HOW THIS INVERTER WORKS
This inverter is an electronic device that converts low voltage DC (direct current) electricity from a battery to
115 volt AC (alternating current) household power. In designing this inverter, Black & Decker has incorporated
design techniques previously employed in computer power supplies. The result of these design innovations is a
smaller, lighter and easier-to-use power inverter.
The
200 Watt Power Inverter with USB Charging Port
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 volts DC. The second stage is
a MOSFET bridge stage that converts the high voltage DC into 115 volts, 60 Hz AC.
The DC-to-DC converter stage uses creative, high frequency, zero voltage switching power conversion
techniques that replace the bulky transformers found in less technologically advanced models.The inverter
stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors in a full bridge configuration.
Power Inverter Output Waveform
The AC output waveform of this inverter is known as a modified sine wave. It is a stepped waveform that has
characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. This type of waveform is suitable for most AC loads,
including linear and switching power supplies used in electronic equipment, transformers, and small motors.
The modified sine wave produced by this inverter has an RMS (root mean square) voltage of 115 volts. Most
AC voltmeters (both digital and analog) are sensitive to the average value of the waveform rather than the RMS
value. They are calibrated for RMS voltage under the assumption that the waveform measured will be a pure
sine wave. These meters will not correctly read the RMS voltage of a modified sine wave. Non-TRUE RMS
meters will read about 20 to 30 volts low when measuring the output of this inverter. For accurate measurement
of the output voltage of this unit, use a TRUE RMS reading voltmeter such as a Fluke 87, Fluke 8080A,
Beckman 4410 or Triplett 4200.
115 Volt AC Output
CAUTION – Rechargeable
Devices
• Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be charged by plugging them directly into an AC receptacle.
These devices may damage the inverter or the charging circuit.
• When using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for the initial ten minutes of use to determine if it
produces excessive heat.
• If excessive heat is produced, this indicates the device should not be used with this inverter.
• This problem does not occur with most battery-operated equipment. Most of these devices use a separate
charger or transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle.
• The inverter is capable of running most chargers and transformers.
MAXX SST
®
Soft Start Technology
®
Black & Decker’s Soft Start Technology gradually “ramps up” the inverters power to slowly start appliances that
require a surge to get started. This gradual ramp up protects the inverter and the appliance, as well as the
power source, from damage and failure.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The Power Inverter must be connected only to batteries with a nominal output voltage of 12 volts. The unit will
not operate from a 6 volt battery and will sustain permanent damage if connected to a 24 volt battery.
Always connect the
PI200AB
to the 12 volt DC power source before plugging any devices into the unit.
The standard North American 115 volt AC and USB outlets allow simultaneous operation of multiple devices.
Simply plug the equipment into the unit and operate normally.
Ensure that the wattage of all equipment
simultaneously plugged into the PI200AB does not exceed 200 watts continuous.
Connection to Power Source
The Power Inverter comes equipped with a DC Accessory Outlet Plug and Battery Clips for connection to a
power source.
Connecting to a Power Source Using the DC Accessory Outlet Plug
The DC Accessory Outlet Plug is suitable for operating the inverter at power outputs up to 100 watts. The tip of
the plug is positive (+) and the side contact is negative (–).
Connect the inverter to the power source by inserting the DC Accessory Outlet Plug firmly into the accessory
outlet of a vehicle or other DC power source.
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