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1. Q: I’ve paired the PV200 with the Survey 200R, but why can’t I see the irradiance value on the PV200?
A: Place the Survey 200R in "Transmit" mode by pressing and holding Buttons 1 and 4 simultaneously. A flashing triangle will appear in the bottom-left corner of the Survey 200R display. As long as the tester is within range and irradiance exceeds 100 W/m², the value will appear in the top-right corner of the PV200’s screen.
2. Q: My PV200/210 shuts down too quickly during testing, forcing me to restart it.
A: The auto-shutdown timer can be adjusted between 1–10 minutes:
Turn off the PV200/210.
Press and hold the NULL button while powering on the device.
The display will show "OFF" (Line 1) and the current shutdown time in minutes (Line 2).
Keep holding NULL and press the Viso button to increment the time. Values >10 reset to 1 minute.
Release all buttons once the desired time is set.
3. Q: My PV200 displays a "FET" error with a double-beep sound.
A: This typically indicates overcurrent protection activation (current >15A), often caused by testing multiple strings in parallel.
Ensure no two strings are connected via a "Y" splitter before the combiner box.
Verify the system is fully isolated, with only one fuse closed during testing.
If the error appears only when testing, the FET may be partially damaged.
If "FET" appears at power-on without connections, the damage is severe.
In both cases, the tester must be returned for repair.
4. Q: My PV200/210 shows an "ER" error followed by a number.
A: This usually indicates an internal fault (e.g., relay failure) beyond user repair. Return the device to Seaward for inspection.
5. Q: My PV200/210 detects >1000V on the Voc line with a continuous beep.
A: The tester has detected overvoltage (beyond its 1000V range), likely due to:
Two strings connected in parallel.
Multiple closed fuses in the combiner box.
Do not press the test button. Disconnect the tester immediately and inspect the system before reconnecting.
6. Q: How many sampling points does the PV200/210 use for I-V curves?
A: The tester is "auto-sensing":
Fewer points are taken if the curve is stable, speeding up testing.
More points (up to 120 max) are used if fluctuations occur for accuracy.
7. Q: What standards apply to PV testing? Some installers follow them, others don’t.
A: In the UK, MCS requirements (for systems <50kW) align with BS EN 62446:2009, mandating:
Safe PV and grid connections.
Proper insulation and grounding.
Cable integrity checks.
Non-compliance risks safety hazards (e.g., fires, electric shocks). Recent incidents (e.g., a Kent house fire linked to faulty PV) highlight the dangers. MCS will soon issue updated guidelines.
8. Q: What equipment is needed for PV testing?
A: Minimum requirements:
Continuity, Voc, Isc, insulation, and irradiance tests.
Optional but useful: I-V curve tracers power analyzers, thermal cameras.
9. Q: Why measure solar irradiance?
A: PV panel output varies with irradiance. Manufacturers rate power at 1000 W/m² (STC). Testing under real conditions ensures performance matches expectations. IEC 62446 requires recording irradiance, Voc, and Isc.
10. Q: How to safely disconnect a faulty PV200/210?
A: Always wear arc-flash PPE.
If internal disconnection fails, current may still flow even when powered off.
Check for current with a DC clamp meter if unsure.
Never open fuses while connected—disconnect via MC4 connectors instead:
Firmly grip the red PV test lead.
Quickly separate the MC4 connectors to minimize arcing.
Return the tester for service if a fault is suspected.
