Black & Decker PI750AB - Vehicle Power System Manual

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the PI750AB 750 Watt Power Inverter with USB Charging Port.This inverter can be used to operate personal electronics such as: laptop computers, digital/video cameras, MP3 players, cell phones, PDAs, and more. It can also be used to recharge 110/120 volt AC devices that have an appropriate recharging adapter with a standard North American two- or three-prong plug. Please read this Instruction Manual carefully before use to ensure optimum performance and to avoid damage to this product.

FEATURES

The front panel provides three LED indicators. The AC and USB outlets are ready to use. The green LED indicates power and proper operation of the inverter. The AC and USB outlets are ready to use. The red LED indicates inverter shutdown from an over-load or over-temperature fault and the yellow LED indicates an input fault. (If the red or yellow Fault LED Indicator lights, refer to the Troubleshooting Section of this Instruction Manual.) The Power Pushbutton turns the inverter ON and OFF. It can also be used to force reset of inverter circuits by pressing it OFF (no LEDs are lit), then back ON again.

AC power is supplied through two standard North American three-prong type outlets. The outlets can accommodate either two- or three-pin AC plugs.

Controls and Functions

HOW THIS INVERTER WORKS

This inverter is an electronic device that converts low voltage DC (direct current) electricity from a battery to 115 volt AC (alternating current) household power. In designing this inverter, Black & Decker has incorporated design techniques previously employed in computer power supplies. The result of these design innovations is a smaller, lighