Cobra Electronics CPI M400 Operating Limits Troubleshooting Guide, Operating Limits Power Output

Operating Limits

Troubleshooting Guide

Operation

Operating Limits

Power Output

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Operation

Troubleshooting Guide

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Problem/Symptom Possible Causes Solution

The inverter can deliver 400 watts for about 60 minutes. The inverter must cool for 15 minutes before it can resume operation at 400 watts. Note: The wattage rating applies to resistive loads.

The inverter will operate most AC loads within its power rating. Some induction motors used in freezers, pumps, and other motor-operated equipment require very high surge currents to start. The inverter may not be able to start some of these motors even though their rated current draw is within the inverter’s limits. The inverter will normally start single phase induction motors rated at 1⁄ 2 HP or less.

Input Voltage

The inverter will operate from input voltage ranging from 10 volts to 15 volts. Optimum performance will occur when the voltage is between 12 volts and 14 volts. If the voltage drops below 10.5V+/-0.3V, an audible low battery warning will sound. The inverter will shut down if the input voltage drops below 9.5V+/-0.3V. This protects the battery from being over-discharged. The inverter must be turned Off then back On to reset.

The inverter will also shut down if the input voltage exceeds 15.75V+/-0.75V. This protects the inverter against excessive input voltage. Although the inverter has protection against over-voltage, it may still be damaged if the input voltage was to exceed 16 volts.

Low output voltage	Overload	Reduce the load.
No output voltage	Low input voltage	Recharge battery. Check
		connections and cable.
No output voltage after	Thermal shutdown	Allow inverter to cool Off.
prolonged use		Reduce load, continuous operation
		input current required.
		Improve ventilation; Make sure ventilation
		openings in the inverter are not obstructed.
		Reduce ambient temperature.
No output voltage,	High input voltage	Make sure the inverter is connected
“Protect” indicator		to 12V battery.
lighted		Check regulation of charging system.
No output voltage	Short circuit	Check load for proper operation.
No power to inverter	Blown fuse	Replace fuse.
Low battery alarm	Poor DC wiring	Check connections.
on all the time	Poor battery condition	Make sure battery is fully charged.

16 English Nothing comes close to a Cobra® 17