapter 15 8 4 4 Basic settings 14000 8 4 4 1 Block manual programming DIP switch 14174 No Blocks the operating mode chosen by means of the DIP switches inside the VarioString 8 4 4 2 Battery charge current 14001 120 Adc The VarioString tries to maximize the battery charging current up fo its rated current however 11 15 possible to limit this current using this parameter for small capacity batteries The current appropriate to the battery is reported in its technical data The value set by this parameter is used during the bulk phase 8 4 4 3 Configuration o
46. f PV modules 14002 Automatic This parameter allows the selection of the type of cabling of the MPPT inputs In automatic mode the VarioString makes measurements to determine the type of connection You can also select independent mode if you have two distinct PV strings that are not connected together The parallel cabling mode is reserved for the case when your PV string s are brought to the VarioString with one set of cables and the two MPPT inputs on the VarioString are physically connected cabling accessories are available The series cabling mode is used for PV strings with max voltage levels higher than 600V in which case the PV generator is connected to PV2 and PV1 and PV2 and PV1 are physically bridged 8 4 4 4 Restore default settings 14067 Sending this signal restores the original values of the VarioString parameters If the installer has made some adjustments during the commissioning of the installation this function does not restore the factory settings but those made by the installer 8 4 4 5 Restore factory settings 14068 This parameter is accessible only when the RCC 02 03 is in installer level and allows the VarioString parameters to be restored to factory settings User manual V 1 2 1 3 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 5 Battery management and cycle 14003 Ubatt The VarioString battery charger is designed to ensure a battery charge as complete as possible The charge process 1 2 described
47. h with voltage up to 600Voc and independent MPPTs Connection in parallel For two different PV strings each with voltage up to 600Voc For single PV string with voltage up 900Voc National installation standards specific fo fhe chosen application field must absolutely and as a priority be respected under the installer s responsibility ANT Usermanual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 12 MAINTENANCE OF THE INSTALLATION Except for the periodic check of the connections tightening general condition the VarioString does not require any particular maintenance 13 PRODUCT RECYCLING The VarioString meets the European directive 2011 65 EU on hazardous substances and does contain the following elements lead ROHS cadmium mercury hexavalent chrome PBB or PBDE COMPLIANT pi Free To dispose of this product please use the service for the collection of electrical waste and observe all obligations in force in the place of purchase 14 EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY The charge regulator described in this manual has been designed and manufactured in accordance with the following directives and harmonized standards EMC directive 2004 108 EU Reference standard EN 61000 6 3 2011 EN 61000 6 1 2007 Low voltage directive 2006 95 EC Reference standard EN 62109 1 2010 ROHS directive 2011 65 EU CH 1950 Sion March 28 2014 Studer Innotec SA R Studer User manual V 1 2 1 45 Studer Innote
48. he other units connected to the same battery User manual V 1 2 1 15 Studer Innotec SA VarioString In multi unit systems connected to the same communication bus all VarioStrings must be connected to the same battery bank When the VarioString units are not synchronized they must be programmed in the same way and if is recommended to not activate the periodical equalization function The equalization can be manually started or will be done by the synchronized units For multi unit systems the devices are connected to each other by a communication bus see chap 4 6 via the connectors 7 and a cable ref CAB RJ45 8 2 with a maximum length of 5 meters As long as they are correctly connected together by the communication cable the VarioString automatically synchronize the battery charge cycle When the devices are in the voltage regulation phase their currents current may considerably differ These differences have no effect at all on the charge quality If a VarioString is connected to another compatible device Xtender VarioTrack VarioString BSP REC Xcom with the same communication bus if is highly recommended to make a software update of all components in the system in order to guarantee all functionalities During the commissioning of the equipment in a multi unit configuration the system checks automatically the compatibility of the software versions and may prevent the operation in case of incompatibility An upg
49. her in an optimum way Synchronization allows a coherent operation of multiple units which participate to the battery charging and avoids multiple successive equalizations triggered by each charger When this parameter 14036 is activated all other parameter involved in the battery cycle are hidden and not accessible In this case only the maximum charging current is adjustable 8 4 5 2 Battery charge current 14001 120 Adc See Basic Settings chap 8 4 4 2 8 4 5 3 Temperature compensation 14035 3mV C cell If a BTS 01 or BSP temperature sensor is used the voltage adjustment thresholds for charging the battery absorption equalization floating are automatically corrected in real time according to the battery temperature The value of this compensation in mV C cell for a reference temperature of 25 C is set by parameter 14035 3mV C cell For example for a 48V battery 24 cells of 2V at a temperature of 30 C the voltage compensation is 80 25 24 3 1000 0 36V For a floating voltage value 14005 set to 54 4 V the effective floating voltage Compensated will be 54 0 V 8 4 5 4 Floating phase 14004 8 4 5 4 1 Floating voltage 14005 54 4 Vdc Determines the voltage applied when the battery is fully charged This voltage prevents self discharge and keeps the battery to 15 optimum charge level 8 4 5 4 2 Force phase of floating 14006 This parameter may be used to force a battery cycle in pr
50. in detail in chapter 7 2 is managed in 4 successive ohases of which only 3 are activated by default Thus the VarioString will carry out only phases 1 bulk 2 absorption and 4 floating according to a charge profile as per the figure to the right which represents the basic cycle This basic cycle t takes place automatically The charge curve obtained this way depends on a whole series of parameters that may be freely modified in order to get a charge profile that meets at best the requirements set by the manufacturer or the user If the BIS O1 temperature sensor or the BSP battery status processor is used the voltage regulation thresholds of the battery are corrected in real time according to the battery temperature The value of this compensation in mV C cell for a reference temperature of 25 C is set by parameter 14035 to amV C cell The battery setting is carried out under the responsibility of The operator An incorrect setting that does not meet the battery charging methods recommended by the manufacturer may be dangerous and or considerably reduce the battery service life If the factory settings are modified the new values must be entered in the parameter table at the end of this manual 8 4 5 1 Synchronisation battery cycle with Xtender 14036 yes When a Studer inverter of the range Xtender is used in the system it can transfer to the VarioTrack its battery charge setting so that they can operate toget
