Adding Optimizers to an existing system

[thismainething]

Hello All,

I'm wondering what your thoughts may be when it comes to adding optimizers to an existing system.

The string with shading issues contains 12 370 watt panels wired in series. I currently use the dual Tigo TS4-A-2F and Tigo transmitter to provide rapid shutdown.
I wanted to swap out the TS4-A-2Fs with the TS4-A-O. However, they are unfortunately not compatible. The F models uses an RSS transmitter on the negative wire; while the O, S, & M model ship with rapid shutdown disabled.
The O, S, & M models require both the Tigo Cloud Connect Advanced, and Tigo Access Point (TAP) in order to provide the rapid shutdown feature.
I'm not particularly thrilled about spending the time and effort to add two more components, and fishing the communication cable up to the roof.

Does anyone have advice on how else this could be accomplished?

One of my thoughts was to continue using the TS4-A-2Fs for rapid shutdown. Then connect the 2F's output to the input side of the TS4-A-O's.
My highest open voltage from the string to date is 404.7v. 67.45v per 2F, which is under the 80v maximum input voltage of the TS4-A-O.
I'm concerned that something in the TS4-A-O circuitry may prevent the heartbeat RRS signal from getting to the TS4-A-2F.

 

[Marobel]

I think your best answer to this will come from asking Tigo directly. I’ve traded phone calls and emails with them and they’ve been both quick to reply and very helpful. Going to them will likely get you the best, and safest, answers for your system

https://support.tigoenergy.com/hc/en-us

 

[thismainething]

I think your best answer to this will come from asking Tigo directly. I’ve traded phone calls and emails with them and they’ve been both quick to reply and very helpful. Going to them will likely get you the best, and safest, answers for your system

https://support.tigoenergy.com/hc/en-us

I left them a voicemail earlier, but I suppose it wouldn't hurt to message them as well.
I'm not necessarily staying with Tigo going forward. I'm kinda hoping there is something simpler out there that won't require adding the CCA, TAP, and additional signal cable.

 

[teal95]

Since the comms are a short range radio link can you put the transmitter under the roof? I considered doing this but decided not to as mine were mounted on a metal roof.

 

[Oldphile]

The benefit from optimizers is miniscule if at all. I have TIGO optimizers on one system and the other with the F model. Without CCA and TAP, TIGO reduces the warranty to 5 years. I wouldn't want optimizers without monitoring.