Molex (News - Alert) Incorporated announced the launch of the SolarSpec Smart Junction Box which will help manufacturers of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to provide their products with module-embedded safety and monitoring functions.

In a release, Peter Commane, product manager, Molex said, “The unique modular concept affords maximum flexibility and easy upgrade of PV-panel functionality, since the electronic PCB always resides in the removable Junction Box cover.”

“This smarter system not only facilitates lean solar manufacturing processes on a manual or automated assembly line, but also ensures easy access to key components should repair or replacement ever be required,” Commane added.

According to company sources the new Smart Junction Box will be based on the original two-part SolarSpec Junction Box from Molex that features a base attached directly to the solar PV panel and a removable cover assembly.

The system will provide convenient, safe and dependable connection facilities besides featuring a series of interchangeable covers embedded with SolarEdge optimizing chipsets which ensure varying levels of electronic integration.

SolarEdge Technologies end-to-end distributed solar power harvesting and PV monitoring solutions optimizes energy production. The SolarEdge power optimizers help perform MPPT per individual panel besides monitoring performance of each panel and communicating across existing power lines.

The various functionalities offered by the system include provision of safety, shut-off and arc detection besides security monitoring, theft protection, performance tracking on output levels, panel efficiencies, remote diagnostics and power optimization.

Officials revealed that SolarSpec Junction Boxes can be supplied with optional Solder Charge technology which can be used along with high-speed assembly processes that provide consistent quality for every termination. A locking mechanism which can be released only with a specialized tool secures the top cover to the base. This ensures total protection against accidental contact with live parts.

Molex provides complete interconnect solutions for data communications, telecommunications, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, medical, military, lighting and solar markets.

Officials added that a fixed DC string voltage is maintained which increases the efficiency of the SolarEdge PV inverter. The SolarEdge system provides optimal power, flexible design and roof utilization. Also the module-level and whole-system visibility enable PV monitoring and maintenance. The SafeDC mechanism shuts down module voltage during installation, maintenance and firefighting to ensure optimum greater safety.

Molex recently announced that it has augmented its SolarSpec portfolio of products with the introduction of rugged, IP67-sealed SolarSpec DC Connectors that are designed for direct connection to solar junction boxes, field installations and photovoltaic (PV) grid wiring.