Vector VEC415 HOW this Inverter Works, Controls and Functions, Maxx SST Soft Start Technology

VEC415_Manual_NP_032806 4/18/06 12:21 PM Page 2

Controls and Functions

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1.INVERTER CARRY CASE

2.USB POWER PORT

3.ON/OFF PUSHBUTTON/ BI-COLOR POWER/FAULT LED

4.STANDARD NORTH AMERICAN

115 VOLT AC OUTLET 6

5.12 VOLT DC/AIRPLANE ADAPTER CORD PORT

6.DETACHABLE 2-PRONG 12 VOLT DC ADAPTER CORD

7.12 VOLT DC VEHICLE ACCESSORY

ADAPTER 7

8. AIRPLANE ADAPTER CORD

HOW THIS INVERTER WORKS

This inverter is an electronic device that converts low voltage DC (direct current) electricity from a battery to 115 volt AC (alternating current) household power. In designing this inverter, Vector has incorporated design techniques previously employed in computer power supplies. The result of these design innovations is a smaller, lighter and easier-to-use power inverter.

The Slim Power Inverter converts power in two stages. The first stage is a DC-to-DC conversion process that raises the low voltage DC at the inverter input to 145 volts

DC. The second stage is a MOSFET bridge stage that converts the high voltage DC into 115 volts, 60 Hz AC.

The DC-to-DC converter stage uses creative, high frequency, zero voltage switching power conversion techniques that replace the bulky transformers found in less technologically advanced models.The inverter stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors in a full bridge configuration.

Slim Power Inverter Output Waveform

The AC output waveform of this inverter is known as a modified sine wave. It is a stepped waveform that has characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. This type of waveform is suitable for most AC loads, including linear and switching power supplies used in electronic equipment, transformers, and small motors.

The modified sine wave produced by this inverter has an RMS (root mean square) voltage of 115 volts. Most AC voltmeters (both digital and analog) are sensitive to the average value of the waveform rather than the RMS value. They are calibrated for RMS voltage under the assumption that the waveform measured will be a pure sine wave. These meters will not correctly read the RMS voltage of a modified sine wave. Non-TRUE RMS meters will read about 20 to 30 volts low when measuring the output of this inverter. For accurate measurement of the output voltage of this unit, use a TRUE RMS reading voltmeter such as a Fluke 87, Fluke 8080A, Beckman 4410 or Triplett 4200.

115 volt AC Output

CAUTION

Rechargeable Devices

•Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be charged by plugging them directly into an AC receptacle. These devices may damage the inverter or the charging circuit.

•When using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for the initial ten minutes of use to determine if it produces excessive heat.

•If excessive heat is produced, this indicates the device should not be used with this inverter.

•This problem does not occur with most of the battery-operated equipment. Most of these devices use a separate charger or transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle.

MAXX SST® Soft Start Technology®

Vector’s Soft Start Technology gradually “ramps up” the inverters power to slowly start appliances that require a surge to get started. This gradual ramp up protects the inverter and the appliance, as well as the power source, from damage and failure.

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