Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Wrenches: A few wrenches have inquired about the Control-by-Web system I created to monitor Mates, routers and modems. Here is a page <http://www.millersolar.com/MillerSolar/Portfolio/Commercial/Cal_Trans/Remote/Remote_Control.html> I created to outline the general concepts. I hope this answers all of the questions. I can share more details and possibly some Lua script on a case-by-case basis if you contact me off-line. William PS: The heart of the system is a dedicated 24 volt battery array left over from a generator sync system. The, CBW, router and modem all float on this battery bank. The draw is minimal and the cost of an outboard battery array or one powered by a converter is justified by the increased reliability inherent with a battery powered system. Wm [image: Gradient Cap_mini] Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:* Mac Lewis [mailto:maclew...@gmail.com] *Sent:* Friday, November 30, 2018 10:21 AM *To:* will...@millersolar.com; RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi William, I am interested in your control by web solution for the mate lock up. Is that a specific controller that does that or have you modified something? Could it be used to reboot routers/modems as well? Thanks On Fri, Nov 16, 2018 at 7:44 PM William Miller wrote: Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William [image: Gradient Cap_mini] Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Lones Tuss *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org -- Mac Lewis "Yo solo sé que no sé nada." *-Sócrates* ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Well Glen that is why they are coming out with the new web portal Insight 2 I do agree that team viewer is excellent and we have used it over the years with the product development, EFT's, border-left:#1010ff 2px solid; margin-left:5px; width:100%"> I have found that using only the Conext portal for troubleshooting is valueless... The level of detail and remote control is lost, and I have resorted to installing a remote PC control application on a laptop and leaving it at the customer's site for a few months to be able to collect and control a troublesome system using a local connection to the Combox. I found TeamViewer allows bi-directional control of the laptop (lid closed and mouse disconnected) from anywhere without having to setup a VPN or opening ports on a customer's router, or using a dynamic DNS service. They even have an app that lets me access it from my phone, a PC or a website. -Glenn FROM: RE-wrenches ON BEHALF OF Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar SENT: Friday, November 30, 2018 7:22 PM TO: Mac Lewis CC: RE-wrenches SUBJECT: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi Mac, I use a cell for some clients with combox. I use Conext Insight for some, it is a web portal like outbacks optics. Insight is nice because I just look at a specific site and if I see green, I do not really worry too much. It is read only and that is how Schneider gets around port forwarding. It has everything that is on the combox from a data push out only. At this time I am field testing XW pro which will use the conext gateway and adds the first wifi monitoring to the power scene. Insight 2 will be out around february and it is read/ right into the conext gateway. I like the new user interface alot more and it has a fresh new look that works for me. The xwp has the cal rule 21 for grid and microgrid, better parameters in the power electronics that may add some flexibility in a higher power rating/surge than the current 6.8kw. Living large here now that we finally got to fill our 18 K gallons of tanks with rain! We were down to 3K and that is bare minimum for a wildfire. DAVE ANGELINI OFFGRID SOLAR "WE GO WHERE POWERLINES DON'T" E-MAIL TEXT 209 813 0060 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
I have found that using only the Conext portal for troubleshooting is valueless… The level of detail and remote control is lost, and I have resorted to installing a remote PC control application on a laptop and leaving it at the customer’s site for a few months to be able to collect and control a troublesome system using a local connection to the Combox. I found TeamViewer allows bi-directional control of the laptop (lid closed and mouse disconnected) from anywhere without having to setup a VPN or opening ports on a customer’s router, or using a dynamic DNS service. They even have an app that lets me access it from my phone, a PC or a website. -Glenn From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar Sent: Friday, November 30, 2018 7:22 PM To: Mac Lewis Cc: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi Mac, I use a cell for some clients with combox. I use Conext Insight for some, it is a web portal like outbacks optics. Insight is nice because I just look at a specific site and if I see green, I do not really worry too much. It is read only and that is how Schneider gets around port forwarding. It has everything that is on the combox from a data push out only. At this time I am field testing XW pro which will use the conext gateway and adds the first wifi monitoring to the power scene. Insight 2 will be out around february and it is read/ right into the conext gateway. I like the new user interface alot more and it has a fresh new look that works for me. The xwp has the cal rule 21 for grid and microgrid, better parameters in the power electronics that may add some flexibility in a higher power rating/surge than the current 6.8kw. Living large here now that we finally got to fill our 18 K gallons of tanks with rain! We were down to 3K and that is bare minimum for a wildfire. Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ e-mail offgridso...@sti.net <mailto:offgridso...@sti.net> text 209 813 0060 On Fri, 30 Nov 2018 11:28:11 -0700, Mac Lewis mailto:maclew...@gmail.com> > wrote: Hi Dave Angelini and wrenches, I'm curious how you are controlling the Combox without port-forwarding set up. I have a lot of clients on Hughes net and they won't open ports their customers. Will the new Combox or gateway product get around that? Thanks On Sat, Nov 17, 2018 at 12:06 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar mailto:offgridso...@sti.net> > wrote: Hi Drake, I use both Outback and Schneider for my 200+ offgrid clients. Since the 600v mppt came out in 2011 Schneider gets my business. I also test for them and I am now working on the XW Pro for circuit validation testing and new cloud based gateway replacement for Combox in an EFT. As for user friendly, it is something new to learn and once a client gets up to speed it is pretty easy, I think! Some of my clients do not like all of this tech stuff and just want reliable power. I get it! There were early problems with combox firmware that got solved. The new Conext gateway allows me to monitor my clients without special port forwarding and easy with cell. The Insight monitoring similar to Optics but easier to use occasionally has had issues but nothing that took long for them to fix. There is also a tablet ap. You can contact me offline and I agree that it is pretty bad when issues take too long to resolve. maybe Outback will get it done! Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ e-mail offgridso...@sti.net <mailto:offgridso...@sti.net> text 209 813 0060 On Sat, 17 Nov 2018 10:43:09 -0500, drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org <mailto:drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org> wrote: It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm considering going full circle back to this line. Thanks, Drake - Original Message - From: "RE-wrenches" mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> > To: mailto:will...@millersolar.com> >, "RE-wrenches" mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> > Cc: Sent: Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things. Ye
