The use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation, operation, use, and
maintenance of the MS-PE Series inverter/charger is 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 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-PE Series inverter/charger may only be used in life support devices and systems with the
express written approval of Magnum Energy. Failure of this inverter can reasonably be expected to
cause failure of that life support device or system, or to affect the safety or effectiveness of that
device or system. If the MS-PE inverter fails, it is reasonable to assume the health of the user or
other persons may be endangered.
Description – MS-PE Series Owner’s Manual
Part Number and Revision – 64-0056 Rev A
Date Published – August 2013
This entire manual is available for download—with many of the diagrams available in color—under
the Document Library tab at: www.magnumenergy.com.
Contact Information
Magnum Energy, Inc.
2211 West Casino Rd.
Everett, WA 98204
Phone: 011-425-353-8833
Fax: 011-425-353-8390
Web: www.magnumenergy.com
Statement of Appreciation
Thank you from all of us at Magnum Energy for purchasing this MS-PE Series inverter/charger.
We understand that you have many purchasing options in the marketplace, and are pleased that
you have decided on a Magnum Energy product. This MS-PE Series inverter/charger was proudly
assembled and tested in the United States in our Everett, Washington, facility.
At Magnum, we are committed to providing you with quality products and services, and hope that
your experience with us is pleasant and professional.
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:
MS4124PEAM
Page i
MS4348PEAN
Magnum Energy® is a registered trademark of Magnum Energy, Inc.
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE MS-PE SERIES INVERTER/
CHARGER THAT SHALL BE FOLLOWED DURING THE INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
OF THIS PRODUCT. Before using the MS-PE Series, read all instructions and cautionary
markings. Also, be sure to review the individual manuals provided for each component
of the system. The installation instructions are for use by qualifi ed personnel only. Do
not perform any installation or servicing other than that specifi ed in this owner’s manual
unless you are qualifi ed to do so. Incorrect installation or servicing may result in a risk
of electric shock, fi re, or other safety hazard.
Safety Precautions
• This manual contains important safety instructions that must be followed during the installation
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,
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.
• 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
system grounding is the responsibility of the installer in accordance with industry standards
and local codes.
• Both AC and DC overcurrent protection must be provided as part of the installation.
• Use Class 1 wiring methods for fi eld-wiring connections to terminals of a Class 2 circuit.
• Use only copper wires with a minimum temperature rating of 90°C.
• Listed or labeled equipment shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions
included in the listing or labeling.
• Be very careful when working around batteries, they can produce extremely high currents
if short-circuited. Read the battery supplier’s precautions before installing the inverter and
batteries.
• Wear eye protection such as safety glasses when working with batteries.
• Remove all jewelry such as rings, watches, bracelets, etc., when installing or performing
maintenance on the battery.
• 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 gases. For
compartment or enclosure installations, always vent batteries to the outside.
• Provide at least 2.5 cm (1”) of air space between batteries to provide optimum cooling.
• Never smoke 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.
• Recycle old batteries.
Safety Symbols
To 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
Congratulations on your purchase of a MS-PE Series inverter/charger from Magnum Energy. The
MS-PE Series is a “pure” sine wave inverter designed especially for rugged mobile applications,
home backup power, and standalone applications that require 230 VAC/50 Hz power. Powerful,
yet simple to use, this inverter/charger will provide you with years of trouble-free performance
you have come to expect from Magnum Energy.
When the power requirements of the system are beyond the capacity of a single MS-PE Series
inverter or the system is expanded as more loads are added, up to four MS-PE Series inverters
can be connected together in a parallel confi guration. Connecting inverters in parallel increases
the overall inverter power and surge capacity to power a large single load or several smaller loads.
Info: This is a sizeable manual and much of it is fairly technical. Terms may be used
throughout the manual that are unfamiliar to you. Refer to the Inverter/Charger
Terminology glossary in Appendix D for clarifi cation.
The MS-PE Series inverter/charger includes the following:
• 4100 or 4300-watt models in a small footprint installation
• Ability to parallel up to four identical MS-PE inverters to increase output power capability
• Automatic Power Factor Corrected (PFC) multi-stage battery charging
• RS485 standard communication protocol
• Remote and Network ports (easy connection for optional accessories)
• Inverter-mounted ON/OFF switch with LED indicator
• 30-amp AC pass-thru capability
• DC terminal covers with 360 degree connection
• Field-serviceable for qualifi ed personnel—tested repair kits available
• Automatic battery temperature compensation (using a battery temperature sensor)—for
optimum charging even during extreme temperature changes
• Overcurrent, over-temperature, and high/low battery voltage protection
Info: Refer to the Optional Equipment and Accessories section in Appendix A-2 for a
list of accessories available for use with your MS-PE Series inverter/charger.
1.1 Regulatory Compliance
MS-PE Series inverter/chargers—when connected to a MS-CEFB (CE Filter Box)—meets the CE
Mark requirements as attested by conformity to the following EU directives and standards:
EMC Directive 1999/5/EEC, per:
• EN 55014-1 (2006) +A1, +A2 (>1000W): Electromagnetic compatibility – Requirements for
household appliances, electric tools, and similar apparatus – Part 1: Emission
• EN 55014-2 (1997) +A1, +A2: Electromagnetic compatibility – Requirements for household
appliances, electric tools and similar apparatus – Part 2: Immunity – Product family standard
• EN 61000-3-2 (2006) +A1, +A2: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-2: Limits –
Limits for harmonic current emissions (equipment input current ≤ 16 A per phase)
• EN 61000-3-3 (2008): Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-3: Limits – Limitation
of voltage changes, voltage fl uctuations and fl icker in public low-voltage supply systems, for
equipment with rated current ≤16 amps per phase and not subject to conditional connection
Also meets the C-Tick Mark requirement as attested by conformity with the standards for:
There are two main modes of operation associated with the MS-PE inverter/charger:
• Inverter Mode:
When the inverter is properly connected to batteries and turned on, the direct current (DC)
from the batteries is transformed into a pure sine wave alternating current (AC). This AC is
similar to the voltage provided by your utility, and is used to power the electrical appliances
(i.e., AC loads) connected to the inverter’s output.
• Standby Mode:
When an external source of AC power (e.g., utility power or generator) is connected and
qualifi ed on the inverter’s AC input, it operates in Standby mode. In Standby mode, the unit
operates as a battery charger to convert the incoming AC power into DC power to recharge the
batteries; while at the same time, automatically closing an internal AC transfer relay to pass
the incoming AC power directly to the inverter’s output to continue powering the connected
electrical appliances.
1.2.1 Inverter Applications for Permanent Installations
An inverter can be used for backup power in a permanent location that normally uses utility power,
such as a home or offi ce. When 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 backup power is needed 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, the inverter can be used in a standalone
renewable power system. The inverter enables AC electrical appliances to be run from the storage
battery bank. When the battery bank becomes discharged, either renewable DC sources (solar,
wind, or hydropower) 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 Inverter Applications for Mobile Installations
Inverters can also be used to provide power in mobile applications (e.g., caravans or boats). In
these applications, the inverter provides power to the AC loads using the energy stored in the
batteries and recharges the batteries when shorepower or an onboard generator is available.
1.3 Advantages of using a Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Today’s inverters come in three basic output waveforms: square wave, modifi ed sine wave (which
is actually a modifi ed square wave), and pure sine wave (see Figure C-1 in Appendix C). Modifi ed
sine wave inverters approximate a pure sine wave form and will run most appliances (see also
Section C-1 “Appliance Power Consumption” in Appendix C) and electronics without any problems.
These inverters are less expensive, and therefore, offer a viable alternative to more expensive
pure sine inverters.
The output of the MS-PE Series, which is a pure sine wave inverter, is equal to or in many cases,
better than the utility 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 MSPE Series provides you with all the advantages of a pure sine wave inverter at a much lower cost
than many on the market.
