Principle of operation
The power inverter converts power in two stages. The first
stage is a dc-to-dc conversion process that raises the low
voltage dc at the inverter input to 145 Vdc. The second stage
is the actual inverter stage that converts the high voltage dc
into 230 Vac, 50 Hz.
The dc-to-dc converter stage uses modern high-frequency
power conversion techniques that have replaced the bulky
transformers found in less technologically advanced models.
The inverter stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors
in a full bridge configuration. This ensures excellent overload
capability and the ability to operate reactive loads like small
induction motors.
The power inverter output waveform
The ac output waveform of the power inverter is known as a
"modified sine wave".
This type of waveform is suitable for most ac loads, including
linear and switching power supplies used in electronic
equipment, transformers and motors.
Operating instructions
Power source requirements
The power source must provide 12.5 Vdc and must be able to
supply the necessary current to operate the load.
Warning! The power inverter must be connected only to
batteries with a nominal output voltage of 12 volts. The
appliance will not operate from a 6 volt battery and will sustain
permanent damage if connected to a 24 volt battery.
Connection to a power source
The power inverter comes equipped with a 12 Vdc accessory
plug (4) and battery clamps (5) for connection to a dc power
source.
Connecting to a power source using the 12 Vdc
accessory plug
The 12 Vdc accessory plug (4) is suitable for operating the
power inverter at power outputs up to 100 Watts. The tip of
the plug is positive (+) and the side contact is negative (-).
Warning! Connect the ring terminals to the terminals (7) of the
power inverter before connecting the accessory plug to the
accessory outlet. Make sure that the On/Off switch (3) is turned
off (O) and that no flammable fumes are present in the
installation area.
Connect the ring terminal of the red cable to the red
terminal (7) marked (+) on the back of the power inverter.
Connect the ring terminal of the black cable to the black
terminal (7) marked (-) on the back of the power inverter.
Connect the power inverter to the power source by
inserting the 12 Vdc accessory plug (4) firmly into the
accessory outlet of a vehicle or other dc power source.
Warning! You must connect directly to the power source when
operating above 100 watts.
Warning! Do not use with positive ground electrical systems,
(i.e. older vehicles).
Warning! A reverse polarity connection will result in a blown
fuse and may cause permanent damage to the power inverter.
Run times
With a typical vehicle battery, a minimum operating time of
2 to 3 hours can be expected. In most instances, 5 to 10 hours
of operating time is achievable. However, the manufacturer
recommends that the operator start the vehicle every half
hour to recharge the battery system. This will guard against
any unexpected shut-down of the equipment and will ensure
that there is always sufficient battery capacity to start the
vehicle's engine.
The power inverter may be used whether or not the vehicle's
engine is running. However, the power inverter may not
operate while the engine is starting because the battery
voltage can drop substantially during cranking.
The power inverter draws less than 0.7 amperes from the
battery when it is not supplying power to a load and the On/
Off switch (3) is on (I). In most instances, the power inverter
can be left connected to the battery when not in use since it
draws very little current. However, if the vehicle is to remain
unused for several days, disconnect the power inverter from
the battery.
Rated versus actual power requirements of equipment
Most electrical tools, appliances and audio/video equipment
have labels that indicate the power consumption in amps or
watts. Be sure that the power consumption of the item you
wish to operate is rated at 400 watts or less.
The power inverter is fitted with overload protection and will
shutdown if a load in excess of 400 W is applied.
Resistive loads (i.e incandescent lights) are the easiest for
the power inverter to run.
Larger resistive loads, such as electric stoves or heaters,
usually require more wattage than the appliance can deliver
on a continuous basis.
Inductive loads, such as TV's and stereos, require more
current to operate than do resistive loads of the same
wattage rating. Induction motors, as well as some
televisions, may require 2 to 6 times their wattage rating to
start up.
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