The use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation,
operation, use, and maintenance of the MM-AE Series Inverter/
Charger are beyond the control of Magnum Energy, Inc. Therefore,
this company assumes no responsibility and expressly disclaims
any liability for loss, damage, or expense whether direct, indirect,
consequential, or incidental that may arise out of or be in any way
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 MM-AE Series Inverter/Charger may only be used in life-support
devices or systems with the express written approval of Magnum
Energy. Failure of the MM-AE Series Inverter/Charger 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
MM-AE Series Inverter/Charger fails, it is reasonable to assume that
the health of the user or other persons may be endangered.
Contact Information
Magnum Energy, Inc.
2211 West Casino Rd.
Everett, WA 98204
Phone: (425) 353-8833 / Fax: (425) 353-8390
Web: www.magnumenergy.com
Record the unit’s model and serial number in case you need to provide
this information in the future. It is much easier to record this information
now, instead of trying to gather it after the unit has been installed.
Model:Serial Number:
MM612AEQ1
MM1512AEAG
MM1524AES1
Conventions Used in this Manual
Terminology
AC source or External AC power - refers to Alternating Current
(AC) provided by the utility electric power grid or from a generator.
AE application - typically refers to using the inverter in a system that
uses Alternative Energy (e.g., solar, wind, or hydro). This term is also
used to refer to inverters used in a home, offi ce, or cabin installation.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fi re, or other safety hazard, the
following 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 action 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.
• All electrical work must be performed in accordance with local,
state, and federal electrical codes.
• This product is designed for indoor/compartment installation.
DO NOT expose 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 inverter.
• Always disconnect the batteries or energy source prior to
installing or performing maintenance on the inverter. Live power
may be present at more than one point since an inverter utilizes
both batteries and AC. Turning off the inverter may not reduce
this risk. As long as AC power is connected, it will pass through
the inverter regardless of the ON/OFF power switch setting.
• Always verify proper wiring prior to starting the inverter.
• Do not operate the inverter if it has been damaged.
• Do not dismantle the inverter; there are no user-serviceable
parts contained in this product. Attempting to service the unit
yourself could cause electrical shock. Internal capacitors remain
charged after all power is disconnected.
• No AC or DC disconnects are provided as an integral part of this
inverter. Both AC and DC disconnects must be provided as part
of the system installation.
• No overcurrent protection for the battery supply is provided as
an integral part of this inverter. Overcurrent protection of the
battery cables must be provided as part of the installation.
• No overcurrent protection for the AC output wiring is provided as
an integral part of this inverter. Overcurrent protection of the AC
output wiring must be provided as part of the installation.
IMPORTANT BATTERY SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Wear eye protection (safety glasses) when working with
batteries.
• Remove all jewelry such as rings, watches, bracelets, etc., when
installing or performing maintenance on the inverter.
• Never work alone. Always have someone near you when working
around batteries.
• Use proper lifting techniques when working with batteries.
• Never use old or untested batteries. Check each battery’s label
for age, type, and date code to ensure all batteries are identical.
• Batteries are sensitive to changes in temperature. Always install
batteries in a stable environment.
• Install batteries in a well ventilated area. Batteries can produce
explosive gasses. For compartment or enclosure installations,
always vent batteries to the outside.
• Provide at least one inch of air space between batteries to
provide optimum cooling.
• Never smoke when in the vicinity of batteries.
• To prevent a spark at the battery and reduce the chance of
explosion, always connect the cables to the batteries fi rst. Then
connect the cables to the inverter.
• Use insulated tools at all times.
• Always verify proper polarity and voltage before connecting the
batteries to the inverter.
• To reduce the chance of fi re or explosion, do not short-circuit the
batteries.
• In the event of accidental exposure to battery acid, wash
thoroughly with soap and water. In the event of exposure to the
eyes, fl ood them for at least 15 minutes with running water and
seek immediate medical attention.
Congratulations on your purchase of an MM-AE Series inverter/charger from Magnum Energy, Inc. This product is designed especially for
your back-up power or standalone application. Powerful, yet simple
to use, the Magnum Energy inverter will provide you with years of
trouble-free use.
