How to measure solar panel voltage using arduino?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on measuring solar panel voltage using an Arduino in high-voltage solar systems, specifically those with voltages up to 351Vdc. Participants emphasize the importance of using an inverter to manage voltage levels safely and suggest using high-voltage resistive attenuators and difference amplifiers for accurate measurements. The conversation highlights the need for isolation techniques, such as opto-isolation and buck converters, to protect the Arduino from high voltage. Additionally, the Adafruit INA219 current sensor is recommended for monitoring current while maintaining electrical separation from the solar circuit.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of high-voltage solar systems and inverter functionality
  • Familiarity with Arduino programming and interfacing
  • Knowledge of resistive voltage dividers and their applications
  • Experience with current sensors, specifically the Adafruit INA219
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and implementation of high-voltage resistive attenuators for voltage measurement
  • Learn about opto-isolation techniques for safe communication in high-voltage environments
  • Explore the specifications and applications of the Adafruit INA219 current sensor
  • Investigate the use of buck converters for stepping down high voltages to safe levels for Arduino
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, solar energy system designers, Arduino developers, and anyone interested in safely measuring high-voltage solar panel outputs.

  • #31
solvejskovlund said:
When I started this thread I was hoping someone would respond "Hey, this device does exactly what you need". I'd prefer if there was a device that could be bought ready.
Must not have looked too hard...
Here's the first one I found, I'm sure there's many others:
https://www.dataq.com/products/di-4730/

Try a google search like "500V data acquisition".
 
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  • #32
solvejskovlund said:
Powering with one panel.... Voc=38,1V; within the range of a buck converter. Even two panels will be within the range. I'm not sure if that is a good idea though - it will unbalance the strings as it will load one panel in one string.
If the isolated instrumentation required 20mA at 15V, an ideal switching buck converter running on 38 volts input, would only need a current input of 20 mA *15V / 38V = 8 mA. That is an unbalance, but I don't see it as a big problem.

By accumulating charge at a rate of say 100 uA in a capacitor, from the string-voltage sensing-chain, that charge can be dumped through an opto-isolator, which eliminates much of the instrumentation current that must come from the lowest isolated panel.

When the light level is low, the controller should reduce power by sleeping. Your system should allow all relays to open, automatically switching the PV panels into the low-power configuration.
 
  • #33
solvejskovlund said:
When I started this thread I was hoping someone would respond "Hey, this device does exactly what you need".
Rive said:
the only safe solution I can suggest is to get a DMM with remote (bluetooth?) connection.
Google 'DMM serial', it's still not late...
1675316525807.png

TP4000ZC is kind of 'dirt cheap'.

I still suggest to go for bluetooth, though. Good insulation, lot harder to mess up.:doh:

On second thought, I suggest to stop. The difficulty to do this safely and effectively just does not fits you.
 
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