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Hi Dave Angelini and wrenches, I'm curious how you are controlling the Combox without port-forwarding set up. I have a lot of clients on Hughes net and they won't open ports their customers. Will the new Combox or gateway product get around that? Thanks On Sat, Nov 17, 2018 at 12:06 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar < offgridso...@sti.net> wrote: > Hi Drake, > > I use both Outback and Schneider for my 200+ offgrid clients. Since the > 600v mppt came out in 2011 Schneider gets my business. I also test for them > and I am now working on the XW Pro for circuit validation testing and new > cloud based gateway replacement for Combox in an EFT. > > As for user friendly, it is something new to learn and once a client gets > up to speed it is pretty easy, I think! Some of my clients do not like all > of this tech stuff and just want reliable power. I get it! > > There were early problems with combox firmware that got solved. The new > Conext gateway allows me to monitor my clients without special port > forwarding and easy with cell. The Insight monitoring similar to Optics but > easier to use occasionally has had issues but nothing that took long for > them to fix. There is also a tablet ap. > > You can contact me offline and I agree that it is pretty bad when issues > take too long to resolve. maybe Outback will get it done! > > *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar > "we go where powerlines don't" > http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/> > e-mail offgridso...@sti.net > text 209 813 0060* > > On Sat, 17 Nov 2018 10:43:09 -0500, drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org > wrote: > > It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the > discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 > loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no > protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that > this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a > dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. > > How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and > user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm > considering going full circle back to this line. > > Thanks, > > Drake > > > > - Original Message ----- > From: > "RE-wrenches" > > To: > , "RE-wrenches" < > re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> > Cc: > > Sent: > Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 > Subject: > Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > Hi william > > Very tech fix with the relay! > > Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but > someone who manually checks things. > > Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems > > Thx > Jay > Peltz power. > > > > On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller > wrote: > > Jay: > > > > I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So > much so that I have implemented the following steps: > > > > 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label > the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead > whenever the Mate locks up. > > 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 > units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a > relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the > Mates. > > > > Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the > equipment and I hate the equipment. > > > > William > > > > > > > > > Lic 773985 > millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> > 805-438-5600 > > > > *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On > Behalf Of *Lones Tuss > *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM > *To:* RE-wrenches > *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > Hello All > > And > > Hello Jay > > I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. > > He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the > cat5 cables. > > We can duplicate Jay's screen shot below by opening the some of the lines > to the cat 5 cable. > > > > > > So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. > > Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. > > If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the > cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or > dust on the connections. > > >
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Hi William, I am interested in your control by web solution for the mate lock up. Is that a specific controller that does that or have you modified something? Could it be used to reboot routers/modems as well? Thanks On Fri, Nov 16, 2018 at 7:44 PM William Miller wrote: > Jay: > > > > I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So > much so that I have implemented the following steps: > > > > 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label > the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead > whenever the Mate locks up. > > 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 > units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a > relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the > Mates. > > > > Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the > equipment and I hate the equipment. > > > > William > > > > > > > > [image: Gradient Cap_mini] > Lic 773985 > millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> > 805-438-5600 > > > > *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On > Behalf Of *Lones Tuss > *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM > *To:* RE-wrenches > *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > Hello All > > And > > Hello Jay > > I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. > > He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the > cat5 cables. > > We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines > to the cat 5 cable. > > > > So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. > > Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. > > If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the > cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or > dust on the connections. > > > > I hope this helps. > > Take Care All > > > > > > -Original Message- > > From: RE-wrenches On Behalf > Of jay > > Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM > > To: RE-wrenches > > Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or > requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** > > > > > HI