The purpose of this Owner’s Manual is to provide explanations and procedures for
installing, operating, and troubleshooting the RV Series Inverter/Charger.
Scope
The Manual provides safety guidelines, detailed planning and setup information,
procedures for installing the inverter, as well as information about operating and
troubleshooting RV Series Inverter/Charger models RV2012GS, RV2012GS-15/
20B, RV2012GS-20B, RV2512GS, RV3012GS. It does not provide details about
particular brands of batteries. You need to consult individual battery
manufacturers for this information.
Audience
The Manual is intended for anyone who needs to install and operate the RV Series
Inverter/Charger. Installers should be certified technicians or electricians.
Organization
This Manual is organized into four chapters and one appendix.
Chapter 1 introduces you to the RV Series Inverter/Charger and describes its
features and performance characteristics.
Chapter 2 contains information and procedures to install the RV Series Inverter/
Charger.
Chapter 3 contains information about operating the RV Series Inverter/Charger.
Chapter 4 contains information and procedures to troubleshoot the RV Series
Inverter/Charger.
Appendix A contains contains the electrical and physical specifications for the RV
Series Inverter/Charger.
975-0209-01-01i
About This Manual
Conventions Used
The following conventions are used in this guide.
WARNING
Warnings identify conditions or practices that could result in personal injury or loss of life
CAUTION
Cautions identify conditions or practices that could result in damage to the unit or other
equipment.
Important:
serious as a caution or warning.
Symbols Used
Related Information
You can find more information about Xantrex Technology Inc. as well as its
products and services at www.xantrex.com
These notes describe things that are important for you to know, but not as
AC ground
Chassis ground
Alternating current (AC)
ii975-0209-01-01
RV Series Inverter/Charger
Owner’s Manual
About Xantrex
Xantrex Technology Inc. is a world-leading supplier of advanced power electronics and controls with products from
50 watt mobile units to one MW utility-scale systems for wind, solar, batteries, fuel cells, microturbines, and backup
power applications in both grid-connected and stand-alone systems. Xantrex products include inverters, battery
chargers, programmable power supplies, and variable speed drives that convert, supply, control, clean, and distribute
electrical power.
Trademarks
RV Series Inverter/Charger is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex is a registered trademark of Xantrex
International.
Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and product names are the property of their respective owners and are used
herein for identification purposes only.
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”)
(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.
Date and Revision
June 2005 Revision A
Part Num ber
975-0209-01-01
Contact Information
Telephone: 1 800 670 0707 (toll free North America)
1 360 925 5097 (direct)
Fax:1 360 925 5143 (direct)
Email:customerservice@xantrex.com
Web:www.xantrex.com
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING
This chapter contains important safety and operating instructions. Read and keep this
Owner’s Manual for future reference.
General Precautions
1. Before installing and using the RV Series Inverter/Charger, read all
instructions and cautionary markings on the RV Series Inverter/Charger, the
batteries, and all appropriate sections of this Manual.
2. Do not expose the RV Series Inverter/Charger to rain, snow, spray, or bilge
water. To reduce risk of fire hazard, do not cover or obstruct the ventilation
openings. Do not install the RV Series Inverter/Charger in a zero-clearance
compartment. Overheating may result.
3. Use only attachments recommended or sold by the manufacturer. Doing
otherwise may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
4. To avoid a risk of fire and electric shock, make sure that existing wiring is in
good condition and that wire is not undersized. Do not operate the RV Series
Inverter/Charger with damaged or substandard wiring.
5. Do not operate the RV Series Inverter/Charger if it has received a sharp blow,
been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. If the RV Series Inverter/
Charger is damaged, see the Warranty section.
6. Do not disassemble the RV Series Inverter/Charger. It contains no userserviceable parts. See Warranty for instructions on obtaining service.
Attempting to service the RV Series Inverter/Charger yourself may result in a
risk of electrical shock or fire. Internal capacitors remain charged after all
power is disconnected.
7. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, disconnect both AC and DC power
from the RV Series Inverter/Charger before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk.
8. The RV Series Inverter/Charger must be provided with an equipmentgrounding conductor connected to the AC input ground.
975-0209-01-01v
Safety
CAUTION: Equipment damage
The output side of the inverter’s AC wiring should at no time be connected to public
power or a generator. This condition is far worse than a short circuit. If the unit survives
this condition, it will shut down until corrections are made.
Installation should ensure that the inverter’s AC output is, at no time, connected to its AC
input. Also the AC input neutral must be isolated from the AC output neutral connections.
Review the installation diagrams included before you start making connections.
Explosive gas precautions
WARNING: Risk of explosive gases
Working in the vicinity of lead-acid batteries is dangerous. Batteries generate explosive
gases during normal operation. Therefore, you must read this guide and follow the
instructions exactly before installing or using your RV Series Inverter/Charger.