51. ing the following 4 under menus BASIC SETTINGS where the most common parameters to be set when Commissioning are found BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND CYCLE where all the parameters can be set defining in detail the battery cycle during all ifs phases SYSTEM MENU gathering a few parameters that are not directly related to the battery cycle such as backing up and restoring the system resetting monitoring setting etc AUXILIARY CONTACTS where the parameters related to the auxiliary relays optional accessory ARM 02 can be set 8 4 1 Convention Functions and values of the parameters mentioned in this manual are described in this chapter Each parameter is defined by a short description a number 000 followed by its value and unit by default The type of parameter menu signal replaces the value between brackets when this latter does not exist The RCC menus are also identified by a name and a number xxxxx that can be found as per the parameter number on the top right hand corner of the RCC screen 8 4 2 Parameter access level All the parameters described hereafter are accessible through 2 different access levels In factory configuration only a few of them are accessible through the basic menu To access all the other menus and parameters the RCC must be configured at the Expert level following the procedure given in the RCC manual chapter User level The parameters in grey are accessible only by qualified p
52. ized phase 8 4 5 5 5 End of the absorption triggered by the current 14012 no he absorption phase can be interrupted when the battery charging current goes under a certain threshold at which point the charger automatically passes to the next authorized phase This can be used in order to shorten the period under which a high voltage is applied and thus reduce water consumption 8 4 5 5 6 Current threshold to end absorption phase 14013 10 Vdc Progressively during the absorption phase the charging current decreases naturally If the bulk phase has been carried out with a current appropriate for the battery if is not necessary to wait for a certain period to finish charging The absorption phase can be interrupted if the battery charge current falls below a certain level This parameter sets the current under which the absorption phase is considered finished When the charger current goes below this value the next phase most often the floating phase starts If the production of the PV generator is insufficient fo keep the voltage this current is not taken into account and the absorption phase goes on 8 4 5 6 Equalization phase 14016 Some types of battery need equalization in order to avoid the stratification of the water and acid they contain Use the parameters hereafter to set the operating conditions of this charging phase as described in chap 7 2 4 During an equalization phase an emission of a highly explosive gas occ
53. llation it is important to make sure that the source of DC voltage coming from the battery as well as the source of DC voltage coming from the photovoltaic generator have been disconnected from the electrical installation Even when the VarioString has been disconnected from the power sources a potentially dangerous voltage may remain at the terminals To eliminate this you have to wait for at least 5 minutes in order to allow the electronics to discharge The task can then be carried out safely No person is authorized to proceed with any change modification or repair of the equipment without prior written authorisation from Studer Innotec Only original parts should be used in authorised modifications or replacements Respect the maximum rated specifications of the equipment indicated on the type label The VarioString can be installed at altitudes up to 3000m For installations at higher altitudes please contact Studer Innotec SA The VarioString is in overvoltage category Il in accordance with the norm IEC EN 62109 1 2010 that considers all solar generators as being in overvoltage category ll 3 MOUNTING AND INSTALLATION The wiring and connection of the installation must be carried out only by perfectly qualified personnel The installation material such as cables connectors distribution boxes fuses etc must be appropriate and comply with the laws and regulations in force for the application in question 3 STORAGE
54. lpv Charge 15027 Production PV in Wh for the previous day 15029 Ed2 kWh Production PV2in Wh for the previous Type of error None OverV B OverV PV OverV PVI 15049 Err Text OverV PV2 Overl PV Overl PVI Overl PV2 GroundBat GroundPV GroundPV1 GroundPV2 OverTemp UnderV B Cabling Other 15050 synchronized with Xtender battery cycle No Yes Synchronisation state XTslave VTslave ES VTmaster Autonom VSslave VSmaster 15952 Number of days before next equalization 15053 Battery set point 15108 VS state State of the VarioString Off On Some values can t be displayed in the multi unit display They will be visible while going in the sub screen of the Multi unit display showing every unit individually in Wh i kWh 26 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 2 1 2 Displaying the triggering source of the auxiliary relays To view the actual triggering source of the two auxiliary relays press the SET button and use the up down arrows to navigate down to the two relay fields b Select one of the two relays and press SET to view the information indicating the cause of the last relay activation if the relay Is presently activated or deactivation if the relay is presently deactivated The display also shows the logic combination mode AND or OR To exit the selected relay field press ESC These information fields are
55. lting from handling use or treatment that are not explicitly mentioned in this manual In particular damages arising from the following causes are excluded from the warranty e Voltage higher than 600V across PV terminals independent or parallel configuration or higher than 900V series configuration Battery reversed polarity across PV input terminals Accidental presence of liquids in the equipment or oxidation due to condensation Damage resulting trom falls mechanical shocks or permanent or excessive vibrations Modifications carried out without the explicit authorisation of Studer Innotec Nuts or screws that have not been tightened sufficiently during the installation or maintenance e Damage due to atmospheric surge voltage lightning e Damage due to inappropriate transportation or packaging e Disappearance of original identification marks Never take off or damage the rating plate showing the serial number lt enables to check and follow up the data specific to each equipment and is vital for any warranty claim 2 4 2 Exclusion of liability The installation commissioning use maintenance and servicing of the VarioString cannot be subject of monitoring by Studer Innotec Therefore we disclaim all responsibility and liability for damage costs or losses resulting from an installation that does not comply with the instructions a faulty operation or inadequate maintenance The use of Studer Innotec equipment is in any case unde
