Operating Limits

Troubleshooting Guide

Operation

Operating Limits

Power Output

Operation

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem/Symptom

Possible Causes

Solution

The inverter can deliver 800 watts for about 60 minutes. The inverter must cool for 15 minutes before it can resume operation at 800 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 12 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.

16 English

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 output voltage

Inverter switched Off

Turn inverter On.

 

No power to inverter

Check wiring to inverter.

 

 

 

 

Reverse DC polarity

Observe correct polarity.

 

 

 

Low battery alarm

Poor DC wiring

Check connections.

on all the time

Poor battery condition

Make sure battery is fully charged.

 

Nothing comes close to a Cobra® 17

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Cobra Electronics CPI M800 Operating Limits Troubleshooting Guide, Operating Limits Power Output, Input Voltage