IEC 62109-3:2020

Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems - Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices in combination with photovoltaic elements

IEC 62109-3:2020 covers the particular safety requirements for electronic elements that are mechanically and/or electrically incorporated with photovoltaic (PV) modules or systems.
Mechanically and/or electrically incorporated means that the whole combination of electronic device with the photovoltaic element is sold as one product. Nevertheless, tests provided in this document may also be used to evaluate compatibility of PV modules and electronic devices that are sold separately and are intended to be installed close to each other.
The purpose of the requirements of this document is to provide additional safety-related testing requirements for the following types of integrated electronics, collectively referred to as module integrated equipment (MIE):
a) Type A MIE where the PV element can be evaluated as a PV module according to IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730‑2 independently from the electronic element;
b) Type B MIE where the PV element cannot be evaluated as a PV module according to IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2 independently from the electronic element.
The contents of the corrigendum of November 2020 have been included in this copy.

Sécurité des convertisseurs de puissance utilisés dans les systèmes photovoltaïques - Partie 3: Exigences particulières pour les dispositifs électroniques combinés aux éléments photovoltaïques

l’IEC 62109-3:2020 couvre les exigences particulières de sécurité concernant les éléments électroniques intégrés de manière mécanique et/ou électrique à des modules ou systèmes photovoltaïques (PV).
“Intégrés de manière mécanique et/ou électrique” signifie que l’intégralité de la combinaison de l’appareil électronique et de l’élément photovoltaïque est vendue comme un seul et même produit. Cependant, les essais indiqués dans le présent document peuvent également être utilisés pour évaluer la compatibilité des modules PV et des appareils électroniques vendus séparément et destinés à être installés à proximité les uns des autres.
Les exigences de la présente partie de l’IEC 62109 ont pour objet de fournir des exigences supplémentaires d’essai liées à la sécurité pour les types suivants d’électroniques intégrées, communément appelées “électroniques intégrées aux modules” (MIE-module integrated equipment):
a) La MIE de type A, dans laquelle l’élément PV peut être évalué comme un module PV conforme à l’IEC 61730-1 et à l’IEC 61730-2, quel que soit l’élément électronique;
b) La MIE de type B, dans laquelle l’élément PV ne peut pas être évalué comme un module PV conforme à l’IEC 61730-1 et à l’IEC 61730-2, quel que soit l’élément électronique.
Le contenu du corrigendum de novembre 2020 a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 07-Jul-2020
• ICS: 27.160 - Solar energy engineering
• Technical Committee: TC 82 - Solar photovoltaic energy systems
• Drafting Committee: WG 6 - TC 82/WG 6
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 08-Jul-2020
• Completion Date: 10-Jul-2020

Relations

• Corrected By: IEC 62109-3:2020/COR1:2020 - Corrigendum 1 - Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems - Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices in combination with photovoltaic elements
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 62109-3:2020 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on safety requirements for electronic devices integrated with photovoltaic (PV) power systems. This standard specifically addresses the particular safety requirements for electronic elements that are mechanically or electrically combined with photovoltaic modules or systems. It forms the third part of the IEC 62109 series, which covers safety of power converters used in PV power systems. IEC 62109-3 supplements and modifies requirements from IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011 to ensure comprehensive safety coverage for module integrated equipment (MIE).

Key Topics

Scope and Definitions

• Covers electronic devices sold as combined products with PV elements or evaluated for compatibility when sold separately.
• Defines two types of MIE:
  • Type A: PV element can be independently evaluated per IEC 61730 standards.
  • Type B: PV element cannot be independently evaluated without the electronic element.
• Emphasizes testing methods and safety validations tailored for integrated electronics in PV modules.

