Monitor System offline

[Kid Solar]

there are ways to take control of your data, even with mobile phones. If you act like it's all over, it may as well be

Just think about it logically.

The fact is your data is out there.

Do you actually care? What do you think this data is being used for?

To find your most vulnerable moment for an imminent invasion?

To blackmail you for that nefarious act you were filmed committing? You are a commercial drug supplier? You are committing crimes that would put in jail for life? You are a spy?

Lol.

It's to sell you stuff at your most vulnerable, and any other time they can extract money from overseas individuals/entities.

In my country we are deep in the war already.

It's not a war being headed by guns. It will be won by holdings and assets.

China already owns the water, power, telecommunications and other infrastructure in our country that our government just handed over for peanuts.

They own so much private land and dwellings here it is unbelievable.

You don't even need to be a citizen to purchase property!!!!

So the more they sell you the more ammunition they have for the war they started waging a long time ago...one day the rest of the world will wake up to it.

 

[didapper]

Just think about it logically.

The fact is your data is out there.

Do you actually care? What do you think this data is being used for?

To find your most vulnerable moment for an imminent invasion?

To blackmail you for that nefarious act you were filmed committing? You are a commercial drug supplier? You are committing crimes that would put in jail for life? You are a spy?

Lol.

It's to sell you stuff at your most vulnerable, and any other time they can extract money from overseas individuals/entities.

In my country we are deep in the war already.

It's not a war being headed by guns. It will be won by holdings and assets.

China already owns the water, power, telecommunications and other infrastructure in our country that our government just handed over for peanuts.

They own so much private land and dwellings here it is unbelievable.

You don't even need to be a citizen to purchase property!!!!

So the more they sell you the more ammunition they have for the war they started waging a long time ago...one day the rest of the world will wake up to it.

I'm well aware of what portions of my data are "out there", it really helps when you use a random username and new email on every service you use.

"they" have very little of my data, and what data they have is extremely fragmented.

I do care, which is why I keep most of my data private, and continue to take steps to ensure that continues to be the case.

It's not about blackmail, it's about privacy. Some people care about privacy, and it will be dead if everyone gives up.

If you're saying that you must have to be doing something illegal in order for your data privacy to matter, let me know your password so I can look through your data and get bored since you have nothing to hide?

Yes, the data is largely collected for "commercial" reasons, but that being said, they don't give much of a shit about how private your data is. That data can/will be leaked at some point.

China does not own my encryption keys

 

[Oldschool]

OK, this is what Solar Assist recommended for my system, and which I purchased:
1 X Device with software:https://solar-assistant.io/shop/products/device_rpi5
1 X Inverter USB cable:https://solar-assistant.io/shop/products/sunsynk_rs485
1 X RJ45 splitter:https://solar-assistant.io/shop/products/deye_rj45_split

SunDave is right. You cannot monitor batteries themselves and the inverter at the same time. If you monitor the inverter, you get basic battery info. You can switch back and forth between both though. For more information on batteries, they provided this link: https://solar-assistant.io/help/battery/eg4

There is a video at the bottom.

I bought 2 of these: RJ45 Ethernet Splitter Cable, RJ45 1 Male to 4 x Female Head to Head LANE Splitter Adapter Cable Compatible with Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7 Network Cables

And 6 of these: [High-Speed Converter] High-Speed USB to RS-485 Converter Module | Plug & Play, 600bps to 115.2KB/s

Will see how that goes, but it will be a while before I get to it with time to install and vaca.

If you want a more private phone, you shouldn't just roll over.

Buy an UNLOCKED pixel phone, then go here on it: https://grapheneos.org/
-Download, install, and follow instructions.
-Don't do this if you are not at least a little tech savvy or have a tech savvy friend, but it is pretty easy now. You need an UNLOCKED phone AND a HIGH quality (thick) USB C cable, or it won't work. Don't do this with a phone not recommended for GrapheneOS.
-If it isn't installed by default, install F-Droid to get apps that respect your privacy. But, you'll need more apps, so download Aurora Store and install that.
-Get the NetGuard App. Gives you granular control of what leaves your phone from what app and when.
-Magic Earth works ok for directions. You'll have to download the maps to your phone, which takes a bit of memory and download time. You can still use google maps from the browser, but yea...
-Simple Apps work for calendar and contacts. FairEmail works pretty good for emails.
-Brave Browser is probably one of the most private browsers, but the default Vanadium is pretty good too.

