©
2010 Magnum Energy, Inc
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Introduction
1.2 How an Inverter/Charger Works
An inverter takes direct current (DC) from your batteries and turns it into alternating current (AC).
It also takes alternating current (when connected to a generator or to utility power) and transforms
it into direct current to charge your batteries. These two modes of operation associated with this
inverter/charger are referred to in this document as:
Inverter Mode
:
When the inverter is properly connected to batteries and turned on, the direct current
(DC) from the batteries is transformed into a modi
fi
ed sine wave alternating current (AC).
This AC is similar to the voltage provided by a utility for your home, and is used to power
the AC electrical appliances (i.e., AC loads) connected to the inverter’s output.
Standby Mode
:
When an external source of AC power (e.g., utility power or generator) is connected and
quali
fi
ed on the inverter’s AC input, it operates in the Standby Mode. In the Standby Mode,
the unit operates as a Battery Charger to convert the incoming AC power into DC power to
recharge the batteries; and at the same time, automatically closes an internal AC Transfer
Relay to pass the incoming AC power directly to the inverter’s output to continue powering
the connected electrical appliances.
1.3 What Appliances will run from a Modifi ed Sine Wave Inverter
Today’s inverters come in two basic output waveforms: modi
fi
ed sine wave (which is actually a
modi
fi
ed square wave) and pure sine wave. Modi
fi
ed sine wave inverters approximate a pure sine
waveform and will run most appliances and electronics without any problems. These inverters are
less expensive, and therefore, offer a viable alternative to more expensive pure sine inverters.
The output of a modi
fi
ed sine wave inverter will run most electronic and household items, including
but not limited to: TV, VCR, satellite dish receiver, computers, and printers. Some devices such as
rechargeable power supplies for phones, drills, and other like items may not run, and could even
be at risk for damage from modi
fi
ed sine wave inverters.
1.4 Appliances and Run Time
The RD Series inverter/charger can power a wide range of household appliances including small
motors, hair dryers, clocks, and other electrical devices. As with any appliance using batteries
for power, there is a certain length of time that it can run – this is called “run time.” Actual run
time depends on several variables, including: the size and type of appliance, the type of batteries
installed in your application, as well as the battery’s capacity and age. Other factors such as
the battery’s state of charge and temperature can also affect the length of time your appliances
can run.
Appliances such as TVs, VCRs, stereos, computers, and lights can all be successfully powered
by your inverter. Depending on your inverter capacity, electrical appliances that use larger loads
such as coffee pots and hair dryers can be used for short durations. However, loads that are
used for longer periods (stoves, water heaters, etc.) can quickly drain your batteries and are not
recommended for inverter applications.
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