This paper presents the simulation model linked prototype development of a photovoltaic (PV) three-phase inverter utilizing the dSPACE DS1104 controller. The inverter model and control algorithm were developed and simulated in MATLAB/Simulink. The control algorithm of the simulation model is linked to the built inverter prototype by using the dSPACE DS1104 controller board. The control system employs the PI controller to generate the PWM signals for IGBTs switching, thus producing and regulating the 50 Hz sinusoidal ac output voltage. For the input sources, the inverter utilizes 25 units of real PV modules which generate a dc output voltage of 435 V. Simulation results show that the controller managed to regulate the rms output voltage of 240 V and 100% in magnitude of fundamental component. The test results show that the inverter rms output voltage and current are stabilized at 240 V and 4.5 A respectively. The total harmonic distortion (THD) of the voltage and current waveform are 2.5% and 3.5% respectively that proved the efficacy of the developed control algorithm. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.