56. lue can be limited by the parameter 14020 By default equalization is forbidden because It is incompatible with gel or AGM type batteries lt may be authorized by parameter 14017 The equalization can also be authorized depending on the setting of the DIP switch inside of the equipment see chap 8 1 Caution the equalization of open liquid electrolyte batteries vented produces highly explosive gas The battery room and or compartment must be adequately ventilated Be careful this charging phase may bring the batteries to voltage levels that can damage a sensitive load connected to the battery Check that the connected loads are compatible with the highest volfage levels possible taking into account any compensation of the temperature sensor A too long or frequent equalization phase can lead to an excessive consumption of electrolyte a premature ageing or destruction of the battery Follow scrupulously the instructions and recommendations of your battery supplier Incorrect values which do not comply with the manufacturers instructions can lead to a premature ageing and even the destruction of the batteries For more information contact your battery supplier who will inform you on the values to be applied for their products 7 2 5 Temperature compensation If a BIS O1 or BSP 500 1200 temperature sensor is used the voltage adjustment thresholds for charging the battery absorption equalization floating are automatically co
57. main on the installation site at the disposal of the maintenance personnel User manual V 1 2 1 23 Studer Innotec SA VarioString Pos n 1 Function OFF DIP switches not taken into account Default parameters or those set by the remote control RCC 02 03 are active DIP switches are taken info account If authorized by 14174 DIP switches no 2 3 and 4 allow the battery cycle to be modified as per the table below in order to adapt if to the various types of most common lead acid batteries The following values are for a 48V syst Battery type Floating Absorption Equalization 30min voltage voltage period OFF 54 4V 57 6V 2h F No No gt 3 o O O 2 Z geg z zm O O O O 53 6V 57 2V 2h NO 3 7 Sealed w o abs 544vV equalization manual equalization Open reduced 63 2 V 1 20 days voltage manval If a VarioString is interconnected communication to an Xtender inverter charger the VarioString battery cycle will be automatically synchronized with the cycle of the Xtender in the system This function may be disabled by parameter 14036 O O 2 7 27 O O Z EE Z Z When several VarioStrings are interconnected communication and linked to the same battery differences in production power are normal especially in the following cases e The units are in voltage regulation phase absorption equalization floating and in this case the current dis
58. n bus to other VarioStrings or to other equipment such as the RCC the BSP or the Xcom having the proprietary protocol of Studer Innotec In this case the installation should be stopped and de energized the protection devices of power sources and loads should be open to complete the cable connection and positioning of the termination switches of all the devices connected to the communication bus The termination switch of the Communication bus Com Bus 9 remains in position T terminated except when both connectors are used In this case and only in this case the switch must be placed in the O open position If one of the two connectors is not used the termination switch 9 will be in position T The max accumulated length of the communication bus is 300m Due to a line voltage drop it is recommended to install only one RCC module at the end of a 300m line or a max of 2 modules at the end of a 150m line All the other modules of the system must be placed within the same radius of a few meters technical room A maximum of 3 RCC 02 03 Xcom 232i may be connected to the same communication line with a VarioString If a VarioString is connected to another compatible device Xtender VarioTrack BSP RCC Xcom with the same communication bus it is highly recommended to make a software update of all components in the system in order to guarantee all functionalities User manual V 1 2 1 17 Studer Innotec SA VarioString
59. n temperature for the auxiliary contact 14106 14158 5 C 8 4 7 6 Contacts activated on the battery s state of charge SOC 14108 14160 only available in the presence of a BSP You can activate the auxiliary contacts according to the state of charge of the battery SOC If the SOC falls below the set level the contact will be activated A time period can be associated with the SOC level to stipulate that the battery must be below the set level a certain time before the contact is activated Three voltage limits with associated delay periods are available for programming The contact is deactivated when the battery s SOC rise above the pre set level which can also be associated with a time period The contact may also be deactivated when the battery reaches the floating phase e Contact activated at SOC 1 14109 14161 no e Contact activated below SOC 1 14110 14162 50 SOC e Delay 1 14111 14163 12 h e Contact activated at SOC 2 14112 14164 no e Contact activated below SOC 2 14113 14165 30 e Delay 2 14114 14166 0 2 h e Contact activated at SOC 3 14115 14167 no e Contact activated below SOC 3 14116 14168 20 e Delay 3 14117 14169 0 h e Contact deactivated below SOC 14118 14170 90 SOC e Deactivation time 14119 14171 0 2 h e Deactivation if the battery is in floating phase 14120 14172 no 8 4 7 7 Reset all settings 14121 14173 This parameter is used to ca
60. ncel all the programming that has been made on the corresponding auxiliary contact Once this parameter is executed the auxiliary contact will not activate Caution this parameter cannot be cancelled User manual V 1 2 1 39 Studer Innotec SA VarioString Use this parameter before programming any functions in the auxiliary contact This way you are sure that you begin programming without any previous programming that will activate the contact involuntarily 9 ACCESSORIES 9 1 REMOTE CONTROL AND PROGRAMMING CENTRE RCC 02 03 This accessory is an important complement to the VarioString lt can be connected via one of the two communication connectors Com Bus 7 see chap 4 1 Elements of the cable compartment thanks to the cable supplied with the remote control When the remote control RCC 02 03 is connected fo another compatible device Xtender VarioString BSP Xcom or other with the same communication bus is possible that the software versions are not compatible It is highly recommended to make software update of all components in the system in order to guarantee all functionalities Therefore before starting the setup of the device download the latest software version from our website www studer innotec com on an SD card Follow the instructions in the RCC manual for a successful installation EN These connectors must be used only to connect a compatible Xtender accessory The remote control RCC 02 03 is com
