10 Questions You Should to Know about Pure Sine Wave Inverter

Inverters are among the most vital components of a solar power system. They convert the direct current produced by solar panels and stored in the battery to AC power. A pure sine wave inverter will allow you to establish a dependable, high-quality power source anytime and anywhere.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website KINGSUN.

These handy gadgets take the DC electricity supplied by a battery or other DC source and transform it into the AC power required by your caravan, camper, RV, boat, or home. A pure sine wave inverter would be a good purchase.

This page will explain everything you need to know about the pure sine wave inverter in Australia, including what it is, who and when to use it, how it works, pure sine wave inverter vs. modified sine wave inverter, and the best solar generators with pure sine wave inverters. We recommend Jackery Portable Power Stations with high-quality pure sine wave inverters to ensure your appliances have seamless and consistent power.

Key Takeaways:

• Jackery Portable Power Stations combine pure sine wave inverters, MPPT charge controllers, and lithium-ion batteries to ensure smooth power current.

What Is A Pure Sine Wave Inverter?

An inverter that produces pure sine waves converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). It is accomplished by converting the DC input into a sine wave output, which is crucial for numerous applications, as a pure sine wave is required for accurate power conversion and to protect electronic equipment from injury.

Sensitive electronics, precision instruments, audio processing circuits, and oscillating devices require a stable and pure alternating current. Choosing a pure sine wave inverter guarantees that your machines operate at the optimal power levels for which they were intended and are protected from various types of power disturbances.

In addition, a clean AC source affects the accuracy of measuring instruments, the cleanliness of sound output, and the efficiency of power tools. It also extends the lifespan of sensitive circuits.

Why Are Pure Sine Wave Inverters Better?

Pure sine wave inverters generate an alternating current that resembles the actual thing–a steady, continuous sine wave with smooth, periodic oscillations. Here are the advantages of choosing pure wave inverters for your solar system.

• Power Grid Current

A pure sine wave inverter produces a wave that closely resembles the waveform of the mains electricity. Therefore, there is no significant difference between connecting your devices to these inverters and a wall outlet.

• Low Noise Level

Conventional inverters, lighting, and fans may emit an annoying humming sound, which is different when a pure wave inverter is utilized. The waves generated by these inverters produce very little noise. Pure wave inverters are cleaner, more relaxed, and silent.

• Low Risk to Appliances

A pure sine wave inverter prevents damage to your expensive equipment caused by voltage spikes and spikes in frequency. The last thing you want during a blackout is for your gaming computer or oxygen machine to malfunction.In addition, using modified sine wave inverters to power microwaves and refrigerators can generate excessive waste heat and place your devices at risk. Pure sine wave inverters, however, pose no threat to your devices.

• Consistent Current Flow

Pure sine wave inverters provide your devices with consistent, uninterrupted power. Why is this so excellent? Modified sine wave inverters produce energy in a step pattern, which abruptly increases and decreases the voltage, resulting in inconsistent current flow, which can be detrimental to your devices over time.

• Compatibility

Given the grid-like wave pattern and power output of these inverters, nearly all devices are compatible with these pure sine wave inverters, including large appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators, and laundry machines, as well as audio systems, medical devices, satellite systems, and battery systems. In addition, a pure wave inverter can adequately power your laptop, so you won't have to spend extra money on a separate UPS.

Who & When to Use Pure Sine Wave Inverter?

Consider the following queries to determine if you require a pure sine wave inverter:

• Does the device or appliance use a motor?

• Is the device a delicate piece of medical equipment?

• Can the device be powered by a DC adapter?

If you responded "yes" to either of those first two questions, you may benefit from using a pure sine wave inverter. Although pure sine wave inverters are typically the most costly choice, it is because they produce AC power that most closely resembles a sine wave or the power supplied by wall receptacles. Electronics with AC motors, such as refrigerators, compressors, and microwave ovens, are the primary devices that operate more efficiently with a pure sine wave inverter. They'll keep on working but less efficiently, which could lead to overheating and eventual failure.If you use a CPAP machine with a heated humidifier, consider purchasing a pure sine wave inverter to protect the device.

