APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit User Manual

: June 6, 2024
: APsystems

Table of Contents

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit
Introduction
Interface Explanation
Hardware Installation
Installation
ECU-R User Interface
Contact Information
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit

APsystems ECU-R Energy
Communication Unit product

Introduction

The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-R) is the information gateway for our inverters. The unit collects module performance data from each individual inverter and transfers this information to an Internet database in real-time, requiring only a single data and power cable. Through the APsystems Energy Monitoring and Analysis software, the ECU-R gives you precise analysis of each inverter and module in your solar installation from APP. The user-friendly interface lets you access your solar array in seconds.

Features

Collects individual module and inverter statistics
Communicates in real-time
Requires no additional wiring

The APsystems ECU-R is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications, and is made up of four key elements:

APsystems inverter
APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU-R) ECU-R is part of the system and is the data link to the inverter.
APsystems APP (EMA APP) Based on Android and iOS.
APsystems Energy Monitoring and Analysis (EMA) Web-based monitoring and analysis system.

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit fig-1.

Interface Explanation

Interface Layout
The ECU-R interface includes, (figure 2)from left to right, are Reset, antenna(Wifi), power connection port, RJ45 Signal port, RJ45 ethernet network port, antenna(ZigBee). The sides from top to bottom, are SIM port, USB port, AP.

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit fig-2

Reset
Press the Reset button for three seconds or longer, and the ECU-R will automatically return to the default settings.

Power Connection Port
The power connection port connects power through the power adapter.

RJ45 Ethernet Network Port
The ECU-R allows the user to communicate with the EMA.

RJ45 Signal (Only for Australia)
The RJ45 Signal is designed for DRM0, it should be connected by RJ45 connector in the package otherwise the inverter will not work.

Antenna
The antennas in the package should be connected to ECU-R. One antenna is used for the communication between ECU-R and inverters, the other antenna is used for the Wi-Fi connection between ECU-R and router.

USB port
The USB interface is reserved.

AP
Press the AP button to turn on AP. Then the ECU-R can be scanned by phone. ECU-R will turn off it automatically in one hour.

LED1
LED1 will be on When the ECU-R works well.

LED2
LED2 will be on When the ECU-R connects to the sever.

Hardware Installation

Preparation
Make sure you have the following components ready before beginning to install the ECU-R:

A dedicated standard AC electrical outlet (located as close to the array as is possible).
A broadband Internet connection available for your use.
A broadband router with either a CAT5 Ethernet, or a wireless router.
A phone with APP.

Selecting an Installation Location for the ECU-R

Choose a location that is as close to the array as possible.
The ECU-R is NOT rated for outdoor use, so if installing outdoors, ensure it is put in a waterproof box, and the antenna is placed outside for communication quality.

Installation

Using a Wall Mount
When mounting the ECU-R to a wall, make sure to select a cool, dry indoor location.
- Depending on the wall surface you are mounting the ECU-R to, use either two drywall screws or wall anchors, installed 100 mm apart (The drywall screws and wall anchors are not included in the ECU-R kit).
- Align and slide the ECU-R onto the mounting screws.

Cable Connection

Using a Wall Mount
- Connect the adapter to the power connection port on the top of the ECU-R.
Power Distribution Cabinet Installation
- Install the socket on the guide rail (The socket will not be supplied by APsystems Please prepare it yourself).
- Connect the adapter to the power connection port on the top of the ECU-R.
  NOTICE: Do not put the antenna inside a metal box, that will block the signal. If ECU-R is placed in distribution box or the roof is metal, please use this long cable antennas, and put them outside the box or on roof. The long cable antenna (2.4G) is common in market,can be purchased in electrical store or online store.
Internet Connection
There are two different approaches to connecting the ECU-R to the Internet:
Option 1: Direct LAN cable connection.
- Make sure the LAN cable is connected to the network port on the bottom of the ECU-R.
- Connect the LAN cable to a spare port on the broadband router. Option 2: Wireless Connection. Use ECU-R internal WLAN (see Manage the WLAN connection).

ECU-R User Interface

Please use the mobile browser to scan the QR codes to download APP. (EMA App is for end-user, EMA Manager is for the installer). Or click the link to download the app: http://q-r.to/1OrC

Connecting to the ECU-R via the Local Wireless

Open the Wi-Fi setting in your smartphone, select ECU-R hotspot.
Connecting to the ECU-R via the Local Wireless, the default password is “88888888”.
Open the EMA Manager.
Click “ECU APP” to enter “Local Control”.

