Adding more DC Solar Part 7 – Completing the Install & Testing
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Adding more DC Solar Part 7 – Completing the Install & Testing

I started work on the system yesterday by completing the DC cabling on the lean-to. I installed the branch connectors and then cut custom lengths of cable and terminated with the required MC4 connectors. I used large zip ties to tidy up the wiring. I then went back to the wiring inside the shed. here…

Adding more DC Solar Part 6 – Mounting the inverter
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Adding more DC Solar Part 6 – Mounting the inverter

Before starting on the inverter (Victron SmartSolar 150/35) I connected the DC Cable to the rooftop isolator. This involved terminating the cable with male and female MC4 connectors. I used the correct crimp tool (Narva brand) with the #12 crimp insert. I then connected to the output of the rooftop isolator and temporarily cable tied…

Adding more DC Solar Part 3 – Testing Second Hand Panels
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Adding more DC Solar Part 3 – Testing Second Hand Panels

Before installing the panels, I wanted to make sure they were all OK. I performed two tests: Short Circuit Current – Using a current clamp to measure current. Insulation Test using a Megger Short Circuit Current This step is rather easy. Simple connect the positive and negative plugs together on your solar panel and point…