Xantrex Technology Automatic Generator User Manual

Automatic Generator Start

Owner’s Guide
Automatic Generator Start
Owner’s Guide
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
Automatic Generator Start is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex and Xanbus are registered trademarks 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.
Notice of Copyright
Automatic Generator Start Owner’s Guide © November 2004 Xantrex International. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”)
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUIT ABILITY 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
November 2004 Revision C
Part Number
975-0082-01-01
Contact Information
Telephone: 1 800 670 0707 (toll free North America)
1 360 925 5097 (direct)
Fax: 1 800 994 7828 (toll free North America)
1 360 925 5143 (direct) Email: customerservice@xantrex.com Web: www.xantrex.com

About This Guide

Purpose

The purpose of this Owner’s Guide is to provide explanations and procedures for installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Automatic Generator Start.

Scope

The Guide provides safety guidelines, detailed planning and setup information, procedures for installing the Automatic Generator Start, as well as information about configuring, operating and troubleshooting the unit. This guide does not provide information about choosing a generator or operating a generator.

Firmware Revision

The information in this manual applies to firmware revision 1.03.00. Some Auto Gen Start features and functions described in this manual may be incompatible with earlier firmware revisions. To view the firmware revision number of your product, see page 4–8.

Audience

The Guide is intended for anyone who needs to install and/or operate the Automatic Generator Start. Installers should be certified technicians or electricians.
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About This Guide

Organization

This Guide is organized into five chapters and three appendixes. Chapter 1, “Introduction”, introduces and describes features of the
Automatic Generator Start. Chapter 2, “Installation”, contains planning information and procedures
to install the Automatic Generator Start. Chapter 3, “Configuration”, provides information and procedures for
configuring the Automatic Generator Start. Chapter 4, “Operation”, describes common tasks you may need to
perform with the Automatic Generator Start. Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting”, contains information and procedu res to
troubleshoot the Automatic Generator Start. Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains the electrical, mechanical, and
environmental specifications for the Automatic Generator Start. Appendix B, “Generator Auto Start Requirements and Types”, provides
general information about generators that will work with the Automatic Generator Start.
Appendix C, “Relay Timing”,
contains information about relay configuration and timing for each basic type of Auto Gen Start starting mode.
“Warranty and Return Information” contains the warranty for your Automatic Generator Start as well as instructions for returning the product for servicing.
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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.
About This Guide
Important:
but is not as critical as a caution or warning.
These notes contain information that is important for you to know,

Abbreviations and Acronyms

Auto Gen Start, AGS
DC V SOC
Abbreviations for the Automatic Generator Start used in this manual and on the Control Panel.
DC voltage—usually refers to battery voltage State of charge—refers to a percentage of a
battery’s remaining capacity.

Related Information

For more information about related products, refer to:
Xanbus System Installation Guide (975-0136-01-01) Inverter/Charger Installation Guide (975-0126-01-01) Inverter/Charger Operation Guide (975-0125-01-01) System Control Panel Owner’s Guide (975-0083-01-01)
These guides are available at www.xantrex.com, where you can find more information about Xantrex Technology Inc. and its products and services.
975-0082-01-01 v
vi

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING: Save these instructions
This Owner’s Guide contains important safety and operating instructions. Before using your Automatic Generator Start, be sure to read, understand, and save these safety instructions.
WARNING: Restrictions on use
The Automatic Generator Start shall not be used in connection with life support systems or other medical equipment or devices.
WARNING: Safety hazard
Disable the Automatic Generator Start if the generator or vehicle equipped with the generator is in an enclosed building or area where the generator exhaust is not vented to the outside.

General Precautions

1. Before installing and using the Auto Gen Start, read all appropriate sections of this guide.
2. If the Auto Gen Start is inoperative, see “Warranty and Product Information” on page WA–1.
3. Do not dismantle the Auto Gen Start; it contains no user serviceable parts. See “Information About Your System” on page WA–5 for instructions on obtaining service.
4. Protect the Auto Gen Start from rain, snow, spray, and water.
5. Disable the generator’s starting circuit by disconnecting the starter battery, spark plug, et cetera, before wiring this device.
6. T o reduce the risk of electrical shock, put the Xantrex Xanbus system into Safe mode before working on any circuits connected to it. See “Safe mode” on page 4–7.
7. Disable the automatic starting circuit and/or disconnect the generator from its starting battery to prevent accidental starting while performing maintenance.
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Safety

Explosive Gas Precautions

WARNING: Explosion hazard
This equipment is not ignition protected. To prevent fire or explosion, do not install the Auto Gen Start in compartments containing 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.
Be sure you follow all relevant instructions exactly before installing or using your Auto Gen Start.

FCC Information to the User

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a residential environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction guide, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However , there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interferenc e by one or mo re of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
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Contents
Important Safety Instructions 1
Introduction
About the Automatic Generator Start- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -1–2 Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3 System Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -1–4 Front and Bottom Panel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -1–5
Front panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–5 Bottom panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6
Xanbus System Components - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–7
2
Installation
Preparing an Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–2
Tools and materials required - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2 Choosing a location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3 Routing the connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–3
Installing the Auto Gen Start - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–4
Mounting the unit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–5 Wiring to the 20-contact connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6 Connecting the generator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9
Type 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10 Type 2 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Type 3 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Type 4 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13 Type 5 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14 Type 6 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Type 7 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Type 8 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17 Type 9 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18 Type 10 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–19 Type 11 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–20 Type 12 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–21 Type 13 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–22
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -vii
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Contents
Connecting the thermostats (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23 Connecting an external shutdown (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23 Connecting an external manual on/off switch (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23
Connecting an external on/off LED - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–24 Connecting the wiring harness to the Auto Gen Start - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–25 Connecting the control panel and other network-enabled devices - - - - - - - - - - 2–26 Verifying power is available - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–26
3
Configuration
Configuring the Auto Gen Start - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Using the System Control Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Changing Auto Gen Start settings using the System Control Panel - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Viewing the Select Device menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Viewing the Auto Gen Start menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
Selecting and adjusting the changeable setting - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
The Auto Gen Start Menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5
The Auto Gen Start basic menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Gen Status - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
Gen Trigger - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
AGS Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9
QT Enable - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11
QT Begin - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11
QT End - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13
Start SOC - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13
Start DCV - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14
Enable Temp1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–15
Enable Temp2 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–16
Gen Type - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–16
Clear Faults - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–17 Auto Gen Start advanced menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
Configure Triggers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
Configure Gen - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
View Device Info - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18
Basic Menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–18 AGS Triggers menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19
Start SOC - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19
Stop SOC - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–19
StartV:30sec - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–20
StartV:15min - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–20
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Contents
StartV:2hr - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–21 StartV:24hr - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–22 StopBattV - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–22 Enable Temp1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–23 Enable Temp2 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–23 Enable Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–23 Start Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–24 Stop Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–25 Stop Absorb - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–25 Stop Float - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–26
Generator Configuration menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–28
Starter Cool Down - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–28 Max Run Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–29 Exercise Per - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–29 Exercise Dur - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–30 Exercise Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–31 Relay3 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–31 Run Hold Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–32 Crank Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–32 Crank Retry Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–33 Preheat Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–33 Start Tries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–34
AGS: Device Info menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35
View Fault Log - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35 View Warning Log - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35 View Event Log - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35 Restore Defaults - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–35
User Settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–36
4
Operation
Starting and Stopping the Generator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4–2 Setting Quiet Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
Enabling Quiet Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4–3
Setting the beginning of Quiet Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3
Setting the end of Quiet Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4 Viewing the Advanced Menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–5 Changing System Modes - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–6
Operating mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–7
Power Save mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4–7
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Contents
Safe mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–7 Hibernate mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–8
Viewing the Firmware Revision Number - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–8
5
Troubleshooting
Faults and Warnings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Warning Messages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Fault Messages - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5
A
Specifications
Electrical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Mechanical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Environmental Specifications- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3 Regulatory Compliance- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3
B
Generator Auto Start Requirements and Types
Recommended Features- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–2 Generator Starting Types- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–2
Two wire - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–3
Identification - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–3
Connection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–3 Three-Wire Onan - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–3
Identification - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–3
Connection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–4 Three-Wire Automotive - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - B–4
Identification - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–4
Connection - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -B–4
C
Relay Timing
RunMode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -C–2 MomentaryRun Mode- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C–3 GlowStop Mode- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -C–4 StartStop Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -C–4 PulseStop Mode- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -C–5
Warranty and Return Information Index
xii 975-0082-01-01
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - IX–1
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–1
1

Introduction

Chapter 1 describes the main features of the Automatic Generator Start. It also describes the Xanbus System of which the Auto Gen Start is a component.
Introduction
About the Automatic Generator Start
Function and benefits
Applications The Auto Gen Start is ideal for users who desire the convenience of
System component
The Xantrex Automatic Generator Start (Auto Gen Start) automatically starts and stops your generator using dry contact relays to operate the auto-start function of your generator. (Dry contacts operate only as switches. The Auto Gen Start does not provide any voltage or current to the connections.)
The Auto Gen Start continuously monitors your power system and starts the generator if the battery voltage or state of charge reaches preset limits, or the air conditioner or heater needs to be run. The Auto Gen Start also starts the generator to assist the inverter/charger when power demands are high. When properly configured, the Auto Gen Start ensures that your power requirements are met and that your batteries stay charged.
automatic generator starting when dry camping or when shore power is otherwise unavailable.
The Auto Gen Start uses Xanbus™, a network communications protocol developed by Xantrex, to communicate its settings and activity to other Xanbus-enabled devices. You can configure and monitor the Auto Gen Start and every Xanbus-enabled device in the system using a single System Control Panel.
Xanbus-enabled products are:
Easy to use. The Xanbus system simplifies operation and automates routine tasks.
Reliable. Software control eliminates errors due to analog signalling.
Accurate. Digital information is less susceptible to interference and line loss.
Upgradable. Firmware upgrades mean your purchase will remain up to date.
For detailed instructions and a complete list of Xanbus-enabled devices, visit our website at www.xantrex.com.
1–2 975-0082-01-01
Features
Features
Generator starting
Generator compatibility
Programmable features
Status reporting The Auto Gen Start reports its operating mode, its settings, generator
Installation options
The Auto Gen Start can automatically start a generator in response to:
low battery voltage
low battery capacity (“state of charge”)
high inverter load
a thermostat signal
a pre-programmed exercise period You can also use the Auto Gen Start to manually start and stop the
generator at any time. The Auto Gen Start supports two and three-wire generator starters. It
starts generators made by Onan (Quiet Diesel, gasoline, and LP), Power Tech, Generac, Martin, Kohler, Honda, Yamaha, and others.
Quiet Time The Auto Gen Start also features a quiet time setting, which prevents the generator starting at night or during other inconvenient periods.
Exercise Period During times of prolonged generator inactivity, the Auto Gen Start can be programmed to run (or “exercise”) the generator for a pre-defined period. This ensures the generator remains operational and that the starting battery stays charged.
activity , and the reason for generator starts to the Xanbus system. You can view this information on the System Control Panel.
The Auto Gen Start can be installed with an external shutdown input, a manual generator on/off switch, and an external on/off indicator light.
975-0082-01-01 1–3
Introduction
System Requirements
The Auto Gen Start is not designed for stand-alone operation. It does not function in a simple system containing only an Auto Gen Start and a generator. The Auto Gen Start requires several other components for configuration and operation.
Generator The generator should have automatic starting capability. Some manufacturers of generators without this capability may sell an optional automatic engine control module that will simplify operation with the Auto Gen Start.
The generator should also supply a Generator Run signal, which the Auto Gen Start uses to detect whether the generator is running. Some generator manufacturers refer to this signal as the hour meter signal or Switched B+.
Control panel A separate control panel is required to configure the Auto Gen Start and monitor generator starting and stopping activity. The control panel also provides real-time clock information for the Auto Gen Start Quiet Time and Exercise Time features.
Network power supply The Auto Gen Start requires a Xanbus power supply to operate. Network power is carried by the network cables, and can be supplied by a Xanbus-enabled product (such as an inverter/ charger) or an external Xanbus power supply.
As a device that draws network power, the Auto Gen Start consumes a maximum of 3 watts.
Start and stop triggers The Auto Gen Start requires a source of start and stop triggers for automatic operation. These triggers can come from:
thermostat 12/24 V input.
battery voltage, state of charge, and inverter load status. This information must be transmitted over the network by another Xanbus­enabled device, such as an inverter/charger or DC Monitor.
When network-broadcast battery voltage, state of charge, and inverter load information are not available, the Auto Gen Start could operate in a reduced system with a control panel and network power supply. In this system, the Auto Gen Start would be limited to automatically starting and stopping the generator from thermostat 12/24 V input. In such a system, you could also start and stop the generator manually using the control panel, and Quiet Time, Exercise Time, and maximum run time settings would function.
1–4 975-0082-01-01
Front and Bottom Panel
Front and Bottom Panel
Indicator lights Four lights on the front panel indicate the operating status and network
status of the Auto Gen Start.
Connectors T wo network ports on the bottom panel connect the Auto Gen Start to the
Xanbus system. A 20-contact pluggable connector (also on the bottom panel) allows the Auto Gen Start to connect to the generator’s starting circuitry, thermostats and external switches. See “Bottom panel” on page 1–6.