All, > > > > I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? > > > > I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. > > > > One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away > and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. > > > > Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. > > > > thx > > > > jay > > > > peltz power > > ___ > > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > > > Change listserver email address & settings: > > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > > > List rules & etiquette: > > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > > > Check out or update participant bios: > > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > -- Mac Lewis *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates* ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Well, I have been considering retrying XW’s. I too dropped Xantrex over a decade a go. I had a good run for a while with a hundred or two, FX’s, then a high frequency of failures and poor customer service led to me to Magnum and probably a hundred relatively problem free systems and then suddenly a high failure rate a few years ago. The last few years have seen me mixing it up, between Radians and Magnum systems with so many troubles that I’ve moved away from AE work and only do a half dozen systems a year. I tell my customers up front, “the equipment nowadays is crap, and I don’t warranty it" This summer was a mess. I had two different Magnum systems turn on generators, run for two minutes, turn off for two minutes, for months! They were unattended systems with no possible communication. Magnum insisted it was the Atkinson Mini’s causing the problems, and after a summer of driving back and forth to these remote sites and swapping parts, someone fessed up that the AGS modules were the problem. My last Mate 3S lock up problem (one of way too many) happened after it started a generator. Again, unattended system, the generator had run for 1,200 hours, during the sunny summer. It started on exercise and never shut off. I suppose I could insist on a Satellite internet connection, but I don’t want to be a babysitter. Michael > On Nov 19, 2018, at 1:25 PM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar > wrote: > > The SCP does not have extensive logging and can't tell you too much. With > Combox you can specify dozens of logs and the screen shot would tell you why > the genset did not start. There is improved xanbus firmware to help with the > limitations of the network. Once it is working I have found it very reliable. > I require the combox for my clients even if they do not use it. The new > Conext Gateway brings the whole system up to date with wifi communication. > > I have simple XW power systems with the same firmware that came with the gear > back 2007. Sorry, but very little experience with either Outback or Schneider > in grid-tie > > > Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar > "we go where powerlines don't" > http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/> > e-mail offgridso...@sti.net <mailto:offgridso...@sti.net> > text 209 813 0060 > Mon, 19 Nov 2018 08:22:32 -0800, William Miller <mailto:will...@millersolar.com>> wrote: > >> Friends: >> >> >> We installed XW systems up until a few years ago and had problems similar to >> those with Outback but subtly different. Here is a short list of some of >> our complaints: >> >> >> 1. We have problems with the XW system communicating with the >> outboard/optional Automatic Generator Start modules. At one point we were >> told that the factory supplied cables were too short and causing "ringing" >> of the data signals. We changed out the leads to the prescribed 6' leads >> and we are still battling intermittent communications problems with the AGS >> units. When the AGS does not communicate, the generator does not start when >> needed. The net result is power outages. >> >> 2. Schneider created frequent firmware upgrades. To my mind, this is a >> sign of half-baked code. The firmware update process requires an expensive >> AC powered dongle and an outboard AC source since the inverters shut down >> during firmware upgrade. Upgrading firmware on an XW system was usually a >> multi-hour affair. >> >> 3. Navigating the SCP is not at all intuitive, in my view. >> >> 4. The Power Distribution Panel is inadequately sized. This is not >> unique to Schneider, by any means. For system with more than two inverters >> we outsourced input and output AC distribution to outboard QO load centers. >> The busing of the AC breakers is via odd, claw-like bus bars. These are a >> bit awkward to work with and did not fit every scenario. >> >> 5. The XW system had no means to bypass more than two inverters. >> >> >> To illustrate these problems, see this web-page >> <http://www.millersolar.com/MillerSolar/Portfolio/Commercial/KG/KG_System.html>. >> >> >> Due to these problems we decided to concentrate on Outback and learning how >> to navigate the short-comings of just one brand. Not having worked with XW >> system for a while, I am curious: Have these problems been resolved? >> >> >> Thanks in advance. >> >> >> William Miller >> >> >> >> Lic 773985 >> millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> >> 805-438-5600 >> >> >&
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
The SCP does not have extensive logging and can't tell you too much. With Combox you can specify dozens of logs and the screen shot would tell you why the genset did not start. There is improved xanbus firmware to help with the limitations of the network. Once it is working I have found it very reliable. I require the combox for my clients even if they do not use it. The new Conext Gateway brings the whole system up to date with wifi communication. I have simple XW power systems with the same firmware that came with the gear back 2007. Sorry, but very little experience with either Outback or Schneider in grid-tie Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net [2] text 209 813 0060 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 08:22:32 -0800, William Miller wrote: Friends: We installed XW systems up until a few years ago and had problems similar to those with Outback but subtly different. Here is a short list of some of our complaints: 1. We have problems with the XW system communicating with the outboard/optional Automatic Generator Start modules. At one point we were told that the factory supplied cables were too short and causing "ringing" of the data signals. We changed out the leads to the prescribed 6' leads and we are still battling intermittent communications problems with the AGS units. When the AGS does not communicate, the generator does not start when needed. The net result is power outages. 2. Schneider created frequent firmware upgrades. To my mind, this is a sign of half-baked code. The firmware update process requires an expensive AC powered dongle and an outboard AC source since the inverters shut down during firmware upgrade. Upgrading firmware on an XW system was usually a multi-hour affair. 