Outback Power Systems Automatic Generator Start manual Starting Requirements

AUTOMATIC GENERATOR START

The combination of generator and inverter is common in remote or off-grid sites. Since OutBack inverters can recharge batteries with a generator, the inverter can automatically start the generator and do it for you.

Starting Requirements

This feature requires a generator with electric start and automatic choke. Additionally, you need to determine if your generator controls are classified as “two-wire-start” or “three-wire-start.”

A two-wire-start generator has a simple on-off switch. If the switch is on, the generator runs. If the switch is off, it stops. All cranking, timing and other functions are automated within the generator. This is the simplest arrangement, and OutBack products can easily control this kind of generator. You can usually

identify one because it has only a single switch with two positions: “on” and “off.”

A three-wire-start generator has separate controls for starting, and for running and stopping. This requires three or more control wires. Because timers and other devices are required, OutBack products can only control this generator with the help of external products. You can usually identify one because it has multiple switches, or it has one switch with three positions, like “start”,“run” and “stop.”

If you have a three-wire-start generator, you can adapt it into a two-wire-start. Atkinson Electronics is one company that makes these adapters.You can get more information at www.atkinsonelectronics.com.

FX AUXILIARY OUTPUT

The OutBack FX Series of inverter/chargers have an auxiliary (“AUX”) 12-volt output which can drive various devices. In this case the AUX can directly or indirectly send commands to the generator. Generally you need an intermediate relay. Thus, the AUX would send a 12-volt signal to the coil of the relay. Then the relay contacts would close, making the connection on the two-wire circuit and starting the generator.

STARTING FUNCTIONS

AC Wiring Compartment Board

with AUX +/- Terminals

The OutBack MATE’s Automatic Generator Start (“AGS”) feature will trigger the AUX output. AGS can control a generator according to various conditions:

•Low Voltage Start. AGS can be programmed for auto-start based on three different low voltages (user-settable) for three different periods of time: 24 hours, 2 hours and 2 minutes. This feature

will put the batteries through a full charge cycle. At the end of the cycle, the AGS will shut the generator off instead of entering the Float stage.

•Load Start. AGS can start the generator if loads exceed an amount for a certain time. It will stop if the loads go below a certain amount for a certain time (all settable). Note: this feature is meant to rescue the batteries from heavy draw. It is not meant to rescue the inverter from an overload.

•Time of Day Start. AGS can start and stop the generator daily at specified times.

It can also be set to run on a different schedule on weekends.

•Exercise Start. AGS can run the generator for brief periods, to keep it from being inactive. The generator can start after a number of days, at a particular time of day, and run for a number of minutes (all settable) before shutting off.

•Manual Start. AGS will run or stop the generator by manual command.

•Quiet Time. AGS can be ordered not to start the generator during certain hours (particularly when your neighbors are sleeping!). Certain criteria can override quiet time, for an emergency start.