Outback Power Systems GFX1312E, GFX1424E, GFX1448E User Manual
International Series
GFX Inverter/Charger
GFX1312E GFX1424E GFX1448E
Operator’s Manual
About OutBack Power Technologies
OutBack Power Technologies is a leader in advanced energy conversion technology. Our products
include true sine wave inverter/chargers, maximum power point tracking charge controllers, system
communication components, as well as breaker panels, breakers, accessories, and assembled systems.
Contact Information
Telephone: +1.360.435.6030 (North America)
+1.360.618.4363 (Technical Support)
+1.360.435.6019 (Fax)
Address: North America
19009 62nd Avenue NE
Arlington, WA 98223 USA
E-mail:
Web Site:
Support@outbackpower.com
www.outbackpower.com
+34.93.654.9568 (Barcelona, Spain)
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, OUTBACK POWER TECHNOLOGIES
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL
OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE
USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Warranty Summary
OutBack Power Technologies Inc. warrants that the products it manufactures will be free from defects
in materials and workmanship for a period of two (2) years subject to the conditions set forth in the
warranty detail, found on page 51 of this manual.
OutBack Power Technologies cannot be responsible for system failure, damages, or injury resulting
from improper installation of their products.
Notice of Copyright
International Series GFX Operator’s Manual © September 2010 by OutBack Power Technologies. All
Rights Reserved.
Trademarks
OutBack Power is a registered trademark of OutBack Power Technologies.
Date and Revision
September 2010, Revision A
Part Number
900-0112-01-00 Rev A (for firmware revision 002.094.xxx)
Important Safety Instructions
READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
This manual contains important safety instructions for the International Series GFX inverters. Read all
instructions and cautionary markings on the inverter and on any accessories or additional equipment
included in the installation. Failure to adhere to these instructions could result in severe shock or
possible electrocution. Exercise extreme caution at all times to prevent accidents.
Audience
This manual is intended for anyone required to operate the GFX Inverter. Operators must be familiar
with all the safety regulations pertaining to operating this kind of equipment as dictated by local code.
Operators must also have a complete understanding of this equipment’s features and functions. Do
not use this product unless it has been installed by a qualified installer in accordance with the
International Series GFX Installation Manual.
Symbols Used
WARNING: Hazard to Human Life
This type of notation indicates that the hazard could be harmful to human life.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
This type of notation indicates that the hazard may cause damage to the equipment.
IMPORTANT:
This type of notation indicates that the information provided is important to
the installation, operation and/or maintenance of the equipment. Failure to
follow the recommendations in such a notation could result in voiding the
equipment warranty.
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 1
Important Safety Instructions
Definitions
The following is a list of initials, terms, and definitions used in conjunction with this product.
Table 1 Terms and Definitions
Acronym Definition
AC Alternating Current; refers to voltage produced by the inverter, utility grid, or generator.
AGS Automatic Generator Start
AUX Inverter’s 12-volt auxiliary output
CE Conformité Européenne; French for “European Conformity”; a marking on OutBack
products indicating that they meet European Union requirements
DC Direct Current; refers to voltage produced by the batteries or renewable source
DVM Digital Voltmeter
Grid-interactive,
grid-intertie, grid-tie
HBX High Battery Transfer; a function of the remote system display
LBCO Low Battery Cut-Out; set point at which the inverter shuts down due to low batteries
Utility grid power is available for use and the inverter is a model capable of returning
(selling) electricity back to the utility grid
LED Light-Emitting Diode; refers to indicators used by the inverter and the system display
Off-grid
On-grid Utility grid power is available for use (does not imply grid-interactive capability)
PV Photovoltaic
RE Renewable Energy
RTS Remote Temperature Sensor; accessory that measures battery temperature for charging
System display Remote interface device (such as the MATE), used for monitoring, programming and
Utility grid The electrical service and infrastructure supported by the electrical or utility company;
Utility grid power
communicating with the inverter; also called “remote system display”
also called “mains”, “utility service”, or “grid”
available for use
is not
General Safety
WARNING: Limitations on Use
This equipment is NOT intended for use with life support equipment or other medical
equipment or devices.
