Tech Talk: The Benefits of Micro Inverter Multigate Technology

SMA knew there was a better way. We recognized the shortcomings of current micro inverters and worked diligently to develop a new system that can deliver on the promise of quality, reliability and the high standards that customers have come to expect from us.

SMA invested years of engineering and research to offer the most reliable micro inverter on the market.

The cornerstone of this new approach to micro inverter system design is the separation of critical components into two key pieces: the Sunny Boy 240-US and the Sunny Multigate-US. While the Sunny Boy 240-US performs the traditional power conversion function under the module, the Sunny Multigate-US optimizes system reliability and elevates energy production.

What is a Multigate?

The backbone of SMA’s new micro inverter system is the Sunny Multigate-US. Housed in a separate, environmentally protected enclosure, the Multigate is the interface between the micro inverters and the utility grid. Most importantly, the Multigate is a communications hub for free module-level monitoring.

The Multigate is housed in a protected service box that is easy to access.

Why is the Multigate Separate from the Micro Inverter?

The Sunny Boy 240-US contains up to 50 percent fewer components than competitive micro inverters. Critical components were removed from an extremely hot roof environment under the module and placed in the Multigate, an easy-access service panel on the side of the home.  This design exposes fewer components under the module to heat stress, so the micro inverter system is able to realize greater energy production and reliability.

Homeowners and installers have worry-free access to free module-level monitoring and reports from any device with internet connection.

How has SMA Improved Micro Inverter Communication?

Micro inverter installers would agree that communication related issues are the number one cause of service calls. Traditional micro inverters send information to a monitoring portal using public bandwidth, resulting in interference and unreliable communication.  In many instances, filters must be installed just to obtain clear data communication which increases system cost.

The Multigate addresses these concerns by using a private band power line, sending data directly to the customer’s router via an Ethernet cable. Once it is connected to the Internet, module-level reporting is sent to SMA’s free monitoring site www.SunnyPortal.com. This free PV system monitoring service can send customized reports via e-mail or text message to homeowners and installers.

Custom module level performance reports can be sent to homeowner or installers

How has Service Been Made Easier?

The finishing touch for the Multigate is a win-win for both installers and homeowners.  Diagnostics and system re-commissioning can now be performed outside the home at the location of the Multigate, as opposed to competitive products that require entry into the home.

There is no longer a need to block-out a time slot with a homeowner for a service call, eliminating frustrating scheduling and missed work for the homeowner. There is also a reduction in time spent on the roof troubleshooting because SMA’s Sunny Explorer can be used to diagnose potential issues right at the Multigate.

Making the Right Investment

SMA’s Sunny Boy 240-US and Sunny Multigate-US system offer all of the valuable benefits of micro inverter system technology including flexibility, simplicity and module-level optimization. Additional technical innovations set this system apart with a superior cabling system, increased communication reliability, reduced component count and highly configurable monitoring options.

Would you like more technical training on the Sunny Boy 240-US/SMA Multigate-US? Join us for a free webinar or attend one of our hands-on training sessions. Click here to view the SMA Solar Academy schedule.

Click here to watch the Sunny Boy 240-US / Multigate-US video.