DC Disconnect

aVmp to Calculate Current
The AIMS Solar Quick Disconnect Switch gives your
solar system a convenient, extra safety and flexibility
when maintenance is required on your system. This quick
disconnect switch is also ideal for applications such as
cabins or vacation homes that don’t require delivery of
constant solar power. Simply disconnect your solar array
and reconnect when needed. This switch is 1200V with 1
– 32 Amp circuit compatible with small and large off-grid
or grid tied solar systems.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Use 10 AWG PV cable and MC4 connectors.
2. Install disconnect switch as close as possible to the PV array.
3. Mount in any orientation.
4. Turn knob counter clockwise to disconnect power.
5. When installing or working with PV system, turn dial to the OFF/Lock position
and insert lock (not included) to ensure system remains off.
6. When system is completely ready for use, remove lock and turn dial
clockwise to the ON position. This will allow current to bypass the switch.
Calculate Current Using Vmp
Series Connection: Total Panel Power (watts) / Total Vmp of Panel * # of panels in series = Input Current in amps
Parallel Connection: Total Panel Power (watts) / Vmp of Panel = Input Current in amps
EXAMPLE USING 6 PANELS
SERIES CONNECTION
• 250 Watt panels * 6 panels = 1500 watts of total panel power
• 250 Watt panel’s Vmp rating = 30.3 V (check your panel Vmp rating)
• 30.3 * 6 = 181.8 V total panel Vmp
• 1500 Watts / 181.8 V = 8.25 Amps
PARALLEL CONNECTION
• 250 Watt panels * 6 panels = 1500 watts of total panel power
• 250 Watt panel’s Vmp rating = 30.3 V (check your panel Vmp rating)
• 30.3 = 30.3 V total panel Vmp (parallel connection increases amps not volts)
• 1500 Watts / 30.3 V = 49.5 Amps
Calculate Voltage Using Voc
SERIES CONNECTION
Number of panels in series *
Voc of panel = Total PV Voltage
Example of Voltage calculation:
• Voc of panel: 38 V
• Number of panels is series: 6
• 38V * 6 = 228 Volts –
Disconnect switch is rated at 1000V, which is well within voltage range.
PARALLEL CONNECTION
Number of panels in parallel = Total PV Voltage (Voc). Parallel connections do not change voltage.
Example of Voltage calculation:
• Voc of panel: 38 V
• Number of panels is parallel 6
• 38V = 38V Voltage does not change
• Disconnect switch is rated at 1000V, which is well within voltage range BUT you must
make sure you also calculate amperage per example above.
*Solar tip from AIMS Power. How do I size a charge controller?
You can use this same Voc calculation above to size your charge controller. All charge controllers have a voltage operating range. Most AIMS Power’s
charge controllers operate up to 150V. In the example above, you have a total Voc of 228. Simply connect 3 of your panels in series. This will give you
two strings of 3 panels each. Next, connect the two strings in parallel and you are ready to harvest solar energy.
Formula: Total panel power (watts) / Vdc = amps
Using the same 250 Watt panel example from above and assuming a 24 Vdc battery bank.
• 1500 watts total panel power / 24 Vdc (or 12, 36, 48 Vdc etc.) = 62.5 amps
You will need a charge controller over 62.5 amps that can operate at 24 Vdc. AIMS Power offers charge controllers ranging from 30 Amp up to 100 Amp
that can charge 12/24/36 or 48 Vdc battery banks.
AIMS POWER SOLAR QUICK DISCONNECT SWITCH