Vector POCKET POWER VEC041 User's Manual & Warranty Information

Page 1
95 WATT*
POCKET POWER
®
INVERTER
KEY INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW:
• 95 watts for up to 30 minutes, 85 watts continuous
VEC041
Page 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Always use the inverter where there is adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation slots.
2. DO NOT use the inverter near flammable materials or in locations that may accumulate flammable fumes or gases.
3. ALWAYS turn OFF the inverter by removing it from the DC accessory outlet when not in use.
4. NEVER IMMERSE THE UNIT IN WATER (fresh or salt).
5. DO NOT expose to extreme heat or flames.
6. Make sure nominal powering voltage is 12 volts DC, center connection positive (+), 10 amps minimum.
7. DO NOT replace fuse with higher amperage rating.
WARNINGS
• Inverter produces 110/120 volt AC current
• Never expose to water, flammables or use in non-ventilated areas
• May cause shock and/or explosion resulting in personal injury
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the Vector Model VEC041 AC Pocket Power Inverter. Please read this guide carefully before use to ensure best performance and avoid damage to the unit or items that you are using it with. Read, understand and comply with all Warnings and Safety Information to ensure safety of personnel and equipment. The Pocket Power Inverter is a convenient, easy-to-carry, completely portable source of 110/120 volt AC to operate appliances to 95 watts. It can be powered by any 12 volt DC accessory outlet that can supply at least 10 amps. It is also ideal for use with Vector 12 volt DC cordless/portable/rechargeable DC power supplies and jump-starter products.
The Pocket Power Inverter can be used to operate: 110/120 volt AC laptop computers, computerized games, reading lamps, small fans, and more.
Recharge: 110/120 volt AC devices (laptop computers, cellular phones, camcorders, power tool battery packs) that have an appropriate recharging adapter with a three-prong 110/120 volt AC North American standard-type plug.
OPERA
TING AND VISIBLE FEATURES
• 95 watts continuous output up to 30 minutes*—110/120 volt AC, 60 Hz
• Easiest inverter to use — simply plug and play
• Adapts to any size 12 volt DC accessory outlet
• Compact, efficient, and quiet
• Electronic circuit protection prevents damage due to overload/ insufficient ventilation
Power Source Requirements/Runtimes
The inverter can be powered by any 12 volt DC accessory outlet that can supply at least 10 amps. A charged car battery with 50 amp hours of capacity can operate this inverter at 60 watt output for approximately five hours. This calculation is made without the engine running. With the engine running, the 70 watt output can be continuous for up to 30 minutes.
It is also ideal for use with Vector 12 volt DC cordless/portable/rechargeable DC power supplies and jump-starter products.
Estimated runtimes at full 70 watt output:
• Jump-starters with 17-19 amp hour battery approx. 2.5 hours
1. 12 volt positive (+) contact
2. Internal fuse
3. 12 volt negative (–) spring contact
4. Power plug adjusts to 45°
5. Green operating LED
6. 110/120 volt AC three-prong outlet
7. Ventilation slots
5
3
2
6
4
1
7
Page 3
OPERATION OF INVERTER
1. Insert the unit into the vehicle’s (or jump-starter’s) accessory outlet.
2. Rotate the plug slightly to make sure there is good contact.
3. A green LED light on the inverter will indicate a proper operation.
4. If the inverter does not work, make sure the ignition/accessory switch is actually powering the accessory outlet. Some vehicles need the ignition switch turned on.
5. Plug in the AC appliance.
PROTECTIVE FEA
TURES
The inverter monitors the following conditions: Low Battery Voltage — this condition is not harmful to the inverter but could damage the power source, so the inverter automatically shuts down when input voltage drops to 10.6 volts. When this condition is corrected, the unit will auto-reset. Over Voltage Protection — the inverter will automatically shut down when the input voltage exceeds 15 volts DC. Short Circuit Protection — the inverter will automatically shut down when short circuit occurs. The inverter will auto-reset after removing the short circuit. If the inverter’s fuse fails, disconnect the shorter load and replace the fuse inside the Pocket Inverter. See the Fuse Replacement section if a bad fuse is suspected.
OPERA
TING TIPS
The Pocket Power Inverter should only be operated in locations that are:
DRY — Do not allow water or other liquids to come into contact with the inverter. COOL — Surrounding air temperature should be between –20°C and 40°C - ideally
between 15°C and 25°C (60–80°F). Keep the inverter away from direct sunlight, when possible.