61. nfigured simply allowing charge behaviours that meet perfectly the requirements of most lead acid batteries This configuration can be carried out using the DIP switches 9 inside of the equipment to set the various configurations according to the position of each DIP switch Before opening the Variolrack it is absolutely mandatory to disconnect all DC sources battery and PV from the equipment to avoid any danger After disconnection it is necessary to wait at least 5 minutes before opening the equipment in order to guarantee that dangerous internal residual voltages have disappeared It is also possible to make configurations specific to particular requirements of the system thanks to the remote control RCC 02 03 described in the following chapter If an Xtender inverter charger is interconnected communication to a VarioString the Xtender battery cycle will be imposed to the VarioString of the system This function may be disabled by parameter 14036 If no Xtender is connected to the VarioString the latter uses its own setting In the case of an installation with several VarioStrings the battery Cycle is also automatically synchronized 8 1 CONFIGURING THE EQUIPMENT BY MEANS OF THE INTERNAL DIP SWITCHES Basic settings of the device can be entered manually with the aide of the DIP switch This setting is only possible if the parameter 14174 permits it The following table provides an overview of the functions associated with
62. ogress to assume the final values of the floating voltage phase If the battery voltage level is higher the charger momentarily switches out until the new target voltage is reached 8 4 5 5 Absorption phase 14007 During this phase the battery accumulates the last percentages of power to be stored This phase takes place at a constant voltage Over the course of this phase the necessary current diminishes 32 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString progressively Therefore the VarioString does not work at the optimal point of the PV generator because all the available PV power Is not required 8 4 5 5 1 Absorption phase allowed 14008 yes This parameter determines whether the absorption phase is carried out or not When this phase is disabled the charger goes directly to the following authorized phase equalization but most often a floating phase 8 4 5 5 2 Absorption voltage 14009 57 6 Vdc Defines the applied voltage during absorption phase 8 4 5 5 3 Force absorption phase 14010 signal This signal starts again an absorption phase from the floating phase The charge indicator 2 flashes 2x indicating that the equalization phase is on going 8 4 5 5 4 Absorption duration 14011 120 min Use this parameter to set the absorption duration The absorption phase starts once the set voltage 14009 is reached When the time is over see chap 7 2 2 the charger goes automatically to the following author
63. ond to the programmed value of the parameter 14040 14041 and 14042 checking the state of the earth connection The VarioString turns off It automatically starts again when the normal situation is restored Blinks Power reduction stop This may be due an excessive ambient temperature 3x due to an excessive exposure of the equipment to a heat source sun or temperature in the deficient or impeded ventilation equioment than 68V automatically starts again when voltage returns to a value lower than 64 The PV voltage exceeds the max limit 600V in parallel or OX than the set value of the independent 900V in series The equipment will stop or won t max operating limit start See also chap 4 3 2 Blinks Software incompatibility The different parts of the system s equipment must have the update the procedure in the RCC 02 03 manual ins The PV current is higher The PV current exceeds the max limit in independent or in than the set value of the series 26A in parallel The equipment will stop or won t start max operating limit See also chap 4 3 3 9x modules correspond to the cabling detected by the device 1 Ox 6 5 CHARGING CURRENT INDICATOR 5 6 7 8 9 10 These indicators work asa type of histogram They Indicator nr Sp State Signification _ blink or are lit Continually to indicate the range cuit ____ 120A LED 10 of charge current from the VarioString given the 100 120A
64. ould lead fo slight battery water consumption In this case the charge cycle is kept in floating phase 8 4 5 7 1 Force a new cycle 14028 This parameter enables to force manually a complete charge cycle The VarioString switches immediately to the bulk phase 8 4 5 7 2 Conditions for a new cycle A new battery cycle will be triggered if one or the other 2 conditions defined by a period of time during which the battery voltage is lower than a threshold is met These 2 voltages related to 2 durations are configurable Usually a higher voltage is used for a longer duration and a lower voltage for a shorter duration Voltage level 1 to start a new cycle 14029 48 8 Vdc Time period under voltage level 1 to start a new cycle 14030 30 min Voltage level 2 to start a new cycle 14031 47 2 Vdc Time period under voltage level 2 to start a new cycle 14032 2 sec 8 4 5 7 3 Cycling restricted 14033 yes The repetition of the charge cycles can be limited establishing the minimum time between each cycle using parameter 14034 8 4 5 7 4 Minimal delay between cycles 14034 1 hour Determines the minimum interval time between each cycle when parameter 14033 activates this function If the parameter 14033 is activated and the interval parameter 14034 is set to 24h there will be only one charge cycle per day In this case if the conditions are met for a new cycle it will not take place until the next day and the charg
65. patible with the following equipment e VarioTrack MPPT solar charge controller e VarioString MPPT solar charge controller e Xtender inverter chargers When it is connected to at least one of these three devices if also allows interacting with the other peripherals of an Xtender system i e e Battery Status Processor BSP 500 BSP 1200 e RS 232 communication interface Xcom 2321 e Communication sets Xcom LAN GSM It allows the following functionalities for all the connected and compatible equipment e Setting the various operating parameters for the connected equipment e Displaying the operating synoptic for each part of the equipment e Displaying several operating quantities measured or calculated Current Voltage Power etc for each apparatus Updating the software or implementing tailored software Backing up restoring system parameters configuration Loading a parameter file configuration Storing error message history for each device Recording VarioString s data and other information essential for the system see chapter Data recorder p 23 in the RCC manual 40 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString RCC 02 RCC 03 Remote Control Centre CC 02 e Functionalities of the RCC 02 and RCC 03 units are equivalent They differ only in their external aspect Ihe RCC 02 is designed for wall mounting whereas the RCC 03 is designed for board mounting Model RCC 03 must be removed from the boar
66. r and the charge regulator This device must be supplied by the installer PV modules are often exposed to stormy weather It is highly recommended to install lightning protection see chap 4 5 4 3 6 Cable cross section and connection The connection cable cross section must be chosen according to the short circuit current of the PV generator and the local installation rules The Sunclix fype PV connectors do not need any special tools for mounting They accept cables between 2 5 and mm2 exterior cross section of 5 to 8mm 2 The length of cable to strip to attach the Sunclix connector is 15mm 4 3 7 Parallel connection of several VarioString As many VarioString as necessary can be connected in parallel on the same battery bank according to the battery capacity Each will have its own independent solar generator connected in independent parallel or series configuration and include its own disconnection and protection device to the battery Under no circumstances should PV module inputs of several VarioString be put in parallel Up to 15 VarioString could be synchronized and interconnected to the same communication bus see chap 4 6 on a single system Beyond these 15 units any additional unit will not be interconnected and thus their battery cycles will work independently Solar generators may be of various types and be orientated differently Each VarioString will adjust the optimum point of the PV generator independently of t