FREE of iPhone and Google restrictions and herding.

For God's sake, stop using the stupid WhatsApp and Messenger apps. If you think those provide you ANY privacy, you can probably hear me laughing from here. Same for the new iPhone.

You won't be able to do banking with this setup. The banks want more access to your phone than GrapheneOS will allow by default. If you want do to that or use google maps, or other google apps, you can try sandboxing the google app store and apps, which blocks google from areas of your phone from which you restrict them.

Each step from F-Droid to Aurora to sandbox you lose some privacy. And you will NEVER have complete privacy. But, you will cut out most of the crap and secure your phone from more malware. I don't do many apps, just essentials. And, because I don't do banking on my phone, if my phone gets stolen, oh well. Get another $300 used unlocked pixel and restore my setup to it.

I'd recommend ditching Windows and Mac as your primary machine too and move to Linux without systemD (ie MX Linux and others), but that's another rant.

 

[SunDave]

Nice. Let us know how it works when you get it set up. The best thing about solar assistant is the 10 sec refresh times, vs. sometimes 5 mins with the inverter's web interface.

 

[wpns]

I bought 2 of these: RJ45 Ethernet Splitter Cable, RJ45 1 Male to 4 x Female Head to Head LANE Splitter Adapter Cable Compatible with Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7 Network Cables

And 6 of these: [High-Speed Converter] High-Speed USB to RS-485 Converter Module | Plug & Play, 600bps to 115.2KB/s

RS485 is multidrop serial, you don’t need multiple USB converters, you need one converter and six ‘Ethernet’ cables. (Plus you may or may not need terminators, but SA seems to have glossed over that part, that video’s a bit of a mess.)

I’ve got six EG4 PowerPro WallMount OutDoor batteries in closed loop with my primary 18Kpv using CAN and I can still talk to them all(*) with RS485:
View attachment 1751620862284.png
(*) Yeah, the Secret Battery One Combined Protocol is a bit of a mess, but it works, and allows me to keep closed-loop comms with the inverter, so I’m pretty happy.

 

[Lawrence_SoCal]

I would like to be able to monitor my system completely offline. I don't want the battery, solar, or inverter systems to be internet connected reporting, or especially receiving, any data to or from any other entity.

As anyone who has 3-letter gov't agency briefings on IT security over last couple of decades knows, combined with plenty of relatively recent 'cloud' [Internet server] outages, means being able to run completely locally is HIGHLY desirable.
And yes, securing local systems, using some systems local only, VLAN protected, etc.. not that difficult in theory... definitely a challenge in practice in terms of convenience vs security balance especially when it comes to the device you both perform monitoring on, and where you view reporting, alerts, etc [ie, the mgmt side]

That said, yea, entirely local is certainly possible... BUT going for such, which I applaud, does mean more work on your part, both to set up and in ongoing maintenance.

But:
1. Is that wise? What are the pros and cons?

Lots of Pro's. the issue is the downsides (especially if being security focused)
- need for dedicated systems
- network security
- lack of more sophisticated reporting possible with central reporting systems (and data privacy considerations that go with such)
- ongoing system maintenance (your self-configured Monitoring system (Solar/Home Assistant or similar... with FOSS security considerations that go with such software), Inverter software, etc

2. How do I monitor and manage my system's performance to optimize it or spot concerns or problems?

Other replies already getting into this in terms of software solutions for monitoring. As for spotting issues... that is the other downside.. you'll need to learn this yourself, ideally configure your monitoring system to alert you, etc.

3. Am I putting my home at risk by not having live time monitoring? I recognize something dangerous could occur and I would certainly want that to be caught.

Possible yes, likely, no assuming reasonable code-compliant setup, and associated safety considerations applied during install (ie, you might have a more robust (fire resistant enclosure for batteries, or at least fireboard or similar). Basically, there is the bare minimum, and then there is slightly over engineering your install to minimize chance of hazard outcome ... so beware low-cost bidder and the shortcuts that sometimes go with such

On the other hand, I don't want my system hacked or become an ongoing monthly income stream for some scheming company (these companies are likely to be bought out in the future to some huge conglomerate, and naturally they will try to find a monthly revenue stream from this), OR new tax revenue source. The WHOLE point of this thing is to SAVE me money, and keep malware, problematic updates, and nosy bodies out of my system.

