4
OPERATION
The Power Inverter converts 12-volt DC (direct current) input voltage to 120-volt, 60 Hz AC
(alternating current) power.
The Inverter produces a “modifi ed sine wave.” The modifi ed sine wave is suitable for most AC
powered appliances and personal electronic devices.
The following devices may not work with a modifi ed sine wave:
Photocopiers, laser printers, magneto-optical hard drives•
Some laptops•
Metal halide arc (MHI) lights •
Some fl uorescent lights with electronic ballasts•
Power tools that use solid-state power•
Fans and power tools that use variable speed controls•
Some new furnaces and pellet stoves with microprocessor control•
Digital radios and clocks•
Sewing machines with speed/microprocessor control•
Electronics that modulate radio frequency signals on the AC line •
X-10 home automation systems•
Oxygen concentrators and other medical equipment•
Most battery chargers can be connected to the AC receptacle. Battery chargers that use separate
transformers or chargers that plug into the AC receptacle to supply a low-voltage DC-to-AC output
should work. However, battery chargers for small nickel-cadmium batteries can be damaged if
plugged into the Inverter. The following appliances or devices could be damaged if plugged into the
Power Inverter:
Small battery operated appliances that can be plugged directly into the AC receptacle such as •
fl ashlights, cordless razors and toothbrushes
Certain battery chargers for cordless tool battery packs. These chargers can be identifi ed by a •
warning label stating dangerous voltages are present at the battery terminals.
Monitor the temperature of the battery charger for about 10 minutes. If the battery
charger becomes abnormally warm, disconnect it from the Power Inverter immediately.
If you are unsure about powering any appliance or device with the Inverter, contact the manufacturer
or consult the owner’s manual of the device.
Power Source
The Power Inverter can be connected to a 12-volt battery or a regulated 12-volt DC power source.
The power source must provide between 11 and 14.5 volts DC and must be able to provide suffi cient
current (in amperes) to operate the device.
Do not exceed the maximum input voltage of 15 volts DC. The Inverter could be
damaged.
The Power Inverter is for 12-volt battery systems only. A 6-volt battery system will
not provide adequate input voltage and a 24-volt battery system will damage the Inverter.
Positioning of Power Inverter
Position the Power Inverter on a reasonably fl at surface, either horizontally or vertically. DO NOT
place on or under the vehicle seats. Allow at least one inch (25 mm) of clearance around the Inverter
to allow for airfl ow. Always use the Inverter where there is adequate ventilation. Do not block
ventilation slots or the cooling fan. If desired, the Power Inverter can be solidly mounted to a base
using the mounting brackets.
FIRE HAZARDS
• Do not place the Inverter near fl ammable materials or in any location that may accumulate
fl ammable fumes or gases such as the battery compartment of your vehicle.
Do not expose the Inverter to extreme heat or fl ames. The surrounding air temperature •
should be between 50° and 86°F (10° and 30°C). Do not place the Inverter on or near a
heating vent or any equipment which is generating heat above room temperature. Do not
place the Inverter in direct sunlight.
Do not place items on the Power Inverter. The Inverter may overheat. •
ELECTROCUTION HAZARD
Do not operate the Inverter if it is wet. Do not allow water, moisture or other liquids to come in
contact with the Inverter, the device being operated or the power source.