Analysis by Marcus & Team
Troubleshoot SMA Inverter Communication Loss Event 10267 in commercial/industrial settings. Diagnostic steps, safety warnings, and expert tips for PV systems.
Marcus leads the technical research department at Storage Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex solar storage error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the US market.
High-quality, UV-resistant, and properly installed communication cables can last 10-20 years. Regular inspections are essential.
Electrical noise can corrupt data signals, leading to communication errors and intermittent connectivity. Shielded cables and proper grounding are crucial.
Intermittent connectivity, slow data transfer speeds, and error messages in the switch's log files are key indicators. Monitor switch temperature.
SMA hybrid inverters in a commercial/industrial setting utilize a communication bus (typically Ethernet or RS485) to transmit data to a central monitoring system. This data includes voltage, current, power, frequency, and fault codes. The system relies on reliable communication for optimal performance, grid stability, and adherence to utility interconnection agreements. Loss of communication disrupts power flow optimization, battery management, and fault response. The system incorporates DC/AC conversion, MPPT, and anti-islanding protection.
Multiple SMA inverters on the same communication bus are intermittently or consistently losing communication with the central monitoring system. This results in incomplete data logging, failure of remote control capabilities (e.g., demand response), and potential grid instability if frequency/voltage ride-through settings cannot be maintained.
Working with electrical equipment can be dangerous. Ensure the system is de-energized and locked out/tagged out before performing any maintenance. High DC voltages are present in the inverters. Arc flash hazards are present. A qualified electrician is required for all electrical work. Refer to NEC Article 690 for safety requirements.
• Implement a regular maintenance schedule that includes checking communication cable connections, updating firmware, and verifying network settings.
• Use shielded communication cables to minimize the effects of electrical noise.
• Install surge protection devices on the communication lines to protect against voltage spikes.
• Implement network monitoring tools to proactively identify communication issues.
• Periodically review inverter logs for communication errors.
Many SMA inverters have a hidden service menu that provides detailed communication diagnostics. Consult the SMA system manual or contact SMA support for the key combination to access this menu. The service menu can display error counters, signal strength, and other useful information for troubleshooting communication issues.