Proper Battery Selection & Configuration #
Correct battery configuration is critical for safe operation and reliable system performance. Solar inverters support two types of battery communication:
- Closed Loop Communication
- Open Loop Communication
Choosing the correct configuration ensures the inverter charges and discharges the battery safely and recognizes the battery for proper system operation.
⚠️ Important: Incorrect battery settings can prevent the inverter from detecting the battery. If the inverter cannot see the battery, it may not allow power output or system operation, even if the battery is physically connected.
1. Closed Loop vs Open Loop Communication #
Closed Loop Communication #
In a closed loop system, the battery communicates directly with the inverter through CAN or RS485 communication cables.
This allows the inverter to receive real-time data from the battery’s Battery Management System (BMS).
Data shared with the inverter #
- State of Charge (SOC)
- Battery voltage
- Charge/discharge current
- Battery temperature
- Maximum charge and discharge limits
Benefits #
- Charging is automatically controlled by the battery BMS
- Prevents over-charging and over-discharging
- Improves battery lifespan and system safety
Additional Requirements #
For closed loop communication to function properly:
- Communication cable must be connected
- The inverter must support the battery communication protocol
- Battery DIP switches must be set correctly. Refer to battery manual for proper setting of dip switches
Most lithium batteries use DIP switches to configure:
- Battery ID
- Communication protocol
- Parallel battery configuration
⚠️ Important: Incorrect DIP switch settings can prevent communication between the battery and inverter.
Always refer to the battery manufacturer’s manual for the correct DIP switch configuration before powering on the system.
Open Loop Communication #
In an open loop system, there is no direct communication between the battery and the inverter.
The inverter operates using voltage-based charging limits only.
Characteristics #
- No CAN or RS485 communication
- The inverter does not receive BMS data
- Charging parameters must be manually configured
- System performance depends on correct voltage settings
Open loop systems are commonly used when batteries do not support inverter communication protocols.
2. Battery Type Settings #
Correctly selecting the battery type setting in the inverter is essential.
Closed Loop Systems #
For batteries communicating with the inverter:
Use Lithium Battery Mode.
After selecting Lithium mode, always confirm that the inverter is actively communicating with the battery.
Verify communication by confirming the inverter displays: #
- Battery State of Charge (SOC)
- Battery voltage
- Battery status or communication indicator
If the inverter does not display SOC or battery data, communication is not active and the system may not operate correctly.
Open Loop Systems #
For LiFePO4 batteries without communication:
Set the inverter to Lead-Acid Mode.
Then manually configure the following settings:
- Battery bank capacity (Amp Hours)
- Bulk / Absorb voltage
- Float voltage
- Low voltage cutoff
- Reconnect voltage
These values should be configured according to battery manufacturer specifications.
⚠️ Warning
Do not rely on Lithium mode unless communication is confirmed. Improper configuration may result in incorrect charging behavior and/or inverter not functioning properly
3. Changing Battery Settings Using the Inverter LCD #
Follow these steps to configure the battery type from the inverter display.
Step 1 #
Power on the inverter.
Step 2 #
Press Enter / Menu on the LCD screen.
Step 3 #
Navigate to:
Settings → Battery Settings
Step 4 #
Select Battery Type
Step 5 #
Choose the appropriate option:
- Lithium → Closed Loop Communication (default value)
- Lead-Acid → Open Loop Configuration
Step 6 #
Press Enter to confirm.
Step 7 (Open Loop Only) #
If using Lead-Acid mode, manually configure:
- Bulk / Absorb Voltage
- Float Voltage
- Low Voltage Cutoff
- Reconnect Voltage
Always refer to the battery manufacturer’s specifications for correct voltage values.
Step 8 #
Save settings and exit the menu.
💡 Installer Tip
After configuring the battery settings, verify that the inverter display shows battery SOC and communication status. This confirms the inverter is properly communicating with the battery BMS and the system is ready for normal operation.
