Cobra Electronics CPI 480 Quick Evaluation Before Installation, Cobra 400Watt OutputWaveform

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Important Safety Information

Introduction

WARNINGPower inverters contain components that can produce arcs or sparks. To prevent fire or explosion, do not install the inverter in areas or compartments containing batteries or flammable materials or in locations that require ignition- protected equipment.

WARNINGTo reduce the risk of fire, do not cover or obstruct the ventilation openings. Do not install inverter in zero-clearance compartment.

Warning:Wash Hands After HandlingPowerCord

The power cord on this product contains lead, a chemical known in the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Caution:RechargeableAppliances

Certain chargers for small nickel cadmium batteries can be damaged if connected to the Cobra 400 watt inverter. Two particular types of equipment are prone to this problem:

Quick Evaluation

Before Installation

Introduction

Cobra 400Watt OutputWaveform

Some very sensitive electronic equipment may not operate satisfactory on “square wave” or “modified sine wave.” The output waveform is referred to as “square wave” or “modified sine wave.” It is a stepped waveform designed to have characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. A waveform of this nature is suitable for most AC loads (including linear and switching power suppliers used in electronic equipment, transformers and motors).

Quick EvaluationBefore Installation

This sectionprovidesyou with basic informationabout the inverterand how to check its performancebefore installation.

Be sure to have on hand:

￿A 12 volt DC power source(such as a vehiclebattery).

Power Supply

The power sourcemust provide

 

between11 and 15 volts DC and

 

be able to supply enough currentto

 

run the test load. As a rough guide,

Plug In Directly

DangerousVoltages

1.Small battery-operatedappliances such as flashlights,razors,and

night lights that can be plugged directlyinto an AC receptacleto recharge.

2.Certain battery chargers for battery packs used in hand power tools. These chargers have a WARNING label stating that dangerousvoltagesare present at the battery terminals.

divide the wattageof the test load by

10 to get the current(in amperes)

the power sourcemust deliver.

￿ The provided two foot cigarette lighter cable and

two foot direct-to-battery 12 gauge cable.

Only use the cables provided with your inverter.

The cigarette lighter cable is suitable for operating the inverter at loads up to 150 watts. Connect by securely inserting the plug into the cigarette lighter socket.

Cig. Lighter Cable

12 Gauge Cable

This problem does not occur with the vast majority of battery operated equipment. Most use a separate charger or transformer that is plugged into the AC receptacle and produces a low voltage output. If the label on the AC adapter or charger states that it produces a low voltage AC or DC output (less than 30 volts), the inverter will have no problem powering the adapter safely.

CAUTION Do not use the cigarette lighter cable for loads higher than 150 watts. When connecting loads larger than 150 watts, please connect the inverter directly to the battery.

 

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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 3

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Contents Cobra line of quality products includes Our Thanks to YouAutomatedHelp Desk English only TechnicalAssistanceEnglish onlyContents Product FeaturesMaintenance Product Service ImportantSafety Information Important Safety InformationGeneralPrecautions Quick Evaluation Before Installation Quick EvaluationBefore InstallationCobra 400Watt OutputWaveform Be sure to have on handInstallation Requirements InstallationRequirementsDry CoolMounting Connecting Cables ConnectingCablesMounting To mount your inverterConnect cable to the power source Power Consumption Power ConsumptionPower and Protection Indicators Operating Limits Troubleshooting Guide SpecificationsTroubleshootingGuide SolutionWarranty and Trademark Acknowledgement LimitedTwo-YearWarranty For ProductsPurchasedin the U.S.AFor ProductsPurchasedOutsidethe U.S.A TrademarkAcknowledgement