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit fig-9

Add UID
- Click “Workspace”, select “ID Management”, input the UID manually or scan the UID by camera. If there is no need to modify, then click “Sync” to update the UIDs onto ECU.
Historical ID
- Select the desired history ID and click “Restore”, these IDs will be added in the ID list.
Delete UID
- Select the UIDs, click “Delete” then click “Sync”. The UIDs selected are deleted on the ECU-R.
Homepage
- On the home page, installer can visualize:
- Systems info of ECU ID
- The number of connected inverters communicating with the ECU / total number of inverters installed
- Today’s power output
- Total power output since installation
- CO₂ Reduction since installation.
- The light in front of the ECU UID shows the status between mobile phone and ECU:
- The mobile phone connects to the ECU.
- The mobile phone fails to connect to the ECU.
- The light in front of “Internet disconnected” shows the status between ECU and internet.
- The ECU connects to internet.
- The ECU fails to connect to the internet.
Module
- This page shall display the added inverter.
- According to different models of inverter, each inverter would have the corresponding modules displaying the real time power.
- On the module page, installer can visualize the performance of inverters connected to the ECU.
  According to different models of inverter, each inverter would have the corresponding panels displaying the real time power. (even if some DC channels are not connected on purpose, the ECU_APP will display the maximum number of panels which can be connected to a given micro-inverter
  Example: if only 3 inputs of a QS1 or YC1000 are used, the ECU_APP will display 4 modules connected to the micro, even if the 4th module does not exist) Removing the non connected panel is done when creating the layout of the PV system in end-user account creation.
- Click “Panel”, the detailed information of the inverter shall be displayed, including inverter ID, PV module power, grid voltage, frequency and temperature.
Data
- In this page, you can view the detailed data on ECU level:
- Per day
- Per month
- If with metering functions activated and CTs (current transformers) in place, you can also visualize PV production, house-hold consumption and grid import/export data on meter level.
Workspace
- Click “Workspace”.
- In this View, you can manage the ECU’s system information.
Manage IDs
- Please refer to 5.2 to add UID.
Grid Profile
- User needs to select grid profile when installing the system.
Inverter Connection Progress
- Show the connection progress and communication quality between each inverter and ECU, 100% means the connection is finished.
ECU Network Settings
WLAN
- The page will show up ECU’s wireless connection status. Swipe down the screen, the available SSID would show up.
- Click the SSID and enter the password.
- The ECU would restart after sending the password.
- At this time, the ECU’s hotspot will disappear, and the phone may automatically connect to other wifi signals, even if the ECU’s hotspot appears again.
- So it is necessary to reconnect the phone to the ECU’s hotspot.
LAN
- ECU’s wired network setting has 2 options: automatically obtain an IP address or use a fixed IP address. Obtaining an IP address automatically means the router would distribute IP to ECU-R automatically. When use fixed IP, please enter IP address, Subnet mask, Default gateway, Preferred DNS server and Alternate DNS server.
ECU AP Settings
- Please reconnect the ECU’s hotspot after setting the password. On the page, you can change Password.
- If user forgets the password, hardware reset could be carried out. The initial password would be “88888888”.
Time management
- Enter the page, the time and time zone of ECU-R shall be displayed on the right side of the page.
- Click “Date”, “Time” or “Timezone” to modify.
- Click “Time quick setting”, APP will set the date and time of the phone for ECU, user doesn’t need to set date and time manually.
Automatic System Check
- Check the running status of the system, if there are issues, click the icon to view the reason and get the way to solve it.
Do-It-Yourself Registration
- Make sure the ECU has entered the inverter ID correctly.
- Connect your phone to internet instead of to the ECU. Then enter the information and click “Sync EMA”. Items with * are necessary.
Settings
- Select the “Language” and select the language you need.

APsystems ECU-R Energy Communication Unit fig-25 Technical Data

Communication Interface|
---|---
Integrated Wi-Fi| 802.11g/n
Communication| ZigBee 2.4 GHz
Ethernet| 10/100M Auto-sensing, Auto-negotiation
Wireless security| WEP,WPA2-PSK
USB Interface| 5Vdc-1.4A Output
Power Requirements|
AC Adapter| 5V 2A
Power Consumption| 1.7W
Recommend/Maximum Communicating

Inverter Qty

|

30/100

Compliance

| IEC 60950-1, EN60950-1, IEC 60529, EN

60529, ANSI/UL 60950-1,

CAN/CSA C22.2 No.60950-1, UL50E, FCC part 15, EN61000-6-1,

EN61000-6-3, ICES-003, AS NZS 60950-1,

GB/T17799

Specifications subject to change without notice. Please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Disposal of your old appliance

When this crossed-out wheeled bin symbol is attached to a product, it means the product is covered by the European Directive 2002/96/EC.
All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or the local authorities.
The correct disposal of your old appliance will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.
For more detailed information about disposal of your old appliance, please contact your city office, waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

CAUTION
The professional person is allowed to replace the battery. Do not ingest battery, Chemical Burn Hazard. This product contains a coin/button cell battery. If the coin/button cell battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just 2 hours and can lead to death. Keep new and used batteries away from children. If you think batteries might have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek immediate medical attention.