Xantrex XPower 3000, Owner'S Manual

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Battery Types
B–2 975-0128-01-01
A battery isolator is a solid-state electronic circuit that allows equipment
to be operated from an auxiliary battery without danger of discharging the
vehicle’s starting battery. During vehicle operation, the battery isolator
automatically directs the charge from the alternator to the battery
requiring the charge. Figure 3-1, “Configuration for Normal Loads” on
page 3–2 and Figure 3-2, “Configuration for Heavy Loads” on page 3–2
show a battery isolator in configurations for normal and heavy-duty loads.
Battery isolators are available at marine and RV dealers and most auto
parts stores.
Battery Size
Battery size or capacity is as important as the battery type for efficient
operation of your loads. Xantrex recommends that you purchase as much
battery capacity as possible.
A number of different standards are used to rate battery energy storage
capacity. Automotive and marine starting batteries are normally rated in
cranking amps. This is not a relevant rating for continuous loads like an
inverter. Deep-cycle batteries use a more suitable rating system, either
“amp-hours” (“Ah”) or “reserve capacity” in minutes.
Battery Reserve
Capacity Battery reserve capacity is a measure of how long a battery can deliver a
certain amount of current—usually 25 amps. For example, a battery with
a reserve capacity of 180 minutes can deliver 25 amps for 180 minutes
before it is completely discharged.
Amp-hour (Ah)
Capacity Amp-hour capacity is a measure of how many amps a battery can deliver
for a specified length of time—usually 20 hours. For example, a typical
marine or RV battery rated for 100 Ah can deliver 5 amps for 20 hours (5
A x 20 hours = 100 Ah).
CAUTION
The XPower 3000 must only be connected to batteries with a nominal output
voltage of 12 volts. The XPower 3000 will not operate from a 6 volt battery and
will be damaged if connected to a 24 volt battery.
XPower3000.book Page 2 Wednesday, December 10, 2003 6:52 AM