Network type
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Single-phase (230 V). Single-phase power is well known from classic 230 V household sockets. However, this also often includes models for other alternating voltage values - for example, 110 V.
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Three-phase (400 V). Three-phase power supply with a voltage of 400 V is used mainly for energy-hungry devices for which 230 V networks do not provide enough power. This option can be used both for private households and in the industrial sector.
— Single-phase / three-phase. Models with the ability to connect to both single-phase power supply at 230 V and three-phase power supply at 400 V. This allows them to be used with both household and industrial networks - depending on which option is more convenient at the moment.
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DC (constant voltage). This category usually includes a few inverters for campers (motorhomes) (see “Device Type”). They are designed for operation in automotive networks with a constant voltage of 12/24 V.
Rated AC current
The current strength that the device is capable of stably and safely delivering when operating in rated mode (i.e. for the longest possible time without the risk of overloads and failures). The indicator is expressed in Amperes (A).
Maximum AC power
The maximum current in amperes (A) that the inverter, when operating, is capable of outputting without overloads or failures.
Operating voltage PV
The operating range of the inverter is usually located between the starting voltage and the maximum voltage. This interval is indicated in volts.
Short circuit current
The maximum solar panel short circuit current that the inverter can accept without the risk of breakdown or emergency shutdown. The parameter is usually indicated in amperes.
Number of strings
Strings in solar energy are chains of panels connected in series. With this connection method, the voltage of the solar panels is summed up, and the current remains constant, which allows you to significantly increase the power generation capacity while maintaining a fairly low current and without the need to use large-section wires.
Specifically, this paragraph indicates the maximum number of strings that can be connected to the inverter for solar panels.
Noise level
The noise level in decibels (dB) produced by the inverter during operation. The lower this indicator, the more comfortable the use of the equipment will be, which is especially important for residential premises.
Note that decibels are a non-linear quantity, so the easiest way to assess the noise level is to use comparative tables. Here is a simplified table for the range that most modern inverters fall into:
35 dB – conversation in muted tones;
40 dB – quiet conversation; maximum noise level allowed in residential premises during the daytime;
45 – 50 dB – conversation in a normal tone;
55 dB - background noise in an office without special noise sources;
60 dB - loud conversation;
65 dB - city street with average traffic intensity;
70 dB - a conversation between several people in a raised voice.
