As a key equipment for improving the efficiency, safety, and flexibility of distributed photovoltaic power generation, the demand for micro inverters in the market continues to grow.
At the same time, due to their unique advantages such as module-level MPPT, independent operation, and easy installation and maintenance, they are highly favored in residential, commercial, and small commercial photovoltaic projects.
Communication with Third-Party Platforms
With the development of business models, users not only need to upload inverter data to their own monitoring platform, but also need to display or upload data to their company’s cloud platform to achieve convenient and unified data management. This demand can be collectively referred to as “communication with third-party platforms”.
The communication between the inverter and the monitoring platform relies on a communication protocol in terms of software and mainly uses a monitoring stick module as a medium or bridge for data transmission and reception in terms of hardware. This ensures that the inverter’s operation can be displayed on the monitoring and maintenance platform.
Mainstream Communication Methods
The mainstream micro inverter manufacturers in the global market primarily transmit and control data through communication methods such as WiFi, PLC, RS485, Sub-1G, and Zigbee. Below is an overview of each brand’s communication methods:
| Brand | Communication Methods |
|---|---|
| Enphase Energy | PLC |
| Hoymiles | Sub-1G (433 MHz/868 MHz/915 MHz) |
| APsystems | 2.4 GHz Zigbee |
| Tigo Energy | Wi-Fi & PLC optional |
| SolarEdge | RS485 & Zigbee optional |
| Growatt | Sub-1G & Wi-Fi optional |
| Huawei | RS485, PLC & Zigbee optional |
Detailed Explanation of Communication Methods
WiFi Communication
The micro inverter is connected to the router through a built-in WiFi module, transmitting the collected data to the server. It can also directly connect to a mobile app through WiFi for data exchange.
RS485 Communication
RS-485 is an asynchronous serial communication protocol suitable for multi-node communication. It is based on differential signals and transmits complementary signals through two wires (usually referred to as A and B). RS485 communication adopts a wired connection. The inverter is connected hand-in-hand by linking the last inverter to the data collector. Then the inverter data is transmitted to the monitoring platform through a wireless network.
PLC (Power Line Communication)
PLC communication technology utilizes existing power lines as data transmission media to connect micro inverters with PLC modules. The PLC module converts the operational data sent by the micro inverter into high-frequency signals through power lines and transmits them to the PLC receiver through the power grid. The receiver then connects the data to the router through a network cable, thereby connecting to the user’s device.
Key Features:
- No additional wiring is required.
- Less affected by wireless signal interference.
- Stability depends on the quality of the power grid.
Sub-1G
Sub-1G refers to wireless communication using frequency bands below 1 GHz (such as 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 915 MHz), commonly used for long-distance, low-power applications.
Advantages:
- Less interference in low-frequency bands.
- Stable signals with strong penetration ability.
Challenges:
- Requires multiple devices for installation.
- Higher maintenance costs compared to WiFi.
Zigbee
ZigBee is a short-range, low-cost, and low-power wireless network technology. The energy communicator ECU collects and transmits micro inverter power generation data through ZigBee wireless communication.
Highlights:
- Builds a cellular (MESH) communication network.
- Extends communication distance through signal relays.
Comparison of Communication Methods
| Communication Method | Application Scenario | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | Areas with wireless network coverage | Easy installation; No wiring; Supports remote upgrades | Susceptible to interference; Limited by installation environment |
| RS485 | Large-capacity projects requiring centralized control | Stable communication; Strong anti-interference; Control support | Requires data collector and additional wiring |
| Sub-1G | Long-distance, low-power applications | Low frequency; Strong penetration; Long communication range | Low data rate; Requires customized protocol |
| Zigbee | Small and medium-sized systems | Flexible networking; High data efficiency | Short point-to-point communication distance |
| PLC | Systems avoiding additional wiring | High reliability via power cables | Affected by power grid quality |
Monitoring and Maintenance of Cloud Platforms
Monitoring platforms summarize and display Ethernet remote/cloud server data on the user end. They support a variety of functions such as:
- Monitoring power generation, voltage, current, real-time power, operating status.
- Accessing device serial numbers and more.
Integration Methods
Monitoring Apps
Users can download monitoring apps such as:
Open API Solution
APIs enable data sharing across platforms without accessing source code.
Neutral Monitoring Scheme
Customized interfaces support brand consistency and user-specific requirements.
Conclusion
- Zigbee: Ideal for short-distance, strong networking needs in home and small commercial systems.
- Sub-1G and PLC: Suitable for long-distance and low-power requirements.
- RS485 and Ethernet: Prioritized for stability and compatibility in industrial systems.
- WiFi: Common choice for user convenience and direct cloud access.
HIITIO self-developed micro inverters currently support WiFi, WiFi Mesh, and Sub-1G communication modes, ensuring seamless integration and reliable performance for your solar energy systems. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge solutions for residential, commercial, or industrial applications, HIITIO offers you advanced technologies to optimize efficiency and data management.
