PC software interfaces into AC inverters: opportunities, limitations, and required developments

As the design of AC inverters tends to increasingly include sophisticated micro-controllers, the potential of these micro-controllers to communicate with software running on the PC is correspondingly enhanced. PC software interfaces into AC inverters are desirable to facilitate such important tasks as: (1) on-site or remote control and monitoring, (2) data logging, (3) reporting of error or unsafe conditions, and (4) remote group control of distributed inverters, either over the Internet or a dedicated network.