3801 on a SMA Solar Technology AG Sunny Boy: Overcurrent at the DC input. The inverter briefly interrupts feed-in operation
Short answer
On a SMA Solar Technology AG inverter, 3801 means: Overcurrent at the DC input. The inverter briefly interrupts feed-in operation. The inverter keeps running with some functions stopped. An engineer is needed to fix the cause.
Reviewed 24 September 2026 · 1 source
What it means
The manual says: Overcurrent at the DC input. The inverter briefly interrupts feed-in operation.
Part involved: DC input overcurrent.
When it shows: Overcurrent at the DC input. The inverter briefly interrupts feed-in operation.
Likely causes:
- SMA corrective measures: If this message is displayed frequently, ensure that the PV module has been correctly rated and wired.
Is it safe?
| Does the inverter stop? | Partly |
|---|---|
| Severity | Fault — clears by itself when the condition goes |
| Engineer needed? | Yes |
The inverter keeps running with some functions stopped.
Resetting itself: yes.
Manual reset: Automatic when condition clears.
What you can check
- Read the event number and message in the SMA Energy app / Sunny Portal (ennexOS) or the inverter's web interface and note the date/time for your installer. A red LED on the inverter means an event has occurred.
- If it happens once and the inverter resumes feeding in on its own, no action is needed; if the event keeps recurring, contact your installer.
What the engineer will check
- Check PV array rating and string wiring against inverter DC input current limits.
Who to ask for: PV installer.
Certification: Qualified electrician (BS 7671; MCS-certified PV installer for work on the PV array/DC side).
What you might notice
Sources
- Operating manual SUNNY BOY 3.0/3.6/4.0/5.0/6.0 ↗ · SBxx-1AV-41-BE-en-21 Version 2.1 · page 93 · Reviewed 24 September 2026
A code explains what the controller detected, not a confirmed root cause.
Reviewed: 24 September 2026