Noise Source

Degree

dB (decibels)

Firework

Painfully loud

140 dB

Jet Plane

Uncomfortable

120 dB

Car Horn

Very loud

110 dB

Lawnmower

Very loud

90 dB

Alarm Clock

Loud

80 dB

Vacuum Cleaner

Loud

70 dB

Conversation

Moderate

60 dB

Rainfall

Moderate

50 dB

Whisper

Soft

30 dB

How Does A Pure Sine Wave Inverter Work?

Inverters serve as the connection point between the PV system and the devices that extract power from the panels. In general, all solar inverters perform the same fundamental function. They convert the solar panel's direct current (DC) output to alternating (AC).Most household appliances use AC energy, so the DC energy produced by your panels must be converted to AC. In addition to converting DC to AC, solar inverters can modify voltage. How do solar panels and inverters interact? First, the solar panel absorbs and converts sunlight into energy. This information will then be transmitted to the solar charge controllers and inverters.

AC & DC Power

DC power is pretty straightforward. The current is unidirectional. The direction of the current flowing through solar panels will remain constant regardless of how the sun's strength changes throughout the day. If we plot current versus time, we obtain the following DC graph.AC power is unique. Not only does the current flow in both directions, but its intensity also varies swiftly. When current is plotted against time, the resulting curve creates a 'wave.' There are numerous distinct types of AC power waves. However, the wave used in homes and businesses is called a "sine wave." In the figure below, the AC curve is a sine wave.

Convert DC to AC Power

A pure sine wave inverter transforms a direct current (DC) signal into an alternating (AC) signal with the same sinusoidal properties. So, how does a power inverter convert a linear DC signal to an AC signal with ripples?In the switching stage, transistors slice up the pure DC signal. A DC signal is chopped to produce modified square waves by cycling the power on and off for a predetermined time.Before addressing the margins of a modified square wave, the inverter must increase the wave's voltages. Batteries and generators typically provide 12, 24, and 48 volts. It is insufficient for domestic appliances, so a step-up transfer boosts the source voltage to the 120 volts required in most Australian homes.Once the modified square wave has been amplified, the inverter uses various filters to level out its jagged edges to produce usable AC power.

Pure Sine Wave Inverter VS. Modified Sine Wave Inverter

Two types of power inverters convert DC to AC: pure sine wave inverters and modified sine wave inverters. Even though they are both inverters, there are significant distinctions between them that make them more suited to different uses.

• Sine Waves

The generated waveform is the fundamental difference between pure and modified sine wave inverters. A pure sine wave inverter generates a clean, sinusoidal current, just like what you'd get from the power company. In contrast, modified sine wave inverters create a waveform that is not as seamless as pure sine wave inverters.

• Efficiency

Two varieties of power inverters that convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) are modified and pure sine wave inverters. Even though both inverters serve the same function, they have significant differences - efficiency. Pure sine wave inverters have higher efficiency than modified ones, which makes them suitable for more applications.

• Compatibility

Inverters that produce pure sine waves are compatible with all electronic devices, including susceptible ones, such as medical equipment, home theatre systems, and computers. Consequently, a pure sine wave is optimal for energizing electronic devices. It precludes the possibility of damage or interference caused by modified sine wave inverters.

• Price

Inverters producing a pure sine wave are more expensive than those with a modified sine wave. They are more complicated and employ sophisticated circuitry to generate a clear, smooth waveform. Modified sine wave inverters are less expensive due to their simplicity and reduced component count.

• Noise Level

Modified sine wave inverters generate more commotion and heat than pure sine wave inverters. Because a pure sine wave is a uniform waveform, it does not generate as much electromagnetic interference as the stepped waveform produced by modified sine wave inverters. Unfortunately, the heat produced by modified sine wave inverters can cause damage to electronic devices and shorten their lifespan.

• Compatible with Solar Panel

Pure sine wave inverters are compatible with every type of solar panel and are the best option for solar-powered systems. In contrast, modified sine wave inverters may not function optimally with thin-film solar panels.

