Tigo TS4-A-O 700W Solar Panel Optimizer

The Tigo TS4-A-O 700W solar power optimiser is a module-level power electronics device (MLPE) that helps to maximise the energy output of individual solar panels, even in systems where shading, differing orientations, varying string lengths or other performance discrepancies – known as ‘mismatch’ – occur.

The TS4-A-O connects directly to the solar panel and uses Tigo’s Predictive IV (PIV) and impedance matching technology to optimise the performance of the specific module. As a result, the impact of a lower-performing or partially shaded solar panel on the other modules in the string can be minimised.

What makes the TS4-A-O unique is that, in addition to optimisation, it also provides module-level monitoring and a Rapid Shutdown function when used with the appropriate Tigo communication devices.

Optimisation at module level

In conventional string inverter systems, the performance of the solar panels connected in a single string is interdependent. Shading, dirt, differing orientations or performance variations between panels can therefore have a negative impact on energy production.

The Tigo TS4-A-O optimises the performance of the solar panel connected to it. Tigo’s Predictive IV technology helps ensure optimal energy flow through the string by regulating voltage and current and providing impedance matching.

This could be particularly beneficial:

• in the case of solar panels subject to partial shading,
• in the case of roofs with multiple orientations,
• in the case of roof surfaces with different pitches,
• when creating strings of various lengths,
• in the event of a performance discrepancy between modules,
• in the case of existing systems where only the performance of certain panels is problematic.

It can also be installed selectively

One of the key advantages of the Tigo system is the ability to carry out selective optimisation. It is not necessarily required to install an optimiser on every solar panel simply because some of the system’s modules are shaded or operating under less favourable conditions.

The TS4-A-O can therefore, for example, only be fitted to those panels where optimisation is genuinely justified.

This can be a particularly cost-effective solution for roofs where, for example, a chimney, tree, aerial or other building feature shades only part of the solar panel array.

Predictive IV technology

Tigo’s proprietary Predictive IV (PIV) technology continuously helps to ensure the module operates at its best. It uses optimised impedance matching to manage performance differences between individual panels, meaning that a lower-performing module has less of an impact on the performance of the other elements in the string.

The TS4-A-O’s optimisation function becomes active once the solar panel has been connected; therefore, no separate Tigo communication unit is required to optimise energy production.

Module-level monitoring

Using Tigo CCA (Cloud Connect Advanced) and TAP (Tigo Access Point), the system can be enhanced with module-level monitoring.

This allows the performance of individual solar panels to be monitored separately via the Tigo Energy Intelligence interface. This can make it easier to identify performance issues, shading losses or any faults.

The monitoring system requires CCA + TAP. However, the optimisation function works even without these.

Rapid Shutdown safety feature

With CCA and TAP communication infrastructure, it also provides the TS4-A-O Rapid Shutdown function. The Tigo system complies with the Rapid Shutdown requirements of the US NEC 2014, 2017 and 2020.

This function enables the electronic disconnection of solar panels at module level, providing an additional safety measure, for example, during maintenance or in emergency situations.

Can be installed at a later date

The TS4-A-O add-on optimiser is therefore not only suitable for use when designing new solar panel systems; provided there is sufficient compatibility, it can also be added to an existing solar panel system.

This can be particularly useful if shading subsequently occurs in a system that had previously been problem-free, for example due to the growth of vegetation or changes in the environment.

One optimiser – one solar panel

A Tigo TS4-A-O can be used with a solar panel . The unit connects directly to the panel, so optimisation takes place at module level.

Key Benefits

• for solar panels with a power output of up to 700 W
• maximum 15 A module current version
• module-level performance optimisation
• Tigo Predictive IV (PIV) technology
• reduction of shading losses
• Dealing with mismatch issues
• support for handling different orientations
• selective deployment option
• It is not necessary to install an optimiser on every module
• automatic optimisation
• the ability to monitor at the module level
• Rapid Shutdown function
• Wireless communication using TAP
• Tigo Energy Intelligence compatibility
• Can be used with both new and existing solar panel systems
• 1 TS4-A-O / solar panel configuration

Tigo CCA and TAP – when are they needed?

It is important to distinguish between optimisation and Tigo’s other smart features.

For optimisation purposes only:
The TS4-A-O is capable of operating independently, so CCA and TAP are not required for optimisation.

For monitoring and communication:
Tigo TAP and CCA are required. The TAP communicates wirelessly with the TS4 units, whilst the CCA acts as the system’s data collection and communications centre.

For the module-level Rapid Shutdown function:
A complete communications infrastructure is required.

Areas of application

The Tigo TS4-A-O is particularly recommended for solar panel systems where:

• a chimney or roof structure casts partial shade,
• a tree or a neighbouring building is casting a shadow over some of the panels,
• solar panels will be installed on several roof surfaces,
• modules with different orientations must be managed within a single system,
• It is necessary to create strings of different lengths,
• there is a need for module-level monitoring,
• I would like to optimise the output of my existing solar panel system.

Why choose the Tigo TS4-A-O optimiser?

One of the greatest advantages of the Tigo TS4-A-O 700W is its flexibility. The system does not automatically require an optimiser to be fitted to every single solar panel: the device can be used selectively, even on problematic modules.

This makes it possible to retain the benefits of a conventional string inverter system, whilst incorporating module-level optimisation at points where shading or other power variations occur.

When supplemented with CCA and TAP communication tools, detailed module-level monitoring and additional security features become available, in addition to optimisation.