The MS-PE Series is built on the same platform as our popular MS Series which helps reduce
cost by using standard parts/accessories across many models. Magnum accessories such as the
Advanced Remote Control (ME-ARC50), Standard Remote Control (ME-RC50), Automatic Generator
Start-Networked (ME-AGS-N), and Battery Monitor Kit (ME-BMK) can be used. See Section A-3
“Optional Equipment and Accessories” for more information on these products.
The MS-PE Series inverter/charger is designed to allow easy access to wiring, circuit breakers,
and controls. Its die cast baseplate with one-piece aluminum cover ensures maximum durability
with minimum weight, as well as cooler, more effi cient operation.
The front of the MS-PE Series is equipped with the following features (see Figures 1-1 and 1-2):
Power ON/OFF Switch – a momentary pushbutton switch that alternately turns the inverter
1
on or off.
Status LED Indicator – this green LED illuminates to provide information on inverter
2
or charger operation.
Stack/Accessories Port (red label) – a RJ45 port that connects to the ME-RTR router,
3
which is used to confi gure and synchronize multiple MS-PE units to operate in parallel for
increased power capacity.
CAUTION: Only connect this parallel stack port to the ME-RTR router. Although
the cabling and connectors used in this network system are the same as ethernet
connectors, this network is not an Ethernet system. Attempting to connect these two
different systems may cause damage and is not covered under warranty.
Info: To connect MS-PE Series inverters in parallel, the optional ME-RTR router must
be installed.
Network Port (green label) – a RJ11 port for connecting optional network capable
4
accessories (e.g., Auto Gen Start module or Battery Monitor).
Remote Port (blue label) – a RJ11 port for connecting the optional remote controls
5
(ME-RC, ME-ARC, or ME-RTR).
Battery Temp Sensor Port (yellow label) – a RJ11 port for connecting the remote
6
Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) accessory.
Power ON/OFF Switch
1
Status LED Indicator
2
(Charging/Inverting)
Stack/Accessories Port
3
(red label – RJ45 connection)
Network Port
4
(green label – RJ11 connection)
Remote Port
5
(blue label – RJ11 connection)
Battery Temp Sensor Port
6
(yellow label – RJ11 connection)
Figure 1-1, Power Switch, Status LED, and Accessory Connection Ports
DC Equipment Ground Terminal – this connection is used to tie the exposed chassis
7
of the inverter to the DC grounding system. This terminal accepts CU/AL conductors from
2.1 to 33.6 mm2 (#14 to #2 AWG).
AC Entry/Exit Connections – two 3/4” knockouts provided with cable-clamp strain
8
reliefs to accommodate and secure the AC input and output fi eld wiring.
Intake Air Vents – ventilation openings to pull in air to help keep the inverter cool for
9
peak performance. The intake air vents are located on the front side and at the front on
the right side; see Figure 2-3 for the locations of the air vents.
Positive DC Terminal (red) – provides a 360 degree connection point for the positive
10
(+) cable from the battery bank; consists of a 5/16-18 x 5/8” bolt with a Kep or Flange
nut that holds the battery cable to the DC terminal.
Negative DC Terminal (black) – provides a 360 degree connection point for the negative
11
(-) cable from the battery bank; consists of a 5/16-18 x 5/8” bolt with a Kep or Flange
nut that holds the battery cable to the DC terminal.
Mounting Flange – used to secure the inverter to a shelf or to a wall.
The left side of the MS-PE Series inverter is equipped with the following features (see Figure 1-3):
Exhaust Air Vents – ventilation openings that allow heated air to be removed by the
13
internal cooling fan. The exhaust air vents are located on the back side and at the rear
on the right side; see Figure 2-3 for the location of the air vents.
Model/Serial Number Label – includes model/serial number information, date of
14
manufacture, and inverter and charger specifi cations. See the MS-PE Specifi cations
section in Appendix A for more information and a list of available models.
AC Access Cover – provides access to the internal AC wiring terminal block. This
15
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.
