| PV System Voltage | Up to 1,500 V DC | Matches the voltage level used by many utility-scale and commercial PV arrays. |
| SPD Classification | Type 1+2 combination device | Combines high-energy lightning-current discharge capability with protection against switching and induced surges. |
| Applicable Product Standard | IEC 61643-31 for photovoltaic DC surge protective devices | Provides a recognized framework for electrical performance, safety testing, and verification of PV SPDs. |
| Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage | UCPV: 1,500 V DC nominal; select a device rated at or above the actual maximum PV voltage | Prevents premature operation and supports safe use in high-voltage PV strings. |
| Lightning Impulse Current | Iimp: commonly 6.25–12.5 kA per protected pole, depending on the design and lightning-risk assessment | The required rating should be coordinated with the site lightning protection system and expected partial lightning current. |
| Nominal Discharge Current | In: typically 20 kA at an 8/20 μs waveform for high-duty PV applications | Indicates the device’s repeated surge-current handling capability during normal surge events. |
| Maximum Discharge Current | Imax: commonly 40 kA at an 8/20 μs waveform; exact value is product-specific | A higher peak-current rating can improve resilience against severe transient events when properly coordinated. |
| Voltage Protection Level | Up: commonly below 5.5 kV for 1,500 V DC PV protection, subject to the tested design | The protection level should remain below the impulse withstand level of connected inverters, combiner boxes, and cables. |
| Configuration Options | 2-pole, 3-pole, or 4-pole DC arrangements, depending on system topology and earthing method | Allows application across different PV array architectures, grounding schemes, and inverter layouts. |
| Protection Technology | Metal-oxide varistor technology with thermally controlled disconnection | Supports fast response to transient overvoltage while reducing the risk of thermal failure under abnormal conditions. |
| Status Indication | Visual operating-status indicator; optional remote-contact signaling on selected designs | Simplifies inspection and enables integration with monitoring or maintenance systems. |
| Installation Location | PV combiner boxes, DC distribution boards, and inverter input sections | Protection is most effective when installed close to sensitive equipment and coordinated at multiple zones. |
| Backup Overcurrent Protection | Required backup fuse or circuit-breaker rating must follow the SPD manufacturer’s tested coordination data | Correct coordination helps maintain safe disconnection during end-of-life or short-circuit conditions. |
| Environmental Suitability | Common outdoor enclosure target: IP65 or higher when installed in a suitable enclosure; typical operating range approximately −40°C to +80°C | Supports deployment in exposed PV environments, subject to the certified product ratings and enclosure design. |
| System Coordination | Coordinate DC SPDs with AC-side SPDs, cable length, bonding, grounding, and the site lightning protection system | A complete protection concept provides better equipment coverage than relying on a single SPD location. |