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Only use components or accessories recommended or sold by OutBack Power Systems
or its authorized agents.
2 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions ................................................................... 1
Audience .........................................................................................................................................................................1
Symbols Used ................................................................................................................................................................1
Definitions.......................................................................................................................................................................2
General Safety ...............................................................................................................................................................2
Introduction............................................................................................ 7
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies......................................................................................................... 7
System Display and Controller ................................................................................................................................8
Operation ............................................................................................... 9
Functional Test..............................................................................................................................................................9
Pre-startup Procedures......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Startup........................................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Powering Down.....................................................................................................................................................................10
Adding New Devices............................................................................................................................................................10
LED Indicators..............................................................................................................................................................11
Description of Functions .........................................................................................................................................13
Inverting...................................................................................................................................................................................13
Search .......................................................................................................................................................................................14
Input.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Generators...............................................................................................................................................................................16
Transfer.....................................................................................................................................................................................16
Grid/Generator Support .....................................................................................................................................................17
Battery Charging................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Equalization ............................................................................................................................................................................21
Battery Temperature Compensation..............................................................................................................................22
Selling .......................................................................................................................................................................................23
Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking)......................................................................................................................24
Power Save Levels.................................................................................................................................................................26
Auxiliary Terminals............................................................................................................................................................... 27
System Display-Based Functions..........................................................................................................................28
Automatic Generator Start (AGS) ....................................................................................................................................28
High Battery Transfer (HBX)............................................................................................................................................... 28
Grid Use Programming .......................................................................................................................................................28
Troubleshooting.................................................................................... 29
Basic Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................................................29
Error Messages ............................................................................................................................................................34
Warning Messages.....................................................................................................................................................35
Disconnect Messages ...............................................................................................................................................36
Stop Sell Reasons........................................................................................................................................................37
Specifications........................................................................................ 39
Specifications for Model GFX1312E.....................................................................................................................39
Specifications for Model GFX1424E.....................................................................................................................40
Specifications for Model GFX1448E.....................................................................................................................41
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 3
Table of Contents
Environmental Specifications................................................................................................................................42
Regulatory Specifications........................................................................................................................................42
Grid-Interactive Use............................................................................................................................................................. 42
Default Settings and Ranges..................................................................................................................................43
Product Registration...............................................................................49
Extended Warranty....................................................................................................................................................50
Warranty ...............................................................................................51
How to Arrange for Warranty Service.................................................................................................................52
Contacting OutBack............................................................................................................................................................. 52
Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Return Material Authorization (RMA) ............................................................................................................................ 52
Returning Product to OutBack......................................................................................................................................... 53
Index.....................................................................................................55
4 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Table 1 Terms and Definitions.............................................................................................................. 2
Table 2 Battery LED Values.................................................................................................................. 11
Table 3 Status LED Quick Reference ................................................................................................ 12
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps .............................................................................................. 29
Table 5 Error Troubleshooting...........................................................................................................34
Table 6 Warning Troubleshooting.................................................................................................... 35
Table 7 Disconnect Troubleshooting.............................................................................................. 36
Table 8 Grid-Interactive Troubleshooting..................................................................................... 37
Table 9 Electrical Specifications (GFX1312E)................................................................................ 39
Table 10 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1312E)........................................................................... 39
Table 11 Electrical Specifications (GFX1424E)................................................................................ 40
Table 12 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1424E)........................................................................... 40
Table 13 Electrical Specifications (GFX1448E)................................................................................ 41
Table 14 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1448E)........................................................................... 41
Table 15 Environmental Specifications for All Models................................................................ 42
Table 16 Interconnection Response to Voltage and Frequency ............................................. 42
Table 17 12-Volt Inverter Settings.......................................................................................................43
Table 18 24-Volt Inverter Settings.......................................................................................................44
Table 19 48-Volt Inverter Settings.......................................................................................................46
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 5
Table of Contents
List of Figures
Figure 1 International Series GFX Inverter/Charger........................................................................7
Figure 2 AC Wiring Compartment .........................................................................................................9
Figure 3 LED Indicators...........................................................................................................................11
Figure 4 Charging Stages Over Time.................................................................................................18
Figure 5 Repeated Charging Cycles...................................................................................................20
Figure 6 OutBack HUB4 and MATE..................................................................................................... 24
Figure 7 Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)................................. 25
Figure 8 Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters) ......................25
6 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Introduction
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies
Thank you for purchasing the OutBack International Series GFX Inverter. This product offers a
complete power conversion system between batteries and AC power. It can provide backup power or
complete off-grid service.
