PHOENIX CONTACT | Customer Magazine UPDATE 3/11

Installing PV systems into buildings is a trend that has been continuously picking up. Phoenix Contact has dedicated a lot of time and research into developing a miniature family of plug connectors which can be installed out of sight behind the PV modules or directly into the facade frame.The robust components operate reliably even in adverse weather conditions. The miniature connectors have an outer diameter of 11 mm and were specifically designed for thin-film and BIPV (building integrated photovoltaic) modules.They are available in a pre-assembled or a customizable version. The customizable plug connector facilitates quick and easy on-site assembly without the need for special tools.This helps to greatly reduce the time and effort required to install the system. The pre-assembled version is mainly intended for thin-film modules but also supports components such as string lines, diodes, and fuses.These high-performance (15 A, 1000 V) miniature connectors complying with protection class IP67 can be used for a broad range of applications and require only very little installation space thanks to their compact size. Another noteworthy feature lies in the twisted, gold-plated contacts that prevent friction corrosion and guarantee a long electrical service life owing to the precious metal coating. These products not only cater to the needs of the solar industry but are also ideal for application in many other fields, including machine and plant construction, event technology, ship building, underground parking lots, and greenhouses. Compact Diode Box Phoenix Contact offers a compact ‘string diode’ box that prevents regenerative currents that can occur in thin-film modules as a result of shadow effects.The entire product family is plug compatible and thus provides users with a consistent tool for wiring the PV system. Andreas Schamber Innovation Across the Board Miniature PV Plug Connector System for On-Wall Modules When PV solutions are integrated into buildings, they also serve as an architectural feature.The compact design of the miniature connectors helps to improve the overall aesthetic impression. The new miniature plug connectors have an outer diameter of only 11 mm. Technology08 UPDATE 3|11