Since the use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation, operation, use and
maintenance of the MS-AE Series Inverter/Charger 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 MS-AE Series Inverter/Charger shall not be used in connection with life support systems, life
saving or other medical equipment or devices. Using the MS-AE Series Inverter/Charger with this
particular equipment is at your own risk.
Contact Information
Magnum Energy, Inc.
1111 80th Street SW - Suite 250
Everett, WA 98203
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.
This manual contains important safety instructions that must be followed during the installa-
•
tion and operation of this product.
All electrical work must be performed in accordance with local, state and federal electrical
•
codes.
Read all instructions and safety information contained in this manual before installing or using
•
this product.
This product is designed for indoor / compartment installation. It must not be exposed to rain,
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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
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maintenance on the inverter.
Always disconnect the batteries or energy source prior to installing or performing maintenance
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on the inverter.
Live power may be present at more than one point since an inverter utilizes both batteries and
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AC.
Always verify proper wiring prior to starting the inverter.
•
There are no user serviceable parts contained in this product.
•
This unit is provided with integral protection against overloads.
•
The input and output AC and DC circuits are isolated from the inverter chassis. The inverter
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system grounding is the responsibility of the installer in accordance with the NEC.
Both AC and DC overcurrent protection must be provided as part of the installation.
•
Class 1 wiring methods are to be used for fi eld wiring connections to terminals of a Class 2
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circuit.
Use only copper wires with a minimum temperature rating of 90°C.
•
Safety Symbols
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.
Remedy: This symbol provides possible solutions for related issues.
Congratulations on your purchase of the MS-AE Series inverter/charger from Magnum Energy.
The MS-AE Series is a “pure” sine wave inverter 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 performance.
The MS-AE Series is the ideal inverter/charger as it will be able to provide 120 and 240VAC in a
single unit to power loads when inverting and also while charging. It has two 120VAC lines (L1
and L2), a neutral and a ground. The two 120VAC output lines are 180° out-of-phase with each
other, so that the combination of the L1 and L2 lines total 240VAC and the voltage between either
L1 or L2 and neutral is 120VAC. The MS-AE Series charger can accept 120VAC input (to L1 or L2)
or 120/240 VAC split-phase input power (to L1 and L2), the incoming AC power is shared with
the charger and the output continues to be 120/240VAC with either a 120VAC or a 120/240VAC
input.
Installation is easy. Simply connect the inverter’s output to your distribution circuits or electrical
panel; connect your utility or generator power (AC) to the inverter’s easy-to-reach terminal block;
connect the batteries, and then switch on the power. Using the optional remote control (ME-RC),
you can easily operate and monitor your inverter from a remote location.
The MS-AE Series Inverter /Charger includes the following:
• 4000 or 4400 Watt Models in a small footprint - less weight and area needed for install.
• Pure sine wave output.
• 120/240 VAC Split phase output in a single inverter.
The MS-AE Series inverter/charger is designed to allow easy access to wiring, circuit breakers,
controls and for viewing the LED (Light Emitting Diode) status indicator. Its die cast base-plate
with one piece aluminum cover ensures maximum durability with minimum weight, as well as
cooler more effi cient operation.
The front of the MS-AE Series is equipped with the following features (refer to fi gures 1-1 and
1-2):
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(1) Power Switch - a momentary push-button switch that alternately turns the inverter On
or Off.
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(2) Status LED Indicator - this green LED illuminates to provide information on the inverter
or charger operation.
•
(3) Stack Connection Port (red label) - a RJ11 port that accepts the optional RSA’s (Remote
Switch Adapters) which allows remote on/off switch operation.
Info: The series-stacking capability, which allows two units to provide 120/240VAC out-
put is not needed and is not provided on the MS-AE series inverter/charger.
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(4) Magnum Net Connection Port (green label) - a RJ11 port that accepts optional Net-
work capable accessories (i.e. Auto Gen Start or Battery Monitor).
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(5) Remote Connection Port (blue label) - a RJ11 port that allows the optional remote
control display to be connected.
•
(6) BTS Connection Port (yellow label) - RJ11 port that accepts the remote Battery Tem-
perature Sensor (BTS) accessory.
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(7) Mounting Flange - used to secure the inverter to a shelf or wall.
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(8) AC Entry/Exit Connections - two 3/4” knockouts provided with cable-clamp
to allow and hold the AC input and output fi eld wiring.
(9) Intake Air Vents - ventilation openings to pull in air to help keep the inverter cool for
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peak performance.
(10) Positive DC Terminal - provides 360 degree connection point for the positive (+) cable
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from the battery bank; provided with a 5/16-18 stainless Kep nut1 on a 5/16-18 bolt (5/8”
usable length) to hold the battery cable to the DC terminal which uses.
(11) Negative DC Terminal - provides 360 degree connection point for the negative (-) cable
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from the battery bank; provided with a 5/16-18 stainless Kep nut1 on a 5/16-18 bolt (5/8”
usable length) to hold the battery cable to the DC terminal.