Battery-to-AC inverting which delivers 230 Vac at 50 Hz
AC-to-battery charging
Rapid transfer between AC source and inverter output with minimal delay time
Inverter load support for a small AC source
12-, 24-, and 48-volt units
Wattages from 1.3 kVA to 1.4 kVA
Stackable in parallel and three-phase configurations
Uses energy from PV, wind, and other renewable sources if appropriate controllers are used
Grid-interactive capable
CE compliant for off-grid use
2 pt./ flat head
Figure 1 International Series GFX Inverter/Charger
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 7
Introduction
System Display and Controller
The GFX inverters have no external controls. They can operate normally without an external control or
interface. Basic modes and settings are pre-programmed at the factory. However, if the
pre-programmed settings need adjustment, a remote system display must be used for changing those
settings and for more detailed monitoring activities. Modes and settings cannot be changed without
the system display.
The MATE Series Display and Controller is an OutBack system display, available for remotely
interfacing with the GFX series inverters.
IMPORTANT:
The GFX inverters have nonvolatile memory and will retain any settings that
have been changed, even after the system display is removed. If a system
does not have a display, an installer can bring a system display to the site
temporarily, install it, change the settings, and remove the display again.
IMPORTANT:
Some functions are not based in the inverter, but are part of the system
display’s software. They will not function if the system display is removed.
These functions are listed on page 28. For a detailed description and
programming, please see the manual for the system display.
8 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Functional Test
Pre-startup Procedures
1. Ensure all DC and AC breakers or fuses are disconnected.
2. Double-check all wiring connections.
3. Inspect the work area to ensure tools or debris have not been left inside.
4. Verify battery voltage using a digital voltmeter (DVM). Confirm the voltage is correct for the
inverter model. Confirm the polarity.
5. Connect the system display (if present).
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Incorrect battery polarity will damage the inverter. This damage is not covered by the warranty.
Startup
If steps are inapplicable, they can be omitted. However, it is highly
recommended that all applicable steps be performed in the
following order.
If the results of a step do not match the description, see the
Troubleshooting section on page 29.
To start the system:
1. Close the main DC breaker (or connect the fuse) from the battery
bank to the inverter. Repeat for every inverter present.
2. Observe the LEDs in the AC wiring compartment. One of the
three BATTERY LEDs should be illuminated — green, yellow, or
red. Any of them are acceptable at this stage. (See page 11 for a
description of the LEDs.) The INVERTER LED (green) may come
on at this time. The fan will run briefly and the relay will click as a
self-test.
3. The ERROR LED may flash briefly. If it remains illuminated or
continues to flash during any step, proceed immediately to
page 29 for troubleshooting.
4. Confirm that the system display is operational. (See the system
display manual for a description of the menu items that appear
on a correctly functioning display.)
Figure 2 AC Wiring Compartment
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 9
Operation
5. If the INVERTER LED (green) is not illuminated, turn on the inverter using the system display or
external switch.
6. Check the STATUS LEDs. Confirm that the INVERTER LED (green) is illuminated.
7. Using a DVM, verify 230 Vac between the AC HOT OUT and AC NEUTRAL OUT terminals. Do not
turn on any AC breakers or disconnects at this time.
8. Perform all programming for stacking, battery charging, AC current, generator starting, and any
other functions. Refer to the Description of Functions section beginning on page 13, the system
display manual, and any other literature as needed.
After programming is completed, perform the following steps:
1. If other inverters are on the system, use a DVM to verify correct voltage from AC HOT OUT on one
inverter to the next. Parallel-stacked inverters should collectively read 0 Vac (although individually
they should still read 230 Vac). Three-phase inverters should collectively read 400 Vac.
2. Close the AC output breakers or disconnects. If AC Bypass breakers are present, place them in the
normal (non-Bypass) position. Do not connect an AC input source or close any AC input breakers.
