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SolarEdge Error 3x136 RS485 Follower Link Lost

Troubleshoot SolarEdge Error 3x136 (RS485 Follower Link Lost). Check communication, wiring, and inverter settings. Residential solar system diagnostics.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What tools do I need to diagnose RS485 issues?

A multimeter, wire strippers, crimping tool, and potentially an RS485 tester are helpful.

•How do I update the firmware on my SolarEdge inverter?

Use the SolarEdge SetApp or the online monitoring portal to initiate firmware updates. Consult the SolarEdge documentation for specific instructions.

•What is the correct termination resistance for an RS485 bus?

The RS485 bus should be terminated with 120Ω resistors at both ends.

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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.

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Technical Background:

The SolarEdge hybrid inverter utilizes an RS485 communication bus to interface with various system components, including power optimizers, energy meters, battery management systems (BMS), and environmental sensors. The RS485 network relies on a master-slave architecture, where the inverter acts as the master and the other devices are followers. Error 3x136 indicates that the inverter is unable to establish or maintain a stable communication link with one or more of these follower devices. This disruption can be due to physical layer issues (wiring, termination), protocol problems (address conflicts, baud rate mismatch), or device failures.

Symptoms:

The SolarEdge inverter displays Error 3x136 indicating a loss of communication with one or more devices on the RS485 bus. This typically prevents the inverter from operating correctly, resulting in reduced or no power production and potential loss of grid services or battery charging/discharging capability. The monitoring portal will report the affected device as offline.

Possible Causes:

Damaged or improperly terminated RS485 wiring.
Loose or corroded RS485 connectors.
Incorrect RS485 addressing of follower devices.
Firmware incompatibility between the inverter and follower devices.
Defective RS485 communication chip on the inverter or follower device.
Excessive cable length or EMI interference on the RS485 bus.

Solution:

1

*Safety First:** Ensure the AC and DC disconnects are open before working on the inverter or any connected devices. Verify rapid shutdown is activated per NEC 2017/2020 requirements.
2

*Visual inspection:** Carefully examine the RS485 wiring for any signs of damage, cuts, or kinks. Check the connectors for corrosion or loose connections. Use a multimeter to verify continuity of the RS485 wires.
3

*Termination Resistors:** Confirm that the RS485 bus is properly terminated with 120Ω resistors at both ends. Use a multimeter to measure the resistance across the RS485+ and RS485- terminals at each end of the bus.
4

*Device Addressing:** Verify that each follower device has a unique RS485 address and that there are no address conflicts. Consult the SolarEdge system manual for the correct addressing procedure.
5

*Firmware Update:** Ensure that the inverter and all follower devices are running the latest compatible firmware versions. Use the SolarEdge SetApp or monitoring portal to initiate firmware updates.
6

*RS485 Communication Test:** Use the SolarEdge SetApp or monitoring portal to perform an RS485 communication test. This test will help identify which devices are failing to communicate.
7

*Component Replacement:** If a specific device is identified as the source of the communication problem, replace the device with a known good unit. If the problem persists, the inverter may need to be replaced. A qualified electrician must perform this task.

Safety Warning:

Working with solar inverters involves exposure to high DC voltages, which can cause serious injury or death. Always disconnect the AC and DC power sources before working on the inverter or any connected devices. Ensure that rapid shutdown is activated per NEC requirements. Only qualified electricians with appropriate training and safety equipment should perform electrical work on solar inverters.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the RS485 wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion. Periodically update the firmware of the inverter and follower devices. Monitor the RS485 communication status through the SolarEdge monitoring portal. Schedule an annual system inspection with a qualified solar technician to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.

Expert Tip:

Use the SolarEdge SetApp to access the inverter's service menu. The service menu provides detailed diagnostic information about the RS485 communication bus, including the status of each connected device and any error messages. This can help pinpoint the source of the communication problem.