Abstract: A low loss power inductor core and method for making same. The magnetic core includes an outer portion formed as a closed loop from multiple magnetic core pieces, and inner portion disposed within the closed loop. Non-magnetic spacers at opposing ends of the inner core portion position and secure the inner core portion between mutually opposed inner sides of the closed loop.

Abstract: System and method for restricting output power from multiple serially coupled DC power sources, such as a solar cell array, controlled by power balancing circuitry, thereby enabling power restriction in the event of an emergency. Output bypass circuitry allows the output voltage to be selectively restricted, and though power for switching between states would be needed, use of bi-stable bypass circuitry would avoid a need for power to remain in a state of bypass operation. Additionally, with the serially coupled DC power sources controlled by power balancing circuitry, use of solid-state current switching elements ensures continued output power restriction due to the clamping action of the body diodes upon the output voltage.

Abstract: System and method for controlling power factor correction (PFC) for three-phase AC power conveyed via a three-phase AC power grid. Currents and voltages on the grid are monitored and used to generate waveform data enabling dynamic control of switching circuitry used in controlling one or more phase offsets between the currents and voltages.

Abstract: System and method for enabling communications via a power line conveying DC power from multiple DC power sources such as solar panels. Power and communications are provided using a single combined power and communications line. Data communication signals received over the power line are detected and compared against power line voltage for processing received data and generating data for transmission. Remote units are self-powered using power harvesting of the data communication signals.

Abstract: System and method for applying a reverse energy flow for measuring one or more electrical characteristics of a DC power source, such as a solar panel. Applying reverse current and voltage to a DC power source and measuring selected resultant current and voltage enables monitoring of electrical characteristics of the source, and when done periodically, enables monitoring of the performance of the source over time, including whether performance has become affected by a hardware failure or damage, or whether the source has become disconnected due to a faulty or failed connector or theft.

Abstract: A printed wiring board with a component connection pad, such as a solder pad, providing thermal stress compensation for a surface mount circuit component and method for making such a pad. The component connection pad includes opposed groups of multiple conductive fingers that are mutually connected at their far ends and separated at their near ends where they have surfaces for mounting a single surface mount circuit component.

Abstract: System and method for controlling power factor correction (PFC) for three-phase AC power conveyed via a three-phase AC power grid. Currents and voltages on the grid are monitored and used to generate waveform data enabling dynamic control of switching circuitry used in controlling one or more phase offsets between the currents and voltages.

Abstract: System and method for identifying solar panels. In accordance with exemplary embodiments, an electrical signal within one or more solar cells of the solar panel is detected and processed to provide a detection signal corresponding to a distinguishing characteristic associated with the solar panel. In accordance with alternative exemplary embodiments, a light sensor is disposed along a sightline from the solar panel to detect a light emission produced by dissipation of electrical power by one or more solar cells of the solar panel. In accordance with further alternative exemplary embodiments, selective blocking of light to (e.g., shading of) portions of predetermined solar panels causes corresponding changes in output power that can be used to identify affected solar panels.

Abstract: A printed wiring board with a component connection pad, such as a solder pad, providing thermal stress compensation for a surface mount circuit component and method for making such a pad. The component connection pad includes opposed groups of multiple conductive fingers that are mutually connected at their far ends and separated at their near ends where they have surfaces for mounting a single surface mount circuit component.

Abstract: A low loss power inductor and method for making same. A magnetic core is constructed of one or more E-shaped and l-shaped portions. Each E-shaped portion includes top, middle and bottom bars, and an open edge adjacent an l-shaped portion with a gap between the middle bar and the l-shaped portion. Conductive and insulated layers having mutually adjacent surfaces are coiled about the one or more middle bars. The width of the conductive layer is no greater than the length of the middle bars and is less than or equal to the width of the insulated layer.

Abstract: System and method for enabling communications via a power line conveying DC power from multiple DC power sources such as solar panels. Power and communications are provided using a single combined power and communications line. Data communication signals received over the power line are detected and compared against power line voltage for processing received data and generating data for transmission. Remote units are self-powered using power harvesting of the data communication signals.

Abstract: System and method for applying a reverse energy flow for measuring one or more electrical characteristics of a DC power source, such as a solar panel. Applying reverse current and voltage to a DC power source and measuring selected resultant current and voltage enables monitoring of electrical characteristics of the source, and when done periodically, enables monitoring of the performance of the source over time, including whether performance has become affected by a hardware failure or damage, or whether the source has become disconnected due to a faulty or failed connector or theft.

Abstract: System and method for restricting output power from multiple serially coupled DC power sources, such as a solar cell array, controlled by power balancing circuitry, thereby enabling power restriction in the event of an emergency. Output bypass circuitry allows the output voltage to be selectively restricted, and though power for switching between states would be needed, use of bi-stable bypass circuitry would avoid a need for power to remain in a state of bypass operation. Additionally, with the serially coupled DC power sources controlled by power balancing circuitry, use of solid-state current switching elements ensures continued output power restriction due to the clamping action of the body diodes upon the output voltage.