Inverter Basics; Getting Started - Whistler XP200i Owner's Manual

INVERTER BASICS

Getting Started

Power equipment and appliances which operate with motors or tubes
require an initial surge of power to get them up and running. This
power surge is referred to as the "starting load" or "peak load." (By
comparison, electrical devices such as standard light bulbs do not
require a large starting load). Once the equipment or appliance has
been powered up, it settles down to a slower pace and requires
far less electrical power to operate. This lower power requirement
is referred to as the "continuous load." In order to ensure that the
capacity of your WHISTLER inverter is sufficient to meet the required
start up load, you must first determine the power consumption of the
equipment or appliance you plan to operate.
Power consumption is rated either in wattage or in amperes, and
information regarding the required "watts" or "amps" generally
is stamped or printed on most appliances and equipment. If this
information is not indicated on the appliance or equipment, check
the owner's manual. Contact the appliance or equipment manu-
facturer to determine if the device you are using (TV's, battery
re-charger, computer, medical equipment, etc.) is compatible
with a modified sine wave.
If the power consumption is rated in amps, multiply the number of
amps by 115 (AC voltage) to determine the comparable wattage
rating. Induction motors, as well as some televisions, may require 2
to 6 times their wattage rating for startup. For further information
on the fundamental operating principles of WHISTLER inverters
and related technical data, see "Operating Principles."
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