Short on Time? Here’s The Article Summary

Introduction

AP Systems offers advanced solar microinverter technology for homes and businesses. If you haven’t heard about microinverters before, it’s basically a device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by a single solar panel into alternating current (AC) electricity. AC electricity is the type of electricity that is used in homes and businesses. Microinverters are installed behind each solar panel, which allows them to convert the DC electricity from the panel directly into AC electricity. This eliminates the need for a central inverter, which can save space and money and makes for easier installation.

AP Systems is highly efficient, with a user-friendly monitoring interface that makes it easy to stay on top of the performance of each panel and make the most of your solar power system.

About AP Systems

AP Systems was founded in Silicon Valley in 2010 and manufactures and markets its own proprietary microinverter technology across the globe. Their headquarters are based in Austin, Texas.

The company co-founders, CEO Dr. Zhi-Min Ling and CTO Dr. Yuhao Luo, are both experts in semiconductors and photovoltaics. They launched their first single and duo microinverter products in 2012, namely the YC1000 and the YC600. In 2016, Oliver Jacques joined as Vice President. Jacques had years of experience at Samsung Electronics as well as their biggest competitor, Enhpase. Jacques was largely responsible for the company’s new sales channels and new product platform.

Today, the company has a presence in more than 120 countries, with warehouses, tech support, and marketing teams based in LatAm, Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific.

Microinverters vs. String Inverters

A microinverter and a string inverter are both devices that convert direct current (DC) electricity generated by a solar panel into alternating current (AC) electricity. As mentioned, microinverters are typically installed behind each solar panel, which allows them to convert the DC electricity from the panel directly into AC electricity. This eliminates the need for a central inverter, which can save space and money.

String inverters are typically installed at the end of a string of solar panels. The DC electricity from all of the panels in the string is then converted into AC electricity by the string inverter.

There are a few key differences you need to take note of:

• Cost: Microinverters are typically more complex and more expensive than string inverters.
• Efficiency: Microinverters are more efficient than string inverters. This is because microinverters convert DC electricity into AC electricity at the point of generation, which minimizes energy loss.
• Monitoring: Microinverters offer individual panel monitoring, which allows you to track the performance of each panel. String inverters only offer system-wide monitoring, which does not allow you to track the performance of individual panels.
• Shade tolerance: Microinverters are more tolerant of shade than string inverters because microinverters convert DC electricity into AC electricity right where it’s generated, so they are not as affected by shading on individual panels.

On the downside, microinverters are located on the bottom of the solar panel, where heat and moisture get trapped. If something does go wrong, it won’t affect the performance of the other panels, but it can be really hard to get to them for repairs.

What is AP Systems Known For?

Their best-known product is the YC600 microinverter, a dual-module microinverter that is designed for residential and commercial use. A dual-module microinverter can power two solar panels with one inverter, saving time on installation. It’s very efficient and has a number of features that protect it from the elements. You can generate more electricity from your solar panels while saving space on your roof.

The YC600 can output up to 600 watts per channel and offers all of the benefits of dual-module design, including space savings.

The product that everyone is currently talking about is their DS3 microinverter, which comes in versions called the DS3-S and DS3-L. The DS3 can output up to 880 watts per channel, which is higher than most other microinverters on the market, so it can power larger solar power systems.

The DS3 reduces the number of components required by 20% while delivering 50% more AC output power than the YC600. It’s fully compatible with their single-phase and quad microinverters (YC600 and QS1), so you can add them to the same installation.

How Does AP Systems Compare to Its Competitors?

AP Systems’ biggest competitor is Enphase, the leading provider of microinverters in the US (if not the world). Enphase is known for its quality products and reliability. Their most popular products are the IQ7 and IQ8 series.

AP Systems claim that its dual-module microinverter system has the edge over Enphase because an Enphase system would require more inverters, which means roughly three times as many components and three times as many parts are required. The DS3 can be used with higher-wattage solar panels. Higher-wattage panels are more expensive than lower-wattage panels, but this investment is offset by using fewer, more inefficient microinverters. This means the total system will have a better output at a lower cost.

Here’s a table to help you compare the different outputs: 

If you use the IQ7, you’ll need to use 60% more solar panels and three times as many inverters to get the same energy output. If you choose the IQ8+, you’ll need 2.5 times as many inverters and 30% more solar panels to get the same result. 

With Enphase, you’ll always need one microinverter for every panel. With AP Systems, you’ll only need one for every two panels. AP System also has a QS1 model that lets you add four panels to a single microinverter. 

AP systems are significantly cheaper than Enphase, but they aren’t quite as reliable and come with shorter warranties.

Who is AP Systems For?

AP Systems is recommended for anyone who prefers microinverters over string inverters that have to work within a budget. Fewer parts mean cost savings and space savings without compromising on quality. 

There are plenty of microinverter companies that are cheaper than AP Systems, but very few of them offer the same quality.

You find AP Systems on ShopSolar.com, along with great advice and information about all things solar.

The Ultimate Solar + Storage Blueprint (Mini Course)

Struggling to understand how solar + storage systems actually work? Looking to build or buy your own solar power system one day but not sure what you need? Just looking to learn more about solar, batteries and electricity?

Join 15,000+ solar enthusiasts breaking free from their energy dependence with this short step-by-step video course that will make you a solar + storage expert. Start your journey to energy independence today.

Learn More Now

Who is ShopSolar.com?

ShopSolar.com is the #1 digital platform that enables consumers & businesses to source and purchase complete solar + storage solutions direct, saving you thousands in time, energy and money! With over 40,000+ happy customers, we’re on a mission to make solar simple, transparent and affordable.