TS4-A-F/2F with Rapid
Shutdown System (RSS) Transmitters
Installation Manual

TS4-A-F MLPE and Rapid Shutdown System Transmitter

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Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability
The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety disclosures in this document are based on Tigo Energy, Inc.’s (“Tigo”) experience and judgment and may not cover all contingencies. If further information is required, consult a Tigo representative. Sale of the product shown in this document is subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Tigo’s Limited Warranty, Terms and Conditions, and any other contractual agreements between Tigo and the purchaser.
THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS, WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY, OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFICALLY SET OUT IN ANY EXISTING CONTRACT BETWEEN THE PARTIES. ANY SUCH CONTRACT STATES THE ENTIRE OBLIGATION OF TIGO. THE CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT SHALL NOT BECOME PART OF, OR MODIFY ANY CONTRACT BETWEEN, THE PARTIES.
In no event will Tigo be responsible to the purchaser or user in contract, in tort (including negligence), strict liability or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, exemplary, reliance or consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to injury to persons, damage or loss of use of property, equipment or power systems, loss of profit, cost of capital, loss of power, additional expenses in the use of existing power facilities, or claims against the purchaser or user by its customers resulting from the use of the information, recommendations and descriptions contained herein. The information contained in this document is subject to change in Tigo’s sole discretion and without notice.
Document Revision History

error (P. 18)
4.0| 20230922| Changed title, added Document Revision History (front matter), removed legacy (pre-PST) transmitter content, added commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting content and Crosstalk appendix.

Overview

Tigo TS4-A-F/2F MLPE and RSS transmitter components enable a UL-certified and NECcompliant PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) for new and existing PV systems. Upon shutdown, the components, applicable for residential through large commercial systems, reduce voltage to 0.6 V per TS4 resulting in a string voltage of less than 30 V.

• A TS4-A-F can control power production from one module while a TS4-A-2F controls two modules. They are otherwise identical in function and may be used interchangeably in a string.
• The TS4-A-F/2Fs rely on a continuous power-line communication (PLC) keep-alive signal from an RSS transmitter to enable module output. Upon signal loss, module and string voltages drop to safe levels.

This Manual
This manual provides instructions for installing, testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning the following Tigo components of a rapid shutdown system:

• TS4-A-F
• TS4-A-2F
• RSS transmitter (with PST, part numbers 490-00000-51/52)

These safety symbols may appear in the manual:

| A hazardous situation which could result in serious injury or loss of life.
---|---
| A hazardous situation which could result in injury or damage to the product.
| An important operational note.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
LETHAL VOLTAGE MAY BE PRESENT IN ANY PV INSTALLATION SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING – THIS PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN EQUIPMENT (PVRSE) DOES NOT PERFORM ALL OF THE FUNCTIONS OF A COMPLETE PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN SYSTEM (PVRSS). THIS PVRSE MUST BE INSTALLED WITH OTHER EQUIPMENT TO FORM A COMPLETE PVRSS THAT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF NEC (NFPA 70) SECTION 690.12 FOR CONTROLLED CONDUCTORS OUTSIDE THE ARRAY. OTHER EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN OR ON THIS PV SYSTEM MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE PVRSS. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSTALLER TO ENSURE THAT THE COMPLETED PV SYSTEM MEETS THE RAPID SHUTDOWN FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE INSTALLED ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.