AC Input Circuit Breaker (CB1) – this circuit breaker protects the unit’s internal
16
charger wiring and pass-thru relay while in Standby mode. The circuit breaker pops out
when it opens—press in to reset. The input circuit breaker is not branch-rated, therefore
branch-rated circuit breakers must be installed in the inverter’s input and output wiring.
CAUTION: The inverter’s internal AC transfer relay is rated for 30 amps. The pass-
thru current must be no greater than 30 amps, or damage to the relays may occur.
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
application of the installation.
CAUTION: Review the “Important Product Safety Information” on pages ii-iii before
any installation.
CAUTION: The inverter is heavy. Use proper lifting techniques during installation to
prevent personal injury.
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 override 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.
2.1 Pre-Installation
Before proceeding, read the entire Installation section to determine how best to install your MSPE inverter/charger. The more thorough you plan in the beginning, the better your inverter needs
will be met.
2.1.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the MS-PE Series inverter/charger from its shipping container and inspect all
contents. Verify the following items are included:
• The MS-PE inverter/charger
• Red and black DC terminal covers with Phillips screws
• AC access cover with two Phillips screws
• Two 5/16” Kep or Flange nuts (installed on the DC terminals)
• Battery Temperature Sensor
• Warning label
• MS-PE 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 to 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 Tools and Materials
Hardware/Materials
• Conduit, strain-reliefs, and appropriate fi ttings • 1/4” mounting bolts and lock washers
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 busbars, a power-coated aluminum base,
and the internal circuit boards are conformal coated—to help fi ght the harmful effects of corrosive
environments. However, the inverter’s life is uncertain if used in the above types of environments,
and inverter failure due to any of the above 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 (see Figure 1-1,
Items 3-6). Before installing the cables, or if leaving any ports open, squirt 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. The ambient temperature around the inverter must not exceed 25°C (77°F) to
meet power specifi cations.
Ventilation – In order for the inverter to provide full output power and to 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. The inverter uses two fans to provide forced air cooling, these fans
pull in air through the intake vents (see Figure 1-2, Item 9) and blow out air through the exhaust
vents (see Figure 1-3, Item 13). Allow at the minimum an airspace clearance of 15.2 cm (6”) at
the intake and exhaust vents, and 7.6 cm (3”) everywhere else to provide adequate ventilation.
If installed in an enclosure, a fresh air intake opening must be provided directly to the inverter’s
front side (intake vents) and an exhaust opening for the inverter’s back side (exhaust vents). This
allows cool air from the outside to fl ow into the inverter, and heated air to exit the inverter and
the enclosure. When mounted in an enclosed compartment, airfl ow must be ≥100 cfm in order to
maintain no more than a 20°C (68°F) rise in compartment temperature.
CAUTION: Do not mount this inverter in a zero clearance compartment, nor cover or
obstruct the ventilation openings—overheating may result.
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 61 cm (2 ft) away from the inverter.
Close to the battery bank – The inverter 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, as well
as the inverter’s controls and status indicator. Allow enough room to access the AC and DC wiring
terminals and connections, as they will need to be checked and tightened periodically. See Figure
2-3 for the MS-PE 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.
The inverter base can reach a temperature up to 90°C (194°F) and 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-PE Series must
be mounted in one of the following positions (as shown in Figure 2-2):
• above or under a horizontal surface (shelf or table),
• on a vertical surface (wall) with the DC terminals to the right,
• on a vertical surface (wall) with the DC terminals toward the bottom, the MP-HOOD
(inverter hood) installed on the top, and one of the following installed on the bottom:
ME-CB or MPX-CB (conduit boxes), MS-CEFB (CE fi lter box), MMP-E Series (single inverter
enclosure), or MP-E Series (multiple inverter enclosure).
Info: The ME-CB, MPX-CB, MS-CEFB, MMP-E and MP-E enclosures all prevent material
from falling out the bottom in the event of an internal fi re. The MP-HOOD inverter hood
prevents items from falling inside, causing damage to the inverter.
Info: Magnum provides a backplate for mounting the inverter. These backplates also
provide the ability to mount either the MMP-E Series enclosure (PN: BP-MMP) or the
MP-E Series enclosure (PN: BP-S single plate, or BP-D dual plate).