Pure Sine Wave Inverter

Modified Sine Wave Inverter

Current Quality

High

Low

Efficiency

High

Low

Compatibility

High

Moderate

Price

High

Low

Noise Level

Low

High

Solar Panel Compatible

High

Low

Jackery Portable Power Stations with Pure Sine Wave Inverters

Pure sine wave inverters deliver an electrical current of the same purity and dependability as your utility grid. Jackery Portable Power Stations combine pure sine wave inverters, MPPT charge controllers, and lithium-ion batteries to convert solar energy into electricity safely and consistently.Jackery Solar Panels uses monocrystalline solar cells to absorb more light. Solar panels will produce more electricity with a conversion efficiency of over 25% as sunlight increases. The pure sine wave inverter within a Portable Power Station can convert DC to AC for use with household appliances.

• Capacity: .8Wh (13A/638.4Ah)

• Inverter: Pure sine wave inverter

• Battery: LiFePO4 battery

• Cycle Life:  cycles to 70%+ capacity

• Dimension: 37.36x35.94x47.3cm

• Output Ports: 3*AC Output: 230V~ 50Hz, W Max, W surge peak; 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

The Jackery Solar Generator Plus allows adding extra battery packs, which boosts the capacity from 2 kWh to a remarkable 12 kWh, thus enhancing the solar charging capabilities significantly. With the ability to be expanded to W, this solar product offers a 30% higher rated power than other 2 kWh solar goods available in the market. 

Jackery Explorer Plus

The Explorer Plus is an industry's pioneering add-on battery pack that can be recharged using solar panels. This feature enhances versatility, improves charging efficiency, and reduces charging time. The LiFePO4 battery, with its sophisticated technology, guarantees a lifespan of 10 years, even with daily usage limited to once per day. Jackery solar panels generate more energy over their lifespan due to their exceptional solar conversion efficiency, reaching up to 25%.

• Capacity: 30.4Ah/41.6V DC (.64Wh)

• Inverter: Pure sine wave inverter

• Battery: LiFePO4 battery

• Cycle Life:  cycles to 70%+ capacity

• Dimension: 35.6x26x28.3cm

• Output Ports: 2*AC outputs (230V, 50Hz, 8.7A, W Rated /W Peak), 2*USB-A outputs (2*Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max), 2*USB-C outputs (100W Max, 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V up to 5A), 1*car port (12V⎓10A).  

The Jackery Explorer Plus portable power station, with a 10-year lifespan and a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, provides a consistent voltage and pure sine wave to ensure the safety of all your electrical gadgets. 

Jackery Explorer Plus

ChargeShield Technology: The innovative ChargeShield technology and consistent power delivery avoid equipment damage.Ultra-Fast Solar Charging: Advanced IBC Technology, Fast Solar Charge in 4.5 Hours with Solar Panel 100W*4.Intelligent Control: With the advanced APP feature, via WiFi or Bluetooth.

• Capacity: 632.3Wh (41.6V/15.2Ah)

• Inverter: Pure sine wave inverter

• Battery: LiFePO4 battery

• Cycle Life:  cycles to 70%+ capacity

• Dimension: 19.7x21.9x30cm

• Output Ports: 2*AC Output: 120V~ 60Hz, 6.67A; 1*USB-A: 18W Max, 5-6V⎓3A, 6-9V⎓2A, 9-12V⎓1.5A; USB-C1: 30W Max, 5V⎓3A, 9V⎓3A, 12V⎓2.5A, 15V⎓2A, 20V⎓1.5A; USB-C2: 100W Max, 5V⎓3A, 9V⎓3A, 12V⎓3A, 15V⎓3A, 20V⎓5A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus is the best portable power option. It can power many outdoor devices, from GPS devices to camping lights, with its 800W output and 632Wh capacity. The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus is your go-to power station for all your activities because it is strong, durable, and light. It makes charging fun things to do outside easy.

Jackery Explorer 600 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus can meet all of your outdoor entertainment needs. A lot of different outdoor entertainment gadgets can connect to it. Its dual PD fast charging can go up to 100W, so your devices will be charged quickly. The Explorer 600 Plus can give you long-lasting power, a backup in an emergency, or quiet charging that won't bother anyone. It's small and light (16.1 pounds/7.75 kg), making it convenient and easy to store. It's easy to take with you because the handle folds up. You can always get power to stay linked and charged on your hikes, no matter where they take you.    

