The Wagan Tech® Pure Line 3000 is a pure sine wave DC to AC power inverter designed to convert 12-volt DC power from a battery source into 115-volt AC power. This inverter is particularly suited for powering sensitive electronics such as audio/video systems, computers, and communications equipment, ensuring they operate properly. Appliances with motors also benefit from pure sine wave AC, operating cooler, quieter, and more efficiently.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Pure Line 3000 is to provide continuous AC power from a DC source. It delivers a true AC sine wave output, which is identical to commercial utility power. This makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from powering household appliances in a vehicle to providing backup power for critical electronics. The inverter continuously delivers 3,000 watts of AC power at 115 volts, 60 Hz. Its superior surge capability of 6,000 watts allows it to start most difficult motorized appliances, which often require a higher initial power draw.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Output waveform: Pure sine wave
- Input: 12V DC
- Output: 115V AC
- TrueRated Power™: 3,000W (24-hour continuous)
- Peak surge: 6,000 watts
- Maximum efficiency: 90%
- Frequency: 60Hz
- Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 3%
- No load current draw: < 2.5A
- Battery low alarm: 10.5V ± 0.5V DC
- Battery low shutdown: 10.0V ± 0.5V DC
- Over voltage shutdown: 16.5V ± 0.5V DC
- Cooling fan: Thermally controlled
- AC output sockets: 3 North American standard
- USB power port: 2.1A, 5V
- Power output control: AC On/Off Switch
- Dimensions: 19.0 x 8.7 x 3.8 in.
- Net weight (approximate): 12.5 lb
- Included DC cable with ring connectors: 36 in., 2x 4 AWG
Usage Features:
The Pure Line 3000 incorporates several features to enhance its usability and safety.
- Advanced Microprocessor Control: Microprocessor-controlled circuits ensure cooler operation and increased reliability compared to other units.
- High Efficiency: Operating at up to 90% efficiency, the inverter provides longer run times and extended battery life.
- USB Power Port: A 2.1A USB power port (5V) is included for conveniently charging or powering USB devices such as tablets, e-readers, smartphones, and other mobile electronics.
- Ground Terminal: A separate ground terminal, typically found on higher capacity units, helps reduce noise when using radio frequency devices. This terminal can be connected to a vehicle chassis, a boat's grounding system, or an earth ground for fixed installations.
- Protective DC Terminal Covers: The DC terminals are designed with protective covers to minimize the risk of accidental short circuits during cable handling.
- Neutral to Ground Bonding: The inverter bonds neutral to ground, mirroring utility power, which is a requirement of the National Electric Code (NEC) for AC sources.
- Minimized Enclosure Vents: The enclosure vents are minimized to reduce the risk of pest intrusion, particularly in arid tropical climates.
- Front Panel Controls and Indicators:
- ON/OFF/Remote Switch: Controls the AC output of the inverter.
- Power LED (Green): Indicates normal operation.
- Ground Fault LED (Yellow): Lights up when the ground fault circuit is activated, requiring a shutdown and restart.
- Fault LED (Red): Illuminates when the inverter shuts down due to overheating, overload, undervoltage, or overvoltage. Users should turn off AC appliances, allow the inverter to cool, and ensure ventilation vents are not blocked.
- High Output AC Terminals: Three insulated terminals are provided for connecting 115V AC devices requiring more than 15 amps or for distributed wiring with multiple AC outlets. These terminals are labeled Neutral, Ground, and Live.
- Remote ON/OFF Switch Connection: Allows for an optional wired remote control (sold separately, Item #AA5603) to manage the inverter's power output.
- Audible Alarm: An internal audible alarm signals a low battery condition, prompting the user to reduce the AC load, charge the battery, and check DC cables for excessive losses.
Maintenance Features:
While the manual states that there are no user-serviceable parts inside the inverter and advises against opening it, several aspects of its design and recommended usage contribute to its longevity and ease of maintenance:
- Conformal Coating: Circuits are protected from dust and moisture by a conformal coating, enhancing durability.
- ETL Certification: The inverter is ETL certified (UL458, CSA 22.2), indicating compliance with recognized safety standards.
- Ground Fault Protection: Integrated ground fault protection enhances safety by detecting unintended current flow to ground.
- DC Terminal Protection: The design of the DC terminals with protective covers helps prevent accidental short circuits, which could damage the inverter or battery.
- Ventilation: The thermally controlled cooling fan and the requirement for free airflow around the inverter (especially when mounted horizontally) are crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring long-term performance. Users are advised to ensure ventilation vents are not blocked.
- Battery Bank Management: The manual provides detailed guidance on configuring the battery bank, including determining maximum appliance wattage, estimating operating time, calculating battery bank capacity in amp-hours, and understanding battery derating. Proper battery selection (deep-cycle, sealed lead-acid for indoor use) and fuse protection are emphasized to protect the inverter and batteries.
- Cable Management: Recommendations for DC cable gauge and length are provided to minimize cable losses and ensure efficient power delivery. The importance of secure, tight connections at all terminals is highlighted to prevent poor contact and excessive voltage drop.
- Troubleshooting Guide: A comprehensive troubleshooting section helps users diagnose and resolve common issues such as low or no output voltage, auto shutdown, and ground fault conditions, guiding them through steps like checking battery voltage, ensuring proper ventilation, reducing load, and inspecting wiring.
The Wagan Pure Line 3000 is designed for reliable service with minimal care, provided proper installation and usage guidelines are followed.