After determining the mounting position, refer to the physical dimensions as shown in Figure 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.
* Non-combustible 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. Avoid common building materials such as gypsum board, painted surfaces, wall
coverings, and any type of wood.
30
30
SHELFOR TABLE MOUNTED
(RIGHTSIDEUP)
WALL MOUNTED
(DC TERMINALSTOTHERIGHT)
SHELFOR TABLE MOUNTED
(UPSIDEDOWN)
OVERLOADS."
"PROVIDED WITH INTEGRAL PROTECTION AGAI
SEE DIAGRAM."
"WARNING: MORE THAN ONE LIVE CIRCUIT.
compartment. Overheating may result."
ventilation openings. Do not mount in zero-clearan
"CAUTION- To prevent fire, do not cover or obstru
when connected to this inverter equipment."
inverter. Other types may fail to operate properly
operation instructions manual supplied with the
circuit breaker(s)] specified in the installation and
ground-fault circuit-interrupter [receptacle(s) or
"WARNING- Risk of electrical shock. Use only the
OVERLOADS."
"PROVIDED WITH INTEGRAL PROTECTION AGAI
SEE DIAGRAM."
"WARNING: MORE THAN ONE LIVE CIRCUIT.
compartment. Overheating may result."
ventilation openings. Do not mount in zero-clearan
"CAUTION- To prevent fire, do not cover or obstru
when connected to this inverter equipment."
inverter. Other types may fail to operate properly
operation instructions manual supplied with the
circuit breaker(s)] specified in the installation and
ground-fault circuit-interrupter [receptacle(s) or
"WARNING- Risk of electrical shock. Use only the
4 ⅞"
(12.4 cm)
Installation
6 ⅝"
(16.8 cm)
Vents
Air Intake
Air Intake Vents
Top
12 ⅝"
(32.1 cm)
8"
(20.3 cm)
Front
30
30
13 ¾"
(34.9 cm)
12"
(30.5 cm)
Bottom
Left
Side
Figure 2-3, MS-PE Series Dimensions and Side Reference
This section describes the requirements and recommendations for wiring the MS-PE Series inverter/
charger. Before wiring the MS-PE Series inverter/charger, read all instructions.
All wiring should meet all local codes and industry standards, and be performed by
qualifi ed personnel such as a licensed electrician.
Info: This document uses the term “ground”, or “grounding”; the European equivalent
is “earth”, or “earthing”. Refer to Appendix A-3 for equivalent AC/DC wiring terminology.
Inverter/charger systems involve power from multiple sources (e.g., inverter, generator, utility,
batteries, solar arrays, etc.,) which makes the wiring more hazardous and challenging.
The input and output AC and DC circuits are isolated from the inverter chassis. The inverter system
grounding is the responsibility of the installer in accordance with local codes and standard safety
practices.
WARNING: Ensure all sources of DC power (e.g., batteries, solar, wind, or hydro)
and AC power (utility power or AC generator) are de-energized (i.e., breakers opened,
fuses removed) before proceeding—to prevent accidental shock.
2.3.1 Protecting Wire – Conduit Box or Inverter Enclosure
The AC and DC wires into and out of the inverter must be protected as required by code.
This can be done by using jacketed wires or by feeding the wires through conduit. To this
end, Magnum offers DC conduit boxes (ME-CB or MPX-CB) and single (MMP-E Series) or
multiple (MP-E Series) inverter enclosures. The enclosures include the necessary AC and
DC inverter breakers that allow both the AC and DC conduit to be connected to the inverter.
Info: Remove the strain reliefs and replace with 3/4” grommets if using the ME-CB or
MPX-CB conduit boxes, MS-CEFB fi lter box, or either Magnum enclosure system.
2.3.2 Wiring Requirements
• All conductors that are at risk for physical damage must be protected by conduit, tape, or
placed in a raceway.
• Always check for existing electrical, plumbing, or other areas of potential damage prior to
making cuts in structural surfaces or walls.