3. Use a DVM to verify correct voltage at the AC load panel.
4. Connect a small AC load and test for proper functionality.
5. Close the AC input breakers and connect an AC source.
6. Check the STATUS LEDs. The AC IN LED (yellow) should flash. The INVERTER LED will remain
illuminated for a short time. When the AC IN LED stays illuminated, the INVERTER LED should go
dark. This means the inverter is no longer drawing on batteries, but is using the AC source.
7. If the battery charger has been enabled, confirm that it is charging by using the system display.
The inverter will perform a full battery charge when first powered up. This may take several hours.
If restarted after a temporary shutdown, the inverter may skip most or all of the charging cycle.
8. Test any other functions which have been enabled, such as generator start, selling, or
search mode. International Series GFX inverters have a minimum one-minute delay before selling
will begin.
9. Compare the DVM’s readings with the system display meter readings. If necessary, the system
display’s readings can be calibrated to match the DVM more accurately. AC input voltage, AC
output voltage, and battery voltage can be calibrated.
Powering Down
If steps are inapplicable, they can be omitted. However, it is highly recommended that all applicable
steps be performed in the following order.
To Power Down the System:
1. Turn off all load breakers and AC input breakers.
2. Turn off all renewable energy breakers.
3. Turn each inverter OFF using the system display or external switch.
4. Turn off the main DC breaker for each inverter.
Adding New Devices
When adding new devices to the system, first power down the system according to the preceding
instructions. After adding new devices, perform another functional test, including programming.
10 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Operation
LED Indicators
BATTERY LEDs STATUS LEDs
AUX LED
(see page 27)
Figure 3 LED Indicators
BATTERY LEDS
The battery LEDs show the approximate battery state. (See
IMPORTANT
LEDs are independent of STATUS LEDs. Any STATUS LED could accompany any BATTERY LED based
on certain conditions. Common combinations are noted.
A GREEN LED means the batteries have an adequate charge at that time. It does not always mean they are
full. May be accompanied by a YELLOW STATUS LED when an AC source is charging.
A YELLOW LED means the batteries are somewhat discharged.
A RED LED means the batteries are greatly discharged and may require attention. May be accompanied by
a RED STATUS LED to indicate a Low Battery ERROR.
note below.) The BATTERY
Table 2 Battery LED Values
Color 12 Vdc Unit 24 Vdc Unit, ± 0.2 Vdc 48 Vdc Unit, ± 0.4 Vdc Battery Status
GREEN 12.5 Vdc or higher 25.0 Vdc or higher 50.0 Vdc or higher ACCEPTABLE
YELLOW 11.5 to 12.4 Vdc 23.0 to 24.8 Vdc 46.0 to 49.6 Vdc USABLE
RED 11.4 Vdc or lower 22.8 Vdc or lower 45.6 Vdc or lower LOW
Gaps in the table (higher-voltage units) are due to the resolution of the inverter’s DC meter.
These voltage settings are not the same as the Low Battery Cut-Out (LBCO) set point. (See pages 13
and 34.) The Battery LED settings cannot be changed.
Voltages higher than shown in the GREEN row usually means that the batteries are charging.
IMPORTANT:
Battery voltage does not always indicate an accurate state of charge. It is accurate if batteries have been
at rest for several hours at room temperature (25 °C or 77 °F, or specified by the battery manufacturer). If
they have
true state. The OutBack FLEXnet DC is a battery monitor which can provide accurate measurements.
loads, a charging source, or are at another temperature, their voltage may not reflect their
any
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 11
Operation
STATUS LEDS
GREEN
Solid: The inverter is ON and providing power. If accompanied by solid yellow LED, unit is selling power to
the utility grid. (See page 23 for a description of the Sell function.)
Flashing: The inverter has been turned ON but is idle. May be accompanied by the yellow LED. If not
accompanied by the yellow LED, the unit in inverting mode and is idle due to lack of demand. This can be
because the unit is a slave that is in Power Save mode. (See page 26 for a description of Power Save.) It can
also be because the system is in Search mode. (See page 14 for a description of Search.)
