SimpleLink Streamlines Solar-Panel Inverter Connectivity
One of the most important aspects of a smart system revolves around its capability for connectivity, where data can be sent out for evaluation and brought in for control and feedback. Wireless systems must be as connected as they are smart.
On that front, Texas Instruments' SimpleLink portfolio of low-power and robust 32-bit, Arm-based microcontrollers with integrated security supports more than 10 differentiated wired and wireless protocols. To speed development, the devices share a single software foundation for 100% code compatibility with all SimpleLink SDKs, with common components and device-specific middleware for a unified development experience.
The video above shows a solar microinverter demonstration that leverages SimpleLink devices to optimize power efficiency and maintenance. A microinverter is incorporated on each panel. The device has full telemetry and is able to monitor for conditions including temperature, voltage, and current. Defective panels are immediately identifiedy for targeted repair or replacement without manual troubleshooting.
System performance isn't affected if one or more panels are generating less power, maximizing the power generated. This also addresses scalability concerns over the addition or upgrade of panels. SimpleLink enables remote monitoring to the cloud, where the information can be accessed by smartphones or other connected devices.
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About the Author
Alix Paultre
Editor-at-Large, Electronic Design
An Army veteran, Alix Paultre was a signals intelligence soldier on the East/West German border in the early ‘80s, and eventually wound up helping launch and run a publication on consumer electronics for the US military stationed in Europe. Alix first began in this industry in 1998 at Electronic Products magazine, and since then has worked for a variety of publications in the embedded electronic engineering space. Alix currently lives in Wiesbaden, Germany.
Also check out his YouTube watch-collecting channel, Talking Timepieces.