Front panel

1
2
3 4
Figure 1-1 Table 1-1
Feature Description
1
2 Generator On light (green) indicates the generator is running.
3
4 Fault light (red) indicates an Auto Gen Start fault has occurred.
975-0082-01-01 1–5
Auto Gen Start front panel
Front panel features
Power light (green) indicates the Auto Gen Start network power.
This light turns on when the generator run signal is active. See “Important” on page 2–24.
Network light (green) indicates the Auto Gen Start communicating with other Xanbus-enabled devices.
See “Troubleshooting” on page 5–1 for information about Auto Gen Start faults.
is receiving
is
Introduction

Bottom panel

Network connectors
1
Figure 1-2 Table 1-2
Feature Description
1 Network port (eight-pin RJ45) 2 Network port (eight-pin RJ45) 3 20-contact generator connector
Auto Gen Start bottom panel
Auto Gen Start connection points
23
Each network port can accept an eight-pin RJ45 plug attached to a CAT 5 cable. Depending on your installation, you may need to use one or both the network connectors. For more information, see the Xanbus System Installation Guide.
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
Connect the Auto Gen Start only to other Xanbus compatible devices.
Although the cabling and connectors used in this network system are the same as Ethernet connectors, this network is not an Ethernet system. Equipment damage may result from attempting to connect these two different systems.
20-contact connector
1–6 975-0082-01-01
The 20-contact connector allows you to plug in a wiring harness that connects the Auto Gen Start to a generator and thermostats. The wiring harness also provides lines for connecting external generator shutdown sensors or switches and external generator on/off controls.
Xanbus System Components
Xanbus System Components
System description
Network diagram
The Xantrex Xanbus system includes the Auto Gen Start and other Xanbus-enabled devices. Each device interacts and communicates with the other devices, creating a power system that can be precisely configured to your needs.
Figure 1-3 shows the Auto Gen Start as part of a Xanbus system.
AC Out
AC In
Figure 1-3
975-0082-01-01 1–7
Xanbus system diagram
1–8
2

Installation

Chapter 2 contains information and procedures to install the Auto Gen Start.
This chapter will help you prepare to install the Auto Gen Start by providing:
a summary of the tasks involved
a list of materials and tools required
recommendations for choosing an installation location
This chapter then provides procedures for mounting the Auto Gen Start, as well as guidelines for connecting it to:
a generator
thermostats
the System Control Panel and other Xanbus­enabled devices
Installation
Preparing an Installation
Before you install the Auto Gen Start, you must consider how and where the unit will be mounted, and plan the connection routes between the Auto Gen Start, the generator, thermostats and the control panel.

Tools and materials required

Before beginning an installation, you will need the following tools and materials:
Mounting template (supplied)Wiring harness (Xantrex part number 809-0917, supplied)Four #6 screws, 1 1/4 inch (supplied)#16 or #18 AWG wire (see “Wire size and length” on page 2–7)Xantrex network cables or equivalentNetwork terminators (if required)Phillips screwdriverWire cuttersWire strippers
2–2 975-0082-01-01

Choosing a location

The Auto Gen Start should be installed in a location that meets the following requirements:
Preparing an Installation
Dry
Cool
Safe
Close to generator

Routing the connections

WARNING: Explosion hazard
This equipment is not ignition protected. To prevent fire or explosion, do not install the Auto Gen Start in compartments containing 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.
The unit is intended for use in a dry location. The Auto Gen
complies with UL458 Marine Supplement drip-test
Start requirements, but the location should be as dry as possible.
The Auto Gen Start 50 °C).
The Auto Gen Start areas requiring ignition-protected equipment, such as compartments housing gasoline engines.
Avoid excessive wire lengths and use the recommended wire lengths and sizes (see “Wire size and length” on page 2–7). It is more important for the Auto Gen Start generator than close to the inverter, although for safety reasons, the Auto Gen Start should not be installed in the same compartment as a gasoline-powered generator.
operates between -4 and 122 °F (-20 and
is not ignition protected. Do not install it in
to be close to the
Follow all relevant instructions exactly before installing or using your Aut o Gen Start.
WARNING: Shock and energy hazards
Before making any connections to the generator, ensure that the generator’s starter is disabled and the generator’s start battery is disconnected.
975-0082-01-01 2–3
Installation
Because the Auto Gen Start will be part of a Xanbus system, you must consider how to route two types of connections:
connections to the generator, thermostats, and other external devices and switches, using the 20-contact connector and wiring harness.
connections to other Xanbus-enabled devices, using network cables.
For information on designing and installing the network, see the Xanbus System Installation Guide.
Network ports
Network cables to other Xanbus-enabled devices
Figure 2-1
Auto Gen Start external connections
20-contact connector
Wiring harness (connection to generator, thermostats, and external switches)
Installing the Auto Gen Start
After selecting your tools and choosing the best location and connection routes for your installation, you are now ready to mount the Auto Gen Start and connect it to the generator, thermostats and System Control Panel.
2–4 975-0082-01-01
Installing the Auto Gen Start
Installation overview
Installing the Auto Gen Start involves the following steps:
1. Mounting the unit.
2. Connecting the wiring harness to:
3. Connecting the wiring harness to the 20-contact connector on the
4. Connecting the Auto Gen Start to the System Control Panel and other
Note: Because each installation varies according to the location, the type of
generator, and the overall complexity of the Xanbus system, these instructions can offer only general guidelines for the many installation options available.

Mounting the unit

The Auto Gen Start is to be mounted vertically on a wall with the connectors facing downwards.
the generator (page 2–9)
thermostats (optional) (page 2–23)
external shutdown switch (optional) (page 2–23)
external on/off switch and LED (optional) (page 2–23)
Auto Gen Start.
network-enabled devices (page 2–26).
WARNING: Shock hazard
Before installing the Auto Gen Start as part of a pre-existing Xanbus system, put the system in Safe mode in order to disable the electrical operation of networked devices. See “Changing System Modes” on page 4–6.
To mount the Auto Gen Start:
1. Hold the unit flush and square against the wall, panel or horizontal
surface.
If your mounting surface requires you to pre-drill holes for the screws, use the supplied mounting template to mark, then drill, four holes.
2. With a Phillips screwdriver and the supplied #6 screws, secure each corner of the Auto Gen Start to the mounting surface.
975-0082-01-01 2–5
Installation

Wiring to the 20-contact connector

WARNING: Shock hazard
All installation wiring should be performed by a qualified installer or electrician.
WARNING: Fire, shock, and energy hazards
The 20-contact connector is intended for connection to Class 2 ELV (Extra Low Voltage) circuits only. Do not exceed the circuit limitations specified in the following section.
ELV circuits ELV (Extra-Low Voltage) circuits have an open-circuit voltage of not
more than 30 V hazard.
Class 2 circuits As per the US National Electrical Code (NEC) and the Canadian
Electrical Code (CEC), available power in Class 2 circuits is limited to 100 VA, usually by current limiting by means of overcurrent protection or series resistance. The current is limited to 5 A for circuits with open­circuit voltage of 20 V, and to I=100/V voltage between 20 V and 30 V.
or 42.2 VDC or peak, and are therefore not a shock
rms
for circuits with open circuit
oc
The advantage of using Class 2 circuits for installing the Auto Gen Start is that Class 2 circuits don’t have to follow the Class 1 wiring rules (requiring the use of conduit and wiring boxes, et cetera) that apply elsewhere in the applicable codes.
Circuit limitations
The relay contacts in the Auto Gen Start are rated at 5 A maximum and all circuits on the 20-contact connector are rated at 30 V maximum.
Ensure that all circuits connected to the 20-contact connector obey the following limits:
Open circuit voltage (Voc)
Overcurrent protection (fuse size for open circuit voltage up to 20 V)
Overcurrent protection (fuse size for open circuit voltage from 20 V to 30 V)
2–6 975-0082-01-01
30 V maximum
5 A maximum
5 A to 3.33 A (100/V
amps maximum)
oc
Installing the Auto Gen Start
Wiring harness Connections to the generator, thermostats, and external on/off switches
are made using a wiring harness that plugs into the 20-contact connector (see Figure 2-1). The wires on the wiring harness can be extended to meet installation requirements. When extending the wire harness, ensure that the extension wires are the same color as the wires on the harness.
To install the Auto Gen Start using the wiring harness:
1. Connect each wire on the harness to its intended wire or contact on the generator, thermostats, or external switches.
2. Plug the harness into the connector on the bottom panel of the Auto Gen Start.
Wire identification
Each wire on the harness is identified by a number and a color. The wire numbers are shown in Figure 2-2 and their colors and functions are described in T able 2-1.
Wire size and
Required wire sizes for the external connections to the wiring harness are:
length
0–30 ft. (9 m) Over 30 ft. (9 m)
18 AWG 16 AWG
When planning the routing for external connections, ensure that wire lengths are sufficient to plug the wiring harness into the Auto Gen Start once all the external connections are complete.
Figure 2-2
975-0082-01-01 2–7
Auto Gen Start wiring harness
Installation
Table 2-1
Wire number Function
1 Thermostat 1 input Yellow 2 Thermostat 1 return Gray 3 Thermostat 2 input Orange 4 Thermostat 2 return Gray 5 External shutdown input White/Black 6 External shutdown return Gray 7 External manual on input White/Green 8 External manual off input White/Red 9 External On/Off LED Indicator output White/Blue
10 Constant 12/24 V B+ (battery positive) for
11 External On/Off/LED Indicator return (connected
12 Generator run signal (switched B+) sense input Violet 13 Generator ru n signal (switched B+) sense return
14 Relay 1 (Generator run/stop) Normally open
15 Relay 1 (Generator run/stop) Normally closed
16 Relay 1 (Generator run/stop) Common contact Gray 17 Relay 2 (Generator start) Normally open contact White 18 Relay 2 (Generator start) Common contact Gray 19 Relay 3 (Preheat/cooldown) Normally open
20 Relay 3 (Preheat/cooldown) Common contact Gray
Contact numbers and functions
Wiring harness wire color
Red
External On/Off/LED Indicator
Black
internally to wire number 13)
Black
(generator battery negative)
Blue
contact
White/Violet
contact
Brown
contact
2–8 975-0082-01-01
Installing the Auto Gen Start

Connecting the generator

To connect the Auto Gen Start to a generator, you must identify the start wiring configuration of the generator you want to use. Generators must be auto-start capable, and generators equipped with remote operation connections are ideal.
If the generator is equipped for remote operation, you must examine the wiring of the remote cable and connector (or read your generator’s documentation, if available) and identify the following wires:
•Ground
•Start
•Stop
Generator run signal, also known as the Hour Meter or Switched B+ (battery positive)
Wiring requirements
Generator types The Auto Gen Start has 13 preset generator configurations, or “Gen
To wire the Auto Gen Start to the generator, you need #16 or #18 AWG wire connected between contacts 12 to 20 on the wiring harness. How many of these wires you connect and in which combination depends on your generator type.
T ypes” (see “Gen Type” on page 3–16). T o ensure that the Auto Gen S tart is compatible with your generator’s starting circuitry, you must select your type of generator from the Auto Gen Start menu on the System Control Panel after completing the installation.
Important:
into Safe mode. See “Changing System Modes” on page 4–6.
You can only change “Gen Type” after you have put the system
This section describes the generator configurations and provides diagrams for connecting the wiring harness to the generator’s start wiring.
Note: For an explanation of the terminology used in the following section,
refer to Appendix B, “Generator Auto Start Requirements and Types”. For more information about Auto Gen Start internal relay activity and timing, see Appendix C, “Relay Timing”.
975-0082-01-01 2–9
Installation

