SMA SMC 4600A - Manual (Page 19)

SMA Solar Technology AG Glossary
User Manual SMC46-60A-BA-BEN114230 19
8 Glossary
AC
Abbreviation for "alternating current."
DC
Abbreviation for "direct current."
Derating
A controlled reduction in performance, usually dependent on component temperatures.
Electronic Solar Switch (ESS)
The Electronic Solar Switch is part of the inverter DC disconnection unit. The Electronic Solar Switch
must be securely inserted into the bottom of the inverter and may only be removed by an electrically
qualified person.
MPP (Maximum Power Point)
Operating point of the inverter from current / voltage of the PV array. The actual position of the
MPP changes constantly, depending on the level of radiation and cell temperature.
PV
Abbreviation for photovoltaics.
SMA Power Balancer
The SMA Power Balancer is a serial feature of the Sunny Mini Central. The SMA Power Balancer
prevents the formation of an unbalanced load > 4.6 kVA (in Italy > 6 kVA) during three‑phase grid
feed‑in. To this effect, 3 Sunny Mini Centrals are connected via a control line to a 3‑phase feed‑in unit.
Unbalanced load
The unbalanced load is the difference between the power fed into the grid at the individual line
conductors. In Germany, this must not exceed 4.6 kVA. In Italy, the unbalanced load is restricted to
6 kVA.
Varistor
The varistors protect the electronics in the inverter from atmospherically coupled energy peaks, such
as those that can occur when lightning strikes nearby.