Outback Power Systems GS4048A Installation Manual - Manual (Page 8)

Planning
6 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
Input Modes
The Radian inverter has seven modes of operation. These modes determine how the Radian interacts
with an AC source. Each mode has functions and priorities that are intended for a designated
application. Each of the Radian’s two AC inputs can be set to a different operating mode, so that
different applications can be supported.
 Generator: This mode is intended for a wide range of AC sources, including generators with a rough or
imperfect AC waveform. The Radian can charge from the generator even when the generator is undersized
or substandard.
 Support: This mode is intended for systems using the utility grid or a generator. AC source size, wiring, or
other limitations may require temporary assistance to run very large loads. The Radian adds inverter and
battery power to the AC source to ensure that the loads receive the power they require.
 Grid Tied: This mode is intended for grid-interactive systems. When renewable energy sources charge the
batteries above a selected “target” voltage, the Radian inverter will send the excess energy to any loads. If
the loads do not use all the excess energy, then the Radian will return (sell) that energy to the utility grid.
 UPS: This mode is intended for systems primarily intended to maintain power to the loads without any
interruption when switching between AC input and batteries. The response speed has been increased so
that if an AC disconnect occurs the response time will be minimized.
 Backup: This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid or a generator available, but do not
have specialty requirements such as selling or support. The AC source will flow through the Radian inverter
to power the loads unless power is lost. If power is lost, then the Radian inverter will supply energy to the
loads from the battery bank until the AC source returns.
 Mini Grid: This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid as an input and a sizable amount of
renewable energy. The system will run off the renewable energy until the battery voltage falls to a specified
low level. When this occurs, the Radian inverter will connect to the utility grid to power the loads. The
Radian inverter will disconnect from the utility grid when the batteries are sufficiently recharged.
 Grid Zero: This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid as an input and a sizable amount of
renewable energy. The system will remain connected to the utility grid, but will only draw power from it
when no other power is available. The default power sources are the batteries and renewable energy, which
attempt to “zero” the use of the AC source. The batteries are discharged and recharged while remaining
grid-connected.
See the Radian Series Inverter/Charger Operator’s Manual for additional information on these modes,
including the reasons and considerations for using each mode.
Renewable Energy
The Radian Series Inverter/Charger cannot connect directly to photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines,
or other renewable sources. As a required part of a Grid/Hybrid system, the batteries are the inverter’s
primary source of power. However, if the renewable sources are used to charge the batteries, the
inverter can use their energy by drawing it from the batteries.
The renewable source is always treated as a battery charger, even if all of its power is used
immediately. The renewable source must have a charge controller or some way to prevent
overcharging. OutBack Power’s FLEXmax family of charge controllers can be used for this purpose, as
can other products.
The GSLC will receive the mechanical and electrical connections for up to two FLEXmax charge
controllers. It can receive the electrical connections for two FLEXmax Extreme charge controllers.