Inverter communication A large number of ready-made drivers and function blocks enable simplified startup. This variety enables flexibility for modular extensions.

In order to guarantee the cost effectiveness of photovoltaics systems, all components must reliably withstand challenging conditions over long periods of time. However, even the best hardware can only be commissioned in a straightforward way, without errors, if the required software is fully developed and tested.

Existing function blocks enable the use of different inverters or energy measuring devices without laborious analysis of the protocols. Thus, when it comes to programming, the focus can be placed on data processing and communication.

Photovoltaic projects can be easily implemented with our Solarworx software library in the PLCnext Engineer programming software from Phoenix Contact. It includes drivers for data loggers and interfaces for inverters, energy measuring devices, and portals. Complex modules are also included, e.g., for calculating the position of the sun and monitoring photovoltaic trackers, as well as for reading environmental sensors. We are constantly developing new drivers and function blocks for integrating further inverters. This is aimed at minimizing the engineering outlay for commissioning photovoltaic systems.

Phoenix Contact provides software libraries specially for photovoltaic systems, which are continuously expanded with functions. Ready-made function blocks enable straightforward communication with inverters. They enable general inverter information, such as serial numbers or the inverter type, to be read out. Furthermore, all standard AC and DC measured values, such as the current feed-in power and the yield, are determined. Even acquiring inverter-specific event and status messages is no problem. The portfolio is rounded off with function blocks for controlling photovoltaic tracking systems. Phoenix Contact supports system integrators and users with compatible function blocks that use the SunSpec® open standard.

The SunSpec® Alliance is a global user organization of over 170 participants from the solar industry. In order to enable plug-and-play solutions, it pursues the goal of defining communication standards. This reduces the costs and complexity of solar-powered systems and makes them more attractive to investors.