Please read this chapter to familiarize yourself with the features and
benefi ts of your particular MM-AE Series model.
Figure 1, MM-AE Series Inverter/Charger
MM-AE Series Models
MM612AE - a 600 watt inverter/charger with 7 amp AC transfer
capability and 30 amp/12 VDC, 4-stage PFC charger. The AC input
and output are provided with pigtail wires to allow hardwiring to a
main AC distribution panel and to an inverter sub-panel. Includes a
15’ battery temperature sensor.
MM1512AE - a 1500 watt inverter/charger with 12 amp AC transfer
capability and 70 amp/12 VDC, 4-stage PFC charger. The AC input
and output are provided with pigtail wires to allow hardwiring to a
main AC distribution panel and to an inverter sub-panel. Includes a
15’ battery temperature sensor.
MM1524AE - a 1500 watt inverter/charger with 12 amp AC transfer
capability and 35 amp/24 VDC, 4-stage PFC charger. The AC input
and output are provided with pigtail wires to allow hardwiring to a
main AC distribution panel and to an inverter sub-panel. Includes a
15’ battery temperature sensor.
Info: These units have common input/output neutrals
for uses in AE applications (i.e., homes/cabins/offi ces).
If your installation is for a mobile application (RV, truck,
or boat), the appropriate model for these applications is
the MM or MMS Series inverter.
An inverter takes direct current (DC) from your batteries and turns
it into alternating current (AC), like you use at home. With MM-AE
Series models, it also takes alternating current (when connected to
a generator or to utility power) and transforms it into direct current
to recharge your batteries.
The two modes of operation associated with this inverter/charger are
referred to in this document as:
Inverter Mode: DC from the batteries is transformed into modifi ed
sine wave AC for powering your AE applications.
Standby Mode: The unit operates as a battery charger to convert
incoming AC power into DC power to recharge the batteries while continuing to pass the incoming AC power directly to the inverter’s output
to power any AC loads.
Appliances that will run from a Modifi ed Sine Inverter
Today’s inverters come in two basic output waveforms: modifi ed sine
(actually a modifi ed square wave) and pure sine wave. Modifi ed sine
wave inverters approximate a pure sine waveform.
The output of a modifi ed sine wave inverter will run most electronic
and household items including but not limited to TV, VCR, satellite dish
receiver, computers, and printers. Some devices such as rechargeable
power supplies for phones, drills, and other like devices may not run
or be damaged by modifi ed sine wave inverters.
Appliances and Run Time
The MM-AE Series inverter/charger can power a wide range of household appliances. As with any appliance using batteries for power, there
is a certain length of time that it can run – this is called “run time”.
Actual run time depends on several variables including the size and
the type of appliance, the type of batteries installed in your application, as well as the battery’s capacity and age. Other factors such
as the battery’s state of charge and temperature can also affect the
length of time your appliances can run.
Depending on your inverter capacity, larger electrical appliances such
as coffee pots and hair dryers can be used for short durations. However, loads that are used for longer periods such as stoves or water
heaters can quickly drain your batteries and are not recommended
for inverter applications.
All electrical appliances are rated by the amount of power they consume. The rating is printed on the product’s nameplate label, usually located on its chassis near the AC power cord. Even though it is
diffi cult to calculate exactly how long an inverter will run a particular
appliance, the best advice is trial and error. Your MM-AE Series inverter/charger has a built-in safeguard that automatically protects
your batteries from being over-discharged.
The MM-AE Series inverter/charger converts 12 or 24 volts (de-
pending on model) direct current (VDC) power from your battery to
120 volts alternating current (VAC) power.
charger optimizes incoming AC power using Power Factor Correction
(PFC) technology to keep the inverter’s battery bank fully charged.
This inverter is designed to allow easy installation and use, and with
its die-cast aluminum baseplate it ensures maximum durability and
cooler more effi cient operation.
The inverter/charger provides the following:
• 600 or 1500 watts continuous (depending on model) at 25°C.
• Numerous protection features to provide a safe and
peace-of-mind operation.