3. Navigating the SCP is not at all intuitive, in my view. 4. The Power Distribution Panel is inadequately sized. This is not unique to Schneider, by any means. For system with more than two inverters we outsourced input and output AC distribution to outboard QO load centers. The busing of the AC breakers is via odd, claw-like bus bars. These are a bit awkward to work with and did not fit every scenario. 5. The XW system had no means to bypass more than two inverters. To illustrate these problems, see this web-page [3]. Due to these problems we decided to concentrate on Outback and learning how to navigate the short-comings of just one brand. Not having worked with XW system for a while, I am curious: Have these problems been resolved? Thanks in advance. William Miller millersolar.com [4] 805-438-5600 FROM: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [5]] ON BEHALF OF Jay SENT: Sunday, November 18, 2018 11:57 AM TO: RE-wrenches SUBJECT: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Does Schneider have videos of how to operate the SCP etc? Jay Peltz power. On Nov 18, 2018, at 7:41 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote: Drake, It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give Schneider a try. While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM Links: -- [1] http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [2] mailto:offgridso...@sti.net [3] http://www.millersolar.com/MillerSolar/Portfolio/Commercial/KG/KG_System.html [4] http://www.millersolar.com/ [5] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [6] mailto:howie.michael...@gmail.com [7] mailto:drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org [8] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [9] mailto:will...@millersolar.com [10] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [11] mailto:will...@millersolar.com [12] http://www.millersolar.com/ [13] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [14] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [15] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [16] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [17] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [18] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [19] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [20] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [21] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [22] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/option
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Friends: We installed XW systems up until a few years ago and had problems similar to those with Outback but subtly different. Here is a short list of some of our complaints: 1. We have problems with the XW system communicating with the outboard/optional Automatic Generator Start modules. At one point we were told that the factory supplied cables were too short and causing “ringing” of the data signals. We changed out the leads to the prescribed 6’ leads and we are still battling intermittent communications problems with the AGS units. When the AGS does not communicate, the generator does not start when needed. The net result is power outages. 2. Schneider created frequent firmware upgrades. To my mind, this is a sign of half-baked code. The firmware update process requires an expensive AC powered dongle and an outboard AC source since the inverters shut down during firmware upgrade. Upgrading firmware on an XW system was usually a multi-hour affair. 3. Navigating the SCP is not at all intuitive, in my view. 4. The Power Distribution Panel is inadequately sized. This is not unique to Schneider, by any means. For system with more than two inverters we outsourced input and output AC distribution to outboard QO load centers. The busing of the AC breakers is via odd, claw-like bus bars. These are a bit awkward to work with and did not fit every scenario. 5. The XW system had no means to bypass more than two inverters. To illustrate these problems, see this web-page <http://www.millersolar.com/MillerSolar/Portfolio/Commercial/KG/KG_System.html> . Due to these problems we decided to concentrate on Outback and learning how to navigate the short-comings of just one brand. Not having worked with XW system for a while, I am curious: Have these problems been resolved? Thanks in advance. William Miller [image: Gradient Cap_mini] Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Jay *Sent:* Sunday, November 18, 2018 11:57 AM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Does Schneider have videos of how to operate the SCP etc? Jay Peltz power. On Nov 18, 2018, at 7:41 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote: Drake, It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give Schneider a try. While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM *To:* , "RE-wrenches" *Cc:* *Sent:* Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things. Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems Thx Jay Peltz power. On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Lones Tuss *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that come
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
There are dozens of SCP vids. Just do a search on youtube. Once you learn the basics it really is very simple. I keep an SCP in my tool bag but the combox is far easier for me to commision or troubleshoot a system and it will log any weird problems that a system may have. Very few do! I picked the newest vid and there are better one I am sure. https://www.schneider-electric.us/en/faqs/FA323474/ Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net [2] text 209 813 0060 On Sun, 18 Nov 2018 11:56:58 -0800, Jay wrote: Does Schneider have videos of how to operate the SCP etc? Jay Peltz power. On Nov 18, 2018, at 7:41 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote: Drake, It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give Schneider a try. While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM Links: -- [1] http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [2] mailto:offgridso...@sti.net [3] mailto:howie.michael...@gmail.com [4] mailto:drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org [5] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [6] mailto:will...@millersolar.com [7] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [8] mailto:will...@millersolar.com [9] http://www.millersolar.com/ [10] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [11] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [12] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [13] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [14] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [15] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [16] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [17] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [18] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [19] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [20] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [21] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [22] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [23] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [24] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [25] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [26] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [27] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [28] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [29] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [30] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [31] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [32] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