67. r the responsibility of the customer This equipment is neither designed nor guaranteed fo supply installations used for vital medical care nor any other critical installation entailing potential risks of important damage to people or to the environment We assume no responsibility for the infringement of patent rights or other third parties rights resulting from the use of the MPPT solar charge controller VarioString Studer Innotec reserves the right to make any modifications to the product without prior notification Studer Innotec is not liable for incidental direct or indirect damages of any kind including any profit loss revenue loss or damages caused to equipment or goods due to defective equipment User manual V 1 2 1 7 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 2 5 WARNINGS AND GUIDELINES The installation and commissioning of the VarioString must be entrusted to skilled and qualified personnel perfectly aware of the safety precautions and local rules in force All elements connected to the VarioString must comply with the laws and regulations in force HIGH VOLTAGE DC INSIDE THE CHARGE REGULATOR DANGER OF DEATH When the VarioString is in operation it generates voltages that can be potentially lethal up to 1000Vdc Any work on or close to the installation must only be carried out by thoroughly trained and qualified personnel Do not try to carry out ordinary maintenance on this product yourself While working on the electrical insta
68. r plastic grate which gives access to the cabling compartment Carefully fix the device to the support with two screws 6 8 mm in diameter using the two mounting holes located at the bottom left and right of the cabling compartment The VarioString must be installed vertically A distance of at least 5cm between the units and or 20cm around the equipment is required fo guarantee adequate ventilation If the VarioString is installed in a closed 5cm cabinet it must have a 20cm sufficient ventilation to ww D emm guarantee that the eh e ambient temperature s kept within the 4 2 operating limits of the VarioString 1 In motor vehicles or when the support undergoes significant vibrations the VarioString is to be mounted on anti vibration elements ai e User manual V 1 2 1 9 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 4 WIRING The connection of the VarioString charger is an important step of the installation It may only be carried out by qualified personnel aware of the rules and regulations in force The installation must always comply with these standards The cross sections of the cables connected fo Its terminals must comply with local regulations All cables in use should be isolated with PVC TFE PTFE FEP neoprene or polyimide Make sure that connections are completely tightened and that each wire is connected at the right place The VarioString i
69. rade of the installation must then be carried out by means of the RCC 02 03 remote control using the latest manufacturer s software version read the user manual for the control and monitoring unit REC 02 03 to carry out this operation 4 3 8 Extension of an existing installation In interconnected installations if the software is compatible if is possible to extend an existing installation by adding one or several up to 15 VarioString units in parallel 4 4 EARTHING The VarioString is a Class protection equipment 15 metal case must be earthed by means of the grounding screw included for that purpose L D protective earth connected to the enclosure of the equipment The solar generator as well as its wiring must be Class Il isolated The cross section of the earthed cable must be less than 16mm2 The whole solar system must be installed according to protection class I In any case the protective earth must be connected in accordance with local standards and regulations in force The protective earth of the equipment must at least be connected to the earthed ground of all the Class equipment after and before VarioString equipotential connection The information notes recommendations and diagrams reported in this manual are subject to local installation rules The installer is responsible for the conformity of the installation with the local standards in force 16 V 1 2 1 User manu
70. ring night mode AUX 1 Activation time for the auxiliary relay in night mode 1 min Z O 2 he Z Z 2 7 DI Ge 13d O O O O O 14076 AUX 1 1 min Expert 14078 VarioString is OFF AUX 1 Expert 14079 Battery undervoltage AUX 1 Exper Battery overvoltage AUX 1 Expert 14081 Earth fault AUX 1 Exper PV error 48h without charge AUX 1 Exper Overtemperature AUX 1 Exper Bulk charge phase AUX 1 Exper Absorption phase AUX 1 Expert Equalization phase AUX 1 Expert Floating AUX 1 Expert 14088 Reduced floating AUX 1 Expert 14089 Periodic absorption AUX 1 Expert 14091 Battery voltage 1 activate AUX 1 Expert Battery voltage 1 AUX 1 46 8 Vdc Expert 14093 Delay 1 AUX 1 1 min Expert Battery voltage 2 activate AUX 1 Expert 14095 Battery voltage 2 AUX 1 47 8 Exper Delay 2 AUX 1 10 min Exper Battery voltage 3 activate AUX 1 Exper Battery voltage 3 AUX 1 48 5 Vdc Expert Delay 3 AUX 1 60 min Exper Battery voltage to deactivate AUX 1 54 Vdc Exper Delay to deactivate AUX 1 60 min Expert Deactivate if battery in floating phase AUX 1 Expert 14104 Contact activated with the temperature of battery NE AUX 1 Exper Expert 14106 Contact deactivated below AUX 1 Only activated If the battery Is not in bulk phase O N Exper AUX 1 Exper No Expert 1
71. rrected in real time according to the battery temperature The value of this compensation in mV C cell for a reference temperature of 25 C is set by parameter 14035 to 3mV C cell For example for a 48V battery 24 cells of 2V at a temperature of 30 C the voltage compensation is 30 25 24 3 1000 0 36V For a floating voltage value 14005 set to 54 4 V the effective floating voltage compensated will be 54 0 V 7 3 DEFAULT BATTERY CHARGE CYCLE ORIGINAL SETTINGS The charge cycle set by default does not allow the 3 3 equalization phase and carries out only phase 1 bulk 2 QUY 07 absorption and 4 floating as per the figure to the right Ubatt M 21 a These factory parameter values of the VarioString are adapted to open lead acid batteries with no equalization with an absorption voltage of 57 6V for 2h and a floating voltage of 54 4V equivalent to the off position of the DIP t h switches n 2 3 and 4 when the VarioString is configured using the internal DIP switch 7 4 RECOVERY AFTER DEEP DISCHARGE If the batteries are subjected to a deep discharge the VarioString is capable of recharging them as long as the battery voltage is above 18V The recharge battery current is limited to 40A until the battery voltage reaches 38V Then the VarioString can work at full power 22 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 CONFIGURING THE VARIOSTRING S The VarioString can be co