1. This equipment contains components that tend to produce arcs or sparks. To
prevent fire or explosion, do not install the RV Series Inverter/Charger in
compartments containing batteries or flammable materials, or in locations that
require ignition-protected equipment. This includes any space containing
gasoline-powered machinery, fuel tanks, as well as joints, fittings, or other
connections between components of the fuel system.
2. To reduce the risk of battery explosion, follow these instructions and those
published by the battery manufacturer and the manufacturer of the equipment
in which the battery is installed.
Precautions When Working With Batteries
WARNING: Explosion or fire hazard
1. Follow all instructions published by the battery manufacturer and the
manufacturer of the equipment in which the battery is installed.
2. To reduce the risk of injury, charge only deep-cycle lead acid, lead antimony,
lead calcium gel cell, absorbed mat, or NiCad/NiFe type rechargeable
batteries. Other types of batteries may burst, causing personal injury and
damage.
3. Make sure the area around the battery is well ventilated.
4. Never smoke or allow a spark or flame near the engine or batteries.
vi975-0209-01-01
Safety
5. Use caution to reduce the risk or dropping a metal tool on the battery. It could
spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical parts and could cause an
explosion.
6. Remove all metal items, like rings, bracelets, and watches when working with
lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries produce a short circuit current high
enough to weld metal to skin, causing a severe burn.
7. Have someone within range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid
when you work near a lead-acid battery.
8. Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin,
clothing, or eyes.
9. Wear complete eye protection and clothing protection. Avoid touching your
eyes while working near batteries.
10. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and
water. If acid enters your eye, immediately flood it with running cold water
for at least twenty minutes and get medical attention immediately.
11. If you need to remove a battery, always remove the ground terminal from the
battery first. Make sure all accessories are off so you don’t cause a spark.
Precautions for Using Rechargeable Appliances
CAUTION: Equipment damage
Most rechargeable battery-operated equipment uses a separate charger or
transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle and produces a low voltage
charging output.
Some chargers for small rechargeable batteries can be damaged if connected to the
modified sine wave output of the RV Series Inverter/Charger. When first using a
rechargable device with the RV Series Inverter/Charger, monitor its temperature
for 10 minutes to ensure that it does not become abnormally hot. Use caution
when using the following with the RV Series Inverter/Charger:
•Small battery-operated appliances like flashlights, razors, and night lights that
can be plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge.
•Lightweight, “transformer-less” cordless power tool chargers. Affected
chargers may display a warning label stating that dangerous voltages are
present at the battery terminals.
Important:
Series Inverter/Charger, contact the equipment manufacturer to find out if the equipment
is compatible with the modified sine wave output of the RV Series Inverter/Charger.
If you are unsure about using your rechargeable appliance with the RV
Chapter 1 introduces you to the RV Series Inverter/Charger and
describes its features and performance characteristics. This chapter
also contains information about the accessories available for the RV
Series Inverter/Charger.
Introduction
Features
The RV Series Inverter/Charger produces up to 3000 watts (depending on model)
of continuous, modified sine wave power from a 12-volt battery bank. It is ideal
for simultaneous applications including microwaves, TV entertainment systems,
fax machines, computers, and power tools.
The RV Series Inverter/Charger provides automatic, multistage battery charging,
manual battery equalization and temperature sensitive charging with an optional
battery temperature sensor. The charger is designed for use with electricity
supplied from your generator or RV campground hookup.
The RV Series Inverter/Charger also has automatic generator start (AGS)
capability. When the inverter/charger is connected to an Onan QuietDiesel,
Generac or Powertech generator, it will start the generator to charge the batteries
when battery power is low, or in response to a signal from a thermostat. An RC/
GS remote control is required to configure and use the AGS feature.
Three RV Series Inverter/Charger models are available. Each model has a
different maximum continuous output power rating and surge power rating—the
power necessary to operate motor-driven appliances, which require high current at
startup (see “Inductive Loads” on page 3–4).
Table 1-1
Model
RV2012GS2000 W44 A
RV2012GS-15/20B 2000 W44 A
RV2012GS-20B2000 W44 A
RV2512GS2500 W48 A
RV3012GS3000 W52 A
RV Series Inverter/Charger model specifications
Inverter to Charger Transition
The RV Series Inverter/Charger includes a built-in transfer switch that
automatically transfers between inverter power and incoming AC power. To
operate the RV Series Inverter/Charger as a charger, an external source of AC
power (such as shore power or a generator) must be supplied to the inverter AC
input. The inverter/charger automatically stops inverting and begins charging
batteries whenever AC power is connected to its AC inputs. When AC power is
connected, the RV Series Inverter/Charger will begin charging even when the
inverter itself is turned off (with the on/off switch).
There is a minimum 5-second delay from the time the inverter senses that AC is
present at the input terminals to when the transfer is made. This delay is built in to
provide time for a generator to spin-up to a stable voltage and avoid relay
chattering. The inverter will not transfer to generator until it has locked onto the
generator’s output. The inverter’s AC input is internally connected to the
inverter’s AC output while in the battery charger mode.
