The Version Settings tab in PVCAD is a critical configuration area where users define key electrical parameters that shape the system’s overall electrical design and inform the automated calculations used in the Single Line Diagram and other engineering deliverables. Set these now to save time later in your design, these settings work together to ensure accurate and code-compliant electrical outputs in the system design and documentation.
On this tab, users begin by selecting the Inverter Type, choosing between:
- String Inverters – typically used in larger commercial or utility-scale projects.
- Micro-Inverters – more common in residential or smaller systems where module-level power optimization is beneficial.
Next, users specify the Electrical Code standard applicable to the project:
- NEC (National Electrical Code) – for U.S.-based installations.
- IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) – for international projects adhering to global standards.
In addition to these core settings, you can configure your DC/AC bus, disconnect, panel, stringing, and wiring parameters using dropdown menus:
Source Circuit – Module to inverter and/or combiner box
- Select wire size, type, material, ground type, conduit type, max voltage drop %
Output Circuit – Wire from combiner box to Inverter
- Select wire type, material, temp. rating, ground type, conduit type, max voltage drop %
DC Bus – DC power aggregator from multiple DC sources
- Select DC Ground type, DC:AC ratio
AC Circuit – Inverter to AC Panel
- Select wire type, material, temp. rating, ground type, conduit type, max voltage drop %
AC Circuit Total – AC Panel to Main Panel
- Select wire type, material, temp. rating, ground type, conduit type, max voltage drop %
AC Bus – AC power aggregator from multiple AC sources
- Select DC Ground type, PE material type
Disconnect Options – Safety devices to isolate circuits
- Select a DC disconnect, the location AC disconnect, meter w/ unfused disconnect, utility AC disconnect, neutral conduct, and generic system losses from electrical
Main Panel – Electrical features into which you are interconnecting
- Select number of phases, interconnection voltage, main breaker amperage
With these selections you are set up to automate your full electrical design and single line diagram once you complete the workflows on the Electrical Layout tab.