That helps confirm my decision. Our histories are much the same. Drake 10:41 AM 11/18/2018, you wrote: Drake, It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give Schneider a try. While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM <<mailto:drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org>drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org wrote: It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm considering going full circle back to this line. Thanks, Drake - Original Message - From: "RE-wrenches" <<mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> To: <<mailto:will...@millersolar.com>will...@millersolar.com>, "RE-wrenches" <<mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> Cc: Sent: Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things. Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems Thx Jay Peltz power. On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller <<mailto:will...@millersolar.com>will...@millersolar.com> wrote: Jay:  I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps:  1.    For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2.    On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates.  Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment.  William    Lic 773985 <http://www.millersolar.com/>millersolar.com 805-438-5600  From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Lones Tuss Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking  Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jayâs  screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable.  So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections.  I hope this helps. Take Care All   -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches <<mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org> On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches <<mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking  ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. **  HI All,  Iâm wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems?  Iâve got 2 systems that have had this happen.  One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isnât internet so no
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Does Schneider have videos of how to operate the SCP etc? Jay Peltz power. > On Nov 18, 2018, at 7:41 AM, Howie Michaelson > wrote: > > Drake, > It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off > Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured > on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a > sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on > and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust > machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give > Schneider a try. > While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various > choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a > few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of > times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities > over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. > Howie Michaelson > Sun Catcher > > >> On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM > It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the >> discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 >> loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no >> protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that >> this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a >> dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. >> >> How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and >> user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm >> considering going full circle back to this line. >> >> Thanks, >> >> Drake >> >> >> >> - Original Message - >> From: "RE-wrenches" >> To:, "RE-wrenches" >> >> Cc: >> Sent:Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 >> Subject:Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking >> >> >> Hi william >> >> Very tech fix with the relay! >> >> Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but >> someone who manually checks things. >> >> Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems >> >> Thx >> Jay >> Peltz power. >> >> >> >> On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: >> >> Jay: >> >> >> >> I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much >> so that I have implemented the following steps: >> >> >> >> 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the >> Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead >> whenever the Mate locks up. >> >> 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 >> units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay >> opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. >> >> >> >> Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the >> equipment and I hate the equipment. >> >> >> >> William >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Lic 773985 >> millersolar.com >> 805-438-5600 >> >> >> >> From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On >> Behalf Of Lones Tuss >> Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM >> To: RE-wrenches >> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking >> >> >> >> Hello All >> >> And >> >> Hello Jay >> >> I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. >> >> He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 >> cables. >> >> We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines >> to the cat 5 cable. >> >> >> >> >> >> So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. >> >> Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. >> >> If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the >> cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or >> dust on the connections. >> >> >> >> I hope this helps. >> >> Take Care All >> >> >> >> >
