Plan Cable Length Between Components

Follow the table below for maximum distances between system components. Wire gauge must meet local codes and in some circumstances wire gauge requirements change based on distance. Refer to Appendix B for wire gauge requirements.

Maximum Cable Length
CAN communication wiring between Backup Switch and Leader Powerwall 3 150 ft (45 m) for 16 AWG (1.5 mm2) wire
82 ft (25 m) for 18 AWG (0.8 mm2) wire
Expansion Harness Length See Expansion Harness
Wired Ethernet connection between any two devices* 328 ft (100 m) per Ethernet standard
Total PV circuit distance** 525 ft (160 m)

*This measurement refers to the distance between Powerwall 3 and the customer's internet router, or between two Powerwall 3 units.

**Ensure that total DC circuit distance, from + MPPT terminal to - MPPT terminal (including module wire leads, jumper wires and all wiring within the array boundary for any individual string), does not exceed 160 m for single strings
  • Total DC circuit distance refers to the entire round trip wire distance, from Powerwall 3 to the roof, then back to Powerwall 3
Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
Note
As noted in Required Supplies, minimum 600 V rated 4-conductor (two twisted pairs) shielded copper (Cu) cable is required for the communication connection between Powerwall and the Backup Switch; see Required Supplies for custom cable requirements.
Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
CAUTION
Failure to follow minimum cable size and length requirements may result in intermittent or unreliable operation of the Powerwall system. In systems that do not meet these minimum requirements, performance issues may arise even after successful commissioning.