Tigo Access Point (TAP) Communication Cable Types and Installation

Contents: 

1. TAP Communication Cable Requirements
2. Recommended Cable Types
3. Maximum Cable Length Recommendations
4. Using Ethernet Cables (Cat 5 / Cat 6)
5. Installation Tips!

Introduction

This article explains the technical requirements for the cable connecting the Tigo Access Point (TAP) to the Cloud Connect Advanced (CCA) data logger. These requirements also apply to legacy products such as the Gateway and MMU: TAP vs Gateway

For complete installation directions, please see page 12 of the TAP Installation Manual, and feel free to consult with a Tigo Sales Engineer if you have any questions: se@tigoenergy.com

Installation Tip: The wire color sequence on the CCA GATEWAY terminal should match the TAP terminals from left to right.

It is highly recommended that ferrules be used on the wire ends to ensure a tight connection, especially when using CAT5/6. Loose wires are a common cause for service calls.

The TAP is a radio transceiver used with the CCA for monitored Tigo system using the following TS4s:

• TS4-A-O
• TS4-A-S
• TS4-A-M
• TS4-X-O
• TS4-X-S

Note: A TAP can replace the previous datalogger device called a Gateway, but a Gateway cannot replace a TAP.

TAP to CCA Cable Requirements

The cable used to connect a TAP to the CCA must have these features:

• At least 1 Twisted Pair wire (for A and B connections)
• Cable size: 22 AWG to 18 AWG (0.34 to 1 mm²)
• Max TAP cable gland outside diameter: 11/32 inches (0.346"), 9mm 

Always check with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for local wiring requirements, and check the product datasheet for exact and current specifications: TAP Datasheet

Running the TAP cable in the same conduit as the DC homeruns

If the TAP to CCA cable will be run in the same conduit as the inverter DC homeruns, then the TAP cable must be rated to either 600V or 1000V, depending on the application (refer to NEC 300.3(C)). Using lower-rated cable could introduce interference onto the TAP cable and affect normal operation.

Recommended Cable Types

The total wire distance (combined with the number of TAPS per CCA) greatly affects the TAP(s) voltage and current requirements. Tigo strongly recommends an RS-485 conductor for wiring greater than 100 feet from the CCA to the most distant TAP. However, an Ethernet cable (of any Category) may be used for systems with 2 TAPs (or less).

RS-485 Compliant Cables:

The Belden 3107A RS-485 compliant meets the internal component requirements, and fits within the 9mm opening on the TAP. (for a full list, see: Belden's RS-485 offerings)

RS-485 Non-Compliant Cables for cost sensitive applications of Tigo Monitored systems:

Note: We recommend to use Ethernet cables ONLY on systems that have a maximum of 2 TAPs and less than 100 feet to the farthest TAP.

Please read before installing: Using Ethernet Cables (CAT5 / CAT6)

Ethernet Category 5e UTP, CMP

Ethernet Category 5e, UTP, CMR (riser rated)

Commercial systems:

Ethernet cables are strongly discouraged for Commercial applications, as they may have a higher EMI/RFI environment, leading to a higher data corruption.

• Use only shielded RS-485 rated cables for commercial applications.

Maximum Cable Lengths are based on the number of TAPs/CCA:

• The length of a cable, along with its wire size, determines its resistance.
• Longer cables have more resistance.

The following table provides the maximum length recommendations per cable type and number of TAPs.

1. Wire sizes are listed in American Wire Gauge (AWG) and Millimeters (mm).
2. Wire Lengths are listed in Feet (ft) and Meters (m). 

Using Ethernet Cables (Cat 5 / Cat 6) for Residential Systems

1.  A and B signals:  Use 2-wire from the same pair.
2. To minimize voltage drop, extra pairs can be combined for the power signals + and -.
   (This can be helpful for distances over 100 feet, or on systems with 2 or more TAPs.)
3. The picture uses the pair color code of Blue and White/Blue for A and B.

Conductor Installation

STEP 1 Opening and Closing the TAP. Use the left side terminal for CCA to TAP connection.
IMPORTANT! There is a factory-installed termination resistor installed across the A and B on the right-side terminal. If daisy-chaining multiple TAPs, remove this resistor and continue the wiring to the next TAP. The last TAP should have the resistor installed.  Incorrect use of the terminating resistor is a common service call.
Multiple TAP Wiring Terminating resistors removed on all but last TAP
STEP 2   You may remove the terminal for easier wiring, but it is not required.
STEP 3   Run the cable through the left-side cable gland on the bottom of the TAP
STEP 4   Strip 1.25 inches of outer jacket from the cable  Strip 3/8 of an inch of each wire
STEP 5 Loosen the screws until there is space for the wire(s). Insert the wires into the connector and tighten them until a firm tug does not remove them. NOT so tight to cut/break the wire. Press the connector back on to the pins until it contacts the printed circuit board.
STEP 6 Firmly tighten the cable gland to prevent water entry. Close the TAP cover

Mounting the TAP:

1. The TAP is designed to be installed under a solar module (hidden from direct sunlight).
2. The TAP is installed on the PV-Module frame using the mounting clips.
3. Mount the TAP with the label side outward (facing away from the module).
4. If using frameless modules, remove the clips and mount directly to the rail. 
5. Mount the TAP in a centrally located area on the array. The TAP signal emits outward in all directions
6. TAP signal obstructions, including opposing roof angles, drop-roofs, dormers, gables and different levels of panels, etc., may require individual TAPS, in nearly all cases. Contact the Tigo Customer Success team if you have any questions on TAP placement: se@tigoenergy.com

Warning: Do not mount the TAP inside an attic. Material such as roofing, insulation, sheathing and shingles, can present a physical barrier to the signal.

Other resources

Help Center article: TAP Placement and Layout Requirements

Video: Top 5 Installation Tips for the CCA and TAP