Parallux vBoost 250

250-watt DC-to-DC converter module

Designed for use with lower-voltage panels (20 to 50 volts), the vBoost 250 mounts directly on the PV panel rail, connecting with an MC3 or optional MC4 connector. Power and data are carried on a single wire pair with optional MC4 connector.

Features

• Parallel architecture with constant voltage output over entire input power curve
• Direct connection to solar panel MC connector; no additional panel wiring needed
• Complete cable assembly with #10 UL rated PV wire for vBoost unit interconnection and #12 UL wire for connection to PV modules
• Full communications over power line to central module. Collected data includes:
  • Voltage input (from panel)
  • Current input (from panel)
  • Power input (from panel)
  • Voltage output (from vBoost)
  • Current output (from vBoost)
  • Power output (from vBoost)
  • Ambient temperature
  • Unit status
• Auto shut-off when unit is disconnected from inverter/Comm Module
• Watertight NEMA 4 enclosure
• Flexible mount points for connection to any racking system
• High-availability fault tolerant design

Monitor System Performance

As the size of a solar array increases, so does the risk and magnitude of malfunction. Real-time monitoring is essential for ensuring the long-term performance of a solar plant.

eIQ Energy's Parallel Solar architecture provides unprecedented monitoring data. Each vBoost module continuously collects and transmits data on the panel (or panels) to which it is connected; the Parallux Communications Module serves as a data collection point and reporting hub.

The array operator gets per-panel visibility and tracking, as well as the ability to collect diagnostic and maintenance data that can help ensure optimal performance - and ROI - over the array's operational life.

It's one more way that Parallel Solar brings new levels of clarity and confidence to solar array operations.

Safer Solar Power Installation

Solar power arrays carry substantial amounts of electrical power. While their safety record is extremely good, unusual situations (such as component failures, fires or other accidents) have the potential to create situations where repair crews or emergency personnel can be exposed to hazardous current from individual panels or strings.

Not with Parallel Solar. Each vBoost module continuously monitors the array's power bus for the presence of a functioning inverter. If no inverter is present, the vBoost shuts down so that no power is fed from the panel onto the DC bus. No operator intervention is needed.

So should the central inverter fail, or a fire or earthquake damage the array's wiring, repair crews can work around the array with a far higher degree of safety than with traditional series-wired systems.

One more real-world problem solved by Parallel Solar.

Increase Power Production

The ultimate measure of array performance is the AC power produced by the array's inverter. But panel variance makes power point tracking more difficult. This could be a result of direct shading, or other factors such as soiling, panel degradation, or thermal variation across panels. Regardless of the cause, this panel variation causes inefficiency in the global power point.

The vBoost module incorporates Maximum Power Point Tracking right at the panel, so that any underperforming panels no longer drag down the entire system. Each panel maintains peak performance regardless of conditions affecting it or the other panels around it.

Parallel Solar architecture also eliminates voltage swings, so inverters always operate in their "sweet spot." A constant supply voltage also reduces stress on the inverter's critical components, so they last longer and operate at higher efficiency.

Manage String & Panel Mismatch

Running a solar array is a bit like running a small-scale power grid. Each solar panel acts like a power plant, contributing its share to overall capacity.

Utility companies know that electrical grids work best and place the least stress on their components when they run at a constant voltage. Solar panels, however, put out variable voltages, depending on panel type and age, environmental factors like shading, dirt, and temperature, and interaction between panels. In practice, the poorest-performing panels drag down the best, slashing array output and efficiency.

By stepping up and stabilizing the output voltage of every panel, eIQ Energy's vBoost module creates a constant-voltage bus - so the array's inverter always operates at its most efficient point with minimum stress. The Parallel Solar architecture and vBoost's advanced power semiconductor technology let every array operate like a grid

Parallux Communication Module

vBoost data acquisition communications unit

The Parallux Communications Module provides you with access to the operational data from the vBoost units. It is installed on the DC powerline between the solar PV array and the inverter, and reports data directly to the web, with no onsite configuration required. The data is made available to you through a set of web-based interfaces or as a direct download for your own monitoring programs.

Parallux Monitoring System

Web based data analysis interface

The Parallux Monitoring System provides you with state-of-the-art analytics that allow you to more effectively monitor and operate your solar plant. With panel-level data, the monitoring system provides you with unprecedented visibility into the operation and health of your solar plant.

Enhance Analytics