DC Cabling

DC Cabling

DC wiring includes the positive and negative conductors from the battery(s) as well as a disconnect device and over-current protection. Locate your battery(s) as close as possible to your inverter (or vice-versa) to reduce energy losses caused by cable resistance. Cables should be as short as possible (5-10 feet) and large enough to handle the required current, in accordance with the electrical codes or regulations applicable to your installation. The connectors on the inverter/charger are designed to fit up to 500 MCM crimp-on ring terminals (either AMP or ILSCO) or box connectors.

Do not route your DC wiring through an electrical distribution panel, battery isolator, or other device that will add additional voltage drops.

DC Over-Current Protection

Installation codes require over-current protection for battery cables, installed as close as possible to the battery, in the positive side of the circuit. The current rating of this DC fuse or circuit breaker must be large enough to allow the Prosine inverter/charger to operate your loads, but if the rating is too high, electrical codes will require you to use larger DC cables than you would otherwise have to. The fuse or circuit breaker must be rated for use on DC circuits. Fuses or circuit breakers rated only for AC service are not suitable for use on DC circuits and may pose a hazard. The wire size used between the inverter/charger and the fuse or circuit breaker must be sized to match the fuse or circuit breaker's current rating, in accordance with the electrical codes or regulations applicable to your installation.

The following table outlines the minimum DC cable size and maximum fuse size required for some common installation codes. There may be other codes and regulations applicable to your installation.

 

Marine Installation

RV Installation

Residential Installation

 

See footnote a.

See footnote b.

See footnote c.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Model

Wire Size

Fuse Size

Wire Size

Fuse Size

Wire Size

Fuse Size

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prosine 2.5/12

# 2/0 AWG

350A

# 3/0 AWG

350A

350 MCM

350A

Prosine 2.5/24

# 4AWG

175A

# 3 AWG

175A

# 2/0 AWG

175A

Prosine 3.0/12

# 3/0AWG

450A

# 4/0 AWG

450A

500 MCM

400A

Prosine 3.0/24

# 2AWG

250A

# 2 AWG

200A

# 3/0 AWG

200A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

a. Based on ABYC Recommended Practice E-9, 75C wire, no conduit. b. Based on the NEC, NFPA 70, Article 551, 90C wire.

c. Based on NFPA 70, Article 240 and 310, 75C wire, wire in conduit. If your installation code allows you to wire in free air, then the following table applies. NOTE: This table applies to residential installations only.

Model

Wire Size

Fuse Size

 

 

(Amps DC)

 

 

 

Prosine 2.5/12

# 3/0 AWG

350A

 

 

 

Prosine 2.5/24

# 2 AWG

175A

 

 

 

Prosine 3.0/12

250 MCM

450A

 

 

 

Prosine 3.0/24

# 1 AWG

200A

 

 

 

What the above tables do not take into account, however, is voltage drop associated with greater cable lengths. It is always best to use oversize cables to reduce voltage drop and improve inverter performance.

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Prosine Installation & Operation Guide

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Xantrex Technology PS3.0, PS2.5 installation and operation guide DC Cabling, DC Over-Current Protection, Wire Size Fuse Size

PS3.0, PS2.5 specifications

Xantrex Technology has made significant strides in the power electronics sector with the introduction of their PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverter models. These inverters are designed primarily for solar energy applications, offering reliable and efficient power conversion for residential and commercial solar installations. The PS series stands out in the market due to its advanced features, innovative technologies, and user-friendly characteristics.

One of the main features of the Xantrex PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverters is their high efficiency rating, typically above 97%. This means that a minimal amount of energy is lost during conversion, allowing users to maximize their solar energy utilization. Additionally, these inverters come with a wide input voltage range, making them versatile and capable of handling various solar panel configurations.

Both models are equipped with advanced MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology. This feature optimizes the energy output from solar panels by constantly adjusting the operating point to ensure maximum power is extracted, even in variable weather conditions or partial shading. This capability significantly enhances the overall energy harvest from solar systems.

Another notable characteristic is their compact and lightweight design, which facilitates easy installation and integration into existing systems. The inverters are also designed with robust thermal management solutions, ensuring they operate effectively even in high-temperature environments. This durability extends their lifespan and increases reliability, critical factors for any solar installation.

Xantrex has also prioritized user experience with the PS2.5 and PS3.0 models by providing a built-in monitoring system. Users can access real-time data on energy production, performance metrics, and system status through a user-friendly interface. This connectivity allows for quick troubleshooting and maintenance, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of solar energy systems.

Safety is paramount in the design of these inverters. They meet stringent international safety standards and come equipped with comprehensive protection features, including over-voltage, under-voltage, and short-circuit protection. This ensures the inverter operates safely, protecting both the user and the connected solar array.

In summary, Xantrex Technology's PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverters are engineered with cutting-edge features and technologies that cater to the evolving needs of solar energy users. Their efficiency, adaptability, and focus on safety make them an excellent choice for those looking to invest in renewable energy solutions. As the demand for sustainable energy continues to rise, Xantrex is poised to play a significant role in the market with these innovative inverter solutions.