The Problem: Conventional MC4 Removal Methods Are Time-Consuming
Every PV installer knows the problem: when routing cables through the roof, MC4 connectors must be removed, re-installed, and checked. This is not only time-consuming – it is also a common source of errors.
Typical installation process with traditional roof penetrations:
- Remove the MC4 connector from one end of the cable (with special tools)
- Route the cable through the roof penetration
- Re-insert the MC4 connector – and hope it's seated correctly
- Electrician checks the connection
Time required per cable: 15–25 minutes
For 3–6 cables per system: 45–150 minutes of additional effort
For an average solar system with 4 cables, this results in additional costs of EUR 50–180 per installation.
The Solution: Roof Penetration without MC4 Removal
The concept: The MC4 connectors remain on the cable. You route the complete cable with attached connectors through the roof penetration.
NEXCAPE® cable roof penetrations are specially designed so that MC4 connectors are not obstructed when the cable is pulled through.
How does installation without MC4 removal work?
Step 1: Prepare the cable
The cable comes from the manufacturer with MC4 connectors already attached. No disassembly needed.
Step 2: Hook in the roof penetration
The roof penetration is hooked into the tile from above.
Step 3: Pull the cable with the MC4 connector through
The complete cable is slowly pulled through the elastic sleeve of the penetration.
Step 4: Done!
Total time per cable: 2–3 minutes. For 4 cables: 8–12 minutes total.
Concrete Time Savings: A Practical Example
| Method | Time per Cable | Time for 4 Cables | Cost (at EUR 80/h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional with MC4 removal | 18 Min | 72 Minutes | EUR 96 |
| NEXCAPE® without MC4 removal | 2.5 Min | 10 Minutes | EUR 13 |
| Savings | −15.5 Min | −62 Minutes | −EUR 83 |
Per system, you save over an hour of installation time – and EUR 83 in direct personnel costs!
Safety Advantages
- No contact contamination: MC4 connectors are not repeatedly removed and re-installed
- No connection misinstallations: The connector seats correctly immediately
- No wear and tear: Connectors and cable cores are not worn out
- Higher reliability: Fewer interfaces = fewer sources of error
Comparison: NEXCAPE® vs. Conventional Solutions
| Criterion | Conventional | NEXCAPE® without MC4 removal |
|---|---|---|
| MC4 removal required? | YES (15–25 min) | NO (2–3 min) |
| Connector wear | High | Minimal |
| Sources of error | High | Low |
| Material | Variable | UV-resistant plastic |
| Package sizes | Often single items | 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 units |
Package Solutions for Commercial Businesses
NEXCAPE® is designed for installer companies and large-scale projects:
- 20-pack: For smaller businesses
- 50-pack: Standard for active installers
- 100-pack: For 25–30 systems in stock
- 500- / 1,000-pack: Large businesses, maximum bulk discount
FAQ
Does this also work with thicker cables?
Yes. NEXCAPE® is available in different sizes (105 mm, 125 mm, 150 mm) for different tile types and cable cross-sections.
How long does the sleeve last?
30+ years without material fatigue. The sleeve is designed for hundreds of pull-throughs.
Is NEXCAPE® more expensive than conventional solutions?
The product price is similar. But thanks to the time savings (60–90 minutes per system), you quickly save many times the product price – already with the next installation!
Conclusion: The Future of PV Installation
NEXCAPE® demonstrates that product innovation is possible. Through clever design and high-quality materials, a solution was created that accelerates installation by 85%, reduces error rates, and lowers personnel costs.
For installers, this is not just a product – it's a business advantage.
Contact: support@nexcape.de | Tel: 07054 927999 | Mon–Fri 8:00–17:00
