SMA SB 3800-U - Manual (Page 9)

SB3800U-12:SE2006 SMA America 1-1
Section 1:
Introduction
This installation guide provides all the information needed to install, commission and
operate a Sunny Boy 3800U (SB3800U) grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) inverter.
Note: To help avoid problems during the installation,
familiarize yourself with the installation process by reading
the entire Installation Guide before starting the installation.
WARNING: Lethal voltages are present at various points
in a PV system. For safety reasons, it is recommended that
only qualified personnel install and operate this equip-
ment.
Product Overview
The SB3800U is a DC to AC grid-tied utility interactive inverter for use with photovoltaic
(PV), fuel cell, wind turbine and other sources of DC power.
In general, the SB3800U takes power from a DC source (PV modules) and converts it to
AC power for the utility grid. This power is delivered first to local loads (household
appliances, lights, motor loads, etc.), with any excess power fed to the utility. The power
consumed by the local loads reduces the power needed from the utility. Excess power
may actually “spin the utility meter backwards” depending on the type of meter in your
system. This power may also be recorded as power credits by the utility company
depending on the interconnection agreement. An example of basic system components
is shown in Figure 1-1.
Figure 1-1 SB3800U Installed in a Utility Interactive PV System
Störu ng Failur e
Betrie b Opera tion Erdsc hluss Earth Fault
PV Array
Sunny Boy 3800U
Utility Grid
Meter