How to choose a suitable microinverter - DC cable

DC cable connector vs. board-side connector

The rapid development of microinverters globally in recent years is due to various countries' increasing emphasis on safety, efficiency, and convenience. As a result, more and more manufacturers have entered the microinverter market, each with a different understanding of market needs, leading to the emergence of various product design solutions. Today, we will focus on the differentiated solutions for the DC output side. Currently, there are two main DC output solutions in the market. One is the DC cable connector solution led by some top brands, and the other is the board-end connector solution promoted by some key brands. But what exactly are the differences between these two connector solutions, and how do they impact the installation?

Board-End Connector  

It makes structural costs more optimized

    ● Installation: Board-end connectors are fixed to the metal sheet and can be more challenging to handle in complex

       installation environments, offering less flexibility.

    ● Reliability: Board-end connectors have higher requirements for waterproofing and manufacturing precision.

    ● Damage Rate: Board-end connectors are more prone to breakage in complex installations and harsh transportation environments

       so their design must include reinforced versions.

    ● After-Sales: If a board-end connector is damaged, the entire unit needs to be replaced, resulting in higher after-sales costs.

    ● Price: With fewer DC cable harness costs, the overall cost of board-end connectors is more advantageous.

DC Cable Connectors

Making Installation More Convenient and After-Sales Worry-Free

    ● Installation: In real rooftop installation scenarios, DC cable connectors offer greater operational flexibility, making installation simpler.

    ● Reliability: They have higher waterproof ratings, making them more stable and reliable.

    ● Damage Rate: The flexibility of the DC cable harness can withstand harsh transportation environments and is less likely to be damaged.

    ● After-Sales: If a connector fails, it can be easily cut off and replaced, making after-sales support more straightforward.

    ● Safety Standards: DC cable connectors have higher EMC testing requirements and more stringent manufacturing process standards.

       This is a core reason many manufacturers avoid DC cable connectors, as passing EMC tests can be challenging.

Overall, the DC cable connector solution offers more advantages than disadvantages. However, with increasing market competition, more manufacturers are opting for the cost-effective board-end connector solution. Additionally, board-end connectors have smaller packaging sizes, reducing logistics costs, which leads many manufacturers to overlook the long lifespan design requirements of microinverters. As a core component of photovoltaic systems, microinverters convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity and play an indispensable role. Therefore, microinverters generally require a design life of 25 years. Considering photovoltaic systems as financial investment projects, it is advisable to prioritize long-term system reliability and stability over mere cost, as any faults can lead to significant losses in electricity revenue.

Tsun remains committed to the philosophy of "simplifying installation" and continues to innovate in microinverter technology. This year, we will launch the high-power TITAN Plus 6KW microinverter, which combines easy installation, safety, efficiency, and cost advantages. Stay tuned!