PV Solar Module Compatibility
Tigo's TS4-series MLPEs (module-level power electronics) are a technology that is compatible with many of the available PV-Modules on the market. However, there are specific compatibility characteristics you want to check before purchase:
✅ Cable Length:
Verify for landscape orientation (especially for split j-box modules with short leads), and compare to the cable length specified on Tigo's datasheet. Currently, the outward or string-side PV Wire length for all Tigo MLPE products is 1.2 m / 3.93 ft.
✅ Matching Connectors:
The existing test standards for PV connectors (such as IEC 62852:2014 + A1:2020 and UL6703), were created for products of the same type (or type family) and designed by the same manufacturer. These standards always refer to the connection of socket and plug within a type family and not to the respective individual parts of a connector.
The NEC 2020 Requirements (690.33) mandate that all mating connectors must match in both type and manufacturer (unless stated as being mate-able by the original manufacturer). Tigo's TS4 product is assembled with Stäubli MC4 connectors.
Tigo strongly recommends connecting our MLPEs with Stäubli manufactured MC4 connectors. Mating of these connectors with any other manufactured products can result in a system inspection failure or damage to the unit (or PV Module).
"Cross-connections and cross-mating components are not recommended and may lead to severe, costly damage." - Staubli.com
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Note: The MC4 and MC4-EVO-2 are both manufactured by Stäubli. The manufacturer states: "They are of the same type (MC4) and compatible for connection." All requirements for compatibility are met when mating an MC4 with these plug connectors. |
✅ Electrical Characteristics:
Verify that the max power, voltage, and current are within limits for the TS4 unit you want to use. The most important requirements are:
- Min Vmp
- Max Voc
- Max Isc
- Bifacial Gain (de-rating voltage for Bifacial Modules)
- Temperature Coefficient (de-rating voltage for cold temperatures)
This information can be found on the product datasheets in the Tigo Downloads Center
✅ De-Rating the Max Voc:
Some PV-Modules can exceed the MLPEs maximum voltage in cold weather conditions. For this reason, the module's max Voc should be adjusted accordingly. This mathematical process is informally referred to as Temperature Correction, and it should yield a result less than (or equal to) the max voltage listed on the TS4 data sheet. For example: As long as the Imp and temperature corrected Voc (at STC) is less than or equal to the max current and voltage ratings of the MLPE, the module should be compatible.
For more information:
How to Calculate a PV Module's Voltage (Vmp) in Different Ambient Temperatures
Bifacial modules should also be de-rated in voltage. Tigo recommends using the maximum bifacial boost figures. If the datasheet does not clearly show max current (with a bifacial boost), a consideration of a possible 20% boost should be factored in.
✅ Frame fit:
The PV Module frame size must be compared to the dimensions of the clip, for the MLPE product you are purchasing. This will ensure that the unit can be properly mounted onto the frame. If the frame is too shallow, the clips can be removed and the TS4-A can be screw-mounted directly to the racking.
For more info: How do I remove the module clips from the TS4-A?
Questions?
If you are in doubt, send the datasheet for the PV-Module to se@tigoenergy.com, and our engineers will confirm its compatibility with Tigo products.
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