72. s intended to be connected exclusively to a source like a photovoltaic generator excluding any other energy source It is suitable for charging any type of lead acid batteries It is offen possible to charge any other type of battery using proper settings and with the express approval of the battery supplier The connection compartment of the VarioString must remain permanently closed while the apparatus is operating Before opening check that all voltage sources battery and PV have been disconnected or switched off and wait for at least 5 minutes before opening the equipment It is imperative to close the protection cover on the connection terminals after each servicing This connection must be done using a protection and disconnection device if the pole has not been earthed For mounting of the internal fuse refer to sect 4 2 2 Terminal to connect the battery This connection must be done using a protection 2 negative pole M8 8Nm torque PG 21 and disconnection device if the pole has not 13 18mm been earthed Terminal to connect the battery positive pole 8Nm torque PG 21 13 18mm solar generator n 2 Connector Sunclix for positive pole of solar generator n 2 5 Connector Sunclix for negative pole of solar generator n 1 1 Connector Sunclix for negative pole of The solar generator wiring must be carried out in compliance with the voltage and current limits mentioned on the rating plate Conne
73. ses its stored values The parameters factory values of the equipment are equivalent to the values set when all the DIP switches are in OFF position i e adapted to an open battery without equalization with an absorption voltage of 57 6V during 2h and a floating voltage of 54 4V 28 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString The parameter values can be modified using the RCC and are stored and applied by the VarioString When the remote control RCC is connected to the VarioString by the communication bus it is possible that the software versions are not compatible It is highly recommended to Update the software of all components in the system in order fo guarantee all functionalities Therefore before starting the setup of the device download the latest software version from our website www studer innotec com on an SD card Follow the Instructions in the RCC manual for a successful installation 8 3 1 The real time clock The VarioString features a real time clock that allows among others to have a correct date and hour for the RCC records This clock must be set using the remote control RCC 02 03 Thanks to an internal battery this setting is retained even when the equipment is disconnected from its voltage source battery or PV 8 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIOSTRING PARAMETERS The parameters of the VarioString can be modified in the menu VarioString MPPT setting of the RCC remote control This menu allows access
74. shicted Yes Expert 14034 Minimal delay between cycles Thours Expert 14085 Temperature compensation 3mv Cicel Basic _ 14036 Synchronisation battery cycle with Xtender Yes Expert 14088 ON of the VarioSting ll Expert 14089 OFF of the VarioSting ll Expert 14040 Type of battery grounding Noconto Expert 14041 Type of PV grounding Noconto Expert 14042 Type of PV2 grounding Noconto Expert 14043 Type of MPP tracking algorithm PV Expert 14044 PV voltage fixed for PV in series 700 Vde Expert 14045 Ratio of PV open circuit voltage 07 _ ____ Expert 14046 Type of MPP tracking algorithm PV2 Expert 14047 PV2 voltage fixed 500 Vde ___ Expert 14048 Ratio of PV2 open circuit voltage 07 Inst 14051 Reset daily solar production meters ll Inst 14052 Reset daily min max Expert 14059 Reset of all VarioSting ll Basic _ 14067 Restore default settings ll Inst 14068 Restore factory settings ll Inst 14069 Parameters saved in flash memory Yes 7 Expert_ 14071 Operating mode AUXI Automatic ____ 46 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString User value User Level ref Parameter Factory value Combination of the events for the auxiliary contact Any Function AUX 1 OR Expert 14072 Expert 14074 Activated in night mode AUX 1 Expert 14075 Delay of activation after ente
75. size the section of the battery cables Any other sources or loads existing on the battery must be connected using their own protection devices Never connect them to the protection device s of the VarioString An annual check of all the connection tightness is recommended In mobile installations the connection tightness should be checked more often Battery cables must always be protected by one of the following measures Have a protection and disconnection device fuse circuit breaker on the pole not connected to earth he protection device must be rated according to the cable cross section but must not exceed 1 25 x VarioString maximum current It will be mounted as close as possible to the battery User manual V 1 2 1 13 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 4 3 PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATOR PV The VarioString may accept the following maximum input voltages e 600 V max for independent and parallel cabling e 900 V max for series cabling A The whole solar system must be installed according to protection class Il 4 3 1 Dimensioning The solar generator is dimensioned to cover an important part or the entire power requirement of the system Once the power has been decided upon it will be distributed among one or more solar charge regulators wisely combining the modules among them These combinations in series and in parallel must be carried out according to the voltage and current limits of the VarioString solar charge controll
76. t always have isolated handles and never be placed on top of a battery When working with the batteries all metal jewellery such as rings watches with a metal bracelet earrings etc must be taken off The current supplied by the batteries during a short circuit is sufficiently powerful to melt the metal and cause severe burns Batteries at the end of their life cycle should be recycled in accordance with directives from the responsible local authorities or the battery supplier The batteries should never be thrown into fire as they may explode Under no circumstances should you try to take apart or dismount the battery as they contain toxic and polluting materials For ungrounded battery systems always check that they are not inadvertently grounded before starting working on the batteries Always follow carefully the instructions of the battery manufacturer If the battery voltage exceeds the value of 68V the charger turns off and starts again when the voltage is lower than 64V A battery voltage higher than 80V can cause important damage or destroy the equipment Such a voltage applied on equipment connected downstream like Xtender inverters chargers or other can cause important damage or destroy the equipment 12 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 4 2 2 Connecting the battery All connection cables as well as the battery cables must be mounted using cable restraints in order to avoid any pulling on the conn
