Schumacher Electric PID-760 - User Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
Power Inverter PID-760
Converts DC Battery Power to
AC Household Power
Includes Clamp Adapter with Cables
00-99-000668/0806
CAUTION:
Read all Safety Rules and Operating Instructions,
and follow them with each use of this product.
Schumacher Electric Corporation
Mount Prospect, IL 60056 U.S.A.
Send Warranty Product Repairs to:
Customer Service Returns
P.O. Box 280, 1025 E. Thompson
Hoopeston, IL 60942-0280
Questions? Call Customer Service: 1-800-621-5485

Summary

Important Safety Instructions

Before Using PID-760 Power Inverter

Operating Instructions

Connecting to a 12 V Battery

Step-by-step guide on how to connect the power inverter to a 12-volt battery for operation.

Power Source

Usage Examples

LED Display

Explanation of LED readouts and alarm codes for monitoring the inverter's status.

Troubleshooting

Alarm is On

Solutions for issues when the inverter's alarm is activated, detailing display codes.

Inverter Does Not Turn On

Troubleshooting steps for when the inverter fails to power on, including fuse and connection checks.

Specifications

Accessories and Replacement Parts

List of available accessories and replacement parts for the PID-760 power inverter.

Limited Warranty

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

This document is the owner's manual for the Schumacher Power Inverter PID-760. This device is designed to convert DC battery power into AC household power, allowing users to operate various electronic devices and small appliances from a 12-volt battery source, such as a car or marine battery. The PID-760 comes with a clamp adapter and cables for easy connection to a battery.

Function Description

The primary function of the Schumacher Power Inverter PID-760 is to provide AC power from a DC source. It is capable of supplying continuous power for devices drawing up to 760 watts. The inverter utilizes a modified sine wave output, which is suitable for a wide range of electronic devices, though users should verify compatibility with their specific equipment. The device is equipped to handle momentary power surges, which are often required by appliances with electric motors or compressors during startup.

The inverter features an LED display that provides real-time information about its operational status. This includes "VOLTAGE IN," which shows the voltage of the connected 12V battery or DC power source, "VOLTAGE OUT," indicating the AC voltage being supplied to the connected device, and "POWER OUT," which displays the wattage being drawn by the device.

In addition to its power conversion capabilities, the PID-760 incorporates several safety and diagnostic features. An audio alarm system, coupled with specific error codes on the LED display, alerts the user to potential issues such as low battery voltage, high battery voltage, overheating, continuous load exceeding the inverter's capacity, or short circuits/power surges. These alerts are crucial for protecting both the inverter and the connected devices, as well as ensuring user safety.

Usage Features

The PID-760 is designed for straightforward operation. Before use, it is essential to read and understand the safety instructions provided in the manual.

Connecting to a 12V Battery:

1. Ensure both the inverter and the devices to be powered are turned off.
2. Unscrew the plastic connector knobs (red for positive, black for negative) from the back of the inverter.
3. Attach the red (positive) battery cable clamp wire to the red threaded extension and tighten the connector knob. Repeat for the black (negative) wire.
4. Connect the red (positive) battery clamp to the positive (+) battery terminal, taking precautions against battery acid.
5. Connect the black battery clamp to the negative (-) ground on the battery.
6. Plug the device(s) into the inverter's AC outlet. If multiple devices are used, their combined wattage must not exceed 760 watts.
7. Turn the inverter ON by pressing and holding the button marked "PRESS AND HOLD FOR ON / OFF." The "POWER OUT" LED will illuminate, and the display will show "0."
8. Turn the connected device ON. The display will then show the total wattage being used. The display can be changed by pressing the "PRESS TO CHANGE DISPLAY" button.
9. To disconnect, reverse the steps.

The inverter is designed to operate within an ideal air temperature range of 50° to 80°F. Proper ventilation is critical to prevent overheating, so users should ensure several inches of clearance around the inverter and avoid blocking its slots. It should also be kept dry and away from flammable fumes, gases, or clothing.

The manual provides examples of common devices and their estimated wattages, such as cell phones (10 watts), portable CDs (50 watts), laptop computers (90 watts), video games (100 watts), TVs (300 watts), power tools (375 watts), and small appliances (525 watts). This helps users estimate the load they will place on the inverter.

Maintenance Features

The PID-760 incorporates several features to aid in maintenance and troubleshooting, primarily through its LED display and audio alarm system.

Troubleshooting Alarms:

• 5C (Short circuit or excessive surge power): If this code appears, cycle the inverter power OFF and ON. If the problem persists, the device may be defective or require more surge power than the inverter can provide. Users are advised to try a larger inverter or a smaller device, or remove the defective device.
• Lo b (12 Volt battery too low): This indicates the battery voltage is less than 10.5 volts. The solution is to recharge or replace the low battery.
• Voltage In between 10.5 and 11.0 Volts: This is another indication of a low 12 Volt battery. The inverter will automatically shut off if the battery voltage drops to 10.5 volts. Recharge or replace the battery.
• Hi b (12 Volt voltage too high): This means the battery voltage exceeds 15.5 volts. If in a vehicle, the alternator or charging system may need repair or replacement. The inverter will automatically restart once the input voltage returns to 15 volts or less.
• Hi P (Continuous load exceeds 760 watts): Cycle the inverter power OFF and ON. If the issue persists, a larger inverter or a smaller device may be needed.
• Hot (Inverter is too hot): The inverter has overheated and will automatically shut off for 1-3 minutes to cool down. Users should increase ventilation, move the inverter to a cooler area, or reduce the power consumption of the connected device. The inverter will automatically reset after cooling.
• bAd (Inverter is not functional): This indicates a serious internal issue. Users should contact customer service for warranty and repair information.

To stop an alarm, users can press the ON/OFF LED Selector button.

Power Source Management: The manual advises that an average automobile or marine battery can provide power for approximately 3 hours with the engine off. To maintain battery power, it is recommended to run the engine every 2 to 3 hours for about 10 minutes to recharge the battery. Although the PID-760 draws very low amperage when not in use, it should be unplugged to prevent battery drain over extended periods.

Fuse Replacement: If the inverter does not turn on, one possible cause is a blown fuse, often due to reverse polarity or an internal short circuit. Fuse replacement requires a qualified service technician to diagnose the issue and install appropriate replacement fuses.

The manual also includes a limited warranty, covering defects in material and workmanship for two years from the date of sale. For warranty service, customers are instructed to return the inverter with proof of purchase to the Schumacher Electric Corporation's Warranty Service Department. This ensures that any manufacturing defects are addressed, providing long-term reliability for the product.

Schumacher Electric PID-760 Specifications