Testing and Safety Requirements

• Includes general testing conditions, thermal testing parameters, and testing under single fault conditions to ensure resilience and safety.
• Specifies temperature limits and test sequences for verifying equipment durability and safe operation under various environmental and electrical stresses.
• Provides additional tests for grid-interactive inverters integrated within PV modules.
• Defines protection requirements against:
  • Electric shock and energy hazards
  • Mechanical and fire hazards
  • Sonic pressure, liquid, and chemical hazards
• Details marking, documentation, and information for safe installation and operation.
• Covers components, software, and firmware that perform safety functions within these integrated devices.

Thermal and Environmental Considerations

• Clarifies thermal limits and backsheet temperature testing specific to integrated MIE usage.
• Addresses environmental conditions relevant for deploying PV modules combined with electronic devices, ensuring reliability in diverse climates.

Applications

IEC 62109-3:2020 is essential for manufacturers, installers, and certifiers of photovoltaic power systems incorporating module integrated electronic equipment such as:

• Module integrated converters and inverters
• Power optimizers and micro-inverters combined with PV modules
• Electronic devices that are part of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) or advanced PV system designs.
• Ensuring safety compliance in products marketed as combined PV and electronics units or where electronic devices are installed adjacent to PV modules.

Use of this standard helps:

• Guarantee user and equipment safety by managing combined hazards of electronics and photovoltaics.
• Facilitate international market access by aligning products to globally recognized safety criteria.
• Support certification and testing laboratories in validating combined PV electronic products.

Related Standards

IEC 62109-3 is designed to be used alongside and supplements:

• IEC 62109-1:2010 - General safety requirements for power converters in PV systems.
• IEC 62109-2:2011 - Particular requirements for grid-connected power converters.
• IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2 - Photovoltaic module safety qualification standards focusing on construction and testing.

Additionally, the standard integrates references to normative documents important for understanding safety, electrical performance, and environmental testing protocols within the PV industry.

---

Keywords: IEC 62109-3, module integrated equipment, photovoltaic safety standard, PV power converters, integrated electronics, Type A and B MIE, PV module safety, grid-interactive inverters, thermal testing, electric shock protection, PV system standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 62109-3 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-07
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems –
Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices in combination with
photovoltaic elements
Sécurité des convertisseurs de puissance utilisés dans les systèmes
photovoltaïques –
Partie 3: Exigences particulières pour les dispositifs électroniques combinés
aux éléments photovoltaïques
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IEC 62109-3 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-07
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems –

Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices in combination with

photovoltaic elements
Sécurité des convertisseurs de puissance utilisés dans les systèmes

photovoltaïques –
Partie 3: Exigences particulières pour les dispositifs électroniques combinés

aux éléments photovoltaïques
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 27.160 ISBN 978-2-8322-8483-4

– 2 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 8
4 General testing requirements . 9
4.1 General . 9
4.2 General conditions for testing . 16
4.2.1 Sequence of tests . 16
4.2.2 Reference test conditions . 18
4.3 Thermal testing . 18
4.3.2 Maximum temperatures . 18
4.4 Testing in single fault condition . 23
4.4.4 Single fault conditions to be applied . 23
4.8 Additional tests for grid-interactive inverters . 23
4.300 General requirements regarding protection of the PV element circuit of MIE . 23
5 Marking and documentation . 24
5.1 Marking . 24
5.1.1 General . 24
5.1.3 Identification . 24
5.1.4 Equipment ratings . 25
5.3 Documentation . 25
5.3.2 Information related to installation . 25
6 Environmental requirements and conditions . 25
7 Protection against electric shock and energy hazards . 25
8 Protection against mechanical hazards . 25
9 Protection against fire hazards . 25
10 Protection against sonic pressure hazards . 26
11 Protection against liquid hazards . 26
12 Protection against chemical hazards . 26
13 Physical requirements . 26
13.4 Internal wiring and connections . 26
13.4.5 Interconnection between parts of the PCE . 26
13.9 Fault indication . 27
13.9.300 Fault indication for MIE . 27
13.300 Requirements for field assembled MIE . 27
14 Components . 27
15 Software and firmware performing safety functions . 27
Annex A (normative) Alternative method for PV module nominal backsheet
temperature (T ) . 28
NBs
A.1 General . 28
A.2 Principle . 28
A.3 Test procedure . 28