VENTILATED — Keep the area surrounding the inverter clear to ensure free air circulation around the unit. Do not place items on or over the inverter during operation. The unit will shut down if the internal temperature gets too hot. The inverter will auto-reset after it cools down.
SAFE — Do not use the inverter near flammable materials or in any locations that may accumulate flammable fumes or gases. This is an electrical appliance that can briefly spark when electrical connections are made or broken.
Rated Versus Actual Current Draw of Equipment
inverter can deliver. Inductive loads (such as TVs and stereos) require more current to operate than do resistive loads of the same wattage rating. For safety reasons, the unit will simply shut down if it is overloaded. To restart the unit, simply remove the load and the unit will auto reset.
Note: This inverter will not operate appliances and equipment that generate heat,
such as hair dryers, electric blankets, microwave ovens, and toasters.
HOW THIS INVERTER WORKS
This inverter is an electronic device that converts low voltage DC (direct current) electricity from a battery to 110/120 volt AC (alternating current) household power. In designing this inverter, Vector has incorporated design techniques previously employed in computer power supplies. The result of these design innovations is a smaller, lighter and easier-to­use power inverter. The Pocket Power Inverter converts power in two stages. The first stage is a DC-to-DC conversion process that raises the low voltage DC at the inverter input to 145 volts DC. The second stage is a MOSFET bridge stage that converts the high voltage DC into 110/120 volts, 60 Hz AC. The DC-to-DC converter stage uses creative, high frequency, zero voltage switching power conversion techniques that replace the bulky transformers found in less technologically advanced models.The inverter stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors in a full bridge configuration. This ensures excellent overload capability and the ability to operate reactive loads like lamp ballasts and small induction motors.
Pocket Power Inverter 95 Output Waveform
The AC output waveform of this inverter is known as a modified sine wave. It is a stepped waveform that has characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. This type of waveform is suitable for most AC loads, including linear and switching power supplies used in electronic equipment, transformers, and small motors.
The modified sine wave produced by this inverter has an RMS (root mean square) voltage of 110/120 volts, which is the same as standard household power. Most AC
110/120 Volt AC output
Page 4
The inverter is capable of running most chargers and transformers. It is also ideal for use with Vector 12 volt DC cordless, portable and rechargeable DC power
supplies and jump-starter products.
CAUTIONS (Rechargeable Devices)
• Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be charged by plugging them directly into an AC receptacle.
• These devices may damage the inverter or the charging circuit.
• When using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for the initial ten minutes of use to determine if it produces excessive heat.
• If excessive heat is produced, this indicates the device should not be used with this inverter.
• This problem does not occur with most of the battery-operated equipment. Most of these devices use a separate charger or transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle.
STORAGE
1. Ideal storage temperature range is 50-68°F (10-20°C).
2. Store and use the Pocket Power Inverter in a cool, dry place with adequate ventilation for all-around air circulation.
3. Avoid locations that are exposed to heating units, radiators, direct sunlight, or excessive humidity or dampness.
COMMON AUDIO/VISUAL PROBLEMS
Problem:
Buzzing Sound In Audio Systems
Some inexpensive stereo systems and boom boxes make a buzzing sound when operated from the inverter, because the power supply in the electronic device does not properly filter the modified sine wave produced by the inverter. The only solution to this problem is to use a sound system that has a higher quality power supply.
Problem:
Television Interference
The Pocket Power is shielded to minimize interference with TV signals. However, in some instances, some interference may still be visible, especially when the TV signal
COMMON POWER OUTPUT PROBLEMS
Possible Causes Recommendations
Battery voltage Recharge battery or check below 10 volts. DC power supply.
Equipment being operated Reduce load. draws too much power.
Inverter in thermal Allow inverter to cool down. Ensure shutdown condition. that there is adequate ventilation
around unit, and load is no more than 95 watts for continuous operation.
Main fuse failed (blown). Replace fuse in DC connector. Inverter is overloaded. Reduce load to 95 watts max.
to maintain regulation.
FUSE REPLACEMENT
If the Pocket Power Inverter is overloaded, and the green LED is not lit, the internal 15 ampere fuse may be blown.
1. Unscrew the flange of the Pocket Power Inverter (counterclockwise).
2. Remove the end contact, flange and fuse.
3. Inspect the fuse to see if it is good or blown.
4. Replace with a new 15 amp fuse, if needed.
5. Carefully reassemble the fuse, end contact and flange. Do not overtighten the flange (clockwise).
SPECIFICATIONS:
Power *95 watts for 30 minutes –
85 watts continuous
Loading...