(12) DC Equipment Ground Terminal - this connection is used to tie the exposed chassis of
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the inverter to the DC grounding system. This terminal accepts CU/AL conductors from #14
to #2 AWG (2.1 to 33.6 mm2).
The left side of the MS-AE Series is equipped with the following features (refer to fi gure 1-3):
(13) Exhaust Air Vent - ventilation openings that allows heated air to be removed by the
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internal cooling fan.
(14) Model/Serial Number Label - includes model/serial number information, date of
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manufacture and inverter and charger specifi cations. See the MS-AE Specifi cations on
page 37 for more information and the different models available.
(15) AC Access Cover - provides access to the internal AC wiring terminal block. This
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terminal block is used to hardwire all inverter AC input and output wiring connections. Remove
the two screws to access the AC wiring terminal block.
(16) Input circuit breakers - these circuit breakers protect the unit’s internal wiring and
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pass-thru relay on each input (L1 and L2) while in the standby mode. These input circuit
breakers are not branch-circuit rated. These circuit breakers pop out when they open, press
in to reset.
CAUTION: Circuit breakers that branch-circuit rated must be installed in the inverter’s
input and output wiring.
CAUTION: The inverter’s internal AC transfer relay is rated for 30 amps per leg, the
pass-thru current must be no greater than 30 amps per leg or damage to the relays may
occur.
The MS-AE Series is an electronic device that takes DC (Direct Current) voltage from your batteries
and turns it into both 120V and 240V AC (Alternating Current) voltage, which is needed to power
your household electrical appliances (i.e. AC loads). The MS-AE Series also includes a battery
charger circuit that takes AC power (when connected to utility/generator power) and transforms
it into DC power to recharge your batteries.
1.2.1 Inverter Applications
An inverter can be used for backup power in a home or offi ce that normally uses utility power.
When the utility power is available, the inverter keeps the batteries charged. When the utility power
fails, the inverter comes on automatically to supply AC power to your home or offi ce during the
power failure. For a home or business, reliable back-up power is used to prevent lost computer
data or to maintain lights and keep food fresh in the refrigerator/freezer.
In some areas, where utility power is not available, this inverter can be used in an stand-alone
renewable power system. The inverter allows AC electrical appliances to be run from the storage
battery bank. When the battery bank becomes discharged, either renewable DC sources (solar,
wind or hydro power) can be used to recharge the batteries or a generator can be connected to
the inverter to power the system while the batteries recharge.
1.2.2 Advantages of a Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Today’s inverters come in two basic output waveforms: modifi ed sine (which is actually a modifi ed
square wave) and pure sine wave. Modifi ed sine wave inverters approximate a pure sine wave-
form and will run most appliances and electronics without any problems. These inverters are less
expensive and, therefore, offer a viable alternative to more expensive pure sine inverters.
The MS-AE Series provides a pure sine wave output, this waveform is equal to or, in many cases,
better than the grid power used in your home. Virtually any electronic device will operate from a
pure sine wave inverter. Motors run cooler, microwaves usually cook faster and clocks keep better time just to name a few examples. Without compromising quality or performance, the MS-AE
Series provides you with all of the advantages of a pure sine wave inverter at a much lower cost
than many in the market.
1.2.3 Appliances and Run Time
The MS-AE Series inverter/charger can power a wide range of household appliances including small
motors, hair dryers, clocks and other electrical devices. 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. See the Battery Bank Sizing section in Appendix B, to determine the battery bank size
needed for you loads.
Appliances such as TVs, VCRs, stereos, computers, coffee pots, incandescent lights and toasters can all be successfully powered by your inverter. Larger electrical appliances, however, such
as stoves, water heaters, etc., can quickly drain your batteries and are not recommended to be
powered by the inverter.
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 MS-AE Series inverter has a built-in LBCO (Low Battery Cut
Out) safeguard that automatically protects your batteries from over discharge.
Info: For the MS-AE Series inverter/charger to perform optimally, a minimum battery
bank of 200 AH is recommended for moderate loads (<1000W) and greater than 400 AH
for heavy loads (≥1000W).
Before installing the inverter, read the entire installation section to determine how you are going
to install your MS-AE inverter/Charger. The more thorough you plan in the beginning, the better
your inverter needs will be met.
Info: Installations should be performed by qualifi ed personnel, such as a licensed or cer-
tifi 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 application of the installation.
CAUTION: Review the “Important Product Safety Information” on page ii and the “Impor-
tant Battery Safety Instructions” on page iii before any installation.
The simplifi ed system diagram shown in Figure 2-1 should be reviewed to assist you in planning
and designing your installation. This drawing is not intended to over-ride or restrict any national
or local electrical codes. This drawing should not be the determining factor as to whether the
installation is compliant, that is the responsibility of the electrician and the on-site inspector.
CAUTION: The inverter is heavy. Use proper lifting techniques during installation to pre-
vent personal injury.
2.1 Pre-Installation
2.1.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the MS-AE Series inverter from its shipping container and inspect all contents.