• Capacity: 288Wh (12.8V/22.5Ah)

• Inverter: Pure sine wave inverter

• Battery: LiFePO4 battery

• Cycle Life:  cycles to 80%+ capacity

• Dimension: 16.7x15.5x23cm

• Output Ports: 1*AC Output: 230V, 50Hz, 300W Rated, 600W Surge Peak; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, 5V⎓3A (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station is a lightweight and efficient power supply designed to meet the power needs for various situations such as hiking, kayaking, picnicking, camping, road trips, and emergency power backup. 

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

This power station has a unique Battery Management System (BMS). It has 52 safety features and 12 BMS algorithms that work together to keep the device and any attached appliances as safe as possible. It also has four kinds of physical security to ensure everyone is safe.This model stands out because it has an intelligent app control feature that lets users quickly manage the battery through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This makes it more modern and convenient to use. It's also very light - only 8.27 pounds - so it's an excellent choice for people who are always on the go.

Series

Appliances

Working Time

Explorer Plus

Microwave: 700W

Kettle: 850W

Electric Drill: 900W

Portable AC: W

Cooker: W

Explorer Plus

Blender: 300W

Space Heater: 350W

Ice Maker: 700W

Coffee Maker: 550W

Toaster: 650W

Explorer 600 Plus

TV: 60W

Blender: 300W

Space Heater: 350W

Coffee Maker: 550W

Toaster: 650W

Explorer 300 Plus

Light: 5W

Camera: 8.4W

Speaker: 10W

CPAP: 28W

Electric Blanket: 55W

Light: 48H

Camera: 29H

Speaker: 24H

CPAP: 8.7H

Electric Blanket: 4.4H

Pure Sine Wave Inverter FAQs

These are the most frequently asked questions about the pure sine wave inverter:

Solar inverters are available in various capacities. Inverters are measured in volts, similar to solar panels. Because your solar inverter converts DC electricity from the boards, it must be able to manage the total amount of power your solar array generates.

As a general rule, the capacity of your inverter should be comparable to the solar system's DC rating. Therefore, if installing a system of watts, you should purchase an inverter of approximately W.

Jackery Portable Power Stations are solar-powered, portable energy generators with pure sine wave inverters. Before determining the magnitude of the power station (inverter) you require, you must evaluate your electricity consumption.

Depending on the consumer's requirements, Jackery Portable Power Stations have capacities ranging from 288Wh to .8Wh. The formula for calculating your device's operating time is as follows:

Working Time = Power Station Capacity*0.85 / Your Device's Operating Wattage

Are you interested in learning more about PWM Solar Charge Controller? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

For instance, charging a 700W blender using the Solar Generator Plus (.8Wh capacity) will take 2.5 hours (.8Wh*0.85/700W).

2. How do you choose the best pure sine wave inverter?

Consider your budget, device compatibility, inverter efficiency, and long-term use when searching for the ideal pure sine wave inverter for your needs.

The first consideration is compatibility; your inverter must be able to power your device - operating rotary motors such as electrical fans and power tools, heating elements such as toasters, and precision devices such as audio and medical equipment.

Please also consider the frequency of inverter usage. For continuous operation, an inverter must produce a pure sine wave.

One of the primary benefits of choosing a pure sine wave inverter is that its waveform is a sine wave with minimal harmonic distortion and clean power comparable to utility-supplied electricity. This form of clean energy is ideal for powering sensitive medical equipment and appliances, such as:

• High-capacity appliances

• Laser printers

• Inductive loads like motors

• TVs

• Medical equipment such as CPAP machines

• Audio-visual devices 

Final Thoughts

If you desire greater efficiency, compatibility, and durability from your home's electrical system, a pure wave inverter is an excellent choice. They provide efficient power to your devices and include a built-in charger that stores energy automatically when connected to external power. Additionally, it is suitable for mobile applications such as road trips, boat trips, etc.

