Microchip Technology Inc., a provider of microcontroller, analog and Flash-IP solutions, has introduced a digitally controlled, grid-connected solar micro-inverter reference design with a high-efficiency topology.
The reference design enables solar design engineers to optimize energy harvesting, reduce installation costs, and improve system reliability and efficiency, according to the company.
The reference design connects to any standard solar panel and converts the panel's DC output into AC power, which can then be fed into the public power grid. In a real-world application, multiple units can be connected together to achieve the desired power output.
The reference design works with any photovoltaic panel that supplies a maximum 220 W output, and it comes in two versions supporting either 110 V or 220 V power grids. Both versions of the reference design are implemented using a single dsPIC33 GS digital signal controller, which provides full digital control of the power-conversion and system-management functions, according to the company.
SOURCE: Microchip Technology Inc.