• This manual contains important instructions for installation and maintenance of the Tigo product models TS4-F, TS4-A-F, TS4-A-2F, and the RSS transmitter.
• Risk of electric shock: do not remove cover, disassemble, or repair. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Before installing or using the Tigo System, please read all instructions and warning markings on the Tigo products, appropriate sections of your inverter manual, photovoltaic (PV) module installation manual, and other available safety guides.
• All equipment shall be installed and operated in an environment within the ratings and limitations of the equipment as published in the installation manual.
• To reduce risk of fire and shock hazard, install this device with strict adherence to National Electric Code (NEC) ANSI/NFPA 70 and/or local electrical codes. When the photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies a DC voltage to the Tigo TS4 units and the output voltage may be as high as the PV module open circuit voltage (VOC) when connected to the module. The installer should use the same caution when handling electrical cables from a PV module with or without the TS4 units attached.
• TS4-A-F and TS4-A-2F products are shipped in the OFF position and will measure 0.6V at the output when the keep-alive signal is not present.
• Installation must be performed by trained professionals only. Tigo does not assume liability for loss or damage resulting from improper handling, installation, or misuse of products.
• Remove all metallic jewelry prior to installing the Tigo TS4 units to reduce the risk of contacting live circuitry. Do not attempt to install in inclement weather.
• Do not operate the Tigo TS4 units if they have been physically damaged. Check existing cables and connectors, ensuring they are in good condition and appropriate in rating. Do not operate Tigo TS4 units with damaged or substandard wiring or connectors. Tigo TS4 units must be mounted on the high end of the PV module backsheet or racking system, and in any case above ground.
• Do not connect or disconnect under load. Turning off the inverter and/or the Tigo products may not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors within the inverter can remain charged for several minutes after disconnecting all power sources. Verify capacitors have discharged by measuring voltage across inverter terminals prior to disconnecting wiring if service is required. Wait 30 seconds after rapid shutdown activation before disconnecting DC cables or turning off DC disconnect.
• Connectors from different manufacturers cannot be mated with each other.
• The transmitter control power supply MUST be on the same AC branch circuit as the inverter to meet rapid shutdown requirements.

PV Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity

Tigo RSS transmitters use power-line communications (PLC) over PV conductors to communicate with TS4-A-F/2Fs. Electromagnetic interference (crosstalk) from improper PV conductor layouts can compromise RSS signal integrity and result in TS4-A-F/2Fs being turned off or on inappropriately.
Tigo RSS transmitters must be installed in accordance with the following required practices. Failure to apply required practices may result in system failure causing equipment and infrastructure damage.
Required Practices
To maintain RSS signal strength and integrity:

• Limit the round-trip (positive-to-negative) length of a PV conductor to 300 m (985 ft.). Runs up to 500 m (1640 ft.) may be possible using two cores – contact Tigo Sales Engineering.
• Do not cross current-carrying conductors over any PV conductor used in the RSS.
• Run all conductors that use the same transmitter together in one conduit.
• Maintain at least 20 cm (8 in.) between conductors that use different transmitters.
• Keep individual +/– conductors within 25 mm (1 in.) of one another except when the negative conductor passes through a core.
• Use separate cable trays for conductors using different transmitters with a minimum 20 cm (8 in.) spacing between trays. Open cable trays do not protect signals from crosstalk.
• Trim excess home run conductors such as spools or piles of cable to avoid crosstalk.

Install TS4s

TS4-A-F and TS4-A-2F devices have identical functionality, however the TS4-A-F controls one solar module while TS4-A-2F controls two modules. Each module in a string must have its own TS4-A-F or share a TS4-A-2F with another module. You may connect a TS4-A-2F to a single module if needed by connecting the unused second set of input cables.

• Do not install TS4s if they have been physically damaged or with damaged or substandard wiring or connectors.
• Do not connect or disconnect TS4s under load.
• Do not apply an external voltage source to a module/string equipped with TS4s.

TS4s mount directly onto module frames with spring clips. If using frameless modules, remove the clips and bolt the TS4 directly to the PV rail with M8 bolts and torque to 10.2 Nm. To install a TS4-A-F:

1. Attach the TS4 to the top portion of the solar module frame with the cable glands facing down. The TS4 and its cables, cable glands (where the cable enters the TS4), and connectors must not touch the roof surface. • If frame thickness is ≤35 mm (1.4 in.), install the TS4 with the label facing the solar module. • For adequate ventilation, no portion of the TS4 may be ≤12.7 mm (.5 in.) from the solar module substrate.
   • Check solar module instructions for restrictions on mounting devices under the module.

2. Connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the solar module. You must connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the solar modules before connecting to neighboring TS4s. Failure to do so can damage the TS4 units.

3. Connect the longer set of TS4 output cables to the neighboring TS4 to create a string.

To install a TS4-A-2F:

1. Attach a TS4-A-2F to the top of a solar module frame with the cable glands facing down.
   The TS4 and its cables, cable glands, and connectors must not touch a roof surface.
   • If frame thickness is ≤35 mm (1.4 in.), install the TS4 with the label facing the solar module. • No portion of the TS4 may be ≤12.7 mm (.5 in.) from the module substrate.
   • Check solar module instructions for restrictions on mounting devices under the module.