77. tage measurement once every 5 minutes and fixes the working voltage at a point proportional to the measurement The measurement lasts 2 seconds Ratio of PV open circuit voltage 14045 0 7 This parameter fixes the operating point according to the measured open circuit voltage The measured open circuit voltage is multiplied by this ratio to calculate the operating point ex the measured open circuit voltage is 500V Ratio 0 7 the operating point will be 500x0 7 350V fixed with this mode the VarioString fixes the PV operating voltage and it does not vary PV voltage fixed for PV in series 14044 700 Vdc PV voltage fixed for PV in parallel 14179 500 Vdc These parameters allow to set the voltage value at which you wish to set the operating point 8 4 6 4 2 Type of MPP tracking algorithm PV1 14176 P amp O and Type of MPP tracking algorithm PV2 14046 P amp O Same as the preceding parameter but for when the PV1 and PV2 inputs are used independently 8 4 6 5 PV wiring type erased from memory 14190 This parameter resets the type of PV wiring detected by the VarioString 8 4 6 6 8 4 6 7 8 4 6 8 8 4 6 9 Restore default settings 14067 See basic parameters chap 8 4 4 4 8 4 6 10 8 4 6 11 This parameter allows you to determine if the parameters modified within your system should be saved or not to the flash memory With the objective to increase the useful life of the flash memory in the case of repeated
78. tribution may be very uneven This situation is normal and has no influence on the system efficiency The equipment is in a bulk phase in this case the difference is due to the difference in size orientation cleanness shade or any other situation that may influence the production capacity of the solar generator This situation may require the generator to be checked in order to clear remedy the possible fault DIP switches 7 and 8 allow the definition of the topology of the PV module connections which can be done in 3 different ways on the VarioString independent each string of PV modules connected to one VarioString PV input in series or in parallel With the automatic position the VarioString will determine Itself fhe connection topology In this case the VarioString will perform a cabling test when it detects a voltage at both the PV inputs Or if a voltage at only 1 PV input is detected the test begins after 15 minutes The automatic detection requires a certain power level to be available In the case of system commissioning at night or with a very low insolation the test will be postponed until the necessary conditions are present Posne Connection mode of the e 7 Je MPPTinputs DH OFF OFF ON OFF eet OFF ON ON ON 24 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString Connection of multiple VarioString When several VarioStrings are interconnected by the communication bus and to the same ba
79. ttery if the DIP switch is used if is imperative that the DIP switch settings are consistent among the VarioString The following table shows which DIP switch positions should be identical when more than one VarioString is connected together Position Function Constraint it multiple VarioString Activation of DIP switch of authorized by 14174 Identical for all 2 10 4 Configuration of battery cycle Identical for 510 6 Reserved Configuration of cabling of PV modules Can be different Only the configuration of the cabling of the MPPT inputs can be different from one VarioString to another The battery charge cycle should be configured the same one common battery for all the VarioStrings The battery charge cycle will therefore be automatically synchronized in all the devices Blockage of the DIP switch Settings defined by the position of the DIP switches may be inhibited disabled with parameter 14174 using the remote control RCC 02 03 The VarioString s operation will then be defined only by the parameter values set by default or by the RCC remote control 8 2 DISPLAYING THE EQUIPMENT STATUS USING THE REMOTE CONTROL RCC 02 03 8 2 1 Displaying the status of a single unit system A larioString The VarioString screen allows displaying six values in real time Four Mar Phas Bulk values a can be chosen among many measured and calculated ol 43 El values indicated in the table below and two show
80. ualization cycle if this phase is authorized by the initial settings of the equipment The equalization phase will be authorized as from the beep after having pressed the Set button 4 for 2 seconds The Charge light indicator Equalization 3x flashes 3x as long as the equalization phase is not completed The equalization can be interrupted by pressing a second time for 2 seconds a double beep indicates that the function has been cancelled The indicator 2 stops flashing 3x confirming the cancellation eg SWISS Pressing the Set button 4 for 5 seconds until the second beep turns off the VarioString It starts again by pressing the Set button for 5 seconds Night When the VarioStrings s are connected to an Xtender system and the synchronization 10037 is activated the manual equalization can be started only during the battery cycle of the Xtender which will then pilot the VarioString fo carry out an equalization phase In synchronized mode the cycle state floating absorption equalization are indicated The charge LED 2 and the indicator for the amount of charge are used when the equipment is operating 6 2 NIGHT STANDBY INDICATOR 1 This green indicator lights up when the VarioString is connected to a battery and ready to operate but there is no PV voltage at night or when no PV module is connected or it is too low inferior to the battery voltage This indicator flashes
81. ult 8 4 7 3 7 PV error 48h without charge 14082 14134 no The contact is activated in case the battery has not been charged in the last 48 hours 8 4 7 3 8 Overtemperature 14083 14135 The contact is activated in the event of over temperature of the device 8 4 7 3 9 Bulk charge phase 14084 14136 no The auxiliary contact 5 activated if the battery is charging in the bulk phase 8 4 7 3 10 Absorption phase 14085 14137 no The auxiliary contact is activated if the battery is charging in the absorption phase 8 4 7 3 11 Equalization phase 14086 14138 no The auxiliary contact is activated if the battery is charging in the equalization phase 8 4 7 3 12 Floating phase 14087 14139 no The auxiliary contact is activated if the battery is charging in the floating phase 8 4 7 3 13 Reduced floating phase 14088 14140 no and 8 4 7 3 14 Periodic absorption phase 14089 14141 no You can activate the auxiliary contacts on the reduced floating phase and periodic absorption phase in presence of an Xtender and synchronised with the battery cycle 8 4 7 4 Contacts activated by the battery voltage 14090 14142 These parameters activate the auxiliary contacts if the voltage drops below a pre defined voltage level during a set time period It is possible to define three voltages linked with three time periods to activate the auxiliary contact 38 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA V
82. urs hydrogen oxygen Follow carefully all the instructions of the battery manufacturer regarding this phase In any case make sure that the battery room is adequately ventilated Equalization reduces the battery water level check it regularly 8 4 5 6 1 Equalization allowed 14017 no Determines whether the equalization phase triggered manually or automatically is allowed or not 8 4 5 6 2 Force equalization 14018 Use this parameter to manually start the equalization phase It is only possible to force an equalization phase when if is authorized by 1401 7 User manual V 1 2 1 33 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 5 6 3 Equalization voltage 14021 62 4 Vdc This parameter determines the maximum voltage during the equalization phase This voltage Is corrected by the temperature compensation factor 14035 if a temperature sensor BTS 01 or BSP is installed in the system Once equalization phase is initiated disabling the phase does not stop the equalization To stop the equalization force the transition into floating 10006 absorption 10010 or a new cycle 10029 It is also possible to interrupt the equalization by pressing the SET button for more than 2 seconds procedure described in chap 6 1 8 4 5 6 4 Equalization current 14020 80 Adc The equalization phase can be carried out with a limited current that can be adjusted using this parameter In any case the current does not exceed the bulk