I recommend being capable of operating offline. That said, be sure to look into and plan for system updates (firmware, etc). The chance you will need to do such an update is high (considering relative newness of devices). The challenge is that mfg's put time into most used processes, which nowadays will be over-the-air updates. Most folks to updates on a hope and prayer, with no backout plan in place, etc. Not a big deal, but not something to overlook. A hybrid inverter update may be required to prevent a safety issue... then if it goes wrong, and depending on how you did house wiring (if done on the cheap), your home may be without electricity until issue resolved, and that potentially could take a while. On the other hand, install bypass switches and at least you'll have grid power until solar/ESS issues resolved

Considering recent global cybersecurity warning about Chinese solar kill switches, and ability to damage local appliances (worst case, burn house down) by incorrect electrical output, yea, not unreasonable to be cautious.
But, do this this right means isolated systems. And presumably not using WiFi. You will need local networking expertise to use VLANs with ACLs (access control lists) or completely separate physical networks (which is overkill... you don't need Tempest level security). And be attentive the devices that have access to your monitoring/mgmt system. If you want true security, your typical mobile device which you web browse and get email on is NOT an appropriately secured system. Though, it all depends ... there are ways to be relatively safe while 'online' but requires training and diligence

 

[wpns]

2. How do I monitor and manage my system's performance to optimize it or spot concerns or problems?

Start with a system that you can get that data from, and use email or PushOver.net or something to send you a message when something goes wrong.

Of course, something will go wrong. I had to disable the 'one of your parallel inverters is not producing any power" alert, because every once in a while one of my 18Kpv inverters will report zero output power, even when that's not true.

So expect to spend a lot of time carefully crafting a bespoke solution, and then a lot more time tuning, debugging, and reworking it, and you'll still be surprised.

 

[Oldschool]

As anyone who has 3-letter gov't agency briefings on IT security over last couple of decades knows, combined with plenty of relatively recent 'cloud' [Internet server] outages, means being able to run completely locally is HIGHLY desirable.
And yes, securing local systems, using some systems local only, VLAN protected, etc.. not that difficult in theory... definitely a challenge in practice in terms of convenience vs security balance especially when it comes to the device you both perform monitoring on, and where you view reporting, alerts, etc [ie, the mgmt side]

That said, yea, entirely local is certainly possible... BUT going for such, which I applaud, does mean more work on your part, both to set up and in ongoing maintenance.

Lots of Pro's. the issue is the downsides (especially if being security focused)
- need for dedicated systems
- network security
- lack of more sophisticated reporting possible with central reporting systems (and data privacy considerations that go with such)
- ongoing system maintenance (your self-configured Monitoring system (Solar/Home Assistant or similar... with FOSS security considerations that go with such software), Inverter software, etc

Other replies already getting into this in terms of software solutions for monitoring. As for spotting issues... that is the other downside.. you'll need to learn this yourself, ideally configure your monitoring system to alert you, etc.

Possible yes, likely, no assuming reasonable code-compliant setup, and associated safety considerations applied during install (ie, you might have a more robust (fire resistant enclosure for batteries, or at least fireboard or similar). Basically, there is the bare minimum, and then there is slightly over engineering your install to minimize chance of hazard outcome ... so beware low-cost bidder and the shortcuts that sometimes go with such


I recommend being capable of operating offline. That said, be sure to look into and plan for system updates (firmware, etc). The chance you will need to do such an update is high (considering relative newness of devices). The challenge is that mfg's put time into most used processes, which nowadays will be over-the-air updates. Most folks to updates on a hope and prayer, with no backout plan in place, etc. Not a big deal, but not something to overlook. A hybrid inverter update may be required to prevent a safety issue... then if it goes wrong, and depending on how you did house wiring (if done on the cheap), your home may be without electricity until issue resolved, and that potentially could take a while. On the other hand, install bypass switches and at least you'll have grid power until solar/ESS issues resolved

Considering recent global cybersecurity warning about Chinese solar kill switches, and ability to damage local appliances (worst case, burn house down) by incorrect electrical output, yea, not unreasonable to be cautious.
But, do this this right means isolated systems. And presumably not using WiFi. You will need local networking expertise to use VLANs with ACLs (access control lists) or completely separate physical networks (which is overkill... you don't need Tempest level security). And be attentive the devices that have access to your monitoring/mgmt system. If you want true security, your typical mobile device which you web browse and get email on is NOT an appropriately secured system. Though, it all depends ... there are ways to be relatively safe while 'online' but requires training and diligence

Thank you for a thoughtful reply. Anytime, you try and preserve your privacy and security, it ALWAYS entails more work. I expect it.