This page will teach you everything you need to know about pure sine wave inverters, including what they are, how they work, pure sine wave inverters vs. modified sine wave inverters, and Jackery Portable Power Stations with high-quality pure sine wave inverters.

Power Inverter FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Power Inverters

• What does a power inverter do, and what can I use one for?
• Using an inverter for basic emergency home backup power
• What size inverter should I buy? (and Formula to convert Amps to Watts)
• Watts Used by Common Appliances and Tools (Usage Chart)
• Do I need a Modified Sine Wave Inverter, or a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?
• How do I hook up the Inverter? What size cable should I use, and is it included?
• What is an overcurrent protection device? Why do I need one?
• What type of battery should I use (automotive or deep cycle)?
• How long can I run the power inverter on my battery?
• How do I connect two or more batteries together?
• Using a Microwave Oven with a Power Inverter
• Using a Photographic Strobe with a Power Inverter
• Using a Laser Printer with a Power Inverter
• Television and Audio Suggestions
• Appliance Cautions
• Safety Precautions and Installation Tips (Please Read)
• If you don't find your answer here, Read our Power Inverter Blog ... More Info, Questions & Answers about Inverters

What does a power inverter do, and what can I use one for?

A power inverter changes DC power from a battery into conventional AC power that you can use to operate all kinds of devices ... electric lights, kitchen appliances, microwaves, power tools, TVs, radios, computers, to name just a few. You just connect the inverter to a battery, and plug your AC devices into the inverter ... and you've got portable power ... whenever and wherever you need it.

The inverter draws its power from a 12 Volt battery (preferably deep-cycle), or several batteries wired in parallel. The battery will need to be recharged as the power is drawn out of it by the inverter. The battery can be recharged by running the automobile motor, or a gas generator, solar panels, or wind. Or you can use a battery charger plugged into an AC outlet to recharge the battery.

Using an Inverter for Emergency Home Backup Power

A very simple way to use an inverter for emergency power (such as during a power outage), is to use a car battery (with the vehicle running), and an extension cord running into the house, where you can then plug in electrical appliances.

Click here to read an in-depth Article on Emergency Home Backup Power

What size inverter should I buy?

We carry many different sizes, and several brands of power inverters. See our Inverters Page for specifications on each of our models.

Short Answer: The size you choose depends on the watts (or amps) of what you want to run (find the power consumption by referring to the specification plate on the appliance or tool). We recommend you buy a larger model than you think you'll need (at least 10% to 20% more than your largest load).

Example: You want to power a computer with a 17" monitor, some lights, and a radio.

Computer: 300 Watts 2 - 60 Watt lights: 120 Watts Radio: 10 Watts Total Needed: 430 Watts

For this application, you would minimally need a 500 W inverter, and should give some thought to a larger one, as there will likely be a time when you wish you'd bought a bigger model ... in this example, you might decide you'd like to run a fan while you compute, or let the kids watch TV.

Longer Answer: Determine Continuous Load and Starting (Peak) Load: You need to determine how much power your tool or appliance (or combination of them that you would use at the same time) requires to start up (starting load), and also the continued running requirements (continuous load).

What is meant by the terms "continuous- watts" and "peak surge- watts" is that some appliances or tools, such as ones with a motor, require an initial surge of power to start up ("starting load" or "peak load"). Once started, the tool or appliance requires less power to continue to operate ("continuous load")

Helpful formulas:

To Convert AMPS to WATTS:

Multiply: AMPS X 120 (AC voltage) = WATTS
This formula yields a close approximation of the continuous load of the appliance

To Calculate approximate Startup Load:

Multiply: WATTS X 2 = Starting Load
This formula yields a close approximation of the starting load of the appliance, though some may require an even greater starting load. NOTE: Induction motors such as air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers and pumps may have a start up surge of 3 to 7 times the continuous rating.

Most often the start up load of the appliance or power tool determines whether an inverter has the capability to power it.

For example, you have a freezer with a continuous load of 4 amps, and a start up load of 12 amps:

4 amps x 120 volts = 480 watts continuous
12 amps x 120 volts = watts starting load

You would need an inverter with peak-surge rating greater than watts.

