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TAP Placement and Layout

  • Updated

This article covers the TAP placement requirements and layout guidelines. For basic information, refer to TAP Basics - What is a TAP? and Determine Number of TAPs and CCA Units.

 

Contents: 

 

TAP Placement Requirements      

With mesh, the TS4s automatically act as repeaters relaying messages when required. For the signal to make a hop to another TS4, the TS4s must not be more than 10m (33ft) apart.

If there is a gap between arrays of modules, make sure the distance is within the 10 meter limit.

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The maximum range of a TAP, combined with multiple repeater hops, is a maximum of 115ft / 35m. If modules are located farther from the TAP, or if there are physical obstructions in the array (HVAC units, gables, parapets, drop-roofs, dormers, etc), you may be required to use additional TAPs. 

 

PV Module Arrangements Affecting Wireless Communication

Some PV module arrangements will affect the signal strength and/or communication between TAPs and TS4s. Here are some common module position arrangements, and the related concerns:

Excessive Gap Arrangement

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Obstructions Reducing Signal Strength

(Even if the TAP and TS4 are less than the required 10 meters apart)

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Drop roof or height differential

Rooftop obstacles can prevent line-of-sight between a TAP and an MLPE, which reduces the effective communication range. A height change of more than 3 feet (1m) is considered an obstruction of signal. For drop roofs, Tigo suggests adding another TAP to the second level.

 

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Roofing Materials

Roofing materials (like metal or tile) can affect the ability for the system to maintain a quality signal. This is due to the reflective and impenetrable nature of these materials. 

If you are designing a system for a metal or tile roof, please Contact Sales Engineering for suggestions on how to create the most effective design. 

 

TAP Layout

Once you are ready to install a Tigo system, it's time to create a layout of the array(s) with the placement of the TAP(s). This is important, as a good placement will allow your modules to maintain solid communication for both data monitoring and Rapid Shutdown (RSD).

  • Start with a drawing or plan of the system using the CAD tool of your choice. The drawing must show physical scale/dimensions and stringing. Make note of any obstacles which may obscure the wireless signals of the TAPs. 

  • Using the TAP and Mesh guidelines, layout your TAPs across the system and identify how many CCAs and TAPs you will need.

  • Once you have your TAPs and CCAs laid out, assign each string to an individual TAP and CCA.

  • Assign each inverter to a single CCA (unless you are using central inverters). Do not split a string across more than one inverter or CCA.

  • Add TAP locations to the middle of each array (for max coverage), and clearly define the areas of each TAP's coverage (color coded):

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For an example of what your completed design might look like:  Sample TAP CCA Layout - Large Systems

For small systems with uncomplicated layouts, Tigo offers a TAP Placement Tool that can help you find the best placement for the TAPs. 

For additional assistance, contact our Sales Engineers: se@tigoenergy.com

 

 

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