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Solar Array Combiners - what they are
An array combiner is pretty much what it says - it takes the wires from several arrays and/or solar panels and combines them into one main buss or feed.
An "array" may be one panel or many in series, and may range from a single panel 12 volt up to multi panel high voltage arrays for grid tie systems. Grid tie systems can go as high as 600 volts DC, while nearly all battery systems are 12, 24, or 48 volt. Higher voltage systems over 48 volts have different NEC code requirements than those for low voltage battery systems, and the two types are NOT interchangeable.
As a general rule for battery systems an array combiner is not really needed for one or two panels, and may not be needed for 3 to 4 panel systems. If you have more than 4 panels or strings of panels to combine, we definitely recommend a combiner box.
There also two types of wiring for combiners. Most common is the standard one that has been around for years where each pair of wires is connected to terminal blocks. Becoming more common - especially for larger systems - are combiner boxes using MC connectors that simply plug in. This simplified wiring in many cases, and the cables are available in a wide range of sizes. Unfortunately, the availability of combiner boxes specifically designed for use with MC cables is a bit sparse right now.
Low Voltage Combiners (battery systems)
High Voltage Combiners (grid tie)
This includes such products as the OutBack Power PSPV units, and others. These are designed for higher voltage circuits often used in grid tie applications and all meet NEC requirements. Nearly all have fuses or breakers for each circuit, and some have additional breakers, disconnects, or fuses for the combined high current buss.
