Cobra CPI 200 CH - User Manual

The Cobra CPI 200 CH is a 200 Watt Power Inverter designed to convert low-voltage DC power from a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket into standard 110-volt AC power, similar to household electricity. This allows users to operate various household appliances and electronic products in automobiles, RVs, boats, tractors, trucks, and other locations where a 12-volt DC power source is available. The inverter's output waveform is described as a "square wave" or "modified sine wave," which is a stepped waveform suitable for most AC loads, including linear and switching power supplies, transformers, and motors.

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the CPI 200 CH, it is crucial to read and follow all instructions carefully, paying special attention to CAUTION and WARNING statements provided in the manual. CAUTION statements highlight conditions that could lead to damage to the unit or other equipment, while WARNING statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

Before using the CPI 200 CH, a quick checkout procedure is recommended. This involves having a 12-volt DC power source, such as a vehicle battery, and a small appliance (like a lamp) to use as a test load. To connect the inverter, first ensure the DC power supply is switched off if applicable. Then, insert the cigarette lighter plug into your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. Press and release the power button to turn on the inverter. Once powered, you can connect your appliance to the AC outlet or the USB port. It is critical to avoid connecting the inverter to a power source if flammable fumes are present, as this could lead to an explosion or fire.

The CPI 200 CH offers several key operating features. It provides a USB 5V output for charging compatible devices and an AC receptacle for standard electrical plugs. It also includes a low battery shutdown feature to protect your vehicle's battery from over-discharge. Additionally, the unit has automatic thermal protection/shutdown to prevent damage from overheating.

For proper operation, the inverter should be used in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated location. It must not be exposed to dripping or splashing water. The ambient air temperature should ideally be between 30°F (0°C) and 105°F (40°C), with cooler temperatures being preferable. Adequate ventilation is essential; allow at least 1 inch (3 cm) of clearance around the unit for proper airflow, and ensure that ventilation openings on the ends of the unit are not obstructed. Covering or obstructing these openings can lead to fire.

The inverter is designed to be connected only to batteries with a nominal output voltage of 12 volts. Connecting it to a 6-volt battery will prevent it from working, and connecting it to a 16-volt or greater battery will damage the unit.

The CPI 200 CH features a Power On Indicator and a Power/Fault Indicator. The "fault" indicator illuminates when the unit detects excessively high or low input voltage or begins to overheat. This serves as a crucial warning to address potential issues. A CAUTION NOTE reminds users to always unplug the inverter from the power source before leaving their vehicle.

The inverter operates from an input voltage ranging from 10 to 15 volts, with optimum performance achieved when the voltage is between 12 and 14 volts. It will automatically shut down if the input voltage drops below 10.0 ± 0.3 volts to prevent battery over-discharge, restarting when the input voltage exceeds 12.0 ± 0.3 volts. Similarly, it will shut down if the input voltage increases to 15.5 ± 0.5 volts to protect the unit from damage due to excessive input voltage, although damage may still occur if the input voltage exceeds 16 volts. The unit also has an automatic thermal shutdown feature that activates if it overheats due to excessive input voltage, poor circulation, or high ambient temperature.

When considering rechargeable appliances, it's important to note that certain rechargers for small nickel-cadmium batteries can be damaged if connected to the CPI 200 CH. This primarily applies to small battery-operated appliances that plug directly into an AC receptacle for recharging (e.g., flashlights, razors, night lights) and some battery chargers for hand power tools with a WARNING label indicating dangerous voltages at the battery terminals. However, most battery-operated tools that use a separate charger or transformer producing a low voltage AC or DC output (less than 30 volts) can be safely powered by the CPI 200 CH.

Troubleshooting guidance is provided for common issues. If there's low output voltage, the solution is to reduce the load. For no output voltage, check for low input voltage, recharge the battery, and inspect connections and cables. If there's no output voltage and the "fault" indicator is lit, it suggests high input voltage; ensure the inverter is connected to a 12-volt battery and check the charging system's regulation. If there's no output voltage when the load exceeds 200 watts or 1.3 amperes, it indicates thermal shutdown; allow the inverter to cool down, improve ventilation by ensuring openings are unobstructed, and lower the ambient temperature.

For power consumption calculations, determine the battery's capacity by calculating the total watt-hours of energy consumption (power multiplied by operating time), then divide the watt-hours by 10 to find out how many 12-volt ampere-hours will be consumed. For example, an automotive battery with a reserve capacity of 180 minutes can deliver 25 amperes for 180 minutes before being completely discharged.

Maintaining your CPI 200 CH requires minimal effort. The exterior of the unit should be cleaned periodically with a damp cloth to prevent dust and dirt accumulation. It's also important to keep the vents and fans free from dust or debris to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.

Cobra offers comprehensive customer assistance. An Automated Help Desk is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 773-889-3087. Customer Service Operators are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time, at the same number. Questions can also be faxed to 773-622-2269. Automated Technical Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, via e-mail at productinfo@cobra.com. Additionally, online answers to frequently asked questions can be found at www.cobra.com.

If the unit requires service, it is advised to call 773-889-3087 BEFORE shipping it to Cobra to ensure prompt service. If asked to send the unit, include the complete unit, proof of purchase (photocopy or carbon copy of a sales receipt), and a typed or clearly written description of the problem, along with your name and address. Pack the unit securely, preferably using original packing materials, and ship it prepaid and insured via a traceable carrier to Cobra Factory Service, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 USA. Allow 3-4 weeks for service. Units under warranty will be repaired or replaced; out-of-warranty units will incur repair or replacement charges.

The Cobra CPI 200 CH is designed to be a reliable power solution for various mobile applications, backed by extensive customer support and clear operational guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.