Figure 300 – Test sequence . 17
Figure 301 – Location of heating pads . 20
Figure 302 – Test setup for Type B MIE (cross-section view) . 22
Figure 303 – Test setup for Type A MIE (cross-section view) . 22

Table 300 – IEC 61730-2:2016 test reference for Type A and Type B MIE . 11

– 4 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SAFETY OF POWER CONVERTERS
FOR USE IN PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS –

Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices
in combination with photovoltaic elements

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
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rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 62109-3 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 82: Solar
photovoltaic energy systems.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
82/1718/FDIS 82/1737/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in the
report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of IEC 62109 series, under the general title, Safety of power converters for
use in photovoltaic power systems, can be found on the IEC website.

The requirements in this document IEC 62109-3 are to be used with the requirements in
IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011. This document IEC 62109-3 supplements or
modifies clauses in IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011. When a particular clause or
subclause of IEC 62109-1:2010 or IEC 62109-2:2011 is not mentioned in this document
IEC 62109-3, that clause of IEC 62109-1:2010 and/or IEC 62109-2:2011 applies. When this
document IEC 62109-3 contains clauses that add to, modify, or replace clauses in IEC 62109-
1:2010 or IEC 62109-2:2011, the relevant text of IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011 is
to be applied with the required changes.
Subclauses, figures and tables additional to those in IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011
are numbered starting from 300 to indicate that they are introduced in this document
IEC 62109‑3.
NOTE For example, new level 2 subclauses in clause 5 would be numbered 5.300, 5.301, etc. New level 4
subclauses in subclause 7.3.201 would be numbered 7.3.201.300, 7.3.201.301, etc.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.

– 6 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020
INTRODUCTION
This part 3 of IEC 62109 gives requirements for products which consist of an electronic element
and a PV element or PV module. For this type of equipment, specific safety aspects must be
considered that arise from the combination of these two product types. This part 3 gives safety
requirements by: referring to other parts of IEC 62109 and to PV module standards like
IEC 61730, defining tests and requirements that are in addition to these product standards of
the sub elements, defining modifications to the test procedures in IEC 62109 and IEC 61730,
and providing guidance to apply these tests to the combination of PV module and electronics.

SAFETY OF POWER CONVERTERS
FOR USE IN PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS –

Part 3: Particular requirements for electronic devices
in combination with photovoltaic elements

1 Scope
This Part 3 of IEC 62109 covers the particular safety requirements for electronic elements that
are mechanically and/or electrically incorporated with photovoltaic (PV) modules or systems.
Mechanically and/or electrically incorporated means that the whole combination of electronic
device with the photovoltaic element is sold as one product. Nevertheless, tests provided in this
document may also be used to evaluate compatibility of PV modules and electronic devices that
are sold separately and are intended to be installed close to each other.
Items included in the scope:
Electronic devices combined with PV modules that perform functions such as, but not limited
to, DC-DC or DC-AC power conversion, active diodes, protection, control, monitoring, or
communication. These requirements specifically address such electronic devices used in
combination with flat-plate photovoltaic (PV) modules.
NOTE It is acknowledged that the physical design of products covered by this scope may vary widely, it is
anticipated that the requirements of this document may need to evolve to meet the unique safety requirements of
such products, particularly if the photovoltaic element of the product is not of a flat-plate configuration. As an
example, this document does not fully address the safety requirements of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)
and building-attached photovoltaics (BAPV) products, although they would fall under the scope of this document.
The purpose of the requirements of this part of IEC 62109 is to provide additional safety-related
testing requirements for the following types of integrated electronics, collectively referred to as
module integrated equipment (MIE):
a) Type A MIE where the PV element can be evaluated as a PV module according to
IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2 independently from the electronic element;
b) Type B MIE where the PV element cannot be evaluated as a PV module according to
IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2 independently from the electronic element.
Items excluded from the scope:
PV modules with only one or more bypass diodes as the combined or integrated element. Such
products are covered by IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2.
Aspects included and excluded from scope:
All aspects of IEC 62109-1:2010 apply. Addition to the list “excluded from the scope” is
evaluating the MIE to IEC 61215-1.
2 Normative references
Clause 2 of IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011 is applicable with the following additions:
IEC 61215-2:2016, Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type
approval – Part 2: Test procedures