• Do not mix AC and DC wiring in the same conduit or panel unless specifi cally approved/
designed for both AC and DC wiring. Where DC wiring must cross AC or vice-versa, try to
make the wires at the crossing point perpendicular (90 degrees) to one another.
• Both AC and DC overcurrent protection must be provided as part of the installation.
• The inverter requires a reliable negative and ground return path directly to the battery.
• Use only copper wires with a minimum temperature rating of 75°C.
2.3.3 Wire Routing
Before connecting any wires, determine all wire routes to and from the inverter. Typical routing
scenarios:
• AC input wiring from the main AC panel to the inverter
• AC input wiring from a generator (optional) to the inverter
• DC input wiring from the batteries to the inverter
• AC output wiring from the inverter to the AC sub-panel or to dedicated circuits
• Battery Temperature Sensor cable from the inverter to the batteries
• Remote control cable (optional) to the inverter
• Ground wiring to and from the inverter
2.3.4 Torque Requirements
• Torque all AC wiring connections to 1.8 N-m (16 in lbf). Torque DC cable connections from
This section describes the inverter’s required DC wire sizes, the recommended disconnect/
overcurrent protection, and how to make the DC connections to the inverter and the battery bank.
Refer to Figure 2-4 when connecting the DC wires.
WARNING: Even though DC voltage is “low voltage”, signifi cant hazards may be
present, particularly from short circuits of the battery system.
CAUTION: The inverter is NOT reverse polarity protected—which means that if the
negative and positive battery voltage is connected backwards to the inverter, the
inverter will likely be damaged. You should verify the correct voltage polarity using a
voltmeter BEFORE connecting the DC wires.
CAUTION: Before wiring the DC cables, review the safety information at the beginning
of this manual and the instructions below to ensure a safe and long-lived system.
Info: DO NOT connect the battery cables to the inverter until all wiring is complete and
the correct DC voltage and polarity have been verifi ed.
• When the inverter is installed in a photovoltaic system, standard safety practices require that
the DC circuit conductors and overcurrent devices to the inverter be sized to carry not less
than 125% of the inverter’s maximum current rating.
• The DC positive and negative cables connected to the inverter from the battery bank should
be tied together with wire ties or electrical tape approximately every 15.2 cm (6”). This
helps improve the surge capability and reduces the effects of inductance, which improves the
inverter waveform and reduces the wear of the inverter’s fi lter capacitors.
• Use crimped and sealed copper ring terminal lugs to connect the DC wires to the inverter’s
DC terminals. (We use 5/16” terminal lugs here in U.S., determine the European equivalent.)
• The battery bank voltage must match the DC voltage required by the inverter (i.e., 24-volt
battery bank for a 24-volt inverter), or the inverter may be damaged.
• To ensure the maximum performance from the inverter, all connections from the battery bank
to the inverter should be minimized. The exceptions are the DC overcurrent disconnect in the
positive line and a shunt in the negative line. Any other additional connection will contribute
to additional voltage drops, and these extra connection points may loosen during use.
• All wiring to the battery terminals should be checked periodically (once a month) for proper
tightness. The torque requirement for the DC terminals is between 13.6 to 16.3 N-m (10 to 12
ft lbf). If you do not have a torque wrench, ensure all DC terminals are tight and cannot move.
• Be aware that overtightening or misthreading the nuts on the DC terminals can cause the
bolts to strip and snap/break off.
• Make sure cables have a smooth bend radius and do not become kinked. Place long cable runs
in conduit and follow existing wire runs where possible.
• A brief spark or arc may occur when connecting the battery cables to the inverter DC terminals;
this is normal and due to the inverter’s internal capacitors being charged.
• Color code the DC cables/wires with colored tape or heat shrink tubing: BROWN for positive (+);
BLUE for negative (-); and GREEN (or GREEN w/YELLOW stripe) for DC ground to avoid polarity
problems. Refer to Table A-2 (in Appendix A-3) for a list of equivalent DC wiring color codes
for Europe and U.S./Canada.