Verify the following items are included:
− The MS-AE Inverter/Charger
− Red and black DC terminal covers with Phillips screws
− AC access cover with two Phillips screws
− Two 5/16” Kep nuts (installed on the DC terminals).
− Battery Temperature Sensor with 15 foot cable
− Warning Label
− MS-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.
2.1.2 Required Components and Materials
Hardware / Materials Required:
Conduit, strain-reliefs and appropriate fi ttings•Wire ties•
1/4” mounting bolts and lock washers (x4 minimum)•Electrical tape•
Only install the inverter in a location that meets the following requirements:
Clean and Dry - The inverter should not be installed in an area that allows dust, fumes, insects or
rodents to enter or block the inverter’s ventilation openings. This area also must be free from any
risk of condensation, water or any other liquid that can enter or fall on the inverter. The inverter
uses stainless steel fasteners, plated copper buss-bars, a power-coated aluminum base and the
internal circuit boards are conformal coated all done to help fi ght the harmful effects of corrosive
environments. However, the life of the inverter is uncertain if used in these type of environments,
and inverter failure under these conditions is not covered under warranty.
Info: If the inverter is installed in an area where moisture may occur, we recommend
putting silicone dielectric grease compound into the electrical ports (items 3 - 6 as shown
in fi gure 1-1).
a liberal amount into each port. Silicone dielectric compound makes an effective moisture
and corrosive barrier to help protect and prevent corrosion to the RJ11 connections.
Cool - The inverter should be protected from direct sun exposure or equipment that produces
extreme heat.
Info: The ambient temperature around the inverter must not exceed 77°F (25°C) to meet
power specifi cations.
Ventilation - In order for the inverter to provide full output power and avoid overtemperature
fault conditions; do not cover or block the inverters ventilation openings or install this inverter
in an area with limited airfl ow. The inverter uses two internal fans to provide forced air cooling,
these fans pull in air through the intake vents (see item 9 in fi gure 1-2) and blow out air through
the exhaust vents (see item 13 in fi gure 1-3). Allow at the minimum, an airspace clearance of 6”
at the intake and exhaust vents and 3” everywhere else to provide adequate ventilation.
If the inverter is installed in an enclosure, a fresh air intake opening must be provided directly to
the front side (intake vents) of the inverter and an exhaust opening on the back side (exhaust
vents) of the inverter. This will allow cool air from the outside to fl ow into the inverter and heated
air to exit from the inverter and out of the enclosure. When mounted in an enclosed compartment, airfl ow must be at least 100 cfm in order to maintain no more than a 68°F (20°C) rise in
compartment temperature.
CAUTION: Do not mount this inverter in a zero clearance compartment. Do not cover
or obstruct the ventilation openings - overheating may result.
Safe - Keep any fl ammable/combustible material (i.e. paper, cloth, plastic, etc.) that may be
ignited by heat, sparks or fl ames at a minimum distance of 2 feet 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 ignition-protected 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 loose 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 if allowed to collect, they could ignite
and cause an explosion. The absolute maximum recommended battery cable length is 15 feet.
Accessible - Do not block access to the inverter’s remote control and accessory ports as well
as the inverter’s controls and status indicator. Also allow enough room to access the AC and DC
wiring terminals and connections, as they will need to be checked and tighten periodically. See
fi gure 2-3 for the MS-AE Series inverter/charger dimensions.
Away from sensitive electronic equipment - High powered inverters can generate levels of RFI
(Radio Frequency Interference). Locate any electronic equipment susceptible to radio frequency
and electromagnetic interference as far away from the inverter as possible.
Before installing the accessory cables or if leaving any ports open, squirt
The inverter base can reach a temperature up to 90°C (194°F), and it is recommended that it should
be mounted on a noncombustible surface*. This surface and the mounting hardware must also be
capable of supporting at least twice the weight of the inverter. To meet regulatory requirements,
the MS-AE Series must be mounted in one of the following positions; as shown in fi gure 2-2:
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above or under a horizontal surface (shelf or table),
•
or on a vertical surface (wall) with the DC terminals to the right.
CAUTION: If the inverter is mounted in a way that the DC terminal ventilation openings
are oriented on the bottom, the ME-CB enclosure must be used. This enclosure prevents
burning material from falling out the bottom and also allows suffi cient ventilation to prevent
the inverter from overheating under normal operating conditions.
After determining the mounting position, refer to the physical dimensions as shown in fi gure 2-3
or use the base of the inverter as a template to mark your mounting screw locations. After marking the mounting screw locations, mount the unit with appropriate mounting hardware.
* Noncombustible surface - A surface made of material that will not ignite, burn, support combustion, or
release fl ammable vapors when subjected to fi re or heat as per the ASTM E136 standard. For the most
part, these are materials that are largely comprised of inorganic materials such as stone, steel, iron, brick,
tile concrete, slate and glass. Common building materials such as gypsum board as well as any paint, wall
coverings, and certainly wood will not pass.