Type 1

Type 1 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration recommended for “three­wire” generators with glow plugs that need to be operated before a start is attempted.
AGS wiring harness Generator wires
Relay 1
Relay 2
12 13 14 16 17 18
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND STOP/PREHEAT
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Figure 2-3 Table 2-2
Type 1 connection diagram
Type 1 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
GlowStop No function
0.5 s 20 s 1 s 15 s 30 s 0 s 3
2–10 975-0082-01-01

Type 2

Installing the Auto Gen Start
Type 2 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration recommended for “three­wire” generators that don’t require a dedicated preheat signal, such as Onan generators. In this configuration, the start signal is applied for longer because the generator does its own preheat and cranking while the start signal is applied.
AGS wiring harness
12 13
Relay 1
Relay 2
Figure 2-4 Table 2-3
14 16 17 18
Type 2 and Type 12 connection diagram
Type 2 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time
Generator wires
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND
5A fuse
5A fuse
STOP
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
GlowStop No function
0.5 s 0 s 0 s 30 s 40 s
Shutdown bypass time Start tries
0 s 3
975-0082-01-01 2–11
Installation

Type 3

Type 3 is a three-wire GlowStop with shutdown bypass configuration. The configuration shown in Figure 2-5 uses a shutdown bypass output to temporarily disable the generator’s low oil pressure shutdown functionality during cranking. (Generators with this functionality often have a manual means of disabling it during cranking.)
Generator wireAGS wiring harness wire
Relay 1
Relay 2
12 13
14 16 17 18
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND PREHEAT
STOP BYPASS SHUTDOWN
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Figure 2-5 Table 2-4
Type 3 connection diagram
Type 3 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
GlowStop/Shutdown bypass Preheat/Shutdown bypass
0.5 s 20 s 0 s 15 s 30 s 10 s 3
2–12 975-0082-01-01

Type 4

Installing the Auto Gen Start
T y pe 4 is a three-wire StartStop configuration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for Generac’s Guardian Gas generators.
Generator wiresAGS wiring harness
Relay 1
Relay 2
Relay 3
12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20
5A fuse
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND STOP/PREHEAT
START
FUEL PRIME (PREHEAT) 12V GENERATOR BATTERY +
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Figure 2-6 Table 2-5
Type 4, Type 5 and Type 13 connection diagram
Type 4 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
StartStop Preheat 10 s 60 s 5 s 15 s 15 s 0 s 3
975-0082-01-01 2–13
Installation

Type 5

T y pe 5 is a three-wire St artStop configuration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for Generac’s Guardian Diesel generators.
The wiring diagram for a Type 5 configuration is the same as a Type 4 (see Figure 2-6).
Table 2-6
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 5 relay and timing preset configurations
StartStop Preheat 2 s 15 s 2 s 15 s 15 s 0 s 3
2–14 975-0082-01-01

Type 6

Installing the Auto Gen Start
Type 6 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration that has a normally closed Run/Stop contact. This generator type is intended for Yamaha generators.
Generator wiresAGS wiring harness
Relay 1
Relay 2
12 13
15 16 17 18
5A fuse 5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND
PREHEAT14 STOP
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.

Type 7

Figure 2-7 Table 2-7
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 6 connection diagram
Type 6 relay and timing preset configurations
GlowStop No function
0.5 s 10 s 1 s 15 s 30 s 0 s 3
Type 7 will work with both two-wire and three-wire run mode configurations that require a preheat signal before cranking, such as Generac Backup/Renewable generators. This Gen Type setting is suitable for generators with an automatic engine cranking control system (two­wire) and generators that require that the Auto Gen Start control their starter separately (three-wire).
975-0082-01-01 2–15
Installation
AGS wiring harness Generator wires
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND RUN
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Relay 1
12 13 14 16
5A fuse
Figure 2-8
AGS wiring harness Generator wires
Relay 1
Relay 2
Figure 2-9 Table 2-8
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay
Type 7, T ype 8, and Type 11 connection diagram (two-wire)
12 13 14 16 17 18
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND RUN
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Type 7 and Type 8 connection diagram (three-wire)
Type 7 relay and timing preset configurations
Run No function
0.5 s 20 s 1 s
Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
15 s 30 s 0 s 3
2–16 975-0082-01-01

Type 8

Installing the Auto Gen Start
Type 8 will work with both two-wire and three-wire run mode configurations and is intended for Northern Lights and Fisher Panda generators. T ype 8 is identical to Type 7 except that it provides no preheat signal before cranking. See Figure 2-8 and Figure 2-9 for wiring diagrams.
Table 2-9
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 8 relay and timing preset configurations
Run No function
0.5 s 0 s 0 s 15 s 30 s 0 s 3
975-0082-01-01 2–17
Installation

Type 9

Type 9 is a StartStop mode configuration with shutdown bypass functionality on relay 3. This configuration is intended for Westerbeke generators.
AGS wiring harness Generator wires
Relay 1
Relay 2
Relay 3
12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20
5A fuse
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND STOP
START
PREHEAT & SHUTDOWN BYPASS 12V GENERATOR BATTERY +
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Figure 2-10 Table 2-10
Type 9 connection diagram
Type 9 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
StartStop Shutdown Bypass
0.5 s 0 s 0 s 15 s 30 s 5 s 3
2–18 975-0082-01-01

Type 10

Installing the Auto Gen Start
Type 10 is a StartStop mode configuration with no preheat signal or shutdown bypass functionality.
AGS wiring harness Generator wires
Relay 1
Relay 2
12 13 14 16 17 18
5A fuse
5A fuse
GEN RUN SIGNAL GROUND STOP
START
Complete overcurrent protection not shown. Refer to page 2–6.
Figure 2-11 Table 2-11
Type 10 connection diagram
Type 10 relay and timing preset configurations
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
StartStop No function
0.5 s 0 s 0 s 15 s 30 s 0 s 3
975-0082-01-01 2–19
Installation

Type 11

Type 11 is a two-wire run mode configuration intended for Kohler generators. It requires only two wires and one relay to control the generator. Relay 1 closes momentarily once to start the generator, and closes momentarily again to stop the generator.
The wiring diagram for a Type 11 configuration is the same as a two-wire Type 7 configuration. See Figure 2-8.
Table 2-12
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 11 relay and timing preset configurations
MomentaryRun No function
0.5 s 0 s 0 s 10 s 15 s 0 s 3
2–20 975-0082-01-01

Type 12

Installing the Auto Gen Start
Type 12 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration recommended for “three­wire” generators that don’t require a dedicated preheat signal, such as Onan propane generators. In this configuration, the start signal is applied for longer because the generator does its own preheat and cranking while the start signal is applied.
The wiring diagram for a Type 12 configuration is the same as a three­wire Type 2 configuration. See Figure 2-4.
Table 2-13
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 12 relay and timing preset configurations
GlowStop No function 4 s 0 s 0 s 30 s 40 s 0 s 3
975-0082-01-01 2–21
Installation

Type 13

Type 13 is a three-wire PulseStop configuration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for PowerTech’s Diesel generators. With this generator type, there will be a delay between the generator turning off and the Auto Gen Start recognizing that the generator is off.
The wiring diagram for a Type 13 configuration is the same as a Type 4 (see Figure 2-6).
Table 2-14
Relay 1 mode Relay 3 mode Gen Run signal hold time Preheat time Preheat to crank delay Crank time Crank retry time Shutdown bypass time Start tries
Type 13 relay and timing preset configurations
PulseStop Preheat 5 s 15 s 2 s 15 s 15 s 0 s 3
2–22 975-0082-01-01

Connecting the thermostats (optional)

Wires 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the wiring harness can be connected to two thermostats. Wires 1 (yellow) and 2 (gray) are intended for thermostat 1 and wires 3 (orange) and 4 (gray) are intended for thermostat 2.
Wire number Function Wiring harness wire color
1 Thermostat 1 input (12/24 V) Yellow 2 Thermostat 1 return (ground) Gray 3 Thermostat 2 input (12/24 V) Orange 4 Thermostat 2 return (ground) Gray
These wires connect to 12/24 V output signals from the thermostats. You can enable the Auto Gen Start to start the generator in response to these signals. You cannot program your thermostats with the Auto Gen Start.
For specific information about thermostat wiring and where Auto Gen Start connections should be made, please consult your thermostat documentation or contact the thermostat manufacturer.

Connecting an external shutdown (optional)

Installing the Auto Gen Start
The external shutdown input is a 12/24V input used to assure that the Auto Gen Start keeps the generator off under conditions that may be potentially hazardous. Wire 5 (white/black) and 6 (gray) on the wiring harness are intended for an external switch or sensor (such as a moisture detector, carbon monoxide detector or coach running signal) that produces an active high 12V or 24V output.
Wire number Function Wiring harness wire color
5 External shutdown input (12/24 V) White/Black 6 External shutdown return (ground) Gray

Connecting an external manual on/off switch (optional)

The external manual on/off inputs (wires 7 and 8 on the wiring harness) are intended for wiring to one or more remote on/off switches for starting and stopping the generator manually. The other contact of the switch should be connected to ground. In order for the Auto Gen Start to be able to detect these switches, you must wire the positive of the generator battery to the constant 12V/24V generator battery positive (wire 10 on the Auto Gen Start wiring harness). See Figure 2-12.
975-0082-01-01 2–23
Installation
If your generator battery does not have the required voltage, any 12V or 24V power source will suit this purpose. If an alternate power source is used, the negative of the power source must be connect to the other contact of the switch.
Wire number Function Wiring harness wire color
7 External manual on input White/Green 8 External manual off input White/Red 9 External On/Off LED Indicator
output
10 Constant 12/24 V B+ for
External On/Off/LED Indicator
11 External On/Off/LED Indicator
return
White/Blue
Red
Black
Multiple control panels or simple contact closures can be wired to the external manual on/off inputs. The Auto Gen Start detects if any of the contacts close and will change its operating mode to External Manual On or External Manual Off (for more information, see “AGS Mode” on page 3–9). The Auto Gen Start turns the generator on or off according to these inputs and the resulting operating mode change.
Unlike the Manual On or Manual Off operating modes you can enter by using the System Control Panel, the External Manual On and External Manual Off states are not affected by maximum generator run time (see “Max Run Time” on page 3–29).

Connecting an external on/off LED

Wires 9 (White/Blue) and 11 (Black) on the wiring harness can be connected to an LED or other light to accompany a remote external on/off switch. This light turns on when the generator run signal is active to visually indicate that the generator is running.
Important::
during the preheat stage, before the generator is actually running. In this case, the external on/off LED (and the Generator On light on the Auto Gen Start) will turn on during the preheat stage and remain on when the generator is running. For some generators, these lights will also remain on for a period of time after the generator has stopped.
2–24 975-0082-01-01
With some generators, the generator run signal becomes active
2K
Installing the Auto Gen Start
START PUSH BUTTON
STOP PUSH BUTTON
EXTERNAL LED
EXTERNAL LED
GROUND
Figure 2-12
7
2K
8
5K11
9
10
11
13
External on/off switch and LED wiring diagram

Connecting the wiring harness to the Auto Gen Start

After all the external connections have been wired to the wiring harness, the connector on the wiring harness must be plugged into the 20-contact connector on the Auto Gen Start.
To connect the wiring harness to the Auto Gen Start:
12V OR 24V
With the click-tab on the wiring harness connector on top (facing you), insert the wiring harness connector into the 20-contact connector on the Auto Gen Start until the tab clicks into place.
975-0082-01-01 2–25
Installation

Connecting the control panel and other network-enabled devices

CAUTION:
Connect only to other Xanbus-enabled devices.
Although the cabling and connectors used in this network system are the same as Ethernet connectors, this network is not an Ethernet system. Equipment damage may result from attempting to connect these two different systems.
To connect the Auto Gen Start to a System Control Panel or another network-enabled device, plug a Xantrex network cable or equivalent from another device into one of the network connectors on the bo ttom p an el of the Auto Gen Start. See Figure 2-1 on page 2–4.
If the Auto Gen Start is being installed on an existing Xanbus system, the system must first be put into Safe mode. See “Changing System Modes” on page 4–6.
Depending on the layout of the Xanbus system, you have the following options for the other network connector on the Auto Gen Start:
A second network cable (in a “daisy-chain” network layout)
A network terminator (in a “daisy chain” network layout where the Auto Gen Start is the last device at one end of the network)
Nothing (in a multi-drop backbone layout)
Equipment damage

Verifying power is available

When the Auto Gen Start has been installed properly, the Power and Network indicator lights turn on.
If one or both lights are out, check the network connections and ensure the network power supply is on.
2–26 975-0082-01-01
3

Configuration

Chapter 3 contains information and procedures for configuring the Automatic Generator Start. It describes how you can view the Auto Gen Start menu on the
System Control Panel, and how you can change Auto
Gen Start settings using the System Control Panel. Chapter 3 also discusses each Auto Gen Start setting by:
Defining each setting.
Listing the available values for each setting.
Recommending when to use each setting.
Describing the effect of changing each setting.
Configuration
Configuring the Auto Gen Start
The Auto Gen Start has a number of settings that you must configure to ensure that the generator automatically starts and stops under the right conditions and at the right time.
If your Auto Gen Start was pre-installed in your Xanbus system, it may already be configured to work with your generator and network-enabled power system. If this is the case, you may not have to configure any settings other than the Generator mode (see page 3–9) and Quiet Time (see page 3–11).

Using the System Control Panel

The Auto Gen Start is configured using the System Control Panel. You can view all the available Auto Gen Start settings on the System Control Panel screen.
The System Control Panel has four navigation buttons that you use to move between screens and menus, highlight settings you want to change, and select values for the Auto Gen Start to use.
See Figure 3-1 and Table 3-1 for the location and function of the navigation buttons on the System Control Panel.
2134
Figure 3-1
3–2 975-0082-01-01
System Control Panel
Configuring the Auto Gen Start
Table 3-1
Number Button Function
System Control Panel navigation buttons
1 Enter Confirms selection of a menu item
Moves to the next screen
2 Up arrow Scrolls up one line of text
Increases a selected value
3 Down arrow Scrolls down one line of text
Decreases a selected value
4 Exit Cancels selection of a menu item
Returns you to the previous screen

Changing Auto Gen Start settings using the System Control Panel

If you need to change an Auto Gen Start setting, use the buttons on the System Control Panel to perform three basic steps:
1. View the Select Device menu.
2. Select the Auto Gen Start from the Select Device menu.
3. Select and adjust a changeable setting on the Auto Gen Start menu. Each of these three steps is described in detail in the following sections.

Viewing the Select Device menu

The Select Device menu is where you select a Xanbus-enabled device to monitor or configure. The number of items on the Select Device menu depends on how many devices are installed in your Xanbus system.
menu
Figure 3-2
System screen (example)
To view the Select Device menu:
On the System screen (see Figure 3-2), press Enter.
975-0082-01-01 3–3
Configuration
Important:
the bottom left corner of the screen. The menu arrow indicates the Enter button on the System Control Panel, which you press to view the Select Device menu.
You can always identify the System screen by the menu arrow in

Viewing the Auto Gen Start menu

On the Select Device menu, select the Auto Gen Start to view and change its settings.
Figure 3-3
To select the Auto Gen Start from the Select Device menu:
1. On the Select Device menu, use the down arrow button to highlight Auto Gen Start.
2. Press Enter.
Selecting the Auto Gen Start
The Auto Gen Start menu appears.

Selecting and adjusting the changeable setting

On the Auto Gen Start menu, you can view and change Auto Gen Start settings, and monitor generator starting activity.
Changeable settings are identified by the square brackets [ ] around the values along the right side of the screen.
Off
NotOn
[ManualOff]
[On]
Figure 3-4
3–4 975-0082-01-01
Auto Gen Start menu (basic menu shown)
To select and adjust a changeable setting:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, use the up arrow or down arrow button
to highlight the setting you want to change.
2. Press Enter to highlight the current value of that changeable setting.
Some values appear with an asterisk (*) to identify them as the value that was last set.
3. Use the up arrow or down arrow button to change the value. Hold a
button down to scroll through values quickly.
4. Press Enter to select the value.
5. If you have another setting to change, return to step 1.
Or If you have no more settings to change, press Exit twice to return to
the System screen.
The Auto Gen Start Menu
The Auto Gen Start menu contains status information and settings. You can display the Auto Gen Start menu in two formats: basic and advanced.
The Auto Gen Start Menu
Basic menu The basic menu contains settings you may have to adjust routinely. The
System Control Panel shows the basic menu by default.
Advanced menu The advanced menu contains several sub-menus that include all items on
the basic menu, as well as additional configurable settings. These sub­menus are:
AGS Triggers menu (see page 3–19).
Generator Configuration menu (see page 3–28)
Device Info screens (see page 3–35) On the advanced menu you can also return to the basic menu format. To view the advanced menu, see page 4–5.
975-0082-01-01 3–5
Configuration
Figure 3-5
3–6 975-0082-01-01
Auto Gen Start menu contents

The Auto Gen Start basic menu

The Auto Gen Start basic menu lists settings you may have to adjust routinely. The System Control Panel displays the Auto Gen Start basic menu by default.
If you would like additional control over automatic generator starting, you can find more settings on the Auto Gen Start advanced menu and AGS Triggers menu (see “Auto Gen Start advanced menu” on page 3–18 and “AGS Triggers menu” on page 3–19). However, you may not have to adjust these settings as part of regular operation.
The Auto Gen Start basic menu consists of the following items:
“Gen Status” (status item)
“Gen Trigger” (status item)
•“AGS Mode
•“QT Enable
“QT Begin”
•“QT End
•“Start SOC
“Start DCV”
•“Enable Temp1
•“Enable Temp2
“Gen Type” You can record any settings you change in the “User Settings” table on
page 3–36.
The Auto Gen Start Menu
975-0082-01-01 3–7
Configuration

Gen Status

Full name Generator Operating Status Purpose “Gen Status” reports the current operating state of the generator. You
cannot adjust any “Gen Status” values.
Value Description
On The generator is running. Off The generator is not running. Fault A fault condition exists. The Auto Gen Start is not controlling the
generator, or the Auto Gen Start has an internal fault. If the generator is still running in a fault state, it may be stopped at the generator or by one of the generator’s control panels. See “AGS Mode” and “Troubleshooting” on page 5–1.

Gen Trigger

Purpose “Gen Trigger” reports the source of the active generator start trigger. S tart
triggers can include battery voltage, inverter load, battery stat e o f ch arge, thermostat triggers, or exercise period. You cannot adjust any “Gen Trigger” values.
Value Description
NotOn Generator is not running LowBattV P reset minimum battery voltage with associated time delay CntctClosed Activated thermostat 1 or 2 BattSOCLow Preset minimum battery state of charge ACIHigh Preset maximum inverter load current Exercise Preset exercise period, exercise time, and exercise duration ManualOn Started manually using System Control Panel ExtOnviaAGS Started by external switch connected to Auto Gen Start ExtOnviaGen Started by switch connected to generator UnableToStop Aut o Gen Start has lost control of the running gen e rator
3–8 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start Menu

AGS Mode

Purpose “AGS Mode” is a changeable setting that controls the current operating
mode of the Auto Gen Start.
Value Description
Automatic Automatic mode ManualOn Manual on mode ManualOff Manual off mode (default mode)
When to use You should change “AGS Mode” when you want to switch between
automatic generator control and manual generator control. When the Xanbus system powers up all network-enabled devices, the
Auto Gen Start is in Manual Off mode. To enable automatic generator starts, you must put the Auto Gen Start in Automatic mode.
Automatic If you would like the Auto Gen Start to start and stop the generator automatically, select Automatic. The generator can start and stop automatically in response to low battery voltage, low battery state of charge (requires a DC Monitor in the Xanbus System), AC loads on the inverter, thermostat triggers, or exercise time. Automatic mode also has a Quiet Time feature, which prevents the generator from starting during evening hours or other inconvenient times (see “QT Begin” on page 3–11, “QT End” on page 3–13, and “Setting Quiet Time” on page 4–3).
WARNING: Fire and health hazard
Running a generator in an enclosed space produces potentially lethal exhaust gases. Before putting your RV or boat in storage, disable the Auto Gen Start by putting the Xanbus system in Hibernate mode. Do not leave a generator connected to an Auto Gen Start otherwise unattended.
Automatic mode overrides
975-0082-01-01 3–9
When the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode, several settings and conditions override automatic start and stop triggers. These overrides include, in order of priority:
Faults—The Auto Gen Start stops the generator when a fault occurs.
Configuration
External Shutdown—When the Auto Gen Start is connected to a sensor or meter (a moisture detector, for example) wired to contacts 5 and 6 of the 20-contact connector, it stops the generator when the device is activated. See “Connecting an external shutdown (optional)” on page 2–23.
External On/Off—The generator is manually started or stopped with a switch wired to contacts 7 and 8 of the 20-contact connector. See “Connecting an external manual on/off switch (optional)” on page 2–
23. When started with an external manual on/off switch, the generator will not stop when it reaches Max Run Time. You must stop the generator using the external manual on/off switch.
Max Run Time—When the generator has exceeded its maximum run time, a warning message will appear on the System Control Panel. The Auto Gen Start will stop operating until you acknowledge the warning by pressing Enter on the System Control Panel. See “Max Run Time” on page 3–29.
Manual On—The generator is started by selecting Manual On mode.
Manual Off—The generator is stopped by selecting Manual Off mode.
Manual On When you need to manually start the generator, select Manual On. Selecting Manual On mode overrides the automatic start settings and manually starts the generator. The generator will run until it is manually stopped or until it reaches its Auto Gen Start-defined Maximum Run Time (see “Max Run Time” on page 3–29).
Manual Off When you need to manually stop the generator, select Manual off. Selecting Manual Off mode overrides the automatic stop settings and manually stops the generator. You must select Manual Off to stop the generator when the generator has been started manually. The Auto Gen Start will not automatically start the generator again until you select Automatic.
Important:
change any start trigger parameters.
3–10 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start mode must be set to Manual Off before you
The Auto Gen Start Menu

QT Enable

Full name Quiet Time Enable Purpose “QT Enable” enables or disables the Quiet Time functionality of the Auto
Gen Start. “QT Enable” applies only when the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode.
Value Description
On, Off Enable or disable the Quiet Time functionality.
When to use When you need to use the Auto Gen Start Quiet Time feature, set “QT
Enable” to On, then check or reset the times you have set for “QT Begin” and “QT End”.
When you have no preferences or restrictions for when the generator should run, set “QT Enable” to Off.
Outcomes Selecting On enables the Quiet Time feature. If the Auto Gen Start is in
Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start stops and starts the generator according to the times you have set for “QT Begin” and “QT End”.
Selecting Off disables the Quiet Time feature. The Auto Gen Start will ignore the times you have set for “QT Begin” and “QT End”. If the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start starts and stops the generator at any time of the day or night in response to battery voltage, battery state of charge, inverter load, thermostat triggers, and exercise time.

QT Begin

Full name Quiet Time Begin Purpose “QT Begin” is a changeable setting that defines the start of quiet time.
This setting also requires you to set “QT End”.
Value Description
12:00AM to 11:59PM (12-hour clock) 00:00 to 23:59 (24-hour clock)
When to use “QT Begin” functions only if the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode.
975-0082-01-01 3–11
At the time you set for “QT Begin” the generator will stop (if it is running) and not be able to start again until the time you set for “QT End”. It ignores all automatic start triggers during the time period between “QT Begin” and “QT End”.
Configuration
Use the Quiet Time feature to ensure that the generator will not run during the night, or to comply with “Quiet Time” guidelines at RV parks and campgrounds.
To use the Auto Gen Start Quiet Time feature, first set “QT Enable” to On, then set two times of the day or night (a Quiet Time Begin time and a Quiet Time End time) to define a time interval during which the generator will not run.
To disable the Quiet Time feature, set “QT Enable” to Off.
Time zone When travelling between time zones, ensure that you set the clock on the
System Control Panel to your correct local time. Otherwise, your quiet time settings will come into effect too early or too late.
Battery drain Quiet Time prevents the automatic starting of the generator regardless of
battery condition. If you need to set a quiet time that lasts overnight, be aware that overnight
battery drain can be significant. Because you may need to use an inverter and batteries to supply AC power during quiet time, be careful to conserve battery power. Minimize the use of interior lights and set thermostat temperature lower to prevent the furnace from coming on at night during cool weather. Set thermostats higher to prevent air conditioning coming on at night during warm weather.
Outcomes Sometimes automatic start or automatic stop triggers may overlap with
the beginning and end of quiet time. Three different quiet time scenarios affect when the generator stops and starts.
1. If quiet time begins after the Auto Gen Start has started the generator, the generator will stop. If the condition that started the generator is still present when quiet time ends, the generator will restart.
2. If a condition that requires starting the generator occurs during quiet time, the Auto Gen Start will ignore it until quiet time ends. If the condition still exists at the end of quiet time (after the time you set for “QT End”), the Auto Gen Start will start the generator.
3. If the running generator stops when quiet time begins and a condition that requires stopping the generator occurs during quiet time, the generator will not restart when quiet time ends.
3–12 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start Menu

QT End

Full name Quiet Time End Purpose “QT End” is a changeable setting that defines the end of quiet time.
This setting also requires you to set “QT Begin”.
Value Description
12:00AM to 11:59PM (12-hour clock) 00:00 to 23:59 (24-hour clock)
At the time you set for Start will be able to automatically start the generator again. If a start trigger has occurred during quiet time and is still active, the generator will start immediately after quiet time ends.
“QT End” the Auto Gen
When to use “QT End” functions only if the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode.
For more information about when to use “QT End” and the Auto Gen Start Quiet Time feature, see “QT Begin” on page 3–11.

Start SOC

Full name Start Battery Charge Purpose “Start SOC” is a changeable setting that allows the Auto Gen Start to start
the generator when the battery bank capacity falls to a certain percentage. This setting requires you to set “Stop SOC” also (see page 3–19).
Values Default
Off, 40% to 90% (increments of 5%) Off (disabled)
When to use Discharging deep cycle RV or marine batteries below 50% capacity
shortens their useful life. Correctly configuring the Auto Gen Start’s “Start SOC” setting can help protect your batteries from repeated over­discharge.
In Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start will start the generator to rechar ge your batteries if the batteries’ state of charge is less than or equal to the “Start SOC” setting.
Important:
accurate battery monitoring and state of charge information from the Xantrex DC Monitor. This menu item will not appear if a DC Monitor is not installed.
975-0082-01-01 3–13
To use the “Start SOC” setting, the Auto Gen Start requires
Configuration
State of charge information
When a DC Monitor is installed, you can monitor the batteries’ state of charge on the System screen or inverter/charger menu.
Outcomes If you set “Start SOC” too high, the generator will start more frequently
than is convenient. If you set “Start SOC” too low, your batteries may be damaged by
repeated cycles of excessive discharge. The generator running time necessary to charge the batteries may exceed the Generator Run Max Time, and use too much fuel in the process.

Start DCV

Full name Starting Battery Voltage—30 seconds Purpose “Start DCV” is a changeable setting that enables the Auto Gen Start to
start the generator whenever the battery voltage reaches a pre-set voltage for longer than 30 seconds. You can also select the desired battery voltage with this setting.
The Auto Gen Start will stop the generator when the battery voltage has risen to the Stopping Battery voltage (see “StopBattV” on page 3–22), or when the batteries have been recharged to the Absorption or Float stage.
This setting requires you to set either “StopBattV”, or a Stop at Charge Stage setting (see “Stop Float” on page 3–26 and “Stop Absorb” on page 3–25).
Values Default
Off, 4.0V to 60.0V (increments of 0.1V) 11.3V
When to use If the Auto Gen Start is set to Automatic mode, then the Auto Gen Start
will start the generator when the system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger or DC Monitor) falls below the “Start DCV” setting for the selected delay period.
You can use the “Start DCV” setting when there is no accurate, reliable battery state of charge monitoring available, such as from the Xantrex DC Monitor.
Battery voltage information
3–14 975-0082-01-01
During normal operation, battery voltage can be monitored from the System screen or on the inverter/charger menu.
The Auto Gen Start Menu
Whenever the generator starts automatically in response to “Start DCV”, it will stop when the battery voltage reaches the Stop Battery Voltage (“StopBattV”) setting. If you have enabled “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb”, the generator will stop when the Absorption or Float stages of the battery charging have begun.
Outcomes If you set “Start DCV” too high, the generator will start more frequently
than is convenient. If you set “Start DCV” too low, your batteries may be damaged by
repeated cycles of excessive discharge. The generator running time necessary to charge the batteries may exceed “Max Run Time”, and use too much fuel in the process.

Enable Temp1

Full name Enable Thermostat 1. Purpose “Enable Temp1” is a changeable setting for starting the generator in
response to a signal from a thermostat. With “Enable Temp1” set to On, the Auto Gen Start will start the generator to help power the furnace or the air conditioner.
Values Default
On, Off Off (disabled)
When to use Enable this setting if you have thermostats that control an air conditioning
system with high power requirements.
Outcomes If you enable this setting, the generator will start in response to a signal
from the thermostat. Everything related to setting the temperature at which the air conditioning system comes on must be done on the thermostat. There are no thermostat temperature settings on the Auto Gen Start or the System Control Panel.
If you disable this setting, your air conditioning system will operate without automatic generator assistance. To operate your air conditioner, you will need to start the generator manually, or connect to another AC input source.
975-0082-01-01 3–15
Configuration

Enable Temp2

Full name Enable Thermostat 2. Purpose “Enable Temp2” is intended to be used when the Auto Gen Start is
connected to a second thermostat. All information and procedures for “Enable Temp1” also app ly for “Enable Temp2”.
Values Default
On, Off Off (disabled)

Gen Type

Full name Generator type Purpose “Gen T ype” is a changeable setting for selecting the starting requirements
of your generator . The starting requir ements determine how the Auto Gen Start must be wired to the generator’s starting system. For more information, see “Connecting the generator” on page 2–9 or Appendix B.
Important:
into Safe mode. See “Changing System Modes” on page 4– 6.
Option
Type 1 General GlowStop Type 2 Onan Diesel (Default) GlowStop with no preheat T ype 3 General GlowStop with shutdown bypass Type 4 Guardian/Generac Gas StartStop with Relay 3 prime Type 5 Guardian/Generac Diesel StartStop with Relay 3 preheat Type 6 Yamaha GlowStop with normally closed
Type 7 Generac Backup/
Type 8 Northern Lights and Fisher
Type 9 Westerbeke StartStop with Relay 3 preheat and
You can only change “Gen Type” after you have put the system
Description Configuration Mode
RunStop contact Run with preheat
Renewable
Run with no preheat
Panda
shutdown bypass
3–16 975-0082-01-01
Description
The Auto Gen Start Menu
Option
Type 10 General StartStop Type 11 Kohler MomentaryRun T ype 12 Onan Propane GlowStop with no preheat Type 13 PowerTech Diesel PulseStop with Relay 3 preheat
Configuration Mode
When to use Use this setting after installing the Auto Gen Start. Selecting a suitable
“Gen T ype” automatically configures the Auto Gen Start to work wit h the ignition system and starting requirements of your generator. If you are not sure of your generator’s requirements, please consult your generator manual or contact your generator’s manufacturer.
Outcomes Selecting a “Gen Type” from the list automatically configures the
following settings:
Preheat time
Preheat end to crank delay time
Crank time
Crank retry time
Starter cooldown time
Generator Run Signal hold time
Start tries. If your type of generator is not listed under “Gen Type”, you may need to
manually configure some of the settings listed above (available on the Auto Gen Start advanced menu) using information from your generator manufacturer.

Clear Faults

Purpose “Clear Faults” clears all active Auto Gen Start faults. To clear the active
faults, highlight Clear Faults and press Enter. For more information about how the Auto Gen Start treats faults and fault messages, see “Faults and Warnings” on page 5–2.
975-0082-01-01 3–17
Configuration

Auto Gen Start advanced menu

The Auto Gen Start advanced menu contains settings that can give you even more control over automatic generator starts and stops. To view the Auto Gen Start advanced menu on the System Control Pa nel , see pa ge 4–5.
In addition to several items from the basic menu, the Auto Gen Start advanced menu contains the following sub-menus and commands:
“Configure Triggers”
“Configure Gen”
“View Device Info”
“Basic Menu”

Configure Triggers

Purpose Selecting “Configure Triggers” takes you to the AGS Triggers menu for
further configuration of Auto Gen Start settings for starting and stopping the generator.
The Auto Gen Start mode must be set to Manual Off before you change the trigger parameters.
For more information, see “AGS Triggers menu” on page 3–1 9.

Configure Gen

Full name Configure Generator Purpose Selecting “Configure Gen” takes you to the AGS Gen Cfg menu, where
you can adjust settings related to your generator’s operating requirements. For more information, see “Generator Configuration menu” on page 3–
28.

View Device Info

Purpose Selecting “View Device Info” takes you to the Device Info menu, where
you can view Fault, Warning, and Event logs, and restore Auto Gen Start default settings.
For more information, see “AGS: Device Info menu” on page 3–35.

Basic Menu

Purpose Selecting “Basic Menu” returns the Auto Gen Start advanced menu to its
basic format.
3–18 975-0082-01-01

AGS Tr iggers menu

The AGS Triggers menu contains additional settings for automatically starting and stopping the generator. This menu allows you to adjust the default settings for state of charge (when a DC Monitor is installed), battery voltage, thermostat on/off signals, inverter load and battery charging stage.
Adjusting these settings beyond their default settings is advised for experienced users or users who have consulted service personnel.
The Auto Gen Start Menu

Start SOC

Important:
change any start trigger parameters.
The AGS Triggers menu contains the following items:
•“Start SOC
•“Stop SOC
“StartV:30sec”
“StartV:15min”
“StartV:2hr”
“StartV:24hr”
“StopBattV”
•“Enable Temp1
•“Enable Temp2
“Enable Load”
“Start Load”
•“Stop Load
•“Stop Float
•“Stop Absorb
The Auto Gen Start mode must be set to Manual Off before you
See page 3–13.

Stop SOC

Full name Stop on State of Charge.
975-0082-01-01 3–19
Configuration
Purpose “Stop SOC” is a changeable setting that allows you to set the Auto Gen
Start to stop the generator when the batteries reach a pre-set state of charge.
Values Default
Off, 50% to 95% (increments of 5%) Off
When to use In Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start will stop the generator when the
batteries’ state of charge equals the “Stop SOC” setting.
Stopping conditions
Important:
accurate battery monitoring and state of charge information from the Xantrex DC Monitor. This menu item will not appear if a DC Monitor is not installed.
After the Auto Gen Start starts the generator in response to the batteries’ state of charge, the generator can also stop when the batteries reach either
To use the “Stop SOC” setting, the Auto Gen Start requires
the Float stage or the Absorption stage during recharging. For this scenario to work, you must enable “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb”.
Outcomes If you set too high a value for “Stop SOC”, the generator may run for too
long. For the purposes of the Auto Gen Start, 90% SOC is considered fully charged. If you find that your batteries are not fully charged using the “Stop SOC” setting, try using “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb” instead.
If you set too low a value for “Stop SOC”, the Auto Gen Start may stop the generator before the batteries are fully charged.

StartV:30sec

“StartV:30sec” is identical to the “Start DCV” setting. See page 3–14.

StartV:15min

Full name Starting Battery Voltage—15 minutes Purpose “StartV:15min” enables the Auto Gen Start to start the generator
whenever the battery voltage reaches a pre-set voltage for longer than 15 minutes.
This setting requires you to set either a Stopping Battery Voltage (“StopBattV”), or a Stop at Char ge Stag e (“Stop F loat” or “Stop Ab sorb”) setting.
3–20 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start Menu
Values Default
Off, 4.0V to 60.0V Off (disabled)
When to use In Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start will start the generator when the
system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger) falls below the “StartV:15min” setting for 15 minutes.
You can use one of the Starting Battery Voltage settings (“StartV:30sec”, “StartV:15min”, “StartV:2hr”, and “StartV:24hr”) when there is no accurate, reliable battery state of charge monitoring available, such as from the Xantrex DC Monitor.
Battery voltage information
Battery voltage can be monitored from the System screen or the inverter/ charger menu.
Whenever the generator starts automatically based on the Starting Battery Voltage, it will stop when the battery voltage reaches the “StopBattV” setting. If you have enabled “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb”, the generator will stop when the Absorption or Float stages of the battery charging begin.
Outcomes If you set the Starting Battery Voltage too high, the generator will start
more frequently than is convenient. If you set the Starting Battery Voltage value too low, your batteries may
be damaged by repeated cycles of excessive discharge. The generator running time necessary to charge the batteries may exceed “Max Run Time”, and use too much fuel in the process.

StartV:2hr

Full name Starting Battery Voltage—2 hours Purpose “StartV:2hr” is a changeable setting that enables the Auto Gen Start to
start the generator whenever the battery voltage reaches a pre-set voltage for longer than 2 hours.
This setting requires you to set either a Stopping Battery Voltage, or a Stop at Charge Stage setting.
Values Default
Off, 4.0V to 60.0V Off (disabled)
975-0082-01-01 3–21
Configuration
If the Auto Gen Start is set to Automatic mode, then the Auto Gen Start will start the generator when the system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger) falls below the “StartV:2hr” setting for 2 hours.
See “StartV:15min” for more information.

StartV:24hr

Full name Starting Battery Voltage—24 hours Purpose “StartV:24hr” is a changeable setting that enables the Auto Gen Start to
start the generator whenever the battery voltage reaches a pre-set voltage for longer than 24 hours.
This setting requires you to set either “StopBattV”, or a Stop at Charge Stage setting (“Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb”).
Values Default
Off, 4.0V to 60.0V Off (disabled)
If the Auto Gen Start is set to Automatic mode, then the Auto Gen Start will start the generator when the system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger) falls below the “StartV:24hr” setting for 24 hours.
See “StartV:15min” for more information.

StopBattV

Full name Stopping Battery Voltage Purpose “StopBattV” is a changeable setting that allows the Auto Gen Start to stop
the generator whenever the battery voltage reaches a pre-set DC voltage. This setting requires you to set a Starting Battery Voltage also. See
“StartV:30sec”, “StartV:15min”, “StartV:2hr”, and “StartV:24hr”.
Values Default
Off, 14.0V to 60.0V (increments of 0.1V)
When to use Use the “StopBattV” setting when you have enabled and set a Starting
Battery Voltage setting. The “StopBattV” setting is most useful when you want the inverter/
charger to give the batteries a quick, basic charge. To give the batteries a more complete, consistent charge, use the “Stop Float” setting.
3–22 975-0082-01-01
Off (disabled)
The Auto Gen Start Menu
Stopping conditions
Whenever the generator starts automatically based on the Starting Battery Voltage, it will shut off once the Stopping Battery Voltage has been reached.
If “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb” have been enabled, the Auto Gen Start will stop the generator if the Float or Absorption stages of the battery charging have begun.
Actual battery voltage can be monitored from the System screen on the System Control Panel.
Outcomes If you set “StopBattV” too high, the generator may run for too long.
If you set “StopBattV” too low, the Auto Gen Start will stop the generator before the inverter/charger has charged the batteries.

Enable Temp1

See page 3–15.

Enable Temp2

See page 3–16.

Enable Load

Full name Enable Inverter Load Start and Stop Triggers Purpose “Enable Load” is a changeable setting that enables or disables the Start on
Inverter Load Current and Stop on Inverter Load Current functionality of the Auto Gen Start. See “Start Load” and “Stop Load” on page 3–25.
“Enable Load” applies only when the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode.
Value Description
On, Off Enable or disable the Start on Inverter Load Current
and Stop on Inverter Load Current functionality.
When to use When you need to use the Auto Gen Start “Start Load” (Start on Inverter
Load Current) feature, set “Enable Load” to On, then check or reset the values you have set for “Start Load” and “Stop Load”.
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Configuration
Outcomes Selecting On enables the Start on Inverter Load Current (“Start Load”)
and Stop on Inverter Load Current (“Stop Load”) functionality. If the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode and “Enable Load” is set to On, the Auto Gen Start stops and starts the generator according to the values you have set for “Start Load” and “Stop Load”.
Selecting Off disables the Start on Inverter Load Current and Stop on Inverter Load Current functionality. When “Enable Load” is set to Off, the Auto Gen Start ignores the values you have set for “Start Load” and “Stop Load”.

Start Load

Full name Start on Inverter Load Current Purpose “Start Load” is a changeable setting for enabling the generator to start at a
specified AC load on the inverter. The generator will assist the inverter with powering the AC load.
This setting requires you to set a value for “Stop Load” also.
Values Default
10.0A to 33.0A (increments of 1A) 10.0A
When to use You should change this setting if you have certain “peak” times of power
usage, or have power demands that consistently exceed the output of your inverter.
If “Enable Load” is set to On, the generator will start in response to the “Start Load” setting unless the Auto Gen Start is in a Quiet Time period. Whenever the generator starts automatically in response to inverter load current, the Auto Gen Start will stop the generator once the load on the inverter reaches the Stop on Inverter Load Current value.
You can monitor the inverter load current on the System screen.
Outcomes If you set “Start Load” too high, the Auto Gen Start may not start the
generator in time to recharge the batteries before the batteries are drained by the AC load. In addition, if “Start Load” is set too high, the inverter may shut down due to an overload condition.
If you set “Start Load” too low , the Auto Gen St art may start the generator too frequently, wasting fuel in the process.
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The Auto Gen Start Menu

Stop Load

Full name Stop on Inverter Load Current Purpose “Stop Load” sets the Auto Gen Start to stop the generator at a specified
AC load on the inverter. The “Stop Load” setting applies to situations when the Auto Gen Start has started the generator to assist the inverter with powering the AC load.
Values Default
7.0A to 28.0A (increments of 1 A) 7.0A
When to use Use this setting when you have set a value for “Start Load”.

Stop Absorb

Full name Stop at Absorption Charge Stage Purpose The “Stop Absorb” setting allows you to set the Auto Gen Start to stop the
generator when the inverter/charger has recharged the batteries to the Absorption stage.
Values Default
Off, On On
When to use Set “Stop Absorb” if you want to deliver a partial charge to your batteries.
The Auto Gen Start will start and run the generator until the inverter/ charger charges the batteries through the Bulk charge stage (restoring the batteries to about 75% of their full charge). The Auto Gen Start stops the generator when the inverter/charger determines the batteries have reached the Absorption charge stage.
Set “Stop Absorb” if your inverter/charger is using two-stage battery charging. If your inverter/charger is set to use three-stage charging, set “Stop Float” or “Stop Absorb” to stop the generator.
Set “Stop Absorb” if battery charging is your main priority for your generator (rather than using your generator for powering high AC loads). You might also use the “Stop Absorb” setting if your batteries are not being charged enough before the Auto Gen Start stops the generator because of battery voltage or state of charge.
975-0082-01-01 3–25
Configuration
In power systems with long cables between the batteries and the inverter/ charger (over 10 feet [3 m]), the measured battery voltage can be a poor indicator of battery condition. In such cases, the batteries are more assured of a full charge if the generator runs until the charger reaches the Absorb stage, rather than waiting until the charger charges the batteries to the voltage you may have set for “StopBattV” (see page 3–22).
For more information on battery charging, see your inverter/charger operation guide.
Outcomes If you enable the Auto Gen Start to stop the generator at the Absorption
stage, it will stop the generator if it has been started automatically by the Battery Voltage (“StartV:30sec”, “StartV:15min”, “StartV:2hr”, and “StartV:24hr”) or State of Charge settings.
If you do not set “Stop Absorb” to On, the Auto Gen Start will not stop the generator in response to the battery charging stage. The generator will stop in response to battery voltage (“StopBattV”) instead. In this case, ensure that the “StopBattV” is enabled and set at the correct voltage.

Stop Float

Full name Stop at Float Charge Stage Purpose The “Stop Float” setting allows you to set the Auto Gen Start to stop the
generator when the inverter/charger has recharged the batteries to the Float stage.
Values Default
Off, On Off
When to use Set “Stop Float” if your inverter/charger is using three-stage battery
charging. Set “Stop Float” to On if battery charging is your main priority for your
generator (rather than using your generator for powering high AC loads). You might also use the “Stop Float” setting if your batteries are not being charged enough before the Auto Gen Start stops the generator because of battery voltage or state of charge.
In power systems with long cables between the batteries and the inverter/ charger (over 10 feet [3 m]), the measured battery voltage can be a poor indicator of battery condition. In such cases, the batteries are more
3–26 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start Menu
assured of a full charge if the generator runs until the charger reaches the Float stage, rather than waiting until the charger charges the batteries to the voltage you may have set for “StopBattV” (see page 3–22).
For more information on battery charging, see your inverter/charger guide.
Outcomes If you enable the Auto Gen Start to stop the generator when the batteries
have been charged to the Float stage, it will stop the generator if it has been started automatically by the Battery Voltage (“StartV:30sec”, “StartV:15min”, “StartV:2hr”, and “StartV:24hr”) or State of Charge settings.
If you do not set “Stop Float” to On, the Auto Gen Start will not stop the generator in response to the battery charging stage. The generator will stop in response to battery voltage (“StopBattV”) instead. In this case, ensure that the “StopBattV” is enabled and set at the correct voltage.
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Configuration

Generator Configuration menu

The Generator Configuration (AGS Gen Config) menu contains additional options for configuring the Auto Gen Start for your make and model of generator. The items on this menu include the settings you automatically select when you select a Gen Type (see “Gen Type” on page 3–16). This menu also allows you to set the generator exercise period.
The Generator Configuration menu contains the following items:
“Starter Cool Down”
“Max Run Time”
“Exercise Per”
“Exercise Dur”
“Exercise Time”
•“Relay3
•“Run Hold Time
•“Crank Time
•“Crank Retry Time
“Preheat Time”
“Start Tries”

Starter Cool Down

Purpose The Starter Cool Down setting allows you to set an interval between start
attempts if the generator fails to start on the first attempt. This time period allows the start motor to cool sufficiently before the Auto Gen Start signals it to begin cranking again.
Values Default
1s to 250s (increments of 1s) 60s
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen Type” for
your generator . You should manually set “Starter Cool Down” if you need to customize your “Gen Type” on the advice of your generator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.
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The Auto Gen Start Menu

Max Run Time

Full name Maximum Generator Run Time Purpose The Max Run Time setting allows you to set a limit on how long the
generator will run. This setting overrides any automatic start triggers. For example, if the generator starts in response to low battery voltage, and your batteries are not fully charged before “Max Run Time” is reached, the generator will stop. In addition, when the generator is started manually from the System Control Panel, the generator will stop when “Max Run Time” is reached.
When started with an external manual on/off switch, the generator will not stop when it reaches “Max Run Time”. You must stop the generator with the external manual on/off switch, or by using the System Control Panel to change the “AGS Mode” to ManualOff.
If the Auto Gen Start reaches “Max Run Time”, a warning message will appear on the System Control Panel. The Auto Gen Start will stop operating until you acknowledge the warning by pressing Enter on the System Control Panel.
Values Default
2hours to 8hours (increments of 1hour) 3hours
When to use You should adjust “Max Run Time” if you find that the maximum
generator run time:
exceeds the fuel capacity of your generator.
is not long enough to fully recharge your batteries under optimum
conditions.

Exercise Per

Full name Set Exercise Period (in days). Purpose “Exercise Per” allows you to set the minimum time interval in between
each exercising of the generator. The time interval defined by the Exercise Period setting begins with the
last time the generator was run for any reason, not with the last time the Auto Gen Start exercised the generator.
For example, setting an exercise period of 30 days would start the generator if it had not been run at all for 30 days.
975-0082-01-01 3–29
Configuration
This setting also requires you to set an Exercise Duration (see “Exercise Dur” on page 3–30) and an Exercise Time (see “Exercise Time” on page 3–31).
WARNING: Fire and health hazard
Running a generator in an enclosed space produces potentially lethal exhaust gases. Before putting your RV or boat in storage, disable the Auto Gen Start by putting the Xanbus system in Hibernate mode. Do not leave a generator with equipped with an Auto Gen Start otherwise unattended.
Values Default
0 (Off), 1day to 250days (increments of 1day) 21days
When to use Generators need to run regularly in order to maintain mechanical health
and performance. If you have no need to use your generator (for example, if you are spending long periods of time connected to external AC input, or shore power), or if you use your generator for only one season a year, setting an exercise period is recommended.
If you run your generator frequently throughout the year, you may not need to set an exercise period. Set “Exercise Per” to 0.
Important:
your generator’s manufacturer for the recommended exercise period.
Consult your generator manual or a service representative from

Exercise Dur

Full name Exercise Duration (in minutes) Purpose “Exercise Dur” allows you to set how long the generator will run when it
is exercised. This setting requires you to set an Exercise Period and an Exercise Time.
Values Default
1min to 250min 30min
When to use You must set the Exercise Duration when you have set the Exercise
Period to anything other than 0 (Off).
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The Auto Gen Start Menu
Important:
Run Time”. Attempting to do so will generate a warning on the System Control Panel.
Important:
your generator’s manufacturer for the recommended exercise duration.
Ensure that you do not set Exercise Duration for longer than “Max
Consult your generator manual or a service representative from

Exercise Time

Purpose “Exercise Time” allows you to set the time of day that the Auto Gen Start
exercises the generator. This setting also requires you to set an Exercise Period and an Exercise
Duration.
Values Default
12:00AM to 11:50PM (12-hour clock) 00:00 to 23:50 (24-hour clock) (increments of 10 minutes)
When to use You must set the Exercise Time when you have set the Exercise Period
and the Exercise Duration.
Outcomes If you have set the Exercise T ime, the generator will start at that time after
being inactive for the Exercise Period. If the Exercise Time you have set occurs during Quiet T ime, the generator
will start when Quiet Time is over and run for the full amount of time you have set for “Exercise Dur”.
9:00AM

Relay3

Purpose “Relay3” sets the function of Relay 3 of the Auto Gen Start. The function
of Relay 3 affects contacts 19 and 20 of the 20-contact connector and external wiring harness.
Values Default
NotUsed, Preheat, PreheatSDByp NotUsed
When to use Selecting a value for “Gen Type” automatically configures “Relay3”.
You may have to manually set “Relay3” according to your make and type of generator.
975-0082-01-01 3–31
Configuration
Some diesel generators require preheating of their glow plugs before start cranking. Setting “Relay3” to Preheat enables Relay 3 to perform this function in addition to Relay 1.
Some generators require Relay 3 to switch 12 volts to the glow plugs, while some generators require ground to be switched to the glow plugs.

Run Hold Time

Full name Generator Run Signal Hold Time Purpose “Run Hold Time” specifies the length of time the generator run signal (or
B+ or hour meter signal) must be active before the Auto Gen Start considers the generator to be running and cranking can be stopped.
Some generators assert their run signal when they are being cranked, but before they have started. They also have varying delays from when cranking begins or ends to when the run signal is asserted or unasserted. The Run Hold Time is designed to accommodate these generators.
Values Default
0.0s to 20.0s (increments of 0.5s) 0.5s
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen Type” for
your generator. You should manually set “Run Hold Time” if you need to customize your Gen Type on the advice of your generator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.

Crank Time

Purpose “Crank Time” specifies the length of time the Start relay is engaged (and
cranking the starter motor) for the first attempt to start the generator.
Values Default
0s to 250s (increments of 1s) 30s
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen Type” for
your generator. You should manually set “Crank Time” if you need to customize your Gen Type on the advice of your generator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.
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The Auto Gen Start Menu

Crank Retry Time

Purpose “Crank Retry Time” specifies the length of time the Start relay is engaged
(and cranking the starter motor) for the second and subsequent attempts to start the generator, in cases when the generator fails to start on the first attempt.
Values Default
0s to 250s (increments of 1s) 40s
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen T ype” for
your generator. You should manually set “Crank Retry Time” if you need to customize your Gen T ype on the advice of your gen erator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.

Preheat Time

Purpose “Preheat Time” specifies how long the Preheat relay is engaged during the
start sequence. The preheat signal may be required for diesel generators with glow plugs or fuel priming for gas generators.
The Preheat relay may be Relay 1 or Relay 3, depending on the “Relay3 ” setting or the Gen Type selected.
Values Default
0s to 250s (increments of 1s) 0s
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen T ype” for
your generator. You should manually set “Preheat Time” if you need to customize your Gen Type on the advice of your generator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.
975-0082-01-01 3–33
Configuration

Start Tries

“Start Tries” specifies how many times the Auto Gen Start will attempt to start the generator. On the first start try, the Auto Gen Start cranks the starter motor for the Crank Time. If the generator does not start, on subsequent start tries, the Auto Gen Start cranks the start motor for the Crank Retry Time.
Values Default
1 to 10 3
When to use This setting is automatically configured when you select a “Gen Type” for
your generator. You should manually set “Start Tries” if you need to customize your Gen Type on the advice of your generator manufacturer or authorized service personnel.
3–34 975-0082-01-01
The Auto Gen Start Menu

AGS: Device Info menu

The Device Info menu allows you to view the Fault, Warning and Event logs. On the Device Info menu you can also restore the default settings for the Auto Gen Start.

View Fault Log

Purpose The Fault Log displays the last 20 Auto Gen Start faults for your
reference.
When to use You may need to consult the Fault Log when troubleshooting, or before
seeking technical assistance.

View Warning Log

Purpose The Warning Log displays the last 20 Auto Gen Start warnings for your
reference.
When to use You may need to consult the Warning Log when troubleshooting, or
before seeking technical assistance.

View Event Log

Purpose The Event Log displays the last 20 Auto Gen Start events for your
reference. Events can include:
Starting and stopping the generator.
Trigger events .
Changing the system mode.
Changing the system clock.
Commands to restore the default settings.

Restore Defaults

Purpose The Restore Defaults command restores the default settings for all
configurable items on the Auto Gen Start menu.
When to use Use the Restore Defaults command after installing a new generator, or if
an authorized service person advises you to.
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Configuration
User Settings
Use this table to record any customized Auto Gen Start settings for future reference.
Setting Values Default User Setting
“QT Begin” 12:00AM–11:59PM (12-hour clock)
00:00–23:59 (24-hour clock)
“QT End” 12:00AM–11:59PM (12-hour clock)
00:00–23:59 (24-hour clock) “Gen Type” Type 1 to Type 13 Type 2 “StartV:30sec” Off, 4.0V–60.0V 11.3V “StartV:15min” Off, 4.0V–60.0V Off “StartV:2hr” Off, 4.0V–60.0V Off “StartV:24hr” Off, 4.0V–60.0V Off “StopBattV” Off, 4.0V–60.0V Off “Enable Temp1” On, Off Off “Enable Temp2” On, Off Off “Enable Load” On, Off Off “Start Load” 10.0A–33.0A 10.0A “Stop Load” 7.0A–28 .0A 7.0 A “Stop Absorb” On , Off On “Stop Float” On, Off Off
9:00PM (12-hour clock) 21:00 (24-hour clock)
8:00AM (12-hour clock) 8:00 (24-hour clock)
“Max Run Time” “Exercise Per” 0days (Off)–250days 21days “Exercise Dur” 1min–250min 30min “Exercise Time” 12:00AM–11:59PM (12-hour clock)
3–36 975-0082-01-01
2hours–8hours 3hours
9:00AM (12-hour clock)
00:00–23:59 (24-hour clock)
9:00 (24-hour clock)
4

Operation

Chapter 4 describes the operation of the Auto Gen Start and how to get the most from its features. This includes information about:
using the Auto Gen Start for both manual and automatic generator control.
setting Quiet Time.
displaying the advanced Auto Gen Start menu.
changing system modes.
viewing the firmware revision number.
Operation
Starting and Stopping the Generator
You can use the Auto Gen Start to start the generator manually (on demand, using the System Control Panel) and automatically (in response to an electrical system condition).
In general, to avoid Auto Gen Start faults, try not to combine automatic and external manual starts and stops. When the generator has been started automatically, let it stop automatically unless you encounter a situation when the generator must be stopped urgently. Likewise, if you have started the generator manually, ensure that you stop it manually (only the “Max Run Time” setting can automatically stop the generator after it has been started manually).
To set the Auto Gen Start to start and stop the generator automatically:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, highlight AGS Mode and press Enter.
2. Use the up arrow or down arrow button to select Automatic.
3. Press Enter. The Auto Gen Start will start and stop the generator in response to the
configurable settings you have set for battery voltage, state of charge, inverter load, quiet time or exercise time. Depending on conditions in the power system, the generator may start immediately after it is put in Automatic mode.
To start the generator manually:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, highlight AGS Mode and press Enter.
2. Use the up arrow or down arrow button to select ManualOn.
3. Press Enter.
To stop the generator manually:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, highlight AGS Mode and press Enter.
2. Use the up arrow or down arrow button to select ManualOff.
3. Press Enter.
4–2 975-0082-01-01
Setting Quiet Time
Use the Quiet Time feature to ensure that the Auto Gen S tart will not start the generator during the night, or during times that might clash with “Quiet Time” guidelines at RV parks and campgrounds.
Setting Quiet Time for the first time involves three steps:
1. Setting “QT Enable” to On.
2. Setting the “QT Begin” setting.
3. Setting the “QT End” setting. The default setting for “QT Begin” is 10:00 PM (22:00 if you are using a
24-hour clock) and the default setting for “QT End” is 7:00 AM (7:00 on the 24-hour clock). If the default settings meet your needs, you only need to enable or disable Quiet Time when you want to use this feature.
For more information about Quiet Time settings, see “QT Enable” on page 3–11, “QT Begin” on page 3–11, and “QT End” on page 3–13.

Enabling Quiet Time

Before setting times for the beginning and end of Quiet Time, you must first enable the Quiet Time feature, if it has not already been enabled.
To enable Quiet Time:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, use the up or down arrow buttons to
highlight “QT Enable”.
2. Press Enter.
Setting Quiet Time
3. Use the up or down arrow button to select On.
4. Press Enter.

Setting the beginning of Quiet Time

Setting a time for “QT Begin” will define the start of Quiet Time. At the time you set for “QT Begin”, the Auto Gen Start will turn the generator off if it is running, and prevent the generator from starting automatically until the end of Quiet Time.
To set the beginning of Quiet Time:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, use the up or down arrow buttons to
highlight “QT Begin”, then press Enter.
2. Use the up or down arrow button to select the hour, then press Enter.
975-0082-01-01 4–3
Operation
3. Use the up or down arrow button to select the minute, then press Enter.
If you are using the 24-hour clock, go to step 5.
4. Use the up or down arrow button to select AM or PM, then press Enter.
5. Press Exit twice to return to the System screen.

Setting the end of Quiet Time

Setting a time for “QT End” defines the end of Quiet Time. At the time you set for “QT End”, the Auto Gen Start will be able to start the generator when an automatic start trigger (such as low battery voltage or a high inverter load) occurs in the Xanbus system. If there is an automatic start trigger already active in the system when Quiet Time ends, the generator will start immediately.
To set the end of Quiet Time:
1. On the Auto Gen Start menu, use the up or down arrow buttons to highlight “QT End”, then press Enter.
2. Use the up or down arrow button to select the hour, then press Enter.
3. Use the up or down arrow button to select the minute, then press Enter.
If you are using the 24-hour clock, go to step 5.
4. Use the up or down arrow button to select AM or PM, then press Enter.
5. Press Exit twice to return to the System screen.
4–4 975-0082-01-01
Viewing the Advanced Menu
The System Control Panel can display the Auto Gen Start menu in two formats: basic and advanced.
The Auto Gen Start basic menu is displayed by default. It lists status information and settings you may have to adjust routinely . See “The Auto Gen Start basic menu” on page 3–7 for a list of basic menu items and configuration information.
The Auto Gen Start advanced menu lists additional settings and sub­menus. See “Auto Gen Start advanced menu” on page 3–18 for a list of advanced menu items and configuration information.
To view the Auto Gen Start advanced menu, you must go to the System Settings menu.
To view the Auto Gen Start advanced menu:
1. On the Select Device menu, use the down arrow button to highlight
System (see Figure 4-1).
Viewing the Advanced Menu
Figure 4-1
2. Press Enter.
The System Settings menu appears.
3. On the System Settings menu, use the down arrow button to highlight
Global Menus and press Enter .
4. Use the up or down arrow button to select Advanced.
5. Press Enter. This procedure causes advanced menus to be displayed for all devices on
the Xanbus system. You can return to displaying the basic menu for the Auto Gen Start by selecting Basic Menu on the Auto Gen Start menu.
975-0082-01-01 4–5
Selecting the System menu
Operation
Changing System Modes
The system modes described in this section affect the behavior of the Auto Gen Start and every Xanbus-enabled device in the system. You will have to change the system mode when setting a Generator Type, travelling, putting your vehicle in storage, or when installing a new Xanbus-enabled device.
The system modes you can select are:
Operating
Power Save
•Safe
Hibernate
You can change system modes using the System Settings menu on the System Control Panel. The System Settings menu appears as the last item on the Select Device menu.
To view the System Settings menu:
1. On the Select Device menu, use the down arrow button to highlight System (see Figure 4-1).
2. Press Enter. The System Settings menu appears.
To change the System mode:
1. On the System Settings menu, with Desired Mode highlighted, press Enter.
Figure 4-2
2. Use the up or down arrow button to selected the desired system mode.
3. Press Enter.
4–6 975-0082-01-01
Changing the system mode
Changing System Modes

Operating mode

Characteristics Operating mode is the default mode of the Auto Gen Start. In Operating
mode, the Auto Gen Start communicates on the network, responds to signal input, and can start and stop the generator automatically. Operating mode includes all the AGS Modes described on page 3–9 of the Configuration chapter.
Whenever the Auto Gen Start is powered on, it is in Operating mode (with the AGS Mode in “ManualOff”).

Power Save mode

Characteristics Power Save mode minimizes power draw by the Auto Gen Start and other
devices on the Xanbus system. Power Save mode stops all communication on the network, putting the system to “sleep” until it receives a command to “wake up” again. In Power Save mode, the generator stops, and the Auto Gen Start cannot start it manually or automatically.
For more information about Power Save mode, see the System Control Panel Owner’s Guide.

Safe mode

Characteristics Selecting Safe mode stops the generator (if it is running) and puts the
Auto Gen Start (and every Xanbus-enabled device in power system) into Safe mode. While in Safe mode, the Auto Gen Start “listens” to and reports its status to the network. However, it will not start the generator manually or automatically while in Safe mode.
When to use Before changing the “Gen Type” setting (see page 3–16), you must put
the system into Safe mode. Use Safe mode when adding or removing devices from the network.
Authorized service personnel must also put the system into Safe mode before performing diagnostics and software upgrades.
If the Auto Gen Start is powered off while in Safe mode, it will be in Safe mode when it is powered on again.
Important:
cannot put the Auto Gen Start into Safe mode. Before you can enter Safe mode, you must stop the generator via its external switch and clear the fault.
975-0082-01-01 4–7
If Auto Gen Start Fault 201 (“Unable to stop gen.”) is active, you
Operation

Hibernate mode

Characteristics Hibernate mode removes power from the Auto Gen Start and all Xanbus-
enabled devices on the Xanbus system. The Auto Gen Start suspends all operations (including starting and stopping the generator) until power is restored to the network.
Restoring power
Important:
boat in storage. This will prevent the Auto Gen Start from starting the generator while unattended.
If there are active faults in the system, you cannot put the system into Hibernate mode. Clear any active faults, correct the condition that caused the fault, then put the system into Hibernate mode.
Once the system is in Hibernate mode, you must restore power to the network manually.
If an inverter/charger supplies power to the network, you can bring the system out of Hibernate mode either by pressing the reset button on the inverter/charger front panel or by applying AC input to the inverter/ charger with utility power or generator power.
Put the system into Hibernate mode before putting your RV or
Viewing the Firmware Revision Number
You may need to view the firmware revision number when troubleshooting the Auto Gen Start with authorized service personnel.
To view the firmware revision number:
1. On the Select Device menu, use the down arrow button to highlight System.
2. Press Enter. The System Settings menu appears.
3. Press the down arrow button to highlight View Device Info.
4. Press Enter. The Device Info screen appears.
5. If Auto Gen Start screen is not already displayed, press the down arrow button until it appears.
The number opposite “F/W Rev.” is the firmware revision number.
6. Press Exit to return to the System Settings menu.
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5

Troubleshooting

Chapter 5 contains information and procedures to troubleshoot the Auto Gen Start, including tables of warnings and faults for your reference.
Troubleshooting
Faults and Warnings
Under certain conditions, the Auto Gen Start generates a fault or warning message. These messages appear on the System Control Panel. This section describes how to respond to fault and warning messages when they appear.
Acknowledging messages
Self-clearing warnings
Clearing faults To clear active Auto Gen Start faults, highlight Clear Faults on the Auto
Multiple faults and warnings
When a fault or warning message appears, you can acknowledge the message by pressing Enter on the System Control Panel. This action removes the message from the screen. After acknowleding the message, you can proceed configuring or operating the Auto Gen Start.This action does not clear the condition that caused the fault or warning, however. Consult Table 5-1 and Table 5-2 for suggested actions to take after you have acknowledged the message.
You can acknowledge warnings that are in the form of a Yes/No question by pressing Enter for Yes and Exit for No.
If unacknowledged, some warnings may clear themselves if the condition that generated the message goes away. For example, if the Auto Gen S tart fails to start the generator, warning message W202 appears. However, if the generator starts on the next start try, the message goes away.
Gen Start menu and press Enter. If several fault or warning messages occur before you can acknowledge or
clear them, they are displayed together on a fault list or a warning list. These lists contain messages from every Xanbus-enabled device, not just the Auto Gen Start. You can select a message and view its details from the fault list or warning list.
To view a message from a fault list or warning list:
1. On the list, use the up arrow or down arrow button to highlight the message you want to view.
2. Press Enter. The complete message appears.
After viewing the message, you can return to the fault list or warning list by pressing Exit or continue to the menu for the device that caused the fault or warning by pressing Enter. Ea ch time you return to the list after viewing a complete message, the viewed message is removed from the list.
If you have left the fault list or warning list, you can view them at any time from the System Settings menu.
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To view a fault list or warning list:
1. On the Select Device menu, highlight System and press Enter.
2. On the System Settings menu, highlight View Fault List or View
Warning List.
3. Press Enter.
Warning Messages
Table 5-1 provides details and suggests action for Auto Gen Start warnings.
Warning Messages
Table 5-1
Warning Number Message
W200 Generator was
W201 Generator was
W202 Unable to start
W203 Manual Off: Max
Auto Gen Start warning messages
stopped manually.
started manually.
generator. AGS will try again.
generator run time reached. Reset AGS Mode.
Self­clearing? Cause Action
No Generator was stopped by
an external Manual Off switch.
No Generator was started by
an external Manual On switch
Yes The Auto Gen Start tried,
but could not start the generator.
No The generator has run for
its maximum allowable time. The Auto Gen Start has stopped the generator and changed the AGS Mode to ManualOff.
Acknowledge the warning. To resume automatic starts and stops, change the Auto Gen Start mode to Auto.
Acknowledge the warning. To resume automatic starts and stops, change the Auto Gen Start mode to Auto.
No action required. The Auto Gen Start will try to start the generator again until it reaches the maximum number of start tries.
Acknowledge the warning. Return the Auto Gen Start to the desired AGS Mode (Automatic or ManualOn). Ensure generator is fueled and is supplying required power for battery charging and loads.
975-0082-01-01 5–3
Troubleshooting
Table 5-1
Warning Number Message
W204 Manual Off: Max
W205 Generator started
W206 Mismatched
W207 Mismatched
Auto Gen Start warning messages
generator cycles reached. Reset AGS Mode.
by its switch. Use its switch to stop.
triggers. Enable stop trigger or disable start trigger.
triggers. Enable start trigger or disable stop trigger.
Self­clearing? Cause Action
No The generator has reached
its maximum number of start-and-stop cycles. To help prevent an unattended generator from starting, the Auto Gen Start changed the AGS Mode to ManualOff.
Yes The generator was started,
but not by the Auto Gen Start.
No You have set a start trigger,
but not a corresponding stop trigger.
No You have set a stop trigger,
but not a corresponding start trigger.
Acknowledge the warning. Return the Auto Gen Start to the desired AGS Mode (Automatic or ManualOn). Ensure generator is fueled and is supplying required power for battery charging and loads.
Check your generator. S top it using the switch or control panel on the generator.
Acknowledge warning and set a stop trigger.
Acknowledge warning and set a start trigger.
W208 Auto triggers not
enabled. Config auto triggers
W209 Gen external stop.
Start gen via its control panel.
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No You are attempting to enter
Automatic Mode without setting Auto triggers.
Yes The generator has stopped,
but not by the Auto Gen Start. The generator may have run out of gas, or may have been shut off by a switch on the generator.
Acknowledge warning and set a start and stop trigger.
Check the generator’s fuel level and mechanical condition, then start the generator manually (using the switch or control panel on the generator) to clear the warning.
Fault Messages
Table 5-1
Warning Number Message
W250 The selected value
W500 Network
W501 AGS has fixed
Auto Gen Start warning messages
failed to change. Try again.
connection lost. Check connections.
memory problem and restored default settings.
Self­clearing? Cause Action
No You have tried to change
the Gen Type without putting the system into Safe mode first.
You have tried to set the “Exercise Dur” for longer than “Max Run Time,” or “Max Run Time” for less than “Exercise Dur.”
Y es The Auto Gen Start has lost
communications with the network because of a faulty connection or electronic signal disruption.
No The Auto Gen Start
encountered an internal memory problem upon startup. To remain operational, the Auto Gen Start restored its default settings.
Press “continue.” Put the system into Safe mode, change the Gen Type, then return the system to Operating mode.
Press “continue.” Ensure that “Max Run Time” is set for longer than “Exercise Dur.”
Check connection between the Auto Gen Start and the network.
Acknowledge the warning and reset configurable settings if necessary.
Fault Messages
When the Auto Gen Start detects a fault condition, it stops the generator. The red Fault light also comes on, and the System Control Panel displays a fault message.
The Auto Gen Start remembers the AGS Mode that it was in at the time it detected the fault. After you have cleared the fault, the Auto Gen Start returns to its last known AGS Mode.
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Troubleshooting
Table 5-2
Fault Number Message
F200 Exceeded max
F201 Unable to stop
F203 Manual Off: Gen
Auto Gen Start fault messages
number of start tries. Check gen, clear fault.
gen. Stop gen via its control panel.
stopped by ext sensor. Reset AGS mode.
Self­clearing? Cause Action
No The Auto Gen Start has tried
and failed to start the generator. To prevent draining the start battery, the Auto Gen Start will suspend further start attempts.
No The Auto Gen Start has lost
contact with the generator or the generator did not stop after the Auto Gen Start sent it a stop signal.
No An external sensor connected
to the Auto Gen Start has stopped the generator and put the Auto Gen Start into Manual Off mode.
Check the generator’s fuel level and start battery condition. Consult generator manual. Clear fault on System Control Panel screen to allow retry.
Change the Auto Gen Start mode to Manual Off. If this fails to work, stop the generator with the external stop switch. Check generator. Return Auto Gen Start to automatic mode to resume automatic starts and stops.
After the sensor connected to the external shutdown has deactivated, clear the fault and reset the Auto Gen Start to the desired mode.
F500 Serial Number
Failure, Service Required.
F501 Memory Failure.
Service Required.
F505 Internal Failure.
Service Required.
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No The silicon serial ID number
has failed and the Auto Gen Start has gone into Safe mode.
No The Auto Gen Start has
suffered a non-volatile memory failure.
No A controller fault has occurred
and the Auto Gen Start has gone into Safe mode.
Call your dealer or Xantrex.
Call your dealer or Xantrex.
Clear the fault. If the fault persists, call your dealer or Xantrex.
A

Specifications

Appendix A contains the electrical, mechanical, and environmental specifications for the Auto Gen Start.
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Nominal input network voltage 15 VDC Minimum operating network voltage 14.25 VDC Maximum operating network voltage 15.75 VDC Maximum operating current 200 mA @ nominal
Relay contact voltage rating 12 VDC, 30 VDC max. Maximum relay current 5 A DC* Nominal 12 V/24 V thermostat input voltage 12 VDC/24 VDC = On Minimum 12 V/24 V thermostat input voltage 9.5 VDC Maximum 12 V/24 V thermostat input voltage 30 VDC T ypical 12 V/24 V thermostat input current 14.6 mA @ 12 V Nominal 12 V/24 V generator running B+ voltage 12 VDC/24 VDC= On Minimum 12 V/24 V generator running B+ voltage 9.5 VDC Maximum 12 V/24 V generator running B+ voltage 30 VDC
input network voltage
Typical 12 V/24 V generator running B+ current 14.6 mA @ 12 V Communication physical layer 2, CAN Communication protocol Xanbus Maximum cable length 130 ft. (40 m)
*Limited to Class 2 levels (100 VA) as in Chapter 2, page 2–6.
Mechanical Specifications
3
3
Dimensions
-- -
5 × 3 × 1 "
4
(146 × 95.5 × 37 mm) Weight 0.5 lb. (225 g) Mounting 4 #6 screws Connectors 2 × Xanbus: RJ45—8 pins
20-contact pluggable connector
(T yco Mate ’n’ Lok 2 connector)
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1
-- -
-- -
4
2
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