Fault Detection In PV Strings Using SSTDR

Abstract

We present spread spectrum time domain reflectometry (SSTDR) analysis for finding faults in live PV arrays. SSTDR has been applied to a combination of PV modules, and responses are recorded and analyzed for various discrete discontinuities. An internal complex circuit diagram for a PV module is presented for the better understanding of the effect of the SSTDR signal inside the PV modules. Analysis of the SSTDR results is helpful to find the exact position of faults in PV arrays.