– 8 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020
IEC 61730-1:2016, Photovoltaic module safety qualification – Part 1: Requirements for
construction
IEC 61730-2:2016, Photovoltaic (PV) module safety qualification – Part 2: Requirements for
testing
IEC 61853-2:2016, Photovoltaic (PV) module performance testing and energy rating – Part 2:
Spectral responsivity, incidence angle and module operating temperature measurements
IEC 62109-1:2010, Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 62109-2:2011, Safety of power converters for use in photovoltaic power systems – Part 2:
Particular requirements for inverters
IEC 62790:2014, Junction boxes for photovoltaic modules – Safety requirements and tests
3 Terms and definitions
Clause 3of IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011 is applicable with the following
modifications:
Modification:
In all cases where the term “PCE” is used in a definition in Clause 3 of IEC 62109-1:2010 or
IEC 62109-2:2011, it is replaced in this part with the term “MIE”, except for 3.66.
3.39
Isc PV
Modification:
Replace “array” with “PV element”.
3.58
Pluggable equipment type B
Modify Note:
Note 1 to entry: MIE PV AC and DC circuits that use connectors are considered pluggable equipment type B MIE
and may also be considered fixed equipment.
3.97
Vmax PV
Modification:
Replace “array” with “PV element”.
Additional subclauses:
3.300
module integrated equipment
MIE
minimally, the complete combination of photovoltaic elements, electronic devices, wiring with
connector(s), and mechanical mounting means
Note 1 to entry: This document uses two designations for MIE only for the purpose of describing test methods and
what tests apply: Type A MIE and Type B MIE. These type designations have no meaning outside of this document.

Note 2 to entry: MIE with inverters as the electronic element are sometimes referred to as AC PV Modules. For the
purpose of this document, MIE is used to describe all combinations regardless of the type or function of the electronic
element.
3.301
type A MIE
construction where the PV module has been evaluated to IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2
independently from the electronic element but may include any portion of the electronic element
that serves as an attachment means
3.302
type B MIE
construction where the PV element cannot be evaluated as a PV module to IEC 61730-1 and
IEC 61730-2 independently from the electronic element or portion of the electronic element
(such as the electronic attachment means)
3.303
PV element circuit
MIE PV circuit on the input side of the integrated electronics, including cables
3.304
diode
non-controllable valve device that allows the current to flow in one direction and blocking the
current in the reverse direction without any control signal being applied
3.305
active diode
circuit used to simulate a diode function using a switching element where the current is
controlled with a control signal
3.306
photovoltaic element
PV element
single PV cell, sub-assembly of such cells or entire PV module
4 General testing requirements
Clause 4 of IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011 is applicable except as follows:
Addition:
NOTE In IEC 62109-1:2010 and therefore in this Part 3, test requirements that relate only to a single type of hazard
(shock, fire, etc.) are given in the clause specific to that hazard type. Test requirements that relate to more than one
type of hazard (for example testing under fault conditions) or that provide general test conditions, are given in this
Clause 4.
4.1 General
The following text replaces the requirements in IEC 62109-1:2010.
Testing required by this document is to demonstrate that electronic devices in combination with
photovoltaic elements are fully in accordance with the applicable requirements of this document.
This document requires the use of requirements from IEC 61730-2.
Guidance on modifications to the test procedures in IEC 61730-2:2016 is provided in Table 300.

