TECHNICAL INFORMATION

INVERTER/CHARGER TERMINOLOGY

The following is a glossary of terms with which you may not be familiar while reading this manual. They appear in the description of inverter and battery charger operation.

Absorption Stage - In this second stage of three-stage charging, the batteries are held at a constant voltage (the bulk voltage setting) and the battery is charged to its maximum capacity.

AC - Alternating Current. Electrical current that varies with time. The rate at which the voltage changes polarity is the frequency in Hertz (Hz).

Ampacity – The ampacity of a wire is its current carrying capacity with reference to the cross-sectional area of the conductors, the temperature rating of the insulation and the ambient temperature.

Automatic Transfer Relay (inside the inverter) - An automatic switch that switches between inverter and charger mode depending on availability of AC input power. If AC is present, the unit will be a battery charger; when AC goes away, the unit becomes an inverter.

Bulk Charge Stage - This is the first of the three stages in three stage charging. In this stage, a constant current is fed to the batteries and as they accept the current the battery voltage will rise.

Current (Amps) - The volume of electricity flowing through a conductor. Equivalent to a volume of water flowing through a hose.

DC - Direct Current. Electrical current that does not vary with time.

Deep Cycle - A deep cycle occurs when a battery is discharged to less than 20% of its capacity (80% depth-of-discharge).

Deep Cycle Battery - A battery designed to be routinely discharged to 20% of its maximum capacity without damage. This is the type of battery most commonly used with an inverter system.

Digital VoltMeter (DVM):

True RMS - A voltmeter that incorporates a RMS converter to read true RMS for any waveform shape.

Averaging Type - A voltmeter that requires a sine wave waveform shape to provide an accurate reading.

Efficiency - Usually given as a percentage, efficiency is the ratio of the output to the input. The efficiency changes with power output levels of any inverter.

Electrolyte - Typically a mixture of water and sulfuric acid, it is commonly referred to as battery acid.

Equalization - Controlled “overcharging” of the battery causing it to bubble and mix. This reduces stratification.

Float stage - During the third stage of three stage charging, the voltage and current are reduced to a level that will trickle charge or maintenance charge the battery. This assures the battery remains fully charged even while sitting.

Fuse or Disconnect- An electrical pressure relief valve. When current exceeds a preset limit the fuse or disconnect will fail before the wiring or equipment it is protecting. Disconnects are also called circuit breakers. These are usually resettable and can act as a switch to turn off power to equipment for servicing.

Grid (The grid) - Also called the utility grid, this refers to the public power distribution system.

Impedance - Opposition to flow of alternating current (AC)

Islanding - The condition present when the utility power grid fails and the inverter attempts to power the grid. An inverter which is “islanding protected” senses the loss of AC power from the grid and does not back feed into the grid system.

LED - Light Emitting Diode. A light made up of semi-conducting material.

Line Tie - Term used when the inverter is connected to the public power or “grid” system.

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

115

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Xantrex Technology SW Series owner manual INVERTER/CHARGER Terminology, 115, Digital VoltMeter DVM
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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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