5
This problem does not occur with the majority of battery-operated
equipment. Most of these devices use a separate charger or
transformer that is plugged into an AC outlet. This inverter is easily
capable of operating most chargers and transformers.
Placement of the Inverter
For best operating results, the inverter should be placed on a flat surface, such as the
ground, car floor or seat, or other solid surface. A power cord has been provided for
easy positioning of the inverter. The inverter should only be used in locations that meet
the following criteria:
DRY – Do not allow water and/or other liquids to come into contact with the inverter.
COOL – Ambient air temperature should be between 30˚F (–1˚C) non-condensing
and 105˚F (40˚C). Do not place the inverter on or near a heating vent or any piece
of equipment that is generating heat above room temperature. Keep the inverter
away from direct sunlight, if at all possible.
VENTILATED – Keep the area surrounding the inverter clear to ensure free air
circulation around the unit. Do not place items on or over the inverter during
operation. A fan is helpful if the inverter is operating at maximum power outputs for
extended periods of time. The unit will restart after it cools.
SAFE – Do not use the inverter near flammable materials or in any locations that may
accumulate flammable fumes or gases.
Operating Tips
Rated Versus Actual Current Draw of Equipment
Most electrical tools, appliances and audio/video equipment have labels that
indicate the power consumption in amps or watts. Be sure the power consumption of
the item you wish to operate is rated at 500 watts or less. (If the power consumption
is rated in amps AC, multiply by the AC volts (110) to determine the wattage).
The inverter has overload protection, so it is safe to try to operate equipment rated at
500 watts or less. The inverter will shut down if it is overloaded.
Resistive loads are the easiest for the inverter to operate. However, large resistive
loads, such as electric stoves or heaters usually require more wattage than this inverter
can deliver on a continuous basis. Inductive loads, such as TVs 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 two to six times their
wattage rating to start up. The most demanding in this category are those that start
under load, such as compressors and pumps.
Testing is the only definitive way to determine whether a specific load can be started
and how long it can run.
CAUTION
This inverter will not operate high wattage appliances or equipment
that produces heat, such as hair dryers, microwave ovens, or toasters.
4
Direct Hardwiring to Power Source
Use #10 AWG wire if the inverter to power source connection is 10 feet or less. for
longer cable lengths use #8 AWG wire. In either case, protect the positive (+) wire
from shorts by installing a 50 amp fuse or circuit breaker close to the DC power
source (battery) terminal.
1. Check to be sure the inverter’s power switch is turned OFF and that no flammable
fumes are present.
2. Identify the POSITIVE (+) and NEGATIVE (–) DC power source (battery) terminals.
3. Install a fuse holder or breaker close to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the DC source
(battery).
4. Connect a length of wire on one side of the fuse holder or circuit breaker.
Connect the other end of the wire to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the inverter.
5. Connect a length of wire between the inverter’s NEGATIVE (–) terminal and the
DC power source NEGATIVE (–-) terminal.
6. Connect a short length of wire to the other terminal of the fuse holder or circuit
breaker. Mark it “POSITIVE” or “+”.
7. Connect the free end of the fuse or breaker wire to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of
the DC power source (battery).
8. Insert a fuse appropriate to the inverter in the fuse holder.
9. Test the inverter by turning it on and plugging in a 100 watt lamp or equipment.
10. If the inverter is not properly operating, then refer to the Troubleshooting section
of this manual.
CAUTIONS
• Loose connectors may cause overheated wires and melted
insulation.
• Check to make sure you have not reversed the polarity. Damage due
to reversed polarity is not covered by our warranty.
Connection To Load
The Power Inverter is equipped with dual standard North American three-prong type
outlets. Plug the cord from the equipment you wish to operate into the AC outlet(s).
Make sure the combined load requirement of your equipment does not exceed 500
watts.
The Power Inverter is engineered to be connected directly to standard electrical and
electronic equipment in the manner described above. Do not connect the Power
Inverter to household or RV AC distribution wiring. Do not connect the Power Inverter
to any AC load circuit in which the neutral conductor is connected to ground (earth)
or to the NEGATIVE of the DC (battery) source.
WARNING
Do not connect to AC distribution wiring!
CAUTION
Rechargeable Appliances – Certain Rechargeable devices are designed
to be recharged by plugging them directly into an AC outlet. These
devices may damage the inverter. Do not use the inverter to recharge
items that can be plugged directly into an AC outlet.
PI500CP_ManualEN_010807 1/8/07 4:48 PM Page 4
