Outback Power Systems Automatic Generator Start Starting Functions: Battery SOC, Without the MATE

•DC Genset. Normally, the FX inverter requires AC input to make certain the generator started. If you need to use a DC generator instead, you can tell the AGS not to look for AC input. AGS stops the generator when the DC voltage rises to a certain value. (This does not guarantee good battery charging. Also, the AGS has to take it on faith that the generator has even started.)

You do not have to select one function over another — the AGS can start the generator for any reason. If you don’t know why the generator started, a MATE menu can tell you.

Starting Functions: Battery SOC

The OutBack FlexNet DC sends battery state-of-charge (“SOC”) information to the MATE’s AGS menus. If the FlexNet DC is present, AGS can also be programmed to start and stop the generator based on specified levels of charge. SOC is the most accurate AGS function if you are concerned about battery care.

Without the MATE

The AGS functions, including SOC, are based in the MATE itself and are programmed in the MATE’s own menu area. If the MATE cannot be installed or must be removed for some reason, AGS cannot be used.

The OutBack FX inverter has a function of its own called GenAlert. GenAlert will energize the AUX output upon reaching low battery voltage for a certain amount of time, and will turn off the output after reaching a high voltage for a certain time (all settable). This can allow the inverter to automatically start the generator, even if there is no MATE. (However, this may not allow the full charge cycle.) The MATE must still be used for the initial setup, in the FX section of the menus.

The OutBack FlexNet DC has an AUX switch of its own. This is a set of dry contacts, instead of a 12-volt output. The FlexNet’s AUX switch can perform automatic start if the 2-wire controls are connected directly to it, and it can do so based on SOC, from the FlexNet’s own readings. (With no MATE, the other AGS functions are still unavailable. Unlike the MATE, the FlexNet’s SOC feature cannot be used on the FX Aux output.) The MATE must still be used for the initial setup, in the DC section of the menus.

AGS and AUX Selection

AGS can only send commands to one AUX at a time. You can connect the 2-wire control to one FX inverter in a multi-unit system, and then direct the AGS commands there. All the above functions will be active on that unit, although not on any of the other FX inverters. (This will cancel GenAlert or other AUX function programmed into that inverter.) Similarly, AGS can be directed to the FlexNet’s AUX switch instead, with all AGS functions being active there (although the FlexNet’s own function is not cancelled).You cannot send AGS commands to the AUX of any OutBack charge controller.

Stopping

The AUX removes its output to stop the generator, whether operating by AGS, GenAlert, FlexNet DC. A two-wire-start generator will stop as soon as the wires are disconnected. Along with automatic shutoff, the generator can also be stopped manually, if the FX fails to see the proper input, or if another error occurs.

AGS can perform generator cooldown. It will disengage the inverter from the generator for a selectable time before sending the stop command, to keep the generator from stopping while under load. Similarly, AGS can also perform generator warmup, while starting. These functions are only present for AGS.

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