And, you brought up one of my concerns. Many of these new IOT devices, fridges, etc, have backdoors to China. It is a little chilling to consider the possibilities.

Oh, and I did get the EG4 Enclosed Battery Rack. I have no idea if that will confer any level of protection? Supposedly, the batteries themselves have a fire retardant system, but the risk of fire from LiFePO4 batteries I understand is pretty dang low regardless.

I was hoping I could simply dedicate a toughbook laptop solely to this system and keep it offline, unless I did want an update. Then, it is simply a matter of walking over to it to see what's going on. Realistic?

I have another laptop I could bring to bear as a backup if need be.

 

[Oldschool]

Start with a system that you can get that data from, and use email or PushOver.net or something to send you a message when something goes wrong.

Of course, something will go wrong. I had to disable the 'one of your parallel inverters is not producing any power" alert, because every once in a while one of my 18Kpv inverters will report zero output power, even when that's not true.

So expect to spend a lot of time carefully crafting a bespoke solution, and then a lot more time tuning, debugging, and reworking it, and you'll still be surprised.

This actually MIGHT be beyond my skillset / available time. Appreciate the offers of help.

 

[wpns]

This actually MIGHT be beyond my skillset / available time. Appreciate the offers of help.

Just saying if you want something special you’re probably going to have to DIY.

 

[Oldschool]

Solar Assistant sent me to another thread below, but the short of it is that someone has already figured out how to get Solar Assistant to connect with both the Sol-Ark inverter AND the individual EG4 batteries simultaneously using EG4 Communications hub.

Thread 'Sol-Ark, EG4 Communications Hub/LifePower4 - Solar Assistant configuration'

Aug 4, 2023

I wanted to share with the community how I was able to get Solar Assistant "SA" to read all my inverter data from my Sol-Ark 15K, AND also read all the individual battery data from my EG4 LifePower4 batteries so I get the best of both worlds, thorough data from "each" of my 12 batteries and all the details from my Sol-Ark while maintaining the PV Pro access also.

In my scenario, I have a Sol-Ark 15K and 12x EG4 LifePower4 batteries. In order to have closed-loop communication with the Sol-Ark and the LifewPower4 batteries, the EG4 Communications hub is required. The hub plugs into the...

• MaikaiLife
• Replies: 94
• Forum: Show and Tell

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[Oldschool]

wpns, Solar Assistant tells me what is going on with the system,

This actually MIGHT be beyond my skillset / available time. Appreciate the offers of help.

Start with a system that you can get that data from, and use email or PushOver.net or something to send you a message when something goes wrong.

Of course, something will go wrong. I had to disable the 'one of your parallel inverters is not producing any power" alert, because every once in a while one of my 18Kpv inverters will report zero output power, even when that's not true.

So expect to spend a lot of time carefully crafting a bespoke solution, and then a lot more time tuning, debugging, and reworking it, and you'll still be surprised.

wpns, you said to use email or pushover.net to get notifications when something goes wrong. What pushes that information? I've read some people using Home Assistant to manage things. Just curious to learn more about what you are doing, trying to get things I need in place so they're ready to go after the system is installed.

 

[wpns]

wpns, Solar Assistant tells me what is going on with the system,



wpns, you said to use email or pushover.net to get notifications when something goes wrong. What pushes that information? I've read some people using Home Assistant to manage things. Just curious to learn more about what you are doing, trying to get things I need in place so they're ready to go after the system is installed.

I wrote my own bespoke code in python. SA didn’t do it for me, and that’s ‘the hammer I had’.

 

[Oldschool]

I wrote my own bespoke code in python. SA didn’t do it for me, and that’s ‘the hammer I had’.

K, thanks for the reply.