FORMULA to convert AC Watts to DC Amps:

AC Watts divided by 12 x 1.1 = DC Amps
(this is the size vehicle alternator you would need to keep up with a specific load; for example, to keep up with a continuous draw of watts, you would need a 91 amp alternator)

Click for a Chart of Estimated Watts Used by Common Appliances and Tools

Do I need Modified Sine Wave, or Pure Sine Wave?

Advantages of Pure Sine Wave inverters over modified sine wave inverters:

a) Output voltage wave form is pure sine wave with very low harmonic distortion and clean power like utility-supplied electricity.

b) Inductive loads like microwave ovens and motors run faster, quieter and cooler.

c) Reduces audible and electrical noise in fans, fluorescent lights, audio amplifiers, TV, Game consoles, Fax, and answering machines.

d) Prevents crashes in computers, weird print out, and glitches and noise in monitors.

e) Reliably powers the following devices that will normally not work with modified sine wave inverters:

• Laser printers, photocopiers, magneto-optical hard drives
• Certain laptop computers (you should check with your manufacturer)
• Some fluorescent lights with electronic ballasts
• Power tools employing "solid state" power or variable speed control
• Some battery chargers for cordless tools
• Some new furnaces and pellet stoves with microprocessor control
• Digital clocks with radios
• Sewing machines with speed/microprocessor control
• X-10 home automation system
• Medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators

We carry a full line of Pure Sine Wave and Modified Sine Wave Power Inverters here at DonRowe.com. Modified Sine Wave works well for most uses, and is the most common type of inverter on the market, as well as the most economical. Pure Sine Wave inverters (also called True Sine Wave) are more suited for sensitive electrical or electronic items such as laptop computers, stereos, laser printers, certain specialized applications such as medical equipment, a pellet stove with an internal computer, digital clocks, bread makers with multi-stage timers, and variable speed or rechargeable tools (see " Appliance Cautions" below). If you wish to use those items with an inverter, then choose a Pure Sine Wave inverter. If you mostly want to run lights, TV, microwave oven, tools, etc, a Modified Sine Wave inverter is fine for your needs.

We often are asked if computers will work with Modified Sine Wave. It's been our experience that most (with the exception of some laptops) will work (though some monitors will have interference such as lines or a hum). However, if you have any doubt about any appliance, tool or device, particularly laptop computers and medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, we recommend that you check with its manufacturer to be sure it is compatible with a Modified Sine Wave inverter. If it is not, choose one of our Pure Sine Inverters instead.

The difference between them is the Pure Sine Wave inverter produces a better and cleaner current. They are also considerably more expensive. You might find it practical to get a small Pure Sine Wave inverter for any "special need" you may have, and also a larger Modified Sine Wave inverter for the rest of your applications.

How do I hook up the Inverter? What size cable should I use, and is it included?

Many small inverters (450 watts and under) come with a cigarette lighter adapter, and may be plugged into your vehicle's lighter socket (although you will not be able to draw more than 150 to 200 watts from the cigarette lighter socket). The small units also come with cables that can be clamped directly to a battery. If you want an inverter that will plug into your cigarette lighter, you must choose one that is 450 watts or less.

Larger inverters (500 watts and over) must be hard-wired directly to a battery. The cable size depends on the distance between battery and inverter, and will be specified in the Owner's Manual.

When connecting the inverter to the battery always use an overcurrent protection device, such as a fuse or circuit breaker, and use the thickest wire available, in the shortest length practical.

See our Cables Page for recommendations for each of the inverters we sell.

General recommendations:

Inverter Size < 3 ft 3ft - 6ft 6ft - 10ft 400 Watts 8 6 4 750 Watts 6 4 2 Watts 4 2 1/0 Watts 2 1 3/0 Watts
1/0 2/0 250 Watts
1/0 3/0 350 Watts
3/0 4/0 500

NOTE: These are general recommendations for inverters that utilize a single cable set (one positive and one negative cable) only and may not be correct for all inverters or applications. Additionally, some inverters require two or more cable sets and therefore may require a different cable size than listed.

Cable size recommendations may vary among inverter brands and models; check the Owner's Manual for the model you purchase before you buy the wire for it.