• AC transfer switch circuitry; allowing incoming AC power to
continue to pass-thru to power loads even if the inverter is off.
• Dead battery charging for batteries that are extremely low.
The multi-stage battery
• Automatic 4-stage battery charger with power factor correction
and temperature compensation – for optimum battery charging
(using the temperature sensor).
• Modern and aesthetically pleasing design with large AC wiring
compartment (provides easy access to AC wiring for simple and
quick connections) and 360° DC connection terminals with color
coded insulating covers.
• True RMS output voltage regulation to ensure the inverter will
deliver the correct amount of power – within the DC input volt age range and the continuous output power level.
• Quick connection accessory and remote ports – easily accepts
several optional remote controls and the Battery Temperature
Sensor.
1. Inverter Status Indicator - this green LED illuminates to
provide information on the inverter’s operation.
2. Power Switch - momentary pushbutton switch that turns the
inverter on or off.
3. Negative DC Terminal (black) - the inverter’s connection to
the negative terminal on the battery bank.
4. Positive DC Terminal (red) - the inverter’s connection to the
positive terminal on the battery bank.
5. Input Circuit Breaker - this circuit breaker protects the unit’s
internal wiring and pass-thru relay.
6. Output Circuit Breaker - this circuit breaker provides another
layer of overload protection. This is not a branch-circuit rated
breaker. Separate AC output breakers are required on the output.
7. Mounting Flanges (x4) - secures the inverter to shelf/wall.
8. AC Wiring Compartment - provides access for all AC input
and output connections on the inverter.
Front S ide
9
10
11
12
Figure 3, Front and Back Side Features
9. Warning and Information Label - provides pertinent
information for safely using the inverter.
10. REMOTE Port Connection - a RJ11 connector that allows an
optional remote control to be connected.
11. ACCESSORY PORT Connection - a RJ11 connector to allow
the Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) or MM-AE accessories (e.g.,
MM-DCLD) to be connected.
12. Intake Vent - ventilation openings to pull in air to help keep
the inverter cool for peak performance.
Back Side
13
14
13. Exhaust Vent - ventilation openings that allow heated air to
be removed by the internal cooling fan.
14. Model/Serial Number Label - includes model/serial number
and provides specifi cations and information on the inverter and
charger. See the MM-AE SeriesSpecifi cations on page 34 for
more information and the different models available.
15. AC Output Connection - AC knockout (output) for
hardwiring.
16. AC Input Connection
- AC knockout (input) for hardwiring.
17. DC Ground Terminal - this connection is used to tie the
exposed chassis of the inverter to the DC grounding system. This
terminal accepts CU/AL conductors from #14 AWG to #6 AWG.
Battery Temperature Sensor
A plug-in external Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) is provided
for units with the battery charger feature. When installed, the
BTS automatically adjusts the battery charger’s BULK, ABSORB,
and FLOAT voltage set-points (based on temperature) for better
charging performance and longer battery life. If the temperature
sensor is NOT installed and the batteries are subjected to large
temperature changes, battery life may be shortened.
Before installing the inverter, read the entire Installation section. The
more thorough you plan in the beginning, the better your inverter
needs will be met.
WARNING:Installations should be performed by qualifi ed
personnel, such as a licensed or certifi ed electrician. It
is the installer’s responsibility 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 the type of
installation.
Info: Review the “Important Product Safety Information”
on page ii and the “Important Battery Safety Instructions”
on page iii before any installation.
The basic system diagram shown in Figure 6
assist you in planning and designing your installation.
should be reviewed to
Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the MM-AE Series inverter/charger from its shipping container and inspect all contents. Verify the following items
are included:
− MM-AE Series inverter/charger
− Red and black DC terminal covers
− AC access cover with two screws
− Two 1/2” hex-head kep nuts (installed on the DC terminals)
− Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS)
− MM-AE Series Owner’s Manual
If items appear to be missing or damaged, contact your authorized
Magnum Energy dealer or Magnum Energy.
If at all possible, keep your shipping box. It will help protect your
inverter from damage if it ever needs to be returned for service.
