SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer FAQ

Our Goal is to Provide First Class Customer Support

This page of answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) contains a wealth of SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer information organized into the descriptive sections on the right side of the page.

Product Availability

Where do I buy the SunMizer DC DC Optimizer?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer production has been discontinued, however, Xandex still provides Warranty support for all registered units. The information below is maintained for reference purposes only.

Features and Benefits

What does the SunMizer DC-DC power optimizer do?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer isolates the panel from the string and performs localized maximum power point tracking to extract maximum power from the panel. It independently adjusts the output current and voltage provided to the string to maximize the energy generated by the PV array.

What are the benefits of adding the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer to my PV installation?

The SunMizer DC-DC optimizer provides improvements in the following areas:
Increased power output:

Recover lost power due to shade, dust and debris.
Install larger systems on your roof for higher power production.

Design alternatives:

Maximizes rooftop utilization and improves array aesthetics.

How much of a power improvement can I expect?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer equipped panels can recover more than 50% of the power lost due to shade. This can be accomplished with installation of only a few SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer units. The percentage of recaptured energy will vary depending on the degree of shading, when the shading occurs and the duration of the shading event. See SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer Design Guidelines for more information.

What is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer MTBF?

The tested MTBF on SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer design is 519 years. We believe strongly in the importance of quality and reliability and we endeavor to be first class in this area. Reliability is a number one priority during the design process.
This results in:

Nominal operation of component working range by design reduces component stress.
Extremely effective product design approach to mitigate effects of internal temperature rise.
NEMA 6 enclosure rating for protection against extreme outdoor environments.

What is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer warranty?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer limited warranty is 20 years which includes terms for a replacement labor provision of $100 per unit. (see full warranty statement for details)

Applications

Can the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer be used in both Residential and Commercial solar deployments?

Yes.the SunMizer DC power optimizers are designed for use in either application. There is no limit to the size of the installation.

Can SunMizer DC power optimizers work in off-grid environments?

Xandex Solar DC power optimizers have only been tested to work in grid-tied installations. Check application updates for new applications of the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer as they are developed.

Can the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer work with other DC power sources such as wind or hydro-electric installations?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer DC power optimizers have been designed and tested to work in solar PV installations only.

What safety certifications does the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer have?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is UL, CE and GS certified for use in the US and Europe and can be installed in any region that allows PV devices certified to one or more of these standards. TUV Rheinland of North America conducted the certification testing and analysis of the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer.

Do all my panels need to match?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer deployment is recommended for only shaded panels. With this limited deployment, standard panel matching practices are recommended. See application notes for future testing and more information on this application.

Does the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer work with a tracking system?

Yes, the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer works with tracking systems. All standard design practices for tracker mounted applications apply. Additional weight loading, balance requirements and cable routing should be considered.

PV Design and Installation

What things should I consider in my design when using the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer?

Standard string inverter design practices should be followed including careful assessment of string voltage impacts as a result of shading.

How do I know where to deploy the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer?

For the shortest payback, the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer deployment is recommended on panels shaded during peak sun-hours. See SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer Deployment for more information.

Which solar modules are SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer compatible?

Please see module compatibility calculation instructions. In addition, Xandex is developing a high voltage model that will be available in mid 2010.

What PV connectors do SunMizer DC power optimizers support?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer currently includes MC3 type connectors (non-locking style). For MC4 panels, MC3/MC4 adapter cables are required. The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer will be available with MC3 and MC4 type connectors in mid-2010.

How many SunMizer DC-DC Optimizers can be on a single string?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is recommended for panels that are shaded during peak sun-hours, therefore, full string deployment is not typical. SunMizer DC-DC Optimizesr, however, can be deployed on all panels in a string or array..

Who can install the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizers can be installed by any qualified solar installation company. The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer approach makes it easy for system designers to design and install solar systems using SunMizer DC-DC Optimizers to optimize for shade.

Can I install a SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer myself?

Any solar-electric system should be installed by qualified personnel only.

What are the clearance and spacing requirements for installing SunMizer DC-DC Optimizers?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer requires 2" (5.0 cm) between the roof surface and the enclosure to avoid debris buildup between the roof and the SunMizer DC Optimizer unit., as well as to allow for heat-dissipation. A minimum clearance of 1.5” (4.0 cm) is required between the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer heat sink and the back of the solar panel for heat dissipation.

Does the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer have an equipment ground termination point?

Yes. SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is equipped with a built in grounding lug for easy termination, reducing the need and cost for additional hardware.

What is the purpose of the red light on the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer, and what does it mean if it is not lit?

SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is equipped with a status indicator light. The status indicator light conveys various modes of operation. No light means the unit is not receiving power from the module. This could be due to low light conditions or could indicate a bad connection or deffective wiring. A solid light means the unit is receiving power from the panel and waiting for grid interconnect. A blinking light means the unit is working properly and delivering power to the string.. For more information see the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer installation and operation manual.

Technical

Does the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer automatically disconnect when the grid shuts down (e.g. for power company repairs)?

No. This function is handled by any grid-tied inverter, so it will not "island" and potentially injure line workers.

Does the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer have monitoring capability?

No. Due to selective implementation approach, existing capability in most inverters and reliability concerns associated with additional monitoring electronics, Xandex has choosen not to implement this functionality.

What is the difference between the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer and a micro inverter?

Micro inverters perform panel level maximum power point tracking (MPPT) much like the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer. Micro inverters however also convert the DC power to AC for the grid. This significantly increases the complexity of each unit and impacts its reliability. The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer requires no changes to the standard system design, where micro inverters require a new parallel wiring scheme. In addition, with micro inverter units, each module requires one micro inverter unit and are sold and installed accordingly. In contrast, The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is designed as a standalone “only where you need it” solution.

General

If I have an operational problem, do I contact Xandex or my solar installer?

Please contact your solar installer for product support issues.

Is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer UL-approved?

Yes, the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is UL certified per the requirements of UL-1741. Safety testing was conducted by TUV Rheinland of North America.

Is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer CE and GS certified?

Yes, the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is both CE and GS certified by TUV Rheinland of North America. .

Is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer eligible for rebates in the state of California?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is not currently eligible for rebates under the CSI EPBB program. However, PV system owners will increase their CSI PBI rebates by the amount of increased energy harvest associated with the installation of the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer.

Is Xandex a public company? What is the stock symbol?

Xandex is a privately-held company. We are not publicly traded and therefore do not have a stock symbol.

Who is Xandex?

Xandex Inc. was founded in 1981 to design and manufacture semiconductor test products. Xandex Inc. is a quality company certified to the ISO 9001-2008 Quality System. The new Solar Division was organized in 2007 to enter the solar power management market. Company profile is available at www.xandex.com

Where is the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer manufactured?

The SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer is manufactured in Petaluma, CA. The manufacturing facility is UL certified for production of the SunMizer DC-DC Optimizer.