The maximum length generally recommended is 10', and shorter is better. If you need more length, it is much better to put it on the AC side (as with an extension cord from inverter to appliance) than on the DC side.

Cables with battery terminals (ring terminals or stud terminals) to hook up your inverter are available here.

What is an overcurrent protection device? Why do I need one?

Batteries are capable of supplying large amounts of current, and thousands of amperes could be present if a short circuit were to occur. A short circuit can damage your system, cause a fire and be hazardous to your health. Incorporating an overcurrent device is an effective line of defense against a short circuit occurrence. An overcurrent protection device is typically a fuse or circuit breaker that goes inline on the positive cable, between the inverter and battery, to protect your system. A fast acting fuse or circuit breaker will blow within milliseconds under short circuit conditions, preventing any damage or hazards.

It is important to appropriately size your fuse or circuit breaker for both your inverter and cables. An oversized fuse could result in cables exceeding their ampere capability, resulting in the cables becoming red-hot and dangerous. Consult your owners manual for the recommended sized fuse or circuit breaker and cable gauge for a safe installation.

Fuses and circuit breakers to protect your inverter are available here.

What type of battery should I use (automotive or deep cycle)?

Small Inverters: Most automobile and marine batteries will provide an ample power supply for 30 to 60 minutes even when the engine is off. Actual time may vary depending on the age and condition of the battery, and the power demand being placed on it by the equipment being operated by the inverter. If you use the inverter while the engine is off, you should start the engine every hour and let it run for 10 minutes to recharge the battery.

500 Watt and larger Inverters: We recommend you use deep cycle (marine or RV) batteries which will give you several hundred complete charge/discharge cycles. If you use the normal vehicle starting batteries they will wear out after about a dozen charge/discharge cycles. If you do not have a deep cycle battery, we recommend that you run the engine of your vehicle when operating the power inverter.

When operating the inverter with a deep cycle battery, start the engine every 30 to 60 minutes and let it run for 10 minutes to recharge the battery.

When the inverter will be operating appliances with high continuous load ratings for extended periods, it is not advisable to power the inverter with the same battery used to power your car or truck. If the car or truck battery is utilized for an extended period, it is possible that the battery voltage may be drained to the point where the battery has insufficient reserve power to start the vehicle. In these cases, it's a good idea to have an extra deep cycle battery for the inverter (installed close to the inverter), cabled to the starting battery. It is recommended to install a battery isolator between the batteries.

How long can I run the inverter on my battery?

To estimate how long a battery/appliance combination will operate together, use this handy calculator. (Tip: If the calculator output equals 0 hours, the total Amp/Hrs of the battery bank are insufficient to run the load. Try adding additional Amp/Hrs to the battery bank field in order to run the desired wattage.)

You can also use these formulas to calculate how long your appliance will operate on your battery.

For a 12 Volt System:

(10 x (Battery Capacity in Amp Hours) / (Load Power in Watts)) / 2 = Run Time in Hours

For a 24 Volt System:

(20 x (Battery Capacity in Amp Hours) / (Load Power in Watts)) / 2 = Run Time in Hours

Tip: Deep cycle (marine) batteries generally have the highest reserve ratings. They are also capable of withstanding repeated drains of power and recharging.

Tip: Engine start batteries should not be discharged below 90% charged state, and marine deep cycle batteries should not be discharged below 50% charged state. Doing so will shorten the life of the battery based on most battery manufacturers recommendations.

Note: If you intend to use power tools for commercial use, or any load of 200W for more than 1 hour regularly (between battery recharging) we recommend installing an auxiliary battery to provide power to the inverter. This battery should be a deep cycle type and sized to meet your run time expectations with the engine off. The auxiliary battery should be connected to the alternator through an isolator module to prevent the inverter from discharging the engine start battery when the engine is off.

How do I connect two or more batteries?

It may be advisable to operate the inverter from a bank of 12 Volt batteries of the same type in a "parallel" configuration. Two such batteries will generate twice the amp/hours of a single battery; three batteries will generate three times the amp/hours, and so on. This will lengthen the time before your batteries will need to be recharged, giving you a longer time that you can run your appliances.