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Drake, It took me years to try Trace/Xantrex/Schneider products after swearing off Xantrex in 2004, becoming an Outback devotee for a decade. I finally soured on Outback a few years ago after several years of poor customer service and a sense that Outback was not keeping up in general. I had tried Magnum early on and had a bad experience with them and the Sunny Island, while a robust machine, was definitely getting outdated, so I finally decided to give Schneider a try. While there are always things I wish could be better in all the various choices (which is true for the XW as well), I've stuck with Schneider for a few years now and have been happy with them. I did try the SWa couple of times, but the small cost savings doesn't feel worth the lesser capabilities over the XW. And their customer service has been pretty consistently good. Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher On Sat, Nov 17, 2018, 10:43 AM It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the > discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 > loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no > protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that > this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a > dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. > > How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and > user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm > considering going full circle back to this line. > > Thanks, > > Drake > > > > - Original Message - > From: > "RE-wrenches" > > To: > , "RE-wrenches" < > re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> > Cc: > > Sent: > Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 > Subject: > Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > Hi william > > Very tech fix with the relay! > > Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but > someone who manually checks things. > > Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems > > Thx > Jay > Peltz power. > > > > On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller > wrote: > > Jay: > > > > I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So > much so that I have implemented the following steps: > > > > 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label > the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead > whenever the Mate locks up. > > 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 > units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a > relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the > Mates. > > > > Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the > equipment and I hate the equipment. > > > > William > > > > > > > > > Lic 773985 > millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> > 805-438-5600 > > > > *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On > Behalf Of *Lones Tuss > *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM > *To:* RE-wrenches > *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > Hello All > > And > > Hello Jay > > I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. > > He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the > cat5 cables. > > We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines > to the cat 5 cable. > > > > > > So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. > > Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. > > If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the > cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or > dust on the connections. > > > > I hope this helps. > > Take Care All > > > > > > -Original Message- > > From: RE-wrenches On Behalf > Of jay > > Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM > > To: RE-wrenches > > Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > > > ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or > requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** > > > > > HI All, > > > > I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? > > > > I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. > > > > One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away > and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. > > > > Its been reprogr
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Hi Drake, I use both Outback and Schneider for my 200+ offgrid clients. Since the 600v mppt came out in 2011 Schneider gets my business. I also test for them and I am now working on the XW Pro for circuit validation testing and new cloud based gateway replacement for Combox in an EFT. As for user friendly, it is something new to learn and once a client gets up to speed it is pretty easy, I think! Some of my clients do not like all of this tech stuff and just want reliable power. I get it! There were early problems with combox firmware that got solved. The new Conext gateway allows me to monitor my clients without special port forwarding and easy with cell. The Insight monitoring similar to Optics but easier to use occasionally has had issues but nothing that took long for them to fix. There is also a tablet ap. You can contact me offline and I agree that it is pretty bad when issues take too long to resolve. maybe Outback will get it done! Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net [2] text 209 813 0060 On Sat, 17 Nov 2018 10:43:09 -0500, drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org wrote: It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it.How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm considering going full circle back to this line.Thanks, Drake - Original Message - From: "RE-wrenches" To: , "RE-wrenches" Cc: Sent: Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things.Yes the 3s still has some of the same problemsThx Jay Peltz power. On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William Lic 773985 millersolar.com [4] 805-438-5600 FROM: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [5]] ON BEHALF OF Lones Tuss SENT: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM TO: RE-wrenches SUBJECT: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay's screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I'm wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I've got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn't internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [8] Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [9] List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [10] List rules border-left:#1010ff 2px solid; margin-left:5px; width:100%"> ___
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Jay, Is there cell? If so use a cradlepoint. I do this with combox and it is very reliable. A bit slow but I can change anything in the system. I have not tried it with Outback Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net [2] text 209 813 0060 On Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800, Jay wrote:Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things.Yes the 3s still has some of the same problemsThx Jay Peltz power. On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William Lic 773985 millersolar.com [4] 805-438-5600 FROM: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [5]] ON BEHALF OF Lones Tuss SENT: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM TO: RE-wrenches SUBJECT: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay's screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I'm wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I've got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn't internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [8] Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [9] List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [10] List rules border-left:#1010ff 2px solid; margin-left:5px; width:100%"> ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [13] Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [14] List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [15] List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [16] Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org [17] -- Links: -- [1] http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [2] mailto:offgridso...@sti.net [3] mailto:will...@millersolar.com [4] http://www.millersolar.com/ [5] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [6] mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [7] mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [8] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [9] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [10] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [11] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [12] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [13] mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [14] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [15] http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [16] http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [17] http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