Output power AC
(max. continuous)Surge rating (AC amps)
1–2975-0209-01-01
Transfer Switching Speed
While this inverter is not designed as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
system, its transfer time is normally fast enough to hold up most computers. The
transfer time is typically 16 milliseconds.
Front Panel Features
Before installing and operating the RV Series Inverter/Charger, review the front
panel features shown in Figure 1-1 and described in Table 1-2.
Three remote control panels are available for the RV Series Inverter/Charger—
RC/GS, RC6 and RC7.
For inverter/charger on/off control and basic system monitoring, use the RC6
remote.
For complete inverter/charger configuration capability, use the RC7 or RC/GS
remotes. (The RV Series Inverter/Charger has an internal memory to retain its
configuration settings even with a loss of power.)
All RV Series inverter/chargers have a built-in shunt, which when paired with the
optional RC/GS remote control enables advanced battery monitoring and inverter/
charger control. To use the shunt, the inverter/charger must be wired correctly,
using the green RV ground terminal.
The RV Series Inverter/Charger also has the necessary built-in hardware to be
connected to your generator, enabling automatic generator starting when paired
with the optional RC/GS remote control.
Figure 1-2
RC6
RC7
Remote Control Panels
RC/GS
RC/GS Remote Control/Gen Starting
The RC6, RC7, and RC/GS use a telephone-style cord to connect to the RV Series
Inverter/Charger (models RV2012GS, RV2012GS-15/20B, RV2012GS-20B,
RV2512GS, and RV3012GS).
1–4975-0209-01-01
Use only Xantrex-recommended accessories. Remote cables are available in three
lengths:
Part numberCable Length
31-6257-0025 feet
31-6262-0050 feet
31-6275-0070 feet
Battery Temperature Sensor
The battery temperature sensor (BTS) allows the inverter/charger to monitor the
battery temperature and adjust charging voltage according to the temperature. The
BTS can extend the life of a battery by preventing overcharging in warm
temperatures and undercharging in cold temperatures.
The BTS attaches to a battery terminal post or to the side of the battery using a
self-adhesive backing.
Table 1-3
Part numberDetails
130-0004-01-01 15 foot cord, surface mount only
130-0004-02-01 25 foot cord, surface mount only
130-0004-03-01 35-foot cord, surface mount only
808-023125-foot cord, surface or terminal mount (shown in Figure 1-3)
Accessories
Connector
25 foot (7.6 m) cord
Sensor
Figure 1-3
975-0209-01-011–5
Battery Temperature Sensor (808-0231)
1–6
2
Installation
Chapter 2 contains information and procedures to install the RV
Series Inverter/Charger.
The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:
•“Choosing a Location”
•“Wiring the Inverter/Charger”
•“Wiring to a Generator”
Installation
Choosing a Location
Inverters are sophisticated electronic devices and should be treated accordingly.
When selecting the operating environment for the inverter, don’t think of it in the
same terms as other equipment that works with it, such as batteries, diesel
generators, motor generators, washing machines, and so on. It is a highly complex
microprocessor-controlled device, similar in nature to stereo equipment,
television sets, or computers. The use of conformal-coated circuit boards, plated
copper bus bars, powder-coated metal components, and stainless steel fasteners
improves tolerance to hostile environments. However, in a condensing
environment (one in which humidity and/or temperature change causes water to
form on components) all the ingredients for electrolysis are present: water,
electricity and metals. In a condensing environment the life expectancy of the
inverter is indeterminate and the warranty is voided.
CAUTION
Install the inverter in a dry, protected location away from sources of high temperature and
moisture. Exposure to salt water is particularly destructive and potentially hazardous.
The inverter/charger should only be installed in a location that meets the
following requirements:
VentilatedDo not operate the inverter/charger in a closed-in area or restrict
ventilation in any way. The inverter/charger requires air circulation
to maintain optimum operating temperature and provide best
performance. If the unit has inadequate ventilation, it may shut down
due to overheating.
The air vented through the openings should also have a path to
circulate away from the inverter/charger.
DryDo not allow water or other fluids to drip or splash on the inverter.
Do not expose to rain, snow or water.
CoolNormal air temperature should be between 32 °F and 122 °F
(0 °C and 50 °C)—the cooler the better within this range.
ClearanceAllow as much space around the inverter/charger as possible.
Xantrex recommends that other objects and surfaces be at least
3 inches (76 mm) away from the ventilation openings for best
performance.
SafeLocate the inverter/charger away from battery in a separate well
ventilated compartment. Do not install the inverter/charger in any
compartment containing flammable gases or liquids like gasoline.
Close to
battery
compartment
The length and size of your DC cables will affect performance. Use
the DC cables recommended in Table 2-2 on page 2–12. The unit
should not be installed in the battery compartment due to the
possible presence of explosive hydrogen gas from the batteries.
2–2975-0209-01-01
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