© 2012 Power-Tronics, Inc.
3
Introduction and Functional Description
Caution:
Read This Installation
Manual Carefully and Entirely!
Warning:
Do not use digital equipment to read voltage, Hz, or amperage
during this installation. Use only Analog sensing equipment! Failure to do so
may result in damage to equipment or in personal injury!
ALWAYS
perform all setup procedures off-line
ALWAYS
wear eye protection
ALWAYS
strip wire insulation properly or use insulated connectors
ALWAYS
use analog metering equipment when setting up the regulator
ALWAYS
ensure the AFM500X receives ample airflow
NEVER
hold the AFM500X in your hand when energized
NEVER
install the AFM500X in a place it can get wet or is exposed to the elements
NEVER
mount the AFM500X over a screw, bolt, rivet, welding seam, or other fastener
NEVER
remove the AFM500X backing while the unit is in operation
NEVER
insert a screwdriver or other object under the AFM500X
NEVER
install a switch in the DC portion of the regulator’s wiring
NEVER
touch any exposed part of the AFM500X while in operation
NEVER USE A DIGITAL FREQUENCY METER
(It
can give a false reading
!)
Functional Description
The AFM500X Automatic Flashing Module is a proven design based on industry-standard flashing
procedures and safety policies. The AFM500X provides a very compact automatic flashing or battery
flashing source to any Power-Tronics voltage regulating system quickly, easily, and safely.
When the generator is first energized, the voltage regulator typically begins it's buildup mode where it
brings the generator up to a given point before it goes into it's regulation mode. Sometimes, however, the
generator may have extremely low residual AC voltage or just have a hard time building up. In these
situations, the voltage regulator has a difficult time building up the voltage to a point it can regulate. The
solution in most situations like this is to flash the generator.
The AFM500X provides two modes of flashing: Automatic and Battery. Automatic flashing is often used
on generators with sliprings and brushes and for generators with very low residual AC voltage (typically
less than 3VAC). Battery flashing is more often used on generators with no, or extremely low residual AC
voltage (typically less than 1.5-2VAC) or in installations where a guaranteed buildup is required, such as
hospitals, nursing homes, or correctional facilities.
The AFM500X Automatic Flashing Module is based on time-proven flashing methods and features an
extremely robust and reliable design. Both voltage inputs and battery inputs are fused to protect both the
AFM500X and any connected equipment in the unlikely even of a fault. Because of it's simplicity and
open design, the AFM500X is quickly and easily repaired should the need ever arise.