2. Connect the shorter TS4 input leads to two solar modules. You must connect the shorter TS4 input leads to the solar modules before connecting to neighboring TS4s. Failure to do so can damage the TS4 units.

3. Connect the longer set of TS4 output cables to the next TS4-A-2F in the string.

4. If connecting a TS4-A-2F to a single solar module, connect the unused second set of input cables.

To disconnect a TS4:

• Activate rapid shutdown by turning off the RSS transmitter and inverter or by using the designated PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) initiator.
• Wait 30 seconds after a rapid shutdown activation before disconnecting DC cables.
• Disconnect individual TS4 cables to a string before disconnecting the TS4 input cables from the solar module junction box.

Always assume that TS4 units are in an ON state.

Install Transmitters

An RSS transmitter:

1. Core 1 terminals
2. Signal status LEDs
3. Core 2 terminals
4. IN Rx/COM receive terminals
5. OUT Tx/COM transmit terminals
6. Power (– and +12 V) terminals

To install one or more RSS transmitters, you will:

• Install an Enclosure (optional)
• Connect a Power Supply
• Connect a Core
• Connect Signal Wiring

Install an Enclosure
Transmitters are NEMA 1 (indoor) rated and require an enclosure with a 35 mm DIN rail and 12 V power supply. Tigo kits include NEMA 4-rated enclosures, transmitters, and power supplies.

• Transmitter power supplies must be installed on the same AC branch circuit as the inverter.
• Multiple-transmitter systems will require conduit for signal conductors between transmitters.

After installing TS4s and transmitters, place an RSS label within 1 m (3 ft.) of the RSS initiator (Refer to NEC 690.12(C)). If installing a Tigo enclosure, use the diagrams below for locating conduit openings.
For 21 mm (0.75 in.) conduit: Connect Power Supplies
You may use one standard, 100-240 V 12 V/1 A power supply per transmitter or connect one commercial, 180-550 V/10 A power supply to up to ten transmitters with parallel connections.
All transmitters in a group should be energized and de-energized at the same time. One way to do this is to install a single AC breaker that powers all the transmitter group power supplies.
To connect a standard 100-240 V 12 V/1 A power supply to a transmitter:

1. Turn off all AC power sources.

2. Connect a ground wire to the power supply V– output terminal.
   Tigo power supplies include a DIN rail ground.

3. Connect AC conductors.

4. Use ferruled leads to connect 12 V output to the transmitter PWR terminals.

To connect a commercial 180-550 V /10 A power supply to a transmitter:

1. Turn off all AC power sources.

2. Connect ground, L2, and L1 AC conductors.
   The power supply cover is metal and grounds via the DIN rail.

3. Use ferruled leads to connect 12 V output to the transmitter PWR terminals.

4. If connecting multiple transmitters, use parallel connections between all PWR terminals.

Ensure standard power supplies reliably output 12 V (±2%) 1 A current and commercial power supplies reliably output 12 V (±2%) 10 A current. Fusing is recommended. Do not use a 24 V power supply designed for the Tigo CCA.
Tigo power supplies meet ride-through interconnection requirements such as California’sElectric Rule 21.
Connect a Core
You may connect one or two cores to a single transmitter. To connect a core to the transmitter:

1. Insert the core wire with a white ferrule into the transmitter white Core 1 terminal.
   Torque to 0.5 Nm.

2. Insert the core wire with the black ferrule into the black terminal. Torque to 0.5 Nm.

3. Repeat the procedure at the Core 2 output for two-core applications.
   Do not modify or extend the wires between a transmitter and its core.

To route PV conductors:

1. Route PV conductors into the enclosure.
   Ensure PV conductors are installed in accordance with required practices listed in the PV Conductor Layout and RSS Signal Integrity section of this manual .

