Magnum Energy ME-AGS-S User Manual
ME-AGS-S
Automatic Generator Start
For Standalone Systems
Owner’s Manual
Disclaimer of Liability
Since the use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation,
operation, use and maintenance of the ME-AGS-S (Auto Generator Start –
Standalone) is beyond the control of Magnum Energy Inc. , this company does
not assume responsibility and expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage or
expense, whether direct, indirect, consequential or incidental, arising out of
or anyway connected with such installation, operation, use, or maintenance.
Due to continuous improvements and product updates, the images shown in
this manual may not exactly match the unit purchased.
Restrictions on Use
The ME-AGS-S may only be used in life-support devices or systems with the
express written approval of Magnum Energy. Failure of the ME-AGS-S can
reasonably be expected to cause the failure of that life-support device or
system, or to affect the safety or effectiveness of that device or system. If
the ME-AGS-S fails, it is reasonable to assume that the health of the user or
other persons may be endangered.
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2013 by Magnum Energy , Inc. All rights reserved. P ermission to
copy, distribute, and/or modify this document is prohibited without express
written permission by Magnum Energy, Inc.
Safety Symbols
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fi re, or other safety hazard, the fol-
lowing safety symbols have been placed throughout this manual to indicate
dangerous and important safety instructions.
WARNING: This symbol indicates that failure to take a specifi ed ac-
tion could result in physical harm to the user.
CAUTION: This symbol indicates that failure to take a specifi ed action
could result in damage to the equipment.
Info: This symbol indicates information that emphasizes or supplements important points of the main text.
IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This manual contains important safety instructions that must be followed
during the installation and operation of this product. Read all instructions
and safety information contained in this manual before installing or using
this product.
WARNINGS:
• All electrical work must be performed in accordance with local,
state, and federal electrical codes.
• This product is designed for indoor/compartment installation. It
must not be exposed to rain, snow, moisture, or liquids of any type.
• Use insulated tools to reduce the chance of electrical shock or accidental short circuits.
• Remove all jewelry such as rings, watches, bracelets, etc., when
installing or performing maintenance on the ME-AGS-S and generator system.
• Disconnect the generator’s starting battery to prevent accidental
starting during installation of this product.
i © 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc.
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction .......................................................................... 1
1.1 ME-AGS-S Components/Features .............................................2
2.0 Installation ........................................................................... 4
2.1 Installation Requirements .......................................................4
2.2 Required Components and Tools ..............................................6
2.3 Mounting Procedure ...............................................................6
2.4 Connecting the Communication Cable ......................................8
2.5 ME-AGS-S Terminal Block Wiring .............................................9
2.6 Warning Label ..................................................................... 13
2.7 Common ME-AGS-S Generator Wiring Diagrams ...................... 13
3.0 Setup .................................................................................. 17
3.1 Internal Settings ................................................................. 17
3.2 External Settings ................................................................ 19
3.3 AGS Functional Tests ...........................................................21
4.0 Operation ............................................................................ 22
4.1 AGS Controller Operation LED Indicators ................................ 22
4.2 Remote Switch Operation ..................................................... 23
4.3 AGS System Operation.........................................................24
5.0 Troubleshooting .................................................................. 25
6.0 Limited Warranty ................................................................ 26
6.1 How to Receive Repair Service ..............................................27
A-1 Appendix ............................................................................. 28
List of Figures
Figure 1-1, ME-AGS-S Remote Switch Features ......................................2
Figure 1-2, ME-AGS-S Communications Cable .......................................2
Figure 1-3, ME-AGS-S Controller Features .............................................3
Figure 2-1, ME-AGS-S System Diagram ................................................5
Figure 2-2, Controller Dimensions ........................................................7
Figure 2-3, Remote Dimensions ...........................................................7
Figure 2-4, Communication Cable Connection ........................................8
Figure 2-5, Communication Cable (Data Type) .......................................8
Figure 2-6, Generator Run Sense Options ........................................... 10
Figure 2-7, Wiring to the AGS Controller’s Terminal Block ...................... 12
Figure 2-8,
Figure 2-9, Two-wire Start Type Generators ........................................ 14
Figure 2-10, Three-wire Momentary Type Generators ........................... 15
Figure 2-11, Three-wire Maintain Type Generators ...............................16
Figure 3-1, Inside the AGS Controller .................................................17
Figure 3-2, DC Voltage Settings ......................................................... 17
Figure 3-3, External Settings ............................................................. 19
Figure 4-1, Controller Front Panel Controls and Indicators ..................... 22
Figure 4-2, Remote Switch Controls and Indicators .............................. 23
Warning Label ................................................................. 13
List of Tables
Table 3-1, GEN TYPE Settings ............................................................ 18
Table 3-2, ME-AGS-S Default Settings ................................................ 19
Table 6-1, Troubleshooting Guide ....................................................... 25
© 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc. ii
Introduction
1.0 Introduction
The Automatic Generator Start – Standalone version (ME-AGS-S) from Mag-
num Energy is designed as a standalone device. It will automatically start your
generator based on low battery voltage and/or a high temperature condition.
