![]() Grid tie inverters commonly use up to 600 volts DC on the input, and it is a simple matter to just plug in 5 or 6 panels in series. You simply plug one panel into the next, up the max array size and voltage. MC connectors shine in large series arrays, such as for grid tie systems. For 2 panels you will need a pair - one of each type - for 3 panels, 2 sets, etc. You will need two (one of each type) for each parallel connection. These come in two types: 2F/1M and 2M/1F (male and female). Connecting Panels (parallel)įor parallel connecting panels, simply plug in the cables from two panels into the adaptor, and a single cable on the other end. All newly manufactured panels are shipping with the latching connectors, but there are still a few older panels being sold with the older type non-latching connectors on places like eBay. Some heavier duty 30-Amp assemblies using the "SolarLine 2" connectors are available for larger systems.Īll current MC type connectors are the latching type, which is the Solarline2 (MC4), or the Tyco brand connectors used on a few panels. Although the cable is made in 3 colors, black, blue, and red, about the only color generally available is black. The #10 wire is rated at 54 amps max per NEC in open air but we recommend no more than 30 amps for #12 wire and 45 amps for the #10 wire. Long series connections often needed for high voltage grid tie systems are "plug and play."Īll MC cables now being sold are made with UL-listed, 600 Volt, multi-stranded, #10 or #12 AWG RHH/RHW/USE-2, outdoor-rated, sunlight-resistant cable. Simplified wiring, especially for medium and larger arrays, makes series and parallel wiring of panels much easier. ![]() All current production solar panels made for grid-tie applications now come only with MC connectors. Nearly all major manufacturers now supply panels only with MC connectors, or as an option to the standard junction box with screw type terminals. So what do they do for me?Ĭommonly referred to as MC cables or MC connectors, these have started to take over much of the wiring of solar arrays. MC means "multi-contact." The term "multi-contact" comes from the fact that the connectors have a bunch of little spring loaded gold plated fingers that ensure good contact.The first company to manufacture them is also named Multi-Contact, but Tyco connectors are used on some modules. MC connectors are specially designed for low contact resistance and good stable connections under a wide range of conditions.
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