Integration into the network

The Manager flex can be integrated into the local network in different ways. In addition to the connection via Ethernet, the manager can set up a PLC network or integrate itself into an existing PLC network.

Integration via Ethernet

Local networks usually include a router and optionally one or more switches.

  • Connect the Manager to the router using the LAN cable (included).
  • Connect the Manager to a power outlet and wait for the boot process. During the boot process, all LEDs flash several times. The boot process was successful when the status LED is solid green.
  • The manager now establishes a connection to the Internet. If the process was successful, the Internet LED lights up green.
  • Make sure that all devices you want to connect are reachable in the same local network and settings are selected that allow communication with the manager.

Connection via PLC

Powerline Communication (PLC) is the transmission of data via the household power grid. With a PLC network, the laying of network cables can be avoided. The 
Manager flex can set up a powerline network and also connect to an existing powerline network.

To activate Powerline Communication, use the Install button on the back of the SOLARWATT Manager flex.

Overview of PLC key functions

KeyOperating timeFunction
Install3 sec*Activate/deactivate PLC module.**
Connect6 secPLC connection mode
Activation necessary in encrypted PLC networks.
 1 secPLC key exchange
Operation necessary in encrypted PLC networks.
 10 secPLC reset
PLC encryption is reset and connections are lost

 

*) if pressed for a longer time, the manager may be reset**
) PLC module is deactivated at the factory. Caution: Danger of ring closure in the local network.
 

Practical case 1: Manager flex generates a PLC network

Manager flex is connected to the router via Ethernet and generates a PLC network via the power plug. Every power outlet in the house thus becomes a network outlet. Other devices (e.g. inverters, battery storage) can be integrated into the network via additional PLC adapters.

  • Connect the Manager to the router via the LAN cable (included in the scope of delivery).
  • Connect the manager to a power outlet and wait for the boot process. During the boot process, all LEDS will flash several times. The boot process was successful when the status LED is solid green.
  • The manager now establishes a connection to the Internet. If the process was successful, the Internet LED lights up green.
  • Activate the PLC module. To do this, press the Install button on the back of the manager for 3 seconds. The Connection LED on the front of the manager flashes 1 per second.
  • Plug a PLC adapter into a socket near the device that is to be integrated into the PLC network and connect the device and PLC adapter via LAN cable.
  • If the PLC network is unencrypted (depends on the settings of the PLC adapter used), the PLC connection is established automatically. If the connection is successful, the Connection LED flashes every 10 seconds.

If no PLC connection could be established, the used PLC adapter expects an encrypted connection. Then proceed as follows:

  • Press the button for adding new devices at the PLC adapter (coupling mode: is usually indicated by flashing LEDs). Observe the condition instructions of the PLC adapter.
  • Press the Connection button on the back of the manager for 6 seconds.
  • Press the Connection button again for 1 second. A red LED behind this key then starts to flash. The coupling with the PLC adapter is now executed.
  • If pairing is successful, the Connection LED flashes every 10 seconds.

Practical case 2: The Manager flex uses an existing PLC network

A powerline network already exists. The Manager flex can be connected to any power outlet and establish a connection to the network subscribers and to the Internet. No PLC adapter is required for this.

  • Make sure that the PLC network is available and that there is an Internet connection via it.
  • Connect the manager to the desired socket.
  • Activate the PLC module. To do this, press the Install button on the back of the manager for 3 seconds. The Connection LED on the front of the manager will flash 1 per second.
  • Press the button to add new devices to the PLC adapter (pairing mode: usually indicated by flashing LEDs). Observe the condition instructions of the PLC adapter.
  • Press the Connection button on the back of the manager for 6 seconds.
  • Press the Connection button again for 1 second. A red LED behind this key then starts to flash. The coupling with the PLC adapter is now executed.
  • If the coupling is successful, the Connection LED flashes every 10 seconds.

PLC practice case 3: The Manager flex offers all PLC adapter functions itself

First proceed as in PLC practice case 2. If the Manager flex has successfully established an Internet connection via PLC, you can connect any network-capable device to the LAN port of the Manager. Several devices can be connected via a switch.