It seems like Outback has too many problems now, with the Mate 3 and the discontinuation of the original, excellent FX inverters. I had a Mate 3 loose its programming on an AC coupled system so that the batteries had no protective relay until the Mate 3 was reprogrammed. Tech support said that this happens with the Mate 3. That is unacceptable. Fortunately it was a dual FX system, and I had the original Mate to put back on it. How do the Xantrex / Schneider products compare regarding reliability and user friendliness? Are there any downsides to using this equipment. I'm considering going full circle back to this line. Thanks, Drake - Original Message - From: "RE-wrenches" To: , "RE-wrenches" Cc: Sent: Fri, 16 Nov 2018 19:39:26 -0800 Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things. Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems Thx Jay Peltz power. On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William Lic 773985 millersolar.com [2] 805-438-5600 FROM: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [3]] ON BEHALF OF Lones Tuss SENT: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM TO: RE-wrenches SUBJECT: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [6] Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [7] List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [8] List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [9] Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org [10] ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org [11] Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [12] List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html [13] List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [14] Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org [15] Links: -- [1] mailto:will...@millersolar.co
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Hi william Very tech fix with the relay! Fortunately or unfortunately there is no reliable web at the location but someone who manually checks things. Yes the 3s still has some of the same problems Thx Jay Peltz power. > On Nov 16, 2018, at 2:14 PM, William Miller wrote: > > Jay: > > I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much > so that I have implemented the following steps: > > 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the > Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead > whenever the Mate locks up. > 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units > every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens > and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. > > Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the > equipment and I hate the equipment. > > William > > > > > Lic 773985 > millersolar.com > 805-438-5600 > > From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On > Behalf Of Lones Tuss > Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > Hello All > And > Hello Jay > I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. > He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 > cables. > We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to > the cat 5 cable. > > > So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. > Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. > If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable > several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on > the connections. > > I hope this helps. > Take Care All > > > -Original Message- > From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay > Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking > > ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or > requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** > > > HI All, > > I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? > > I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. > > One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away > and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. > > Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. > > thx > > jay > > peltz power > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Jay: I have problems with all of my Mate3 and 3s controllers locking up. So much so that I have implemented the following steps: 1. For most installations I leave the hub wire cover off and label the Mate lead. Clients are instructed to unplug and re-plug the Cat5 lead whenever the Mate locks up. 2. On one installation I have a Control By Web unit ping both Mate3 units every 5 minutes. If either fails to respond after 3 attempts, a relay opens and closes the Orange/white leads which power cycles the Mates. Locking up of Mates is a fact of life with Outback equipment. I love the equipment and I hate the equipment. William [image: Gradient Cap_mini] Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Lones Tuss *Sent:* Friday, November 16, 2018 12:42 PM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay’s screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I’m wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I’ve got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn’t internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking
Hello All And Hello Jay I just asked the tech support boss on this as I had no idea. He has a test setup that allows him to switch individuals lines on the cat5 cables. We can duplicate Jay's screen shot below by opening the some of the lines to the cat 5 cable. [cid:image003.jpg@01D47DA9.B5D61C00] So as a start try replacing the cat5 between the Mate3S and the Hub. Using the silicone grease that comes with a Mate is never a bad idea. If your customer does not have a cable on hand I would try removing the cable several times perhaps that could help to dislodge any corrosion or dust on the connections. I hope this helps. Take Care All -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of jay Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 8:05 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] mate 3s locking ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. ** HI All, I'm wondering if anyone else is having mate 3s locking up problems? I've got 2 systems that have had this happen. One is a big system ( 2 radians and 5 CC). Of course its a long ways away and no there isn't internet so no OpticsRE. Its been reprogramed with latest REV firmware. No change. thx jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
