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System Configuration
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Stable Voltage The generator should provide a stable voltage and frequency output for
the inverter to synchronize with.
AC wind turbines and small scale AC water turbines are not
recommended for use as AC power sources as they may not be able to
provide a stable voltage and frequency as loads and charger requirements
change. The only way to practically use sources such as these is to take
the AC power and rectify it into DC. Be sure to include a diversion type
controller (e.g., Xantrex C-Series) to protect the batteries from
overcharging.
Types of Generators
There are AC generators and DC generators.
AC Generators AC generators can power AC loads and charge batteries. An AC
generator is better suited for residential applications, since the majority of
loads require AC power.
DC Generators DC generators can power DC loads and charge batteries. In a residential
application, DC generators are primarily used to charge the batteries.
Output
Requirements
An AC generator can output 120 Vac only, 120 Vac and 240 Vac together,
or 240 Vac only depending on the overall needs of the system. The
generator must be large enough to provide adequate power to charge the
batteries and support a certain amount of AC loads. If the generator is not
large enough, the amount of time it takes the inverter to charge the
batteries will increase.
A DC generator is used primarily to charge the batteries. AC loads are
only powered by the energy stored in the batteries. The generator must be
large enough to provide adequate power to charge the batteries.
Generator start types
Starting types Generators can either be manually started, or when properly equipped,
automatically started. The Sine Wave Plus can operate well with either
kind of generator. It is recommended, however, to consult the desired
generator’s manufacturer to ensure the generator of choice is best suited
for the desired application.
Manual-start and
electric-start
generators
When using a manual-start or electric-start generator, the generator is
connected to the inverter AC2 input but is not controlled by the inverter.
The starting and stopping of the generator occurs at the generator.
Manual-start generators are started with a recoil-start pull cord. Electric-
start generators are started by turning an ignition/starter key, switch, or
similar means.