Off: Unit is OFF. It is not waiting to provide power. Any power present is from the utility grid or generator,
not the inverter. (See Startup on page 9, or the system display manual, to turn the unit ON.)
YELLOW
Solid: The AC source is connected and providing power. Unit may or may not be charging the batteries,
depending on settings. May be accompanied by green LED.
Flashing: The AC source is present but has not been accepted. If flashing continues, the unit is refusing the
source. This can occur for the following reasons.
The AC source may have quality issues. External diagnosis may be required. (See page 15 for a
description of input criteria. See the system display manual for diagnosis using the meter displays.)
In the MATE system display, the AC Input Control menu is set to DROP. (See the MATE manual for a
description of the AC IN hot key.)
In the MATE, the HBX feature or the Grid Use feature intentionally disconnected the inverter. (See the
MATE manual for a description of these modes.)
Off: No AC source is detected. If a source is supposed to be present, confirm the voltage between AC HOT
IN and AC NEUTRAL IN terminals.
RED
Solid: ERROR. Unit has shut down due to a critical problem which may be internal or external to the
inverter. This LED is accompanied by an Error message in the system display. See page 34 for a
description of ERROR messages.
Flashing: WARNING. Unit has detected a non-critical problem but has not yet shut down. A Warning does
not always lead to a shutdown — if it does, it becomes an Error. This LED is accompanied by a Warning
message in the system display. See page 35 for a description of Warning messages.
Off: No problems are detected.
Table 3 Status LED Quick Reference
Color State Inverter State Notes
Inverter is ON and providing power. If accompanied by YELLOW LED, unit is selling.
Inverter is ON but standing by. Unit may be Slave, or may be in Search mode.
Inverter is not providing power. Unit is either OFF or has been replaced by AC
source (see next item).
AC source connected and providing
power.
AC source present but not yet accepted. Unit maybe programmed not to accept the
No AC source is detected. If source is present, check AC input.
ERROR. Unit has shut down. See
Troubleshooting.
WARNING. Unit detected a problem but
has not yet shut down. See
Troubleshooting.
No problems detected.
Unit may or may not be charging batteries,
depending on settings.
source, or the source may have quality issues.
To see Error messages, see the system display
manual.
To see Warning messages, see the system
display manual.
GREEN
YELLOW
RED
Solid GREEN
Flashing GREEN
Off
Solid YELLOW
Flashing YELLOW
Off
Solid RED
Flashing RED
Off
12 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Description of Functions
All items identified as settable or adjustable have set points which can be accessed using the remote
system display. (See the system display manual for instructions on locating these set points.) The
default settings and ranges of adjustment are listed near the end of this book, beginning on page 43.
Inverting
A GFX inverter uses a transformer and a high-frequency H-Bridge FET design to convert DC voltage
from batteries into AC voltage that is usable AC by appliances. It will continue to do this as long as the
batteries have sufficient energy. The batteries can be supplied or recharged from other sources, such
as solar, wind, or micro-hydroelectric power.
The inverter requires batteries to operate. Other sources may not maintain DC voltages that are
consistent enough for the inverter to operate reliably.
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Do not substitute other DC sources in place of the batteries. High or irregular voltages
may damage the inverter. It is normal to use other DC sources in conjunction with the
batteries and the inverter, but not in place of the batteries.
Certain features will affect the inverter’s operation. These features only operate when the inverter is
generating AC power on its own. They do not function when the inverter is being supplied by an
AC source.
Low Battery Cut-Out (LBCO):
will stop functioning and give a Low Battery Voltage error when the DC voltage drops below a specified
level for 5 minutes. This is one of the Error messages described on page 34. This function is intended to
protect both the batteries and the inverter’s output. (Continuing to invert on a low DC voltage may
produce a distorted waveform.) This item is adjustable.
Low Battery Cut-In (LBCI):
above a certain level for 10 minutes, the Low Battery error will clear and the inverter will resume
functioning. This item is adjustable.
Adjust Output Voltage:
for conditions. This item is adjustable.
The inverter is also controlled by a high battery cut-out function. If the DC voltage rises above a specified
level, the inverter will immediately stop functioning and give a
the Error messages displayed on page 34. (If the voltage drops below this point, the inverter automatically
recovers.)