Info: This manual is for the ME-AGS-S with revision 5.0 or higher; see
Figure 3-1 on page 17 for info on how to locate your revision level.
Info: If you are using a Magnum inverter/charger (provided with a
network port) and a ME-RC or ME-ARC remote, use the ME-AGS-N
(AGS – Network version) for full network capability of the AGS system.
This AGS is used to continuously monitor your battery system and/or the
surrounding area temperature, and to automatically start the generator when
the battery requires charging and/or power is needed to run an air conditioner
to cool down the surrounding area.
The temperature turn-on feature is useful in many applications. For example,
if you have an RV (recreational vehicle) coach in a hot environment, the AGS
monitors the coach temperature and turns on the generator to power the air
conditioner. This allows you to leave pets and precious items in your coach
while you enjoy a day away golfi ng, touring, or just sightseeing—all the while
knowing your coach will stay cool and comfortable. Even if you don’t have pets,
there’s nothing better than returning to a nice cool coach while dry camping
in hot weather. Plus, no more worrying about dead batteries.
The AGS system includes a controller with on-board adjustments and interfaces with a user-friendly remote control switch. The controller provides the
wiring interface for the battery bank and generator start/stop circuits. It has
adjustments for setting the generator’s run time, high temperature start,
and low battery voltage start; and if needed, the “Clock” and “Quiet Time”
adjustments can be set to comply with RV park and rest area nighttime low
noise requirements. The remote switch allows testing and activating the AGS
system and provides a LED indicator to display AGS system status information.
This AGS is compatible with most AC or DC generators with either two-wire or
three-wire start controls; such as Onan, Power T ech, Gener ac, Martin, Kohler,
Honda, Westerbeke, Y amaha, and many others. A list of gener ators that have
been successfully used with the AGS (along with their respective wiring diagrams) can be found at: www.magnumenergy.com/GenWiringDiagrams.htm
The standalone AGS is equipped with the following features:
• Compatible with 12, 24, or 48-volt systems
• Easily adjustable settings for run-time, low voltage, and high temperature start
• Quiet Time setting available to prevent generator oper ation during nighttime hours
• Compatible with any inverter/charger-based system
• Compatible with most AC or DC generators with either two-wire or threewire start controls
• TEST switch provides immediate confi rmation of installation wiring
• Removable 8-port terminal block – for easy wiring and power-down
• Front panel LED indicators for generator start/stop status and generator faults
1 © 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc.
Introduction
1.1 ME-AGS-S Components/Features
The ME-AGS-S is equipped with the following components and features:
• AGS Remote Switch • Communications Cable • AGS-S Controller
1.1.1 AGS Remote Switch
The AGS Remote Switch is the user interface display and connects to the
AGS controller through the communications cable.
Selector Switch – a switch that allows the AGS system to be
1
enabled for automatic generator operation and tested for correct
wiring.
• ENABLE – activates the AGS to monitor voltage and/or temperature to determine when to automatically start the generator.
• OFF – disables the AGS generator start/stop functions.
• TEST – initiates an automatic generator start/stop sequence for
testing generator wiring and operation.
