Integrated Device Technology (IDT) introduced a single-chip photovoltaic DC arc fault detector to help protect against fire hazards in solar power systems. The ZNRG2061 is a system-on-chip (SoC) built around the IDT ArcWizard trainable algorithm, which ensures reliable signaling of arc faults while avoiding nuisance tripping. The ZNRG2061 is designed for implementation in PV solar power inverters, combiner boxes, DC optimizers and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs).
The ZNRG2061 works in 12V and 24V power supply installations. It requires few external components and comes in a small footprint 5 x 5 mm QFN package. The device is a UL Recognized Component, simplifying the process for customers seeking the UL listing mandatory in North America.
The National Electric Code mandates that ground or building-mounted PV systems are equipped with an arc-fault protection, to prevent fires caused by poor electrical connections. The ZNRG2061 uniquely delivers the advantage of a single-IC chip coupled with the ArcWizard training algorithm.
“The ZNRG2061 is another example of IDT’s focused and concerted effort to expand into the industrial products market segment,” said Mario Montana, vice president and general manager of IDT’s Automotive and Industrial Division. “This product is a compact PV arc fault detector that improves solar power system performance and safety by providing effective and accurate arc fault detection, while avoiding nuisance tripping, thereby lowering the total cost of system operations.”
ZNRG2061 Features
• DC line arc-fault detection solution in a single IC
• Signal processing via FFT
• Automated trainable algorithm to avoid nuisance tripping
• Latched (static) and non-latched (dynamic) digital output signaling
• UL 1699B design compliant and UL1988 recognized
• Built-in self test
• Ability to interface with pseudo arc signal
• Automatic gain adjustment
• Fault clear from annunciator (via communication)
• Compact 5 x 5 mm package
News item from IDT