Inverter Inputs vs MPPT Inputs

[adoublee]

When a inverter says it has 3 inputs, does that mean 3 independent MPPT's? For example I'm looking at the SMA SB6000US (which I've also read has 4 inputs), and it looks like all the inputs go into a common bus.

Also, does anyone know if the string sizing tools take the back side of Sanyo double sided modules into account? I'm guessing they don't as Sanyo says the STC rating (and PTC rating too?) are based on front side only. I'm wondering how many 195W doubles I can put on the SB6000US (and harvest 99% of the energy produced).

Thanks!

[Sunking]

When a inverter says it has 3 inputs, does that mean 3 independent MPPT's? For example I'm looking at the SMA SB6000US (which I've also read has 4 inputs),

It means the inverter has 3 solar panel string inputs.

[lile001]

Inverter Inputs - strings

If an inverter has say two string inputs, but I am planning on 6 strings, what is the best way to do that? Thinking about using the Sunny Boy SB4000US with 8 strings of 6 Kaneka 48V (92V open circuit) 60W panels.

Do you fuse each string?

Is there a disconnect for each string? Or just for the whole array?

Or does that all come in one box? Who makes 'em?

[Mike90250]

A COMBINER box is used to add strings together, prior to the wires going to the inverter. The combiners have breakers or fuses in them, for panel protection.
Midnight has a nice brochure :

http://www.midnitesolar.com/pdfs/MidNite%20PV%20Combiners%20explained%20w%20diagrams.pdf

[lile001]

Great! One more thing - it looks like a separate DC disconnect on the roof is required in addition to the combiner box. Is this correct?

[Mike90250]

The disconnect has to be at ground level. Xantrex builds a disconnect into their inverter, others may do so too.