3
PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES SAFETY
AND INSTALLATION MANUAL Rev. K
VALID IN NORTH AMERICA ONLY
Valid from September 2010
1305 S. Bertelsen Road Eugene, OR 97402
www.grapesolar.com
Tel: 1-877-264-1014 (toll free), 1-541-349-9000, Fax: 1-541-343-9000
I.
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.
Grape Solar photovoltaic (PV) modules are designed to produce DC electrical energy from sunlight.
2.
This manual contains important safety and installation information of Grape Solar PV modules. All
safety and installation instructions described in this manual should be thoroughly understood before
installing, operating and maintaining the PV system.
3.
Working on a PV system requires specialized knowledge, and must be performed by appropriately
qualified and authorized personnel only.
4.
Grape Solar PV modules are subject to operate at ambient temperatures within the range -40°C to
+80°C (-40°F to +176°F).
5.
PV modules are intended for outdoor, land-based applications only.
6.
Rated power output specification of Grape Solar PV modules are made at the Standard Test Condition
(STC), which is 1000W/m
2
irradiance, 1.5 Air Mass (AM), and 25°C (77º
F) cell temperature. However,
PV modules can produce voltage at as little as 5% of full sunlight, either connected or not connected to
an electrical circuit or load.
7.
Electrical current and power generated by PV module increases with light intensity and higher power
output than the rated specifications can be achieved at colder temperatures.
8.
Reflection from snow, water or other surfaces can increase light intensity, and therefore increase the
current and power generated by the module.
9.
Do not artificially concentrate light on the module. Concentrating light on the module may result in
damage to the module and malfunction of the whole PV system.
10.
Follow all safety precautions of other components used in the PV system.
11.
Retain this manual for future reference.
12.
Grape Solar recommends that the customer makes a note of the serial numbers of modules in order to
keep a record of the system.