– 10 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020
Type A MIE may be tested to the condensed sequence of Figure 300 when the PV module has
already been evaluated to IEC 61730-2:2016 or newer. Designs that allow the electronic
element to be electrically and mechanically separated from the PV module without affecting the
outcome of the test can use samples consisting of just the electronic element for those tests
that do not require a full MIE. Tests for type B MIE may also be used for constructions where
the PV element can be separated and has not yet been evaluated as a PV module to
IEC 61730-2:2016 or newer independently from the electronic element.
Type B MIE will be evaluated to the test sequence of IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 using
Table 300 as a guide for testing with the electronic element. Some modification to the test
procedure may be required along with special preparation of samples to gain access to PV
element output circuits and the electronics input and output circuits.
The evaluation of the electronic element shall also comply with all applicable clauses of this
document and any other IEC standards specific to the type of electronic device.
Some electronic devices and associated hardware require the use of other standards (such as
protection, monitoring, communication systems, cabling and connectors) for requirements
specific to the function of the device that are not included in:
a) this Part 3, or
b) IEC 62109-1:2010 and IEC 62109-2:2011.
This document does not supersede any requirements for PV modules in IEC 61730 (all parts)
and IEC 61215 (all parts).
Junction box designs that contain electronic elements can be evaluated as a component to
IEC 62790. However, the completed MIE assembly shall be evaluated to this document
considering tests and evaluations already performed to IEC 62790 that relate to requirements
in IEC 61730-1 and IEC 61730-2.
NOTE Table 300 and Figure 300 use abbreviations for module safety test (MST) and module quality test (MQT)
taken from IEC 61730-2:2016 and IEC 61215-2:2016.

Table 300 – IEC 61730-2:2016 test reference for Type A and Type B MIE

Tests Type A MIE Type B MIE
IEC 61730-2:2016 Considerations when applying Figure 300 test Considerations when applying
NOTE
(IEC 61215-2:2016) IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 test sequence
sequence.
NOTE
Environmental stress tests
MST 51 (MQT 11) Test using procedure MST 51 (MQT 11), In addition to the PV module test procedure in
Thermal cycling except: MST 51 (MQT 11), for MIE that is required to
be earthed and that provides earth continuity
a) The electronic element may be tested
between accessible metal parts and the
without a PV element if the electronic
earthing terminal, the earthing continuity shall
element is not secured by adhesive to
be monitored during the test. Connect a
the PV element and does not rely on any
continuous current source through the
part of the PV element for environmental
earthing path using the same procedure and
protection.
current as described for the PV module circuit
testing in MQT 11.
b) If the PV element has already been
evaluated, a constant current source
The electronic element is not powered during
does not have to be connected to the PV
this test.
element.
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
c) Thermocouple(s) may be located on the
based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
electronic element if the PV element is
applied to the MIE using the considerations
not needed for the testing.
as described in Table 300 of this document.
d) For MIE that is required to be earthed
and that provides earth continuity
between accessible metal parts and the
earthing terminal, the earthing continuity
shall be monitored during the test.
Connect a continuous current source
through the earthing path using the same
procedure and current as described for
the PV module circuit testing in MQT 11.
e) The number of cycles shall be 50 unless
adhesive is used for securing the
electronic element to the PV element,
then the number of cycles shall be 200.
f) The electronic element is not powered
during this test
MST 52 (MQT 12) Test using procedure MST 52 (MQT 12), In addition to the PV module test procedure in
Humidity freeze) except: MST 52 (MQT 12), for MIE that is required to
be earthed and that provides earth continuity
The electronic element may be tested without
between accessible metal parts and the
a PV element if the electronic element is not
earthing terminal, the earthing continuity shall
secured by adhesive and does not rely on any
be monitored during the test. Connect a
part of the PV element for environmental
continuous current source through the
protection.
earthing path using the same procedure and
current as described for the PV module circuit
a) If the PV element has already been
testing in MQT 12.
evaluated, a constant current source
does not have to be connected to the PV
The electronic element is not powered during
element.
this test.
b) Thermocouple(s) may be located on the
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
electronic element if the PV element is
based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
not needed for the testing.
applied to the MIE using the considerations
as described in Table 300 of this document.
c) For MIE that is required to be earthed
and that provides earth continuity
between accessible metal parts and the
earthing terminal, the earthing continuity
shall be monitored during the test.
Connect a continuous current source
through the earthing path using the same
procedure and current as described for
the PV module circuit testing in MQT 12.
d) The electronic element is not powered
during this test.
– 12 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020

