Photovoltaic (PV) Arc Detection System

Photovoltaic (PV) energy is gaining popularity for reducing fossil fuel dependence and combating climate change. However, PV systems typically utilize DC current, which can generate arcs leading to fires and property damage, making arc detection crucial for safety. Standards like UL 1699B and IEC 63027 mandate arc fault detection in PV systems, emphasizing the importance of compliance for market acceptance and legal operation.

This photovoltaic arc detection system identifies both serial and parallel arcing by monitoring the DC voltage and current spectrum, providing comprehensive safety to mitigate hazards. It features an MCU boasting high real-time performance and response, and optional eAI enhancements that reduce false positives. The system offers detection times of less than 200 milliseconds, ensuring quick and accurate fault detection to alert users and prevent fires and danger.

System Benefits:

• eAI option reduces false positives, enhancing system reliability and efficiency by minimizing unnecessary shutdowns or alters, thereby improving uptime with minimal operational disruptions.
• Arm^® Cortex^®-M33 MCU with high-performance processing enables rapid analysis of the DC voltage and current spectrum to identify both serial and parallel arcing with minimal delay, enhancing safety through faster fault detection and response.
• Ultra-low noise operational amplifiers ensure signal integrity for precise arc fault detection.
• Zero-drift architecture minimizes offset and drifts over temperature changes, ensuring accurate system functionality in all climates and seasons.