TECHNICAL INFORMATION

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE

At the minimum, check the level of the electrolyte in each battery cell once a month. It should be above the top of the plates but not completely full. Most batteries have a plastic cup that the electrolyte should just touch when full. Don’t overfill the batteries or the electrolyte will spill out of the batteries when they are being charged. Only refill the batteries with distilled water - “spring” water and regular tap water may have high levels of minerals that can poison the battery chemistry and reduce battery performance and life.

It is also good to check the battery interconnections for tightness and corrosion. If any corrosion is found, disconnect the cables and carefully clean with a mild solution of baking soda and water. DO NOT ALLOW THE SOLUTION TO ENTER THE BATTERY. Rinse the top of the battery with clean water when finished.

To reduce the amount of corrosion on the battery terminals, coat them with a thin layer of petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion grease available from automotive parts stores or battery suppliers. Do not apply any material between the terminal and the cable lugs - the connection should be metal to metal. Apply the protective material after the bolts have been tightened.

BATTERY STATE OF CHARGE

A good estimate of a battery’s state of charge can be made by measuring the voltage across the battery terminals with the battery at rest (No energy input, no energy output) for at least three hours. These readings are best taken in the early morning, at or before sunrise, or in late evening. Take the reading while almost all loads are off and no charging sources are producing power. Connect a voltmeter across the positive and negative outputs of the battery or battery bank. Voltages are for a 12 volt battery system. For 24-volt systems, multiply by 2; for 48-volt systems, multiply by 4. Monitor your cell voltage, if you measure more than a 0.2 volt difference between each cell, you may need to equalize (Do not equalize Gel Cell Batteries). The following table will allow conversion of the readings obtained to an estimate of state of charge. The table is good for batteries at 77°F that have been at rest for 3 hours or more. If the batteries are at a lower temperature, you can expect lower voltage readings.

Table 7, Battery State of Charge Voltage

PERCENT OF FULL CHARGE

100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

12 VOLT DC SYSTEM

12.7

12.6

12.5

12.3

12.2

12.1

12.0

11.8

11.7

11.6

<=11.6

CELL VOLTAGE

2.12

2.10

2.08

2.05

2.03

2.02

2.00

1.97

1.95

1.93

<=1.93

2001 Xantrex Technology, Inc.

Telephone: 360/435-8826

SW Series Inverter/Charger

5916 - 195th Street N. E.

Fax: 360/435-2229

Part No. 2031-5

Arlington, WA 98223

www.traceengineering.com

Rev. C: February 2001

Page

105

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Xantrex Technology SW Series owner manual Monthly Maintenance, Battery State of Charge, 105
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SW Series specifications

Xantrex Technology has established itself as a leader in innovative power solutions, and its SW Series inverters epitomizes this commitment to quality and efficiency. Designed for both standalone and grid-tied applications, the SW Series offers versatile power management for a range of residential and commercial needs.

At the heart of the SW Series is its advanced pure sine wave output, ensuring clean and reliable electricity suitable for sensitive electronics. This feature makes it an excellent choice for applications such as solar energy systems, where it provides high-quality power for a variety of devices, from household appliances to complex machinery.

One of the key characteristics of the SW Series is its modular design, which allows for easy installation and scalability. This modularity enables users to expand their power system as their energy needs grow, making it an ideal choice for both small and large installations. The inverters come equipped with a user-friendly interface, providing clear information on system performance, battery status, and more, ensuring that users can effectively monitor and manage their energy consumption.

The SW Series inverters also incorporate cutting-edge technology, such as the patented Power Factor Correction (PFC) feature, which optimizes energy efficiency by reducing harmonic distortion. This translates into less wasted electricity and lower energy costs, making it an environmentally friendly option for users looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Another notable feature of the SW Series is its ability to operate in extreme conditions. Built with robust components and advanced thermal management systems, these inverters can withstand a wide range of temperatures and environmental challenges, ensuring reliable performance in various settings. This durability makes them suitable for off-grid applications, including remote cabins, RVs, and boats.

Furthermore, the SW Series supports a variety of battery types, including lithium-ion, AGM, and gel batteries, offering flexibility for users to choose the best energy storage solution for their needs. The sophisticated battery management system ensures optimal charging and discharging, prolonging the lifespan of the batteries and enhancing the overall efficiency of the power system.

In summary, Xantrex Technology's SW Series inverters stand out for their pure sine wave output, modular design, energy efficiency features, and robust performance in challenging conditions. With their versatility and advanced technology, they cater to the evolving needs of today’s power consumers, making them a compelling choice in the modern energy landscape.
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