Save your proof-of-purchase as a record of your ownership; it will
also be needed if the unit should require in-warranty service.
Record the unit’s model and serial number in the front of this manual
in case you need to provide this information in the future. It is much
easier to record this information now, instead of trying to gather it
after the unit has been installed.
• Do not mount the inverter near any fl ammable or
combustible fl uid or components.
• Provide adequate clearance/ventilation to the inverter.
• Mount only on a non-combustible surface.
• Maximum ambient temperature around the inverter must
not exceed 77° F (25° C) to meet power specifi cations.
The inverter should only be installed in a location that meets the
following requirements:
Clean and Dry - The inverter should not be installed in an area that
allows
ventilation openings. The area also must be free from any risk of
condensation, water,
inverter. The inverter uses stainless steel fasteners, plated copper
busbars, and a power-coated aluminum base. Also, the internal circuit
boards are conformal coated. The above measures are undertaken
to help fi ght the harmful effects of corrosive environments. However,
the life of the inverter is uncertain if used in any of these types of
environments, and inverter failure under these conditions is not covered
under warranty.
dust, fumes, insects, or rodents to enter or block the inverter’s
or any other liquid that can enter or fall on the
Cool - The inverter should be
sun or any equipment that produces extreme heat.
protected from direct exposure to the
The ambient air
temperature should be between 32° F (0° C) and 104° F (40° C);
keep in mind that the inverter’s output specifi cations are rated at 77°
F (25° C), so the cooler the better within this range.
Ventilated - In order for the inverter to provide full output power
and avoid over-temperature fault conditions do not cover or block
the inverter’s ventilation openings, or install this inverter in an area
with limited airfl ow. Allow as much clearance around the inverter’s
intake and exhaust ventilation openings as possible, see Items 12
and 13 in Figure 3. At the minimum, allow an airspace clearance of
6” (15 cm) at the front and back, and 3” (7.5 cm) everywhere else
to provide adequate ventilation.
If installed in an enclosure, a fresh air intake opening must be provided directly to the front side (intake vent) and an exhaust opening on the back side (exhaust vent) of the inverter. This will allow
cool air from the outside to fl ow into the inverter, and heated air to
exit away from the inverter and the enclosure. When mounted in an
enclosed compartment, airfl ow must be at least 59 cfm in order to
maintain no more than a 68° F (20° C) rise in compartment temperature. Minimum clearances can be reduced if airfl ow is increased,
but in no case should clearance around the inverter be less than 2”
(5 cm) on all sides.
Safe - Keep any fl ammable/combustible material (e.g., paper, cloth,
plastic, etc.) that may be ignited by heat, sparks, or fl ames at a
minimum distance of 2 feet (60 cm) away from the inverter. Do not
install this inverter in any area that contains extremely fl ammable
liquids like gasoline or propane, or in locations that require ignitionprotected devices.
Close to the battery bank -As with any inverter, it should be
located as close to the batteries as possible. Long DC wires tend to
lose effi ciency and reduce the overall performance of an inverter.
However, the unit should not be installed in the same compartment as
the batteries or mounted where it will be exposed to gases produced
by the batteries. These gases are corrosive and will damage the
inverter. Also, if these gases are not ventilated and allowed to collect,
they could ignite and cause an explosion.
Accessible -
Do not block access to the inverter’s remote control and
accessory ports. Also, allow enough room to access the AC and DC wiring
connections, as they will need to be checked and tightened periodically.
See Figure 8 for the MM-AE Series’ inverter dimensions.
Mounting Orientation - To meet regulatory requirements, the
MM-AE Series inverter/charger can only be mounted
on a horizontal
surface (shelf or table) or a vertical surface (wall or bulkhead) either
right-side up or upside-down, as shown in Figure 7. The inverter must
be mounted on a non-combustible surface, and this surface and the
mounting hardware must be capable of supporting at least twice the
weight of the inverter. After determining your mounting position, use
the base of the inverter’s chassis as a template to mark your mounting
screw locations. Remove the inverter and drill pilot holes into the
mounting surface.
After the inverter has been properly mounted, proceed to the DC
Wiring section.