For a 12-volt inverter, this voltage is 20 volts.
For a 24-volt inverter, the voltage is 40 volts
For a 48-volt inverter, the voltage is 80 volts.
The high battery cut-out voltages cannot be changed.
This feature prevents the inverter from draining the batteries completely. It
The recovery point from Low Battery Cut-Out. When the DC voltage rises
The inverter’s AC output can be turned up or down by a certain amount, to adjust
High Battery Voltage
error. This is one of
This function is intended to protect the inverter’s output and loads. Continuing to invert on a high DC
voltage may produce a distorted waveform. Note that the inverter’s high battery cut-out does not alleviate
or solve the high battery condition itself; the cause is an external condition.
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 13
Operation
Search
An automated search circuit is available to minimize the power draw when no loads are present.
When enabled, the inverter does not always deliver full output. The output is reduced to brief pulses
with a delay between them. These pulses are sent down the output lines to see if a resistance is
present. In effect, the pulses “search” for a load. If one is detected, the inverter’s output increases to
full voltage so that it can power the load. When the load is turned off, the inverter “goes to sleep” and
begins searching again.
The sensitivity of Search mode is in increments of approximately 0.1 Aac. The default is 6 increments,
or 0.6 Aac. A load which draws this amount or greater will “wake up” the inverter.
NOTE:
Due to load characteristics, these increments are only approximate and may not function
exactly as listed.
The pulse duration and the delay both have a time period that is measured in AC cycles. These two
items and the load detection threshold are adjustable.
Search mode can save a considerable amount of power, particularly in smaller systems with
intermittent use.
Search mode may not be useful in larger systems with loads that require continuous power (e.g., clocks,
answering machines, fax machines). Search mode may cause nuisance shutdowns, or it may sleep so rarely
that there is no benefit.
Some devices may not be easily detectable by Search mode.
Input
When the GFX inverter input terminals are connected to a stable AC source, the inverter will
synchronize itself with that source and use it as the primary source of AC power. (See “AC Source
Acceptance” on page 15.) In this situation, the transfer relay will engage, linking the AC source directly
with the inverter’s output. It can also use the source to charge batteries. (See “Transfer” on page 16
and “Battery Charging” on page 18.)
Two sets of input criteria are available, one for the utility grid and one for a generator. Only one can be
selected at a time. In the MATE system display, these options are selected using the
menu. (See the next item below. Also see AC Current Settings on page 15.) Both the utility grid and
generator criteria are adjustable.
The grid-interactive function can sell power using the input connection. (See the section entitled “Selling”
on page 23.) In the MATE, this function only operates if
does not function if
The Grid/Generator Support feature can use battery power to assist a smaller AC source. (See the section
entitled “Grid/Generator Support” on page 17.)
There are a number of considerations when selecting the type and size of an AC generator. (See the
section entitled “Generators” on page 16.)
The AC input current is used to power both loads and battery charging. The combined amount should not
exceed the size of the breaker or AC source. These devices should be sized appropriately during planning.
The loads powered by the inverter
section entitled “Transfer” on page 16.)
is selected.
gen
must not
exceed the size of the inverter’s transfer relay. (See the
is selected in the
grid
ac transfer control
ac transfer control
menu. It
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Current draw in excess of the inverter’s transfer relay rating can damage the transfer
relay. This damage is not covered by warranty.
14 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
Operation
AC Current Settings
The AC current settings control the amount of current that the inverter draws from the source(s). The
amount of current is controlled by the grid or generator limit settings. These settings should be
adjusted to match the size of the input breaker or circuit which is to be protected. In the MATE system
display, if the
set to
gen
This is intended to protect a generator or source that may not be large enough to supply enough current.
If the combined charging and loads exceed this setting, the inverter will reduce its charge rate and give
priority to the loads. If the loads exceed this number on their own, the charge rate will be reduced to zero.
The inverter is capable of supporting the source with power from the batteries. See the section entitled
“Grid/Generator Support” on page 17.