Tests Type A MIE Type B MIE
IEC 61730-2:2016 Considerations when applying Figure 300 test Considerations when applying
NOTE
(IEC 61215-2:2016) IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 test sequence
sequence.
NOTE
MST 53 (MQT 13) Test using procedure MST 53 (MQT 13), MIE shall be tested as described in MST 53
Damp heat except: (MQT 13).
a) The electronic element may be tested The electronic element is not powered during
without a PV element if the electronic this test.
element is not secured by adhesive and
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
does not rely on any part of the PV
based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
element for environmental protection.
applied to the MIE using the considerations
b) Duration of the test is 200 h. as described in Table 300 of this document.
c) The electronic element is not powered
during this test.
MST 54 (MQT 10) Test using the procedure MST 54 (MQT 10), MIE shall be tested as described in MST 54
UV test except: (MQT 10).
a) The electronic element may be tested The electronic element is not powered during
without a PV element if the electronic
this test.
element is not secured by adhesive.
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
b) The UV dose only needs to be applied to based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
the electronic element and its adhesive applied to the MIE using the considerations
bond. as described in Table 300 of this document.
c) For Figure 300 Sequence A, the UV dose
shall be 15 kWh/m and is not required
unless the electronic element is secured
to the PV element by adhesive.
d) For Figure 300 Sequence B, the UV dose
shall be 60 kWh/m and is not required
when:
i) The electronic element is enclosed in
metal or consisting of polymeric
materials already evaluated as a
component (i.e. connectors, cables,
plastic enclosures or parts that
provide mechanical attachment) with
a suitable UV rating, and
ii) Mechanically attached without
adhesive.
The electronic element is not powered during
this test.
MST 55 Cold MST 55 does not apply. This test shall be applied to the PV element
conditioning only.
For electronic elements, testing to reduce
from a pollution degree 3 to pollution degree For electronic elements, testing to reduce
2 or 1 shall use the procedure described in from a pollution degree 3 to pollution degree
IEC 62109-1:2010, 6.2 and 7.3.7.8.4.2, 2 or 1 shall use the procedure described in
instead of MST55. IEC 62109-1:2010, 6.2 and 7.3.7.8.4.2,
instead of MST 55.
MST 56 Dry hot MST 56 does not apply. This test shall be applied to the PV element
conditioning only.
For electronic elements, testing to reduce
from a pollution degree 3 to pollution degree For electronic elements, testing to reduce
2 or 1 shall use the procedure described in from a pollution degree 3 to pollution degree
IEC 62109-1:2010, 6.2 and 7.3.7.8.4.2, 2 or 1 shall use the procedure described in
instead of MST56. IEC 62109-1:2010, 6.2 and 7.3.7.8.4.2,
instead of MST 56.
General inspection tests
MST 01 (MQT 01) The electronic element may be subjected to The MIE shall be evaluated to MST 01
Visual Inspection additional visual inspection requirements from (MQT 01).
IEC 62109 series or other relevant standards.
The electronic element may be subjected to
additional visual inspection requirements from
IEC 62109 series or other relevant standards.

