Overview
The SPV1020 is a monolithic 4-phase interleaved DC-DC boost converter designed by STMicroelectronics to maximize the power generated by photovoltaic panels. It operates independently of temperature and the amount of solar radiation. The converter embeds an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) algorithm to optimize power conversion from the PV cells. This design allows for higher system-level efficiency compared to conventional topologies where the MPP is computed in a centralized inverter. The SPV1020 can be housed in the connection box of PV panels, replacing bypass diodes, and can be used in various panel configurations such as series, parallel, or series/parallel combinations.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage Range | 6.5 - 40 V |
| Switching Frequency | Default: 100 kHz, Adjustable: 50 kHz to 200 kHz |
| Duty Cycle Range | 5% to 90% with a step of 0.2% |
| Power Capability | Up to 320 W at 40 V output |
| Efficiency | Up to 98% |
| Topology | 4-phase interleaved |
| Protection Features | Overvoltage, overcurrent, overtemperature protection |
| Interface | SPI interface |
Key Features
- PWM mode DC-DC boost converter with duty cycle controlled by MPPT algorithm
- Embedded power MOSFETs for active switches and synchronous rectifiers
- 4-phase interleaved topology to avoid the use of electrolytic capacitors
- Built-in soft-start and automatic transition to burst mode for improved efficiency at low solar radiation
- Overvoltage, overcurrent, and overtemperature protection
- SPI interface for full duplex, synchronous, serial communication
Applications
The SPV1020 is designed for use in photovoltaic systems to maximize power generation from PV panels. It can be used in various configurations such as:
- Panel arrays with one SPV1020 per panel
- Series, parallel, or series/parallel combinations of panels
- Replacing bypass diodes in the connection box of PV panels
- Distributed architecture photovoltaic systems
Q & A
- What is the primary function of the SPV1020?
The SPV1020 is a DC-DC boost converter designed to maximize the power generated by photovoltaic panels using an embedded MPPT algorithm.
- What is the operating voltage range of the SPV1020?
The operating voltage range is from 6.5 V to 40 V.
- What is the default switching frequency of the SPV1020?
The default switching frequency is 100 kHz, but it is adjustable from 50 kHz to 200 kHz.
- What protection features does the SPV1020 have?
The SPV1020 includes overvoltage, overcurrent, and overtemperature protection.
- How does the SPV1020 improve system efficiency?
The SPV1020 improves system efficiency by locally computing the maximum power point, which is more efficient than conventional topologies that compute MPP in a centralized inverter.
- Can multiple SPV1020s be used in a single system?
Yes, multiple SPV1020s can be used in a panel array with one SPV1020 per panel.
- What interface does the SPV1020 use for communication?
The SPV1020 uses a 4-pin SPI interface for full duplex, synchronous, serial communication.
- How does the SPV1020 handle low solar radiation conditions?
The SPV1020 automatically transitions to burst mode to improve efficiency at low solar radiation conditions.
- What is the maximum power capability of the SPV1020?
The maximum power capability is up to 320 W at 40 V output.
- What is the efficiency of the SPV1020?
The efficiency of the SPV1020 can be up to 98%.