If multiple parallel inverters are installed with an AC source of limited wattage, the total combined
amperage settings for all units must be less than the input or breaker size of the AC source. The inverters
do not perform this calculation. It may be necessary to divide the input size by the number of inverters
and assign an equal part of the amperage to each port.
ac transfer control
, the inverter uses the generator settings.
menu is set to
, the inverter uses the grid settings. If the menu is
grid
AC Source Acceptance
The input source must meet the following specifications to be accepted:
230 Vac, ± 22 Vac (default setting), and
50 Hz, ± 5 Hz
When these conditions are met, the inverter will close its transfer relay and accept the input source.
This occurs after a delay which is specified below. If the conditions are not met, the inverter will not
accept the source. If it was previously accepted and then rejected, the inverter will open the relay and
return to inverting power from the batteries.
If the MATE’s
15 seconds.
If the MATE’s
minutes. This is intended as a generator warmup period. This item is adjustable.
ac transfer control
ac transfer control
menu is set to
menu is set to
, there is a connection delay of approximately
grid
, there is a connection delay with a default setting of 0.5
gen
Notes:
Several items, external to the inverter, may prevent the inverter from accepting AC power even if
electrical conditions are met. One is the high-battery transfer (HBX) mode, which is operated by the
MATE system display. (See page 28 and the MATE manual.) Another is the MATE’s
AC IN
hot key,
which can turn off the input to all inverters. (See the MATE manual.)
The inverter has additional criteria that govern whether it sells power. The inverter may accept AC
power but refuse to sell if the acceptance criteria are met, but the grid-interactive criteria are not. (See
the section entitled “Selling” on page 23.)
900-0112-01-00 Rev A 15
Operation
Generators
A generator should be sized to provide enough power for both loads and battery charging.
The generator needs a single circuit which is sized to provide current to
or leg.
It is usually recommended that the generator be sized at twice the wattage of the inverter system. Many
portable generators may not be able to maintain AC voltage or frequency for long periods of time if they
are loaded more than 80% of rated capacity.
Using the MATE system display, it is recommended to set the
connecting a generator. If the setting is left on
utility-grade power. Unless the generator delivers extremely high-quality power, it might not be accepted.
(Alternately, the inverter might accept the generator and attempt to sell power back to it.) Changing to
will remove the requirements for high-grade power and will prevent selling.
gen
, the inverter’s internal settings will still be set for
grid
ac transfer control
The generator is required to have a stable output before its power is accepted by the inverter. Some
generators with less stable or uneven outputs may not be accepted.
When using capacitor-excited generators or self-excited induction generators, there can be side
effects while using the Grid/Generator Support feature (see page 17). These generators do not always
deliver full output when operating in parallel with another source of power, such as the Support
feature. The inverter’s battery charger may work erratically or at a low charge rate. It may be
necessary to disable the Grid/Generator Support feature. Consult the generator manufacturer if
necessary.
inverters on a given phase
all
menu to
gen
when
Transfer
The inverter uses a transfer relay to alternate between the states of inverting and of accepting an AC
source. Until the relay energizes, the AC HOT IN and AC HOT OUT terminals are electrically isolated
from each other; when it closes, they become electrically common. When the relay changes states,
the physical transfer delay is approximately 12 milliseconds.
The AC NEUTRAL IN and AC NEUTRAL OUT terminals are electrically common regardless of the state of
the relay.
The relay contacts are limited to 30 amps. The loads should never exceed this number.
The inverter does not filter or clean up the power from the AC source. The voltage and power quality
received by the output loads is the same as that of the source. If the voltage or quality do not meet
the inverter’s input limits (see page 15), it will disconnect and return to the inverting mode. However,
any fluctuations within the inverter’s tolerance range will be transferred to the loads. If the loads are
sensitive, it may be necessary to ensure the quality of the AC source.
To ensure a smoother transition, it may be advisable to raise the inverter’s lower acceptance limit. The
default setting is 208 Vac. A higher setting will cause the inverter to transfer sooner in the event of a
quality problem.
In a stacked system, all slaves are ordered to transfer at the same time as the master. If a slave is not
connected to an AC source, it will suffer a
inverting.
Phase Loss
Error (see page 34). The slave will continue
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Current draw in excess of the inverter’s transfer relay rating can damage the transfer
relay. This damage is not covered by warranty.
16 900-0112-01-00 Rev A
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