The Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch Safely Isolates Up to Two Solar Strings at 1500V and 40A
The Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch is a 1500V, 40A DC disconnect that lets you isolate your solar array from your charge controller, inverter and other connected equipment with one turn of the handle. It has four poles in series and supports two PV strings, so a single switch can cover a two-string array.
The switch is UL 508I certified for DC disconnecting in photovoltaic systems, rated IP66NW for outdoor use, and housed in UL94 V-0 flame-retardant polycarbonate. Rich Solar backs it with a 3-year warranty, and it works in both off-grid and grid-tied solar systems.
Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch Features
Quick, Safe Array Isolation
The switch safely isolates your solar array from connected equipment. Use it to shut off panel power before servicing a controller or inverter, during storms, or any time you need to work on the system.
Fast Arc Suppression
The switch disconnects load circuits in under 3 milliseconds. Fast arc suppression helps protect the switch contacts and connected equipment when you break a DC circuit under load.
Four Poles for Two Strings
With four poles in series and support for two PV strings, the switch can disconnect two separate panel strings at once. It is rated for 1500V insulation voltage, 40A thermal current and an 8kV impulse withstand voltage.
Outdoor-Rated Enclosure
The IP66NW rating covers outdoor installs on a wall, mount or rack near the array. The flame-retardant UL94 V-0 polycarbonate housing operates from -40°F to 158°F.
SAFE-LOCK Design
The SAFE-LOCK design helps prevent tampering, which is useful on ground-mounted arrays, at shared properties or anywhere others might reach the switch.
UL 508I Certified
UL 508I certification covers this switch for safe and reliable DC disconnecting in photovoltaic systems, which can help with inspections and code compliance.
Real-World Applications
Off-grid homes and cabins. Add a clear shutoff between the array and the charge controller or hybrid inverter.
Grid-tied systems. Provide a DC disconnect between the array and the inverter for service work.
Ground-mounted arrays. Install the switch near the array so panel power can be cut at the source.
Two-string systems. Disconnect both strings of a larger array with a single switch.
How It Compares to Common Alternatives
Versus unplugging panel connectors. Pulling solar connectors apart under load can arc and damage the connectors. A rated disconnect breaks the circuit safely with arc suppression.
Versus a breaker box. A DC breaker panel adds overcurrent protection but takes more space and wiring. This switch is a compact, outdoor-rated disconnect focused on isolation.
Versus a single-string disconnect. A one-string switch handles one positive and negative pair. This four-pole switch covers two strings in one enclosure.
Is This Disconnect the Right Fit
-
Voltage and current. Keep each string within the 1500V and 40A ratings.
-
Strings. The switch supports up to two PV strings.
-
Connectors. Use only the connectors and terminals supplied with the switch, crimped with the specified tool. Rich Solar warns not to mix MC4 connectors from different manufacturers.
-
Size. The switch measures 7.1 x 6.8 x 4.3 inches and weighs 1.6 pounds.
This may be a good fit if
- You need a DC disconnect between your array and your equipment
- You have one or two PV strings
- You want a UL 508I certified switch for a PV system
- You are installing the switch outdoors
Common Questions
Can I Use This Switch on a Grid-Tied System?
Yes. Rich Solar designs it for both off-grid and grid-tied solar systems.
How Many Strings Can It Disconnect?
It supports two PV strings, with four poles in series.
Can I Use My Own MC4 Connectors?
Rich Solar says to use only the connectors and terminals supplied with the switch and not to mix MC4 connectors from different brands. Make sure each connector clicks fully into place. Improper installation can cause overheating, fire or equipment damage.
What Warranty Does It Have?
Rich Solar provides a 3-year warranty.
What's Included
- 1 x Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch, 1500V 40A, 4 Pole 2 Strings (RS-i4)
- 1 x Set of Supplied Connectors and Terminals for Installation
Safe, Simple Solar Shutoff
The Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch gives you a certified, outdoor-rated way to isolate up to two solar strings quickly and safely. At Outbound Power, we help customers plan disconnects, fusing and wiring for their solar systems. If you have questions, our team is happy to help.
Rich Solar PV DC Quick Disconnect Switch Specifications
|
| Model |
RS-i4 |
| Rated Insulation Voltage (Ui) |
1500V |
| Rated Thermal Current (Ith) |
40A |
| Poles and Circuit |
4 poles in series |
| Supported PV Strings |
2 |
| Impulse Withstand Voltage |
8kV |
| Arc Suppression Time |
Under 3 ms |
| IP Rating |
IP66NW |
| Operating Temperature |
-40°F to 158°F |
| Housing Material |
Flame-retardant PC (UL94 V-0) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) |
7.1 x 6.8 x 4.3 in |
| Net Weight |
1.6 lbs |
| Package Dimensions |
8 x 5 x 8 in |
| Gross Weight |
3 lbs |
| Certifications |
UL 508I, CE |
| Warranty |
3 years |