2. Pass up to ten negative conductors through a transmitter core.The black side of the core must face the PV array.

Connect Two Cores
Two cores may be used in series to amplify the signal from a single transmitter. This may be appropriate with home run strings between 300 m (1000 ft.) and 500 m (1650 ft.), if conductors have a large outside diameter (cannot fit 10 conductors in a single core), and in other special cases. Contact Tigo Sales Engineering for more information. Connect Signal Wiring
To connect signal wiring between multiple transmitters in a group, use 14 – 22 AWG wire.
Torque all terminals to 0.4 Nm.
The first transmitter in a group is the “leader.” Subsequent transmitters are “followers.”
To connect signal wiring between multiple transmitters:

1. Turn off all AC power sources.

2. Connect the leader OUT Tx terminal to the follower IN Rx terminal.
   The leader IN terminals should always be unconnected.

3. Connect the leader OUT COM terminal to the follower #1 IN COM terminal.

4. Connect the follower OUT Tx terminal to the next follower IN Rx terminal.

5. Connect the follower OUT COM terminal to the next follower IN COM terminal.

6. Repeat the connections as needed.
   The last follower OUT terminals should always be unconnected.

Check that signal (Tx/Rx) wires never connect to COM terminals.
Transmitter Status LEDs
If connected correctly:

• The leader transmitter displays a continuous red LED and a blinking green LED.
• Follower transmitter LEDs blink green simultaneously with no red.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Properly commissioning and optimizing site performance requires thorough, systematic testing.
This section includes:

• Measurements Table Preparation
• Unpowered String Measurements – Safety Voltage
• Powered String Measurements
• Crosstalk Measurements
• RSS Signal Detection

Measurements Table Preparation
Prepare a table for recording all test measurements similar to the following:

Unpowered String Measurements – Safety Voltage
A TS4-A-F/2F connected to one or two solar modules produces 0.6 V when there are no keepalive signals. This is referred to as a safety voltage because a string will never exceed 30 V, which is safe for humans. The expected safety voltage of a string of TS4s is:<number of TS4-A-F/2Fs in the string> x 0.6 V
Test Safety Voltages
Before testing, make sure each inverter, MPPT, and physical string is properly labeled to match their “As Built” plan numbers.
To test a string’s safety voltage:

1. Power-off all transmitters using PLC.
   Programmatically disable any SMA transmitters per the SMA instruction manual.

2. Switch off each inverter’s AC and DC sides.

3. Open or remove the fuse used for each string input to the inverter.
   If the inverter has no fuses, disconnect each string from the MPPT inputs for direct measurement.

4. Record the inverter #, MPPT #, string #, and expected safety voltage in the measurements table.

5. Measure and record the string’s actual safety voltage in the measurements table.

6. Compare the recorded safety voltage to the expected safety voltage.
   The string’s actual voltage should be within 1% of the expected safety voltage. If not, mark the table’s Error? column.

Resolve Safety Voltage Errors
Resolve all errors marked in the table before proceeding to powered string measurements.
If the measured safety voltage doesn’t match the expected voltage, make sure that:

• If the measured safety voltage is 0 V, the string’s fuse is open: the TS4s must be unloaded to produce 0.6 V. Make sure all fuses of adjacent strings in the MPPT are open.
• All TS4 input cables are connected to solar modules and not strings.
• If using a TS4-A-2F with a single solar module, input #1 cables are connected to the module and input #2 cables are connected to each other.
• TS4 output cables are properly connected to each other.
• The string is properly crimped and connected to the first and last TS4s.

If the measured safety voltage exceeds the expected voltage:

• Make sure that all fuses in the MPPT are open to ensure that various string safety voltages are not connected in parallel with each other.
• If the safety voltage is >30 V, make sure that a solar module is not connected directly to a string without using a TS4.

Powered String Measurements
Resolve all unpowered string issues before powering up the rapid shutdown system and performing powered measurements. Powering on a miswired or defective system may damage equipment and invalidate MLPE and inverter warranties.
For powered string measurements, use a voltmeter rated for 1,000 V for commercial rooftop installations and a 1,500 V rating for commercial ground mount installations.
Measure Open Circuit Voltage (VOC)
Use VOC measurements to check for reasonable operation. Irradiance and temperature greatly affect results. Measuring the VOC of a solar module disconnected from a TS4 at the time of testing will be more accurate than using the module’s VOC rating from a datasheet. Taking the average module VOC from a string of modules is also useful.The expected VOC of a string is: