SF7 Tracker Control System - GTD Rev6 PDF

Tracker Control System
General Technical Description

1. OVERVIEW 2
1.1 The SF7 Tracker 2
1.2 Drive System 2
2. Tracker CONTROL BOX 2
2.1 Overview 2
2.2 Tracker Controller 3
2.3 Tracker Power Supply 5
3. COMMUNICATIONS CABINET 7
3.1 Overview 7
3.2 Technical Data 8
4. Tracker MONITORING SYSTEM (TMS) 8
4.1 TMS-Hardware 9
4.2 TMS-Software 10
5. COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK ARCHITECTURE 10
5.1 Basic Configuration (UTP) 11
5.2 Optional Configuration (Fiber Optic) 11
6. FIELD COMMUNICATIONS LAYOUT DESIGN 12
6.1 Arquitecture and Typology 12
6.2 Communication Typologies 13
6.3 RS-485 Cabling Considerations 15
6.4 Wired Specifications 16
6.5 Wireless Specifications 16
Bankability Report available:

Black & Veatch, DNV-GL
Wind Tunnel Tested:
RWDI, CPP-Wind, IDR-UPM
SF7
Tracker Control
System - GTD
1. OVERVIEW
1.1 Self-Powered Tracker
Soltec solar tracking mechanism consist on the rotation of the surface of PV modules to collect the maximum
power from the Sun. The Tracker’s angular position is measured by an inclinometer located in the Tracker-
Controller printed circuit board, and optimum position is calculated with a Solar Position Algorithm.
1.2 Drive system
Nominal voltage 24 VDC
Maximum power 250W
Energy consumption 20.234 Wh/day/Tracker
Enclosure Protection IP55
Standard range: -20° to +55° C

Temperature range
Extended: -40° to +55° C
2. TRACKER CONTROL BOX

2.1 Overview
The new enclosure provides solution to fulfill every requirement of

the design:
- Integrates all electronics and battery power bank in the same
enclosure (in case Self-Powered Tracker is chosen), simplifying
manufacturing and installation.
- Includes external connectors, which allows a much easier and faster Self-Powered
installation as well to avoid any electronics handling that could cause
any damage to it.
- Lateral opening with a battery holding retention to prevent any
injury due to an object falling. Lateral opening owing to ease battery
replacement.
- Tracker-Controller PCB and Over-Angle Detector remains in a
parallel plane to the base of central axe.
- IP 65 protection grade. Up to IP67 if some components are replaced.
- Electrical safety. Every part susceptible of been exposed to
1000/1500 V is isolated and not accessible to any worker who could
manipulate the box. The rest of electronics parts are grounded. Grid-Powered
Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2 Confidential for Soltec customers.
Contents subject to change without prior notice.
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Tracker Control
System - GTD
2.1.1 Electronics and battery

5
Inside the Tracker Control Box (Self-Powered
Configuration Model) there are different
electronic PCBs, in addition to the battery bank:
1
Tracker-Controller
2 Series Power Supply 2

4
3 Over-Angle Detector
4 Battery bank 1
5 Temperature sensor
3
2.2 Tracker-Controller
It calculates the astronomical algorithm for the solar position and moves the motor to the optimum position.
The Tracker-Controller integrates all the power electronics and control electronics to perform the following tasks:
- AC/DC or DC/DC conversion
- Pitch and Roll angle position
- Real Time Clock
- DC motor driver
- Communications: Wireless/RS485/NFC
There are two kinds of Tracker Controllers
in function of their position in the Layout:
HEAD-Tracker - Usually located between

two groups of Sub-Trackers. Its function is
communicating:
- Gateways and Head-Trackers
- Each Head-Tracker with the
Sub-Trackers.
SUB-Tracker - Sub-Trackers communicate
only with Head-Trackers.
2.2.1 Internal control
The Tracker-Controllers are synchronized constantly with the data provided by its associated Gateway. The optimum
Tracker positioning is performed using the following parameters:
- Time-Stamp: Year, Month, Day, Hour, Minute, Second; received from the Gateway.
- Global Position: Latitude, Longitude; configured initially during the commissioning stage.
- ngular Position: Roll (current tracking angle), Pitch (rotation axis inclination), Yaw (rotation axis orientation);
A
measured internally from a 3-axis accelerometer.
- and Slopes: Slope North-South, Slope towards East, Slope towards West; configured initially during the
L
commissioning stage.

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Tracker Control
System - GTD
2.2.1.1 Solar position
The solar position is internally calculated based on the time-stamp and the geolocation of the Tracker. The algorithm
for calculating the solar position (azimuth and elevation) is based on the NREL’s Solar Position Algorithm.
(https://midcdmz.nrel.gov/spa/).
The calculation for positioning the Tracker in the most optimum position based on the solar position and the Trackers
conditions has been developed by SOLTEC and is covered by the patent WO/2013/057333
(https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/detail.jsf?docId=WO2013057333).
2.2.1.2 Internal inclinometer
The angular position of the Tracker is internally calculated based on the

information provided from a high performance 3-axis accelerometer.
Said accelerometer is mounted in the Tracker-Controller PCB, which is
mounted inside the Tracker Control Box (TCB). The TCB is installed under
the rotation axis of the Tracker’s structure; therefore, the plane of the
accelerometer is parallel to the PV panels surface.
2.2.1.3 Firmware
The Tracker-Controller firmware can be programmed in two ways:

1. Using the internal programming interface directly to the circuit board. This interface is not accessible from
outside the enclosure.
2. U
sing the Gateway Software. The Gateway loads and sends the selected firmware through the RS-485/Wireless
interface. It’s not necessary to open the Tracker’s enclosure.
The Gateway gathers all the data from its associated Trackers and sends said data to the Central Control CPU. The
Gateway’s Software can be updated remotely.
2.2.2 Operation modes
There are six different working modes:

- TRACK: The Tracker follows the apparent Sun’s movement, performs Backtracking when needed and stays at
0 degrees at night.
- STOW: Safe position. It moves to ±45° or 0° or certain safe slope in case of high wind or heavy snow.
- MOVE_WESTWARDS: The Tracker will keep moving towards West direction until the maximum angle.
- MOVE_EASTWARDS: The Tracker will keep moving towards West direction until the maximum angle.
- STOP: The Tracker stays at the current position.
- TARGET_SLOPE: The Tracker moves to the angle introduced by the operator.
The Tracker is set to STOW (±45° or 0°) mode with one of the following events:
- The Tracker loses the link to its associated Gateways during a determined period. It would return to TRACK
mode once the communication is recovered.
- The associated Gateway loses communication with the TMS during a determined period. The Trackers would
return to TRACK mode once the communication is recovered.
- The TMS reads a wind speed higher than “vSTOW”.
The Tracker is set to STOP mode when:
- The motor current consumption exceeds the maximum.
- The emergency stop button is pushed.
- Angular limit switch is active.

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2.2.2.1 Wind modes
STOW
Tracking mode
If wind speed value is higher than “vSTOW” Trackers move to stow position. If
afterwards the wind speed is lower than “vSTOW” during a time higher than the
No
“Restore Time”, Trackers will change their mode to TRACK. VWIND > VSTOW?
Wind Algorithm Yes
Concepts which appears in the following flow chart are defined below: Stow mode
- vWIND: wind speed. Yes
- vSTOW: It is a specific parameter that varies according to the project. When the VWIND > VSTOW?
wind speed is higher than this one, the Tracker goes into Stow mode.
No
The system is programmed with a control algorithm which decides which mode or
angle limitation is needed, based on real time read of wind speed in the PV plant. It Exceeded the
is responsible for monitoring the security position of all Trackers of the plant. No restore time?
Yes
2.3 Tracker power supply
Tracking mode
There are two options for powering SF7 Trackers:
- Grid-Powered Tracker: powering them with AC using an internal AC/DC converter.
- elf-Powered Tracker: using the current flowing through the PV strings to charge distributed batteries which
S
power the electronics and motor power consumption. This option is based in the Series Power Supply (SPS)
concept, developed by Soltec.
Both options are described in more detail in the following subsections.
2.3.1 Grid-Powered Tracker 2.3.2 Self-Powered Tracker
Power conversion is provided at each Tracker from Self-powering works with the Series Power Supply (SPS),
single-phase AC to 24 VDC Tracker operational concept based on the use of a DC/DC converter which
power supply. uses the current flow in one of the existing PV strings over
the Tracker’s structure. Said current is converted to charge
- Input range: 90 VAC to 264 VAC a battery which stores the energy required by the Tracker-
- Input frequency: 50/60 Hz Controller to move the motor and communicate with the
rest of the plant.
- Isolated AC/DC power supply
- Input phase configuration: Single-Phase
- Temperature range:
- Standard: -20° to +55° C
- Extended: -40° to +55° C
- No maintenance
- reaker Protection: The breaker protections to the
B
Trackers must be Curve D, due to the high inrush
current of the internal power supplies.
- Surge Protection: SPD which meets the requirements
of the standards IEC 61643 and UL 1449.
The SPS works as a load in series with panels, generating a voltage drop between its connection terminals that
varies depending on the power taken from the line. At the input side, the SPS has a terminal block for an in-series
connection to the panel string. At the output side, the SPS has a terminal block for the battery connection and
another connection for the load, which usually is the Tracker-Controller (TC). The SPS also has a connection for
measurements and commands, usually from the TC. The input side is connected to one point of the panel string,
and is electrically isolated from the output side, connected to the TC and usually grounded.

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measurements and commands, usually from the TC. The input side is connected to one point of the panel string,
and is electrically isolated from the output side, connected to the TC and usually grounded.
2.3.2.1 Main features
Series Power Supply
- In-series connection to any point of the panel string.

- Connecting at the point with less voltage to ground is recommended for further durability of the components.
- Battery charge management. Controlled voltage and current, with temperature compensation.
- Filtered input and output to avoid disturbances with other equipment.
- 3kV input to output galvanic isolation.
- The Tracker-Controller can be grounded as it is isolated from the PV power line.
- Input and output overvoltage protection.
- Automatic Tracker mode transfer to STOW in case of low battery (50% of State of Charge).
- Automatic battery disconnection to prevent deep discharge.
- Typical battery discharge during daily cycles: less than 10% (with 7.2 Ah battery).
- Backup supply during 3 days prior to switching to STOW (with 7.2 Ah battery).
- Backup supply for 5 consecutive trips from 60 degrees to STOW position and back, with high wind speed
(maximum torque).
- Overcurrent battery disconnection with automatic reconnection.
- Operating current range: 3 – 12A in string.
- Rated operating current: 6 – 8A in string.
- Minimum generation losses with high string current: 0.012% with 8A in string.
2.3.2.2 Installation advantages

- Great Savings by reducing initial costs related to wiring (wires, wiring works, trench and corrugated tubing,
also associated labor costs).
- Tracker-Controller devices are independent and isolated from AC installation. It avoids problems with
conducted noise and overvoltage damage.
- Higher Safety: Once the electronics are installed to the structure, the Trackers are powered, keeping the STOW
position and preventing possible wind damages before the communications are installed and/or commissioned.
2.3.2.3 Commissioning advantages

- Commissioning works are independent from the electrical works completion.
- Plug & Track solution. No need to open and/or operate the electronics enclosure to connect and power the
Tracker-Controller.
- PV cables provided by SOLTEC. Length of cables may vary depending on each specific project.

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2.3.2.4 Backup included
The Tracker-Controller will be powered directly from the backup batteries, even when the charger is powered
off for a long time. It will go on working normally until battery is discharged to 50% of the nominal capacity.
When the State of Charge (SoC) is under 50%, the Tracker goes to stow position and stays until the battery
is recharged and the SoC is over 65%. This prevents the Tracker running out of battery and turning off at any
position. The probability of this situation is very low.
The SPS needs a maximum of 2 hours of daylight to restore from 50% to 65% and 6.5h to charge from 50% to 100%.
If the battery is not recharged, the Tracker stays at stow position. When the SoC is 0% the battery is disconnected
to prevent over discharge. When the battery is disconnected, the Tracker-Controller is powered off and
communication is lost.
The battery is automatically reconnected, and the Tracker-Controller turned on when the charger is powered
again by current in the string.
Considering a nominal capacity of BC=7.2Ah and the typical daily power consumption of the Tracker, it will
be working normally for TTRACK = 3.8 Days. After that, the Tracker << will stay at stow position keeping on
communicating for TSTOW = 6.3 Days.
3. COMMUNICATIONS CABINET
3.1 Overview
The Soltec SF Gateway is a Field Communications Device which communicates with several SF7 Trackers in a RS-485 bus
and converts the information to MODBUS-TCP through an Ethernet connection.
The Gateway Cabinet host all the necessary devices for a correct functioning of the Gateways, protecting them from the
weather conditions, lightnings, etc. (Standard IEC 61439-1)
Weight: 25 kg
4 5 6
1 2 3 Dimensions:
W/H/D
500/600/250
7
8
ID Description
1 AC Surge Protection Device (SPD) type II+III
2 Miniature Circuit Breaker 10A 2P C Curve
3 AC Socket 120/230VAC 50/60Hz (Default)
4 DC Power supply 72W 24V 3A (Default)
9 10 5 Managed Ethernet Switch
6 Unmanaged Ethernet Switch
7 SF7 Gateways
8 Industrial miniComputer
9 SF7 Gateways SPDs for RS-485 lines
10 Wind Sensor SPDs for 24 VDC and RS-485 line

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3.2 Technical data1
Enclosure and Ambient Parameters Power Supply

IP Degree IP 66/self-ventilated Nominal Voltage (AC) 120/230 V
IK Degree 10 Nominal Frequency 50/60 Hz
Material Cold-rolled steel; Polyester paint UV res. Earthing Scheme TT or TN-S
Dimensions (W/H/D) 500/600/250 mm Max. Power Consumption2 405 W
Temperature Range -25 to +55oC Internal Protection 10 A curve C breaker
Relative Humidity 5 to 95% (non-condensing) Surge Arrester (IEC 61643-11) Type II+III
Standard: IEC 61439-1

1 2
Standard configuration and considering a 250W load for the AC Socket
Communications
Gateways Wind Sensor (Speed and Direction)
Cable Impedence 120 Ω Standard RS-485
Max. Number of GW per Cabinet 3

9 RS-485 Surge Arrester (IEC 61643-21) C1, C2, C3, D1
Max. Number of Trackers per GW 75 Communication Switch
RS-485 Surge Arrester (IEC 61643-21) C1, C2, C3, D1 Ethernet4 10/100 Mbps
3
Except for cold climate configurations, where max. number is 7 4
Optional: Optic Fiber, monomode / multimode with SC duplex connector
3.2.1 Customer requirements
- The Gateway Cabinet must have an annual maintenance according to the manufacturer specs.
- Feeder Line Protection Recommended: MCB 10A 2P D Curve. One MCB by each Communication Cabinet.
4. TRACKER MONITORING SYSTEM (TMS)

The TMS is the hardware and software package which performs the Control, Monitoring, Data logging, Alarms and
Communications processes at plant level for the Soltec Tracker System.
For the system to work properly, TMS server must communicate with all the elements of the system using TCP/IP
protocols, so a standard TCP/IP data network must be used. This core network infrastructure is not provided, managed
nor configured by Soltec.
It is possible to choose between two different configurations which are briefly described in the following scheme:
All features and requirements of both configurations are described deeply in following sections.

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4.1 TMS hardware
4.1.1 Basic configuration
Basic Configuration for TMS comes with the following Hardware to be installed in an existing rack inside the
control room of the plant:
- KVM LCD Console 17”
- CPU Server 1
- UPS 1kVA (Standard configuration,

subject to changes)
The requirements for this basic system are the following: 4
- To be installed in existing rack

(not provided by Soltec).
- pace needed: 6U (4 for devices + 2 for free
S
space for cooling the CPU Server). 7
- ccess to NTP. The presence of an NTP in the

A
plant is needed.
- thernet ports from existing switch in rack (2
E
CPU, 1 UPS, 1 external commissioning PC).
- C Power 120/230VAC 50/60Hz 635W
A
(Standard configuration, subject to changes). 1
4.1.2 Optional requirements
If Optional Configuration is chosen, Soltec will provide

the full TMS rack, which includes the following hardware: 2
ID Description 3
1 KVM LCD Console 17”
2 NTP Time Server (integrated Reference Clock) 4
3 Managed Ethernet Switch (Standard)*
4 CPU Server 5
5 PDU Strip 16A 230V 50/60Hz** 6
6 AC SPD type II+III and MCB 10A 2p C Curve 7
7 1kVA UPS (Standard, subject to changes)
8 Rack enclosure 600mm x 800mm x 18U

8
*Configuration depends on number of optical rings Optional Feed Terminal Block

**According to local standards
Wheels (Situated at the back)

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4.2 TMS software
The TMS is a modular, configurable, flexible and

scalable system for monitoring, control, data logging
and communicate the Soltec Tracker System in a
centralized unit.
The Software of the TMS has the following modules:
- Updater: TMS Core Software.
- ommunicates with all the Gateways and other
C
devices in the plant.
- Updates data and writes commands.
- Stores all the data in a Database.
- Serves information to all the other modules.
- ontrollers. Performs control algorithms using
C
data and sending commands.
- Wind control
- Charts.
- Temperature control - I t is possible to see graphs for all the data
- Flood control stored in the database.
- Night position - ata can be exported to other data exploitation

D
services.
- Team Backtracking
- TMS Init.
- Others
- odule for commissioning the whole plant and
M
- Data logging. O&M purposes.
- ata is stored in a time series database for the
D - Monitors the status of all the modules of the
last 12 weeks by default. TMS.
- Granularity of the data is 1s. - OPC UA Server. Interface for third party TMSs.
- apacity and granularity can be modified
C - HMI. Client software for using the TMS as a TMS
under request. for the Tracker System.
5. COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK ARCHITECTURE

There are two main options to communicate all the
elements of the Soltec system, depending on the
data network infrastructure provided to Soltec.
To make it possible to choose the Optional
Configuration of Communication cabinets (with
Fiber Optic), it is absolutely necessary to have
chosen the TMS Optional Configuration.
In case that Basic Option (with Ethernet Interface)
wanted to be chosen, both Basic and Optional
Hardware Configuration are suitable.

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5.1 Basic configuration
This option is implemented connecting every communications cabinet and TMS server along with its associated
UPS to the core data network directly. Normally this involves connecting Soltec’s cabinets and TMS server to
Ethernet switches in each location not provided by Soltec using a standard UTP Cat6 Ethernet patch cord.
In this case, both options for TMS server can be used (basic or optional).
This is the general architecture in this case, TMS basic option is shown here as an example:
Soltec
HMI TMS
Server NTP
(Not provided
(Not provided
by Soltec)
by Soltec)
HMI UPS
Ethernet UTP cat 6
Customer’s LAN Ethernet UTP cat 5

Control Room
RS485
1 SF7 Gateway
2 Managed Ethernet Switch
Customer’s LAN 3 Industrial miniComputer
Gateways Gateways Gateways Gateways

Cabinet #1 Cabinet #2 Cabinet #3 Cabinet #4
1
2
Trackers
1 Trackers Trackers Trackers
3
Conversion Conversion Conversion Conversion
Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area
(where included) (where included) (where included) (where included)
5.2 Optional configuration (Fiber optic)
In this case, Soltec system works with a physically separated data network. With this option, a full TMS rack is
compulsory as all the Ethernet switches are configured by Soltec to work redundantly and form a physical fiber
optic ring. The only point of inter-connection with the Customer LAN is in the main switch located inside the
TMS rack.
Soltec needs at least 2 fibers and 4 is recommended to have 2 as a reserve. Soltec equipment is connected using
an optical fiber patch cord to a fiber optic patch panel not provided by Soltec. These patch panels are those
where the main optical fiber cabling of the plant is terminated in each subfield cabin (normally located in the
inverter cabin) and in the control room.
To use this option, some data is needed from the customer:
- Type of fiber used: Multi Mode (MM) or Single Mode (SM).
- Type of connector used in the patch panels: SC duplex, LC, etc.
- Distance from the patch panel to our equipment in each location.

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This is the general architecture in this case:
Fiber Optic Cable
UPS Coaxial RG56
Ethernet UTP cat 6

HMI
(Provided UPS
Customer’s LAN Ethernet UTP cat 6
only in TMS
Level 2) Soltec
TMS
RS485
Server
1 SF7 Gateway
HMI NTP 2 Managed Ethernet Switch
Soltec Rack
3 Industrial miniComputer
Customer’s LAN F.O. PatchPanel
Control Room
F.O. Patchpanels are Fiber Optic Ring

not provided by soltec (Not provided by Soltec)
F.O. PatchPanel F.O. PatchPanel F.O. PatchPanel F.O. PatchPanel
Gateways Gateways Gateways Gateways

Cabinet #1 Cabinet #2 Cabinet #3 Cabinet #4
1
2
1
Trackers Trackers Trackers Trackers
3
Conversion Conversion Conversion Conversion
Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area Wind Sensor Unit Area
(where included) (where included) (where included) (where included)
6. FIELD COMMUNICATIONS LAYOUT DESIGN

These guidelines must be applied when designing the field communications system layout for a plant. These indications
must be followed for plants using RS-485 cables and/or wireless communications. The minimum requirement for this
design is to have a layout of the plant.
6.1 Architecture and typology
The following scheme describes the four main

components in the network architecture of Soltec
Trackers:
- Maximum Tracker Controllers associated to a
single Gateway (GW): 75 devices.
- Tracker Controllers balanced amongst GWs.

(if one GW ‘A’ has many devices associated,
and other GW ‘B’ has much less, if possible
it would be better to associate some of the
devices from GW ‘A’ to ‘B’).

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- rackers from different subfields must not be

T SCADA Gateway
associated to the same Gateway. Each subfield will MODBUS
have its own GWs with its own Trackers associated to TCP
RS-485
them. 5 Subtrackers Max. 5 Subtrackers Max.
- asic architecture is composed of a GW, some Head-

B
Trackers and many Sub-Trackers.
- W and Head-Trackers are always connected by

G
RS-485 cables.
- rom every GW, a single RS-485 cable is run, connecting

F
all Head-Trackers in daisy-chain. This connection
implements a single electrical communications bus.
a
- o more than 32 Head-Trackers can be connected to
N
this bus created from GW.
- here are two different communication system

T
between Head and Sub-Trackers: Full wired and
Wireless. They are described in 6.2.1 and 6.2.2,
respectively.
- FC short range communication allow to connect a

N
device (smartphone, tablet…) directly to the Tracker
controller, contactless, to read the current status or to
control the Tracker.
Hybrid RS-485 + Radio
Communication
6.2 Typologies of communication
SCADA Gateway
a Hybrid RS-485 + Radio Communication based on a MODBUS

TCP
mix of a standard RS-485 communication protocol for RS-485
Head-Trackers and a wireless radio mesh network for

Sub-Trackers:
- Cable-saving installation:
- Radio Communication Trackers: about 80 %.
- Mesh routing topology improves robustness.
b Full-wired RS-485 Communication: based on a

b
standard RS-485 protocol.
- Structured in two levels to optimize layout

distribution: Head-line and Sub-line.
- ead-line: connects every Head-Tracker with
H
the gateway cabinet.
- Sub-line: repeats Head-line signal.
(Head-Trackers work as data repeaters for Sub-Trackers)
Head-Tracker Sub-Tracker
2.4GHz wireless technology. Full-wired RS-485

IEEE-802.15.4 based network protocol Communication

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6.2.1 RS-485 full wired

In this case, the Head-Trackers bus is horizontal in the layout in the W-E axis, from Head-Tracker nearest to the GW
cabin. This is the standard case, but it depends on the layout of the plant.
Then, each Head-Tracker is connected in daisy-chain with its Sub-Trackers. So, it implements another isolated
electrical bus with all their Sub-Trackers. It is implemented vertically in the N-S axis, from the Head (standard
case). This bus has the same characteristics and limitations of the Head-Trackers bus, so all the notes in 7.1 and
7.3 must be followed too regarding distances and run of cables. An example of the connections in this type of
communications topology:
6.2.2 Hybrid RS-485 + Radio Communication

When using wireless communications, Sub-Trackers communicate with their Head-Tracker over the air, so there is no
RS-485 cabling from Head to Sub-Trackers, but communications between GW and Head-Trackers still uses RS-485
cabling.
Although the limit of Trackers associated to each GW keeps being 75, it is recommended to be about 50-55, because
wireless communications are slower and the more Trackers in each GW, the slower the data updating will be.
An example of the connections in this type of communications topology:

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SF7 SF7 SF7 SF7

Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box
Antenna Antenna Antenna Antenna
PV+ PV+ PV+ PV+
WEST WEST WEST WEST
PV- PV- PV- PV-
Sub-Tracker Row 5 M MOTOR
M MOTOR
M MOTOR
M MOTOR

EAST EAST EAST EAST
Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker
Max. 5 Sub-Trackers
at each side of
Head-Tracker
SF7 SF7 SF7 SF7

PV+ PV+ PV+ PV+
WEST WEST WEST WEST
PV- PV- PV- PV- RS485 Line for one
M MOTOR
M MOTOR
M MOTOR
row of Head-Tracker
EAST EAST EAST EAST
SF7 SF7 SF7 SF7

As many RS485 lines
Tracker Control Box
Antenna
Tracker Control Box
Antenna
Tracker Control Box
Antenna
Tracker Control Box
Antenna
and Gateways as
RS485 RS485
Head-Tracker Rows
PV+ PV+ PV+ PV+
WEST WEST WEST WEST
PV- PV- PV- PV-
Head-Tracker Row M MOTOR
RS485in M MOTOR
RS485in M MOTOR
RS485in M MOTOR
RS485in
Antenna RS485out Antenna RS485out Antenna RS485out Antenna RS485out
EAST EAST EAST EAST
Head-Tracker 4 Head-Tracker 3 Head-Tracker 2 Head-Tracker 1
SF7 Communications
110/ Cabinet
240 VAC Gateway 1 Gateway n
SF7 SF7 SF7 SF7 Panel
Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box Ethernet
WEST
PV+
WEST
PV+
WEST
PV+
WEST
PV+
Wind Sensor
PV- PV- PV- PV-
(Speed and
M MOTOR
M MOTOR
M MOTOR
Fiber Switch
Direction)
EAST EAST EAST EAST Fiber
Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker Sub-Tracker Patch
Panel
Fiber Switch*
Max. 5 Sub-Trackers
at each side of *Optionally included in the
Head-Tracker Soltec Communications Cabinet
SF7 SF7 SF7 SF7

PV+ PV+ PV+ PV+
WEST WEST WEST WEST
M
PV-
M
PV-
M
PV-
M
PV-
Sub-Tracker Row 5 MOTOR MOTOR MOTOR MOTOR

EAST EAST EAST EAST
SF7 SF7
Tracker Control Box Tracker Control Box
Antenna Antenna
PV+ PV+
WEST WEST
PV-
M
PV-
M MOTOR MOTOR
RS485in
Antenna Antenna RS485out
EAST EAST
Sub-Tracker Head-Tracker
6.3 RS-485 Cabling considerations
These notes always apply to any run of RS-485 cables, either in the case of Full Wired or Hybrid-configuration.
6.3.1 Distances from power cables.
IMPORTANT: These notes are always applied whenever a communications cable runs near other type of cabling.
When no metal separation exists, spacing between exterior surfaces of underground conduits/cables shall be
not less that the following:
- 150 mm between a communications conduit/cable and any power conduit/cable (AC or DC not over 1500 V).
- 500 mm between a communications conduit/cable and any power conduit/cable (AC or DC over 1500 V),
unless noted otherwise.
- 150 mm between AC power conduits/cables and DC power conduits/cables. Where crossing
perpendicular, spacing between exterior surfaces of conduits/cables shall be not less that the following:
- 150 mm between AC and DC power conduits/cable operating at any voltage.
- 00 mm between conduits/cables containing AC and DC power conduits operating at any voltage and
2
communications (copper) conduits/cables.
6.3.2 Cable lengths
For security, every independent electrical RS-485 bus must not exceed 750 m. of length under any circumstance.
As a general consideration, in case one line ‘A’ is near 750 m. and other line ‘B’ is much shorter, it is better to
shorten line ‘A’ if possible, assigning its Trackers to line ‘B’.

SF7
Tracker Control
System - GTD
It must be considered that the cable can be run in trenches that makes it necessary to take the cable to the
Tracker Control Box next to the motor, so this distances up and down must be considered. A standard value for
this distance could be 3 meters up and 3 meters down (or another value, provided by Soltec).
If the cable is run through the Tracker, this distance can also be increased depending on the way this cable is
run, and this is given by the Tracker mechanical design and the run of the solar cables, which must be separated
from the communications cable run.
Also, when the cable runs from Tracker to Tracker in the same vertical column, it must be considered that the
cable must be longer to allow for the movements of the Trackers and misalignment. So, a value of 2 meters must
be applied between Trackers in the same column, in the standard case. Also, it must be considered the distance
the cable runs within the Tracker, as this cable may follow different paths from project to project. These details
should only be needed in case the distance is near the 750 m limit or many Trackers are involved.
For cables longer than 650 m it must be considered to have more Gateways in the system. If problems arise
during commissioning, it is better to have shorter cable runs.
6.3.3 Other requirements
- No junction boxes can be used to connect RS-485 cables. The cable must be physically continuous from GW
or Tracker to the next Tracker.
- The RS-485 cable must be electrically equivalent to the cable 3106A Multi-Conductor - EIA Industrial RS-485
PLTC/CM (Belden). The most important features of the cable are that it must have 1.5 pair of conductors and
the cable must be of 120-ohm nominal impedance.
- The diameter of the cable must be compatible with the connector or gland in the Tracker Control Box.
- Every box with a RS-485 cable also incorporates a SPD Module, in case of breaking must be substituted.
Soltec does not provide any warranty if all the requirements from points in 6.3 are not followed.
6.4 Wired Specifications

Mininmum Typical Maximum Unit
Data rate - 250 - kbps
RS-485 DC over-voltage tolerance - - 60 V
Characteristic impedance - 120 - Ohm
6.5 Wireless specifications
6.5.1 2.4 GHz communications

Wireless long range communications are used to connect Sub-Trackers with the Head-Tracker. Is based in IEEE
802.15.4 standard. Table 6 resumes the technical information.

Frequency 2.405 - 2.480 GHz
2.4 GHz Output source -13.6 - 19 dBm
Sensitivity - -104 - dBm
6.5.2 NFC
NFC short range communication allows to connect a device (smartphone, tablet…) directly to the Tracker
controller, contactless, to read the current status or control it. This communication is based in IEEE 802.15.4
standard. Table 7 resumes the technical information.
NFC communication is available both in Full-Wired or Hybrid communication system.

Frequency - 13.56 250 - MHz
NFC Coverage range 0 - 45 Mm
Standard ISO/IEC 14443


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Tracker Control System

General Technical Description

Bankability Report available:

1.2 Drive system

Nominal voltage 24 VDC

Maximum power 250W

Energy consumption 20.234 Wh/day/Tracker

Enclosure Protection IP55

Standard range: -20° to +55° C

2. TRACKER CONTROL BOX

The new enclosure provides solution to fulfill every requirement of

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2.1.1 Electronics and battery

2 Series Power Supply 2

HEAD-Tracker - Usually located between

2.2.1 Internal control

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2.2.1.1 Solar position

2.2.1.2 Internal inclinometer

The angular position of the Tracker is internally calculated based on the

The Tracker-Controller firmware can be programmed in two ways:

2.2.2 Operation modes

There are six different working modes:

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2.2.2.1 Wind modes

Wind Algorithm Yes

2.3.1 Grid-Powered Tracker 2.3.2 Self-Powered Tracker

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2.3.2.1 Main features

Series Power Supply

- In-series connection to any point of the panel string.

2.3.2.2 Installation advantages

2.3.2.3 Commissioning advantages

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

2.3.2.4 Backup included

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

3.2 Technical data1

Enclosure and Ambient Parameters Power Supply

IK Degree 10 Nominal Frequency 50/60 Hz

Material Cold-rolled steel; Polyester paint UV res. Earthing Scheme TT or TN-S

Dimensions (W/H/D) 500/600/250 mm Max. Power Consumption2 405 W

Temperature Range -25 to +55oC Internal Protection 10 A curve C breaker

Standard: IEC 61439-1

Gateways Wind Sensor (Speed and Direction)

Cable Impedence 120 Ω Standard RS-485

Max. Number of GW per Cabinet 3

Max. Number of Trackers per GW 75 Communication Switch

3.2.1 Customer requirements

4. TRACKER MONITORING SYSTEM (TMS)

Document: Tracker Control System-GTD_en | Date: 2020/07/16 | Revision: 6

4.1 TMS hardware

4.1.1 Basic configuration

- UPS 1kVA (Standard configuration,

- To be installed in existing rack

- ccess to NTP. The presence of an NTP in the

4.1.2 Optional requirements

If Optional Configuration is chosen, Soltec will provide

1 KVM LCD Console 17”

2 NTP Time Server (integrated Reference Clock) 4

3 Managed Ethernet Switch (Standard)*

5 PDU Strip 16A 230V 50/60Hz** 6

6 AC SPD type II+III and MCB 10A 2p C Curve 7

7 1kVA UPS (Standard, subject to changes)