STATUS Indicator – this bi-color (green or red) LED indicator
2
illuminates to provide information on AGS operation.
Temperature Sensor (internal) – location of the internal sensor
3
used to start the generator based on high temperature.
2
STATUS
1
Indicator
Selector
Switch
3
Temperature
Sensor (internal)
Figure 1-1, ME-AGS-S Remote Switch Features
1.1.2 AGS Communication Cable
A six-conductor, 25-foot cable used to carry power and data between the
remote and the controller.
Figure 1-2, ME-AGS-S Communications Cable
© 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc. 2
Introduction
1.1.3 AGS Controller
The controller provides adjustments and the generator’s wiring connections.
AGS Adjustments (x5) – The thumb wheel adjustments allow the
1
AGS to be confi gured to your specifi c system preferences.
• RUN TIME HOURS – determines the length of time the generator
runs once the generator has automatically started.
• START TEMP °F – allows you to
value that causes the generator to automatically start.
• START VOLTS DC – allows you to enable and set a low battery
voltage value that causes the generator to automatically start.
• CLOCK AM/PM – determines the correct time, which in turn
allows the Quiet Time feature to function correctly.
• QUIET TIME PM/AM – used to prevent the generator from
starting during specifi c hours.
STATUS Indicator – this bi-color (green or red) LED indicator
2
illuminates to provide information on AGS operation.
TEST Switch – a momentary pushbutton switch that allows the
AGS system to be tested for correct wiring and generator start/stop
3
operation.
enable and set a high temperature
2
3
Wiring Terminal Block – this 8-port friction-fi t connector powers
4
the AGS and connects the generator’s start/stop and run sense wires.
Mounting Flange – used to secure the inverter to a shelf or wall.
5
READY Indicator – this green LED indicator illuminates to indicate
6
that the AGS is powered and the remote switch is connected.
REMOTE Connection Port (purple label) – a RJ12 port which
7
provides the connection point for the remote switch.
51
6
4
Figure 1-3, ME-AGS-S Controller Features
3 © 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc.
7
Installation
2.0 Installation
Installing the ME-AGS-S is a simple process. Before installing, read this entire
section to familiarize yourself with all aspects of the installation; then, you
can thoroughly plan the details to ensure the overall system requirements
are accomplished. To assist you in planning and designing your installation,
review the basic system diagram shown in Figure 2-1.
WARNING: The ME-AGS-S is not an ignition-protection rated device
and should not be installed in any location that requires ignitionprotected equipment. To prevent fi re or explosion, do not install
the Auto Gen Start controller in any area with extremely fl ammable
liquids like gasoline or propane; or, in an area that contains connections between components of a fuel system.
CAUTION: Installations should be performed by qualifi ed personnel,
such as a licensed or certifi ed electrician. It is the installer’s respon-
sibility to determine which safety codes apply and to ensure that all
applicable installation requirements are followed. Applicable installation codes vary depending on the specifi c location and application.
CAUTION: Review the “Important Product Safety Information” on
the front inside cover page before any installation.
2.1 Installation Requirements
Review the following requirements before installing this device:
• For the AGS to automatically start and stop the generator properly, the
generator must include an electric start and an automatic choke. To
prevent generator damage and obtain reliable operation, use generator
models designed for unattended operation. These models should also
be equipped with remote operation connections and have protective
systems that cause the generator to shut down from low oil pressure,
over-temperature, starter lockout, and over-crank conditions.
• The ME-AGS-S controller is connected to the switch by a 25’ communica-
tions cable. Before installing the ME-AGS-S and connecting any wires,
determine: 1) the communications cable route throughout the home or
vehicle/boat from the controller to the switch, 2) the start/stop signal
wire route from the AGS controller to the generator, and 3) the wire route
from the AGS controller to the monitored battery bank.
Info: Two pigtail adapters (ME-PT1 and ME-PT2) are available to
externally enable the ME-AGS-S to automatically turn the generator on/off through a manually controlled switch or an automatically
controlled switching device. See Appendix A for more information.
• Always check for existing electrical, plumbing, or other areas of potential
damage BEFORE drilling or cutting into walls.
