CAN communications. EPC control modes guide.

This document goes deep into the flow of the CAN communications depending on the EPC mode.

We can find 5 different modes:

• Current controlled mode
• High side voltage controlled mode
• Low side voltage controlled mode
• High side voltage photovoltaic mode
• Low side voltage photovoltaic mode

Current controlled mode

In this mode, the external controller will set the current reference for the High Voltage DC side (HVDC side) or de Low Voltage DC side (LVDC side).

High side voltage controlled mode

In this mode, the external controller will set the voltage reference for the High Voltage DC side (HVDC side). Power and current limits can be configured.
EPC will manage the power flow aiming to maintain the high side voltage reference. The external controller is able to choose bidirectional operation or unidirectional in any direction thanks to “Power Flow Direction” signal.

Low side voltage controlled mode

In this mode, the external controller will set the voltage reference for the Low Voltage DC side (LVDC side). Power and current limits can be configured.
EPC will manage the power flow aiming to maintain the low side voltage reference. The external controller is able to choose bidirectional operation or unidirectional in any direction thanks to “Power Flow Direction” signal.

High side voltage photovoltaic mode

In this mode, the EPC converter performs MPPT tracking algorithm in the HVDC side. This mode is used when solar panels are connected to the HVDC side.

Low side voltage photovoltaic mode

In this mode, the EPC converter performs MPPT tracking algorithm in the LVDC side. This mode is used when solar panels are connected to the LVDC side.

To learn more about it, download here the full Application Note: “AN049: CAN communications. EPC control modes guide.”
If you want more information, visit our website, or contact us.