You can also connect 6 Volt batteries together in "series" configuration to double the voltage to 12 volts. Note that 6 Volt batteries must be connected in pairs.

Operating a Microwave with a Power Inverter

The power rating used with microwave ovens is the "cooking power" which refers to the power being "delivered" to the food being cooked. The actual operating power requirement rating is higher than the cooking power rating (for example, a microwave with "advertised" rating of 600 watts usually corresponds to almost watts of power consumption). The actual power consumption is usually stated on the back of the microwave. If the operating power requirement cannot be found on the back of the microwave, check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer.

Operating a Photographic Strobe with a Power Inverter

A photographic strobe or flash generally requires a pure sine wave inverter capable of surging to at least 4 times the Watt Sec rating of the strobe. For instance, a strobe rated at 300 watts requires an inverter capable of surging to watts or more.

For additional information, please read this Samlex Application Note.

Operating a Laser Printer with a Power Inverter

A laser printer generally requires a pure sine wave inverter capable of surging at least 6.5 times the maximum wattage rating of the printer. For instance, a laser printer rated at 500 watts requires an inverter with a surge rating of at least 3,250 watts.

An inkjet printer does not maintain the same requirements as a laser printer. Inkjet printers can be operated normally with a modified sine wave inverter rated to handle the printers wattage requirement.

For additional information, please see our Inverter Blog and this Samlex Application Note.

Television and Audio Suggestions

Although all our inverters are shielded and filtered to minimize signal interference, some interference with your television picture may be unavoidable, especially with weak signals.

Here are some suggestions that may improve reception:

1. First make sure that the television antenna produces a clear signal under normal operating conditions (i.e., at home plugged into a standard 110AC wall outlet). Also insure that the antenna cable is properly shielded and of good quality.

2. Change positions of the inverter, antenna cables and television power cord.

3. Isolate the television, its power cord and antenna cables from the 12 volt power source by running an extension cord from the inverter to the TV set. Insure that any excess AC power cord is a distance away from the TV set.

4. Coil the television power cord and the input cables running from the 12 volt power source to the inverter.

5. Attach a "Ferrite Data Line Filter" to the television power cord. More than one filter may be required. These are available at electronic supply stores including Radio Shack (Radio Shack Part No. 273-105)

NOTE: Some inexpensive audio systems may discharge a slight "buzzing" sound when operated with an inverter. This is caused by deficient filters in the audio system. The only solution to this problem is using a sound system with a higher quality power supply.

Appliance Cautions (for Modified Sine Wave Inverters):

DO NOT plug small appliances into the inverter AC receptacles to directly recharge their nickel-cadmium batteries. Always use the recharger provided with that appliance.

DO NOT plug in battery chargers for cordless power tools if the charger carries a warning that dangerous voltages are present at the battery terminals.

Not all fluorescent lamps operate properly with a modified sine wave inverter. If the bulb appears to be too bright, or fails to light, do not use the lamp with the inverter.

Some fans with synchronous motors may slightly increase in speed (RPM) when powered by a modified sine wave inverter. This is not harmful to the fan or to the inverter.

Certain rechargers for small nickel-cadmium batteries can be damaged if plugged into a modified sine wave inverter. In particular, two types of appliances are susceptible to damage:

• Small, battery-operated appliances such as flashlights, cordless razors and toothbrushes that can be plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge.
• Certain battery chargers for battery packs that are used in some cordless hand-tools. Chargers for these tools have a warning label stating that dangerous voltages are present at the battery terminals.

DO NOT use a modified sine wave inverter with the above two types of equipment.

The majority of portable appliances do not have this problem. Most portable appliances use separate transformers or chargers that plug into AC receptacles to supply a low-voltage DC or AC output to the appliance. If the appliance label states that the charger or adapter produces a low-voltage DC or AC output (30 volts or less), there should be no problem powering that charger or adapter.

Safety Warning: 110 Volts of current can be lethal. Improper use of a power inverter will result in property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Please read and follow carefully the instructions in the Owner's Manual provided with every inverter for important safety considerations and precautions.

General Safety Precautions and Installation Tips: