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Understanding SolisCloud Export and Import Discrepancies
The Eastron Meter Solution
Introduction
SolisCloud is designed to monitor, track, and optimize energy generation and consumption. However, some users may notice that the total import and export values displayed in SolisCloud differ from the values recorded by their electricity provider.
In most cases, this is not a fault with the inverter or meter, but rather the result of how the accompanying Eastron meter measures and reports energy flow. The standard Eastron meter supplied with the inverter operates using a different measurement logic than many utility revenue meters.
This article explains why these differences occur and when the optional Eastron meter firmware update should be considered.
Please note that this update applies exclusively to the Eastron SDM630MCT+ESCT-TA16 120A/40mA model.
Do not apply this update to the Eastron V2 model used with the S6-EH3P(29.9–50)K-H Series.
Table of content
- Understanding the problem
- Is a Firmware Update Required?
- Eastron Meter Firmware Update – Requirements
- Performing the Firmware Update
Understanding the Problem
The standard Eastron meter records all imported energy and all exported energy independently before transmitting the data to SolisCloud.
In a three-phase installation, it is common for different phases to import and export power simultaneously.
For example:
- Phase L1 exports 3 kW
- Phase L2 imports 4.5 kW
- Phase L3 imports 4.5 kW
The Eastron meter reports:
- Import: 9 kW
- Export: 3 kW
However, most utility meters calculate the net energy:
9 kW − 3 kW = 6 kW net import
Therefore:
- SolisCloud displays 9 kW imported and 3 kW exported
- The electricity provider records 6 kW net import
This difference affects the accumulated import/export values displayed in SolisCloud but does not indicate an inverter malfunction or inaccurate power measurement. It is simply the result of different calculation methods.
Is a Firmware Update Required?
Not necessarily.
The current meter behavior is the intended operating logic of the original firmware.
If:
- the customer understands this measurement method,
- the displayed values are acceptable for their monitoring requirements, and
- there are no operational concerns,
no firmware update is required.
However, if the customer requires the import/export calculations to more closely align with the net energy values typically shown by their electricity provider, the Eastron firmware update is available.
The Solution: Eastron Meter Firmware Update
Eastron has released a firmware update that changes how the meter processes three-phase import and export data before sending it to SolisCloud.
After the update, the reported values more closely reflect the net energy calculation commonly used by electricity providers, reducing the discrepancy between SolisCloud and utility meter readings.
To carry out this firmware update, you will need the following:
1: Windows PC
On the PC, Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable (X86) must be installed. The 32-bit version (X86) must always be installed, even on a 64-bit system.
You can download the file from here: https://www.microsoft.com/de-de/download/details.aspx?id=40784
The filename is vcredist_x86.exe.RS485 USB converter – for example
2. RS485 USB Converter
For example:
Waveshare 17286 https://www.waveshare.com/usb-to-rs485.htm
or Waveshare 22456 https://www.waveshare.com/usb-to-rs485-b.htm
3. Data cable for the RS485 connection
For example, telephone cable, utilizing three wires.
4. 230V supply for the meter
5. Update file
You will find the update file at the bottom of this article.
You will receive the update software as a compressed ZIP archive.
Unzip the file on your PC.
Performing the Firmware Update
Here are the steps to perform the Eastron Meter firmware update:
1: Connect data connection and power supply
Establish a data connection between the Eastron Meter and your PC using the RS485 USB converter and the data cable.
On the meter side, use pins 12, 13, and 14 for the RS485 connection (see image)
PIN 12: GND
PIN 13: RS485 B
PIN 14: RS485 A
IMPORTANT: To perform the update, ensure that the meter is powered.
Note the schematic diagram provided and use PINS 5 & 6 for the power supply of the meter.
After powering on, the meter will display a software version during the startup phase, for example, CX0335.
2: Open the Update Software on your PC
Navigate to the "Upgrade Software" folder and open the "flash_updata.exe" file located in the "EXE" folder.
3. Set the parameters for the serial interface
Select the correct COM port.
Baud rate ("Baud"): 9600
Stop bit ("Stop"): 1
Parity bit ("Parity"): None
After setting the parameters, click "Open COM".
4. Select the upgrade file
Click on "Open File" to choose the upgrade file.
In the "Upgrade File" folder, you will find the file "SDM_630MCT_40MA_23_03_13_CX_0385.bin". Select this file.
5: Perform the Upgrade:
Make sure that the meter is powered on at this time and connected to the appropriate COM port of your PC via the RS485 communication tool. Then click on "UPDATE" to start the update process. During the update process, you will see a progress bar. The backlight of the meter will turn off, and the LED will remain lit continuously. Once the progress bar reaches 100%, the update is complete, and the meter will automatically restart.
Upon restarting the meter, the software version should again be displayed, and it should now read CX0385.
6. Set meter connection mode
The four buttons of the meter can be used in the settings mode for menu navigation.
To enter the settings mode, press and hold the "E" (Enter) button for at least 3 seconds. Then, the password must be entered.
The password is "1000". Press the "M" button briefly to enter the password. Then, once again, press and hold the "E" button for at least 3 seconds. You will then enter the settings menu.
Using the "M" and "P" buttons, navigate through the menu items. Press the "P" button until "SYS" appears on the display. Here, you can adjust the power system, i.e., the connection mode of the meter.
Now, press and hold the "E" button again for at least 3 seconds. You can now select the power system. Press the "P" button repeatedly until "PV" appears on the display.
Then, once again, press and hold the "E" button for at least 3 seconds to confirm the setting.
When "Good" appears on the display, the setting has been successfully saved. You can now exit the settings menu by pressing the "U/I" button. The meter update is now complete. Turn off the power supply of the meter and disconnect the data connection. Then, you can turn the meter back on, and it is now ready for operation.
Troubleshooting
In conclusion, we hope this article has been helpful in providing valuable insights and information.
Your feedback is important to us, and we encourage customers to reach out with any comments or suggestions to improve our content.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have specific questions, please don't hesitate to contact Solis Support for dedicated assistance. We are committed to ensuring your experience is seamless and your concerns are addressed promptly.
Thank you for choosing us, and we look forward to serving you better in the future.
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