Tests Type A MIE Type B MIE
IEC 61730-2:2016 Considerations when applying Figure 300 test Considerations when applying
NOTE
(IEC 61215-2:2016) IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 test sequence
sequence.
NOTE
MST 02 MST 02 does not apply to the electronic The MST 02 test procedure is only performed
Performance at STC element. on the PV element.
(Part of the
functional test in
Figure 300)
MST 03 Maximum MST 03 does not apply. The MST 03 test procedure is only performed
power determination on the PV element.
MST 04 Insulation MST 04 does not apply. The MST 04 test procedure is only performed
thickness on the PV element.
Insulation thickness requirements for the
electronic element is evaluated to Insulation thickness requirements for the
requirements in this document or other electronic element is evaluated to
applicable IEC standards that apply to the requirements in this document or other
specific electronics. applicable IEC standards that apply to the
specific electronics.
MST 05 Durability of MST 05 does not apply. Markings on the PV module shall comply with
markings MST 05. Markings on the electronic element
Markings on the electronic element shall
and MIE shall comply with the requirements in
comply with the requirements in this
this document. Markings on junction box type
document.
designs shall comply with IEC 62790 junction
boxes.
MST 06 Sharp edge MST 06 does not apply to the electronic MST 06 shall be performed on the MIE (PV
test element since this test is already covered in element and electronic element).
IEC 62109-1:2010,8.1.
NOTE MST 06 satisfies the intent of
IEC 62109-1:2010,8.1.
MST 07 Bypass MST 07 applies if the electronic element is MST 07 applies if the MIE is equipped with
diode functionality equipped with bypass diode(s) for PV bypass diode(s) for PV elements substring
test elements substring protection. protection.
Electrical shock hazard tests
MST 11 Accessibility MST 11 shall be applied to the MIE. For the MST 11 shall be performed on the MIE (PV
test electronic element, the enclosure element and electronic element).
requirements shall apply in this document or
Additional enclosure requirements shall apply
other applicable standards.
to the electronic element in this document or
other applicable standards.
MST 12 Cut MST 12 does not apply. The MST 12 test procedure is only performed
susceptibility test on the PV element.
MST 13 Continuity MST 13 shall be performed on the MIE, which MST 13 shall be performed on the MIE, which
test for equipotential includes the PV module element and any includes the PV module element and any
bonding electronic element with DC output(s). electronic element with DC output(s).
For MIE with an AC output, the requirements For MIE with an AC output, the requirements
in IEC 62109-1:2010, 7.3.6.3.3.1, shall apply. in IEC 62109-1:2010,7.3.6.3.3.1, shall apply.
MST 14 Impulse MST 14 does not apply. MST 14 shall be applied to the PV element
voltage test DC output.
The electronic element input and output
circuits shall be tested to IEC 62109- The electronic element input and output
1:2010,7.3.7.1.2. circuits shall be tested to IEC 62109-1:2010,
7.3.7.1.2.
MST 16 (MQT 03) For the electronic element, the test procedure The test procedure of MST 16 (MQT 03) shall
Insulation test of MST 16 (MQT 03) shall be replaced with be applied to the PV module element.
the test sequence defined in IEC 62109-
(Figure 300 For the electronic element, the test procedure
1:2010, 7.5.2 for the electronic element
Dielectric strength) of MST 16 (MQT 03) shall be replaced with
input(s) and output(s).
the test sequence defined in IEC 62109-
1:2010, 7.5.2 for the electronic element
input(s) and output(s).
– 14 – IEC 62109-3:2020 © IEC 2020

