The Test Finger of IEC 62109-1 Figure D.1 is a specialized safety tool tailored for photovoltaic (PV) power conversion equipment—including PV inverters, combiner boxes, solar energy storage systems (ESS), and microinverters. It mimics the shape and flexibility of a human finger (via its articulated joint design) to navigate curved or narrow paths in PV equipment, testing if hazardous live parts (e.g., high-voltage DC terminals, exposed capacitors, or wiring) are accessible. Crafted from conductive stainless steel (for detecting live components) and paired with a heat-resistant insulated handle, it applies a controlled 10N thrust to simulate accidental light contact. Strictly compliant with IEC 62109-1 (the global standard for PV safety), it’s critical for manufacturers to prevent electric shock and meet global solar equipment market requirements.
 Standards:
    | Standards No. | Clause/Figure | Standards Name | 
  | IEC 62109-1:2021 | Annex D, Figure D.1 | Power conversion equipment for photovoltaic systems – Safety requirements – Part 1: General requirements | 
  | UL 1741:2023 | Clause 9.3, Figure 9.3 | Standard for Safety for Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment for Use With Distributed Energy Resources | 
  | IEC 61032:2017 | Clause 5.3, Figure 5.3 | Test probes for protection against access to hazardous parts | 
  
  
 Specifications:
 Tool Type: Test Finger of IEC 62109-1 Figure D.1 (for PV power conversion equipment hazardous part testing)
 Probe Material: Conductive stainless steel (resistance ≤ 0.1Ω; corrosion-resistant; 1 articulated joint for human-like flexibility)
 Handle Material: Silicone-coated ABS plastic (fully insulated, resistance ≥ 100MΩ; heat-resistant up to 120°C; ergonomic grip for precision)
 Joint Characteristics: 1 pivot joint; max bending angle: 90°; maintains structure under 10N thrust; fits narrow PV equipment gaps (≥6mm)
 Key Dimensions:
 – Total Probe Length (with joint): 180mm ± 0.2mm
 – Probe Tip Diameter: 8mm ± 0.05mm (matches adult finger profile)
 – Handle Length: 120mm ± 0.5mm
 – Total Length (Probe + Handle): 300mm ± 0.5mm
 Applied Thrust: 10N ± 0.5N (standard for IEC 62109-1 testing; simulates light accidental finger contact with PV equipment)
 Core Function: Navigates PV equipment gaps via flexible joint; detects accessible hazardous live parts; ensures compliance with IEC 62109-1
  
 Test Procedures:
 1. Inspect the test finger for damage (loose joint, bent tip, cracked insulation) and confirm conductivity with a test tool.
 2. Power on the PV equipment under test (EUT, e.g., PV inverter) and set it to normal operating mode (e.g., grid-connected).
 3. Hold the insulated handle, use the joint to guide the probe into EUT gaps (vents, terminal panel seams, or control slots).
 4. Apply a steady 10N thrust to advance the probe—stop when resistance from the EUT’s enclosure or components is felt.
 5. Check the connected live-part detection instrument for signals (indicating contact with hazardous parts).
 6. Record results: Pass if no contact; Fail if live parts are accessible.
  
 Applications:
 1. Testing access to high-voltage DC terminals in grid-tied PV inverters (per IEC 62109-1:2021 Figure D.1) to prevent electric shock.
 2. Verifying combiner box wiring gaps (compliant with UL 1741:2023) to protect solar installers during maintenance.
 3. Safety checks for solar ESS converter vents (per IEC 61032:2017) to block exposure to live capacitors.
 4. Quality control for residential microinverters during manufacturing, ensuring global PV safety compliance.
 5. Post-production testing of solar charge controller control panels to meet regional solar equipment safety standards.
 
Test Finger of IEC 62109-1 Figure D.1