Search - OutBack Power GS8048A Operator's Manual

Search

An automated search circuit is available to minimize the power draw when no loads are present.
When enabled, the inverter does not always deliver full output. The output is reduced to brief
pulses with a delay between them. These pulses are sent down the output lines to see if a
resistance is present. Basically, the pulses "search" for a load. If a load is detected on the
output, the inverter's output increases to full voltage so that it can power the load. When the
load is turned off, the inverter "goes to sleep" and begins searching again.
Search mode sensitivity is adjusted with the Sensitivity menu item. See Table 17, which
begins on page 63, for the location of this item. The sensitivity is adjusted in small increments
which are measured in fractions of one ampere.
NOTE :
Increment sizes are difficult to define due to varying load characteristics. However, the
default setting, 10 increments, is approximately sufficient to detect the load of one compact
fluorescent light (CFL). A load which draws this amount or greater will "wake up" the inverter.
 Search mode is not particularly useful with loads requiring continuous power. (These loads include
clocks, answering machines, and similar devices.) "Sleep" operation with these loads simply results
in a power interruption or nuisance shutdown.
 Search mode may not be useful with loads that are critical or are intentionally operated a large
portion of the time even if they are not continuous. (These loads include computers and similar
devices.) The inverter may "sleep" so rarely that the mode has no benefit.
 Some devices may not be easily detected by Search mode.
 Search is inoperative if the UPS input mode is in use. See page 16 for more information.
Search mode is ideal for use in small systems where it is critical to conserve battery capacity
and avoid idle draw or "ghost" loads.
To set up Search mode for use:
1. Turn off all loads.
2. Activate Search mode with the system display.
3. Determine the smallest load that is to be used and turn it on.
4. If the load operates, the inverter is active and is producing power. No further adjustments
are needed.
5. If the inverter does not produce power and continues to "sleep", the sensitivity is set too
high. Turn the load off and lower the
whether the inverter activates.
6. Repeat step 5 as needed until turning on the load also reliably activates the inverter.
The pulse duration and the delay both have a time period that is measured in AC cycles. These
two items, Pulse Length and Pulse Spacing, are adjustable in the same menu as Sensitivity.
If Sensitivity does not achieve the desired results, it may be useful to perform similar
adjustments on these items.
900-0161-01-01 Rev B
menu item. Turn on the load and test
Sensitivity
Operation
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