Tests Type A MIE Type B MIE
IEC 61730-2:2016 Considerations when applying Figure 300 test Considerations when applying
NOTE
(IEC 61215-2:2016) IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 test sequence
sequence.
NOTE
MST 17 (MQT 15) The test procedure of MST 17 (MQT 15) shall The test procedure of MST 17 (MQT 15) shall
Wet leakage current be applied to the MIE. be applied to the MIE.
test
The depth of the solution shall be sufficient to The depth of the solution shall be sufficient to
cover all surfaces. Where the electronic cover all surfaces. Where the electronic
element is not designed for immersion the element is not designed for immersion the
surfaces shall be sprayed with the solution. surfaces shall be sprayed with the solution.
The insulation resistance test shall be applied The insulation resistance test shall be applied
to the PV element output, the electronic to the PV element output, the electronic
element input and output port(s). The element input and output port(s). The
requirements for the electronic element requirements for the electronic element
should be based on the MIE PV element size. should be based on the MIE PV element size.
Exception: This test does not apply to Exception: This test does not apply to
electronic elements enclosed in a Class I electronic elements enclosed in a Class I
(earthed) metal enclosure. (earthed) metal enclosure.
NOTE Earthed metal enclosures may provide NOTE Earthed metal enclosures may provide
a false indication of wet leakage path between a false indication of wet leakage path between
the internal circuit and the solution. the internal circuit and the solution.
MST 42 (MQT 14) MST 42 (MQT 14) shall be applied to the MST 42 (MQT 14) shall be applied to the MIE.
Robustness of electronic element as follows:
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
terminations test
a) Cord anchorage evaluations may use based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
MQT 14.2 or requirements in IEC 62790 applied to the MIE using the considerations
Junction Boxes as described in Table 300 of this document.
b) For electronic elements that are attached
to the PV element using adhesive,
MQT 14.1 shall apply.
Fire hazard tests
MST 21 The test procedure of MST 21 does not apply The test procedure of MST 21 shall be
Temperature test to the electronic element. performed on the PV element.
Subclause 4.3 of this document shall be used Subclause 4.3 of this document shall be used
for testing the electronic element. for testing the electronic element.
Testing may be performed on the full MIE Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
sample or a separate sample of the electronic based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
element using 4.3.2.1.301, Method 2 applied to the MIE using the considerations
assembly. as described in Table 300 of this document.
MST 22 (MQT 09) The test procedure of MST 22 (MQT 09) shall The test procedure of MST 22 (MQT 09) shall
Hot-spot endurance be performed on the MIE, including the PV be performed on the MIE, including the PV
element cell located over the electronic element cell located over the electronic
test
element. element.
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
applied to the MIE using the considerations
as described in Table 300 of this document.
MST 23 Fire test MST 23 does not apply. MST 23 shall apply to the MIE.
The electronic element shall comply with the
enclosure requirements of this document.
MST 24 Ignitability MST 24 does not apply. MST 24 shall be applied to the PV element.
test
The electronic element shall comply with the The electronic element shall comply with the
enclosure and material requirements of this enclosure and material requirements of this
document or IEC 62790 junction boxes standard or IEC 62790 junction boxes.
MST 25 (MQT 18) The test procedure of MST 25 (MQT 18) shall The test procedure of MST 25 (MQT 18) shall
Bypass diode be applied to the electronic element if be applied to the MIE if equipped with bypass
thermal test equipped with bypass diodes for PV elements diodes for PV elements substring protection.
substring protection.
Post test(s) described in IEC 61730-2:2016,
based on Figure 1 test sequence, shall be
applied to the MIE using the considerations
as described in Table 300 of this document.

Tests Type A MIE Type B MIE
IEC 61730-2:2016 Considerations when applying Figure 300 test Considerations when applying
NOTE
(IEC 61215-2:2016) IEC 61730-2:2016, Figure 1 test sequence
sequence.
NOTE
MST 26 Reverse MST 26 does not apply. The test procedure of MST 26 shall be
current overload test applied to the PV element.
Electronic elements shall comply with this
document, 7.5.5 Equipment with multiple
For this test, the electronic part of the MIE
sources and 9.3.4 Inverter backfeed current
shall be disconnected.
onto the array. The backfeed current from
the electronic element shall not exceed the
Electronic elements shall comply with this
reverse current capability as determined by document, 7.5.5 Equipment with multiple
the PV element testing to MST 26. For
sources and 9.3.4 Inverter backfeed current
electronic elements that do not provide
onto the array. The backfeed current from the
backfeed current protection meeting the
electronic element shall n
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