• If installing this device in a boat, RV , or truck, ensure the conductors passing through walls, bulkheads, or other structural members are protected
to minimize insulation damage such as chafi ng—which can be caused by
vibration or constant rubbing.
• Do not mount the AGS controller in a closed battery compartment or in
an area where water or any other liquid can enter the AGS and cause
shorting or corrosion.
• The AGS should be wired to not interfere with your air conditioner controls
or the manual start/stop switches on your generator.
© 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc. 4
Installation
Automatic Generator Start (Standalone version)
ME-AGS-S
Remote connection
Generator start/stop wiring
Generator run signal
Battery voltage
Common battery negatives
(Monitored battery and
Generator starting battery)
Monitored Battery Bank Auto-Start Generator
Figure 2-1, ME-AGS-S System Diagram
5 © 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc.
Installation
2.2 Required Components and Tools
2.2.1 List of supplied components in the ME-AGS-S:
• ME-AGS-S Owner’s Manual
• AGS controller (with four #8 x 3/4” Phillips mounting screws)
• AGS switch/bezel (with two #6 x 1” Phillips mounting screws)
• 25 ft communications cable
2.2.2 List of other required equipment and materials:
• 16 to 12 AWG wire for connecting the ME-AGS-S to the gener ator start/
stop circuit and to the battery bank
• In-line fuse holders (with 5-amp DC fuse)
2.2.3 Tools that may be required to install the ME-AGS-S:
• Phillips screwdriver (#2)
• Flat-blade screwdrivers
(1/4” and 1/8” blades)
• Wire stripper
• Cut-out tool (knife/saw)
• Drill bits (7/64” & 1/8”)
• Drill
• Level
• Pencil
2.3 Mounting Procedure
2.3.1 Mounting the AGS Controller
1. Select a location that is clean, dry, and protected from extreme
temperatures to mount the controller
controller is mounted within easy access to the generator’s remote
switch wiring. Refer to Figure 2-2 for the controller’s dimensions.
Info: The controller/switch can be mounted in any direction. However,
allow ample room to
to view the LEDs for operational status and troubleshooting.
2. Remove the green 8-pin friction fi t connector from the controller by
pulling it straight out. Wait to plug this 8-pin connector back into the
AGS controller until after the installation is completed and the AGS
functional tests are performed in Section 3.3.
3. Mount the AGS controller using the four #8 x 3/4” screws provided.
2.3.2 Mounting the AGS Remote Switch
1. Select a location that is
extreme temperatures to mount the
access the switch and the
convenient,
. Wiring is much easier if the
adjustment dials, and
clean, dry, and protected from
remote switch.
Info: The temp sensor used to activate the temperature turn-on
feature is located on the back of the AGS switch. If using the temperature turn-on feature, the switch must be placed where the room
temperatures can be accurately determined by the sensor. DO NOT
mount the switch near window drafts, or heating and air conditioning
ducts, and avoid mounting it on exterior walls.
2. Cut a hole for the switch. See Figure 2-3 for switch and cutout dimensions.
3. Plug the communications cable into the RJ12 connector on the back of
the AGS switch (Section 2.4), and then feed the communication cable
(6-conductor data cable) through the opening and route it to the AGS.
Info: Use care in routing the cable to ensure the cable does not
become pinched or cut by rough or sharp edges. Leave enough slack
to allow movement of the cable once the installation is complete.
4. Mount the switch with its bezel to the wall using the two #6 x 1” screws
provided.
© 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc. 6
9
16
3
”
7
8
4
”
3
16
2
”
1
16
4
”
3
8
”
3
8
5
”
1
4
3
”
7
16
”
2
”
5
16
1
”
3
16
”
cutout
"
drill
bit
2
"
1
"
1
"
1
"
3
"
1
"
2
"
2
"
1
8
7
16
1
4
5
16
7
64
1
8
3
4
5
8
3
16
Installation
Figure 2-2, Controller Dimensions
Remote
side
Remote
Bezel
Remote
face-plate
Figure 2-3, Remote Dimensions
7 © 2013 Magnum Energy, Inc.
Loading...