83. vate the contacts are e Simple events e Scheduled events Level 2 Combinaison de SE S des v nements commutation Contact In the following descriptions 3 A 5 simple Manuel ON i 1 3 I each parameter has two S reference numbers The G Ev nement Manuel OFF N reference number on the left 5 _planifi ON refers to the auxiliary contact e Programme 1 and the reference number 5 gue on the right refers to the E auxiliary contact 2 reference auxiliary contact 1 reference auxiliary contact 2 8 4 7 1 Operating mode 14071 14123 automatic The auxiliary contact can be controlled in 4 different ways Manual ON in this mode the contact is permanently activated ON whatever the external conditions or programming Manual OFF in this mode the contact is permanently deactivated OFF whatever the external conditions or programming Automatic in this mode the auxiliary contact 5 activated according to the conditions and restrictions of its programming Reversed automatic in this mode the conditions and restrictions define the deactivation of the relay 8 4 7 2 Combination of the events for the auxiliary contact 14072 14124 first active OR This parameter defines how various events intended to activate the auxiliary contact are combined he contact can be activated either by a single event OR function or by all events being fulfilled at the same tim
84. visible even if the auxiliary relay ARM 02 see chapter 9 3 is not connected 8 2 2 Displaying the operating mode of the equipment Info n 15013 15014 15015 Night the solar generator voltage or luminous intensity is not enough fo start the equipment When this indication appears during the day it means a generator fault wiring Charge the charger operates normally at the maximum power point of the solar generator Charge U the VarioString operates in voltage regulation absorption equalization or floating In this status it is normal to see a current lower than the maximum possible Charge I the VarioString has reached the maximum allowed current fixed by the parameter 14001 battery charge current In this status the power of the generator is limited to a lower value then the maximum possible Charge T the maximum permissible temperature of the VarioString is reached and the power is limited by the temperature This status is not a problem but may highlight that the system performances could be enhanced by reducing ambient temperature Charge P the max power of the VarioString is reached 7000W This mode is also shown if one of the two MPPT inputs reaches 15 maximum power in independent mode 3500W Charge Ipv the max current is reached for one of the two MPPT inputs 13 Security the equipment turns off due to a fault normally indicated by a message on the RCC or by the error indicator 3 on
85. w AUX 2 Only activated if the battery is not in bulk phase Expert 14159 AUX 2 Expert 14161 Contact activated with the SOC 1 of battery AUX 2 Expert 14162 Contact activated below SOC 1 AUX 2 Expert 14163 Delay 1 AUX 2 Exper 1 ontact activated with the SOC 2 of battery AUX 2 Expert 14165 Contact activated below SOC 2 AUX 2 Exper 6 elay 2 AUX 2 Expert 14167 Contact activated with the SOC 3 of battery AUX 2 Exper 4168 Contact activated below SOC 3 AUX 2 Expert 14169 Delay 3 AUX 2 A A ON 00 On Exper Expert 14171 Exper Exper Expert 14174 Block manual programming dip switch 1 2 1 Factory value Any Function OR 5 C 1 min 1 min 46 8 Vdc 1 min 47 8 Vdc 10 min 48 5 Vdc 60 min 54 Vdc 60 min 2 N 50 SOC Z 30 0 2 h N 20 70 78 SOC 0 2 h User value User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString User Level ref Parameter Factory value Expert 14175 Type of PVI grounding No control 14176 Type of MPP tracking algorithm PV 14177 PV1 voltage fixed 500 Vdc 500 Vde inst ns 14190 PV wiring type erased from memory P amp O 14178 Ratio of open circuit voltage 0 7 No No User manual V 1 2 1 49 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 16 TECHNICAL DATA 16 1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Weight KG 16 2 INPUT PV GENERATOR Maximum solar power recommended STC Parallel or
86. when there is a PV voltage but it is insufficient to charge the batteries at the beginning or at the end of the day In order to save the battery power the VarioString charger turns off and goes in standby mode when this indicator lights up or flashes It will then consume less than 1W The charger automatically switches on again when the sun starts shining and PV voltage goes back above the battery voltage 6 3 CHARGE CYCLE INDICATOR 2 This yellow indicator lights up when the sun is shining and the photovoltaic generator produces enough voltage for charging the batteries Various flashing modes enable to distinguish in what phase the regulator is This indicator lights up continuously during the bulk phase It flashes 1x during the floating phase 2x during the absorption phase and 3x during the equalization phase In synchronized mode the cycle state bulk floating absorption equalization are indicated User manual V 1 2 1 19 Studer Innotec SA VarioString 6 4 ERROR INDICATOR 3 The table below describes the type of error according to the number of times this indicator blinks red Indicated error Comment No problem If no indicator lights up the equipment is de energized The equipment is energized but it does not operate because of a user command the Set button has been pressed for 5s 1x warming lower than 40V Blinks Earth fault The VarioString detects an abnormal situation which does not 2X corresp
87. writing to it this parameter should be deactivated no for example if the VarioString is piloted by an external control and supervision system SCADA 36 V 1 2 1 User manual Studer Innotec SA VarioString 8 4 6 12 ON of the VarioString 14038 This parameter allows to turn on all the VarioString in the system 8 4 6 13 OFF of the VarioString 14039 This parameter allows to turn off all the VarioString in the system 8 4 6 14 Reset of all VarioString 14059 This parameter allows fo restart all the VarioString in the system 8 4 7 Auxiliary contacts 1 14070 and 2 14122 When connected to the ARM 02 module see chap 9 3 42 the solar charge controller VarioString has two additional external auxiliary relays with potential free dry reversing contacts These two relays make it possible to realize multiple functions with appropriate cabling and simple programming The programming of each Combinaison Mode contact is made Ev nement v nements aa 1 t un independently The auxiliary 2 PS ManuelON_ 3 contacts are activated and O e gt deactivated with 2second 5 Ev nement Mer o delay to avoid too frequent 8 switching Niveau The auxiliary contacts react to different types signals Oe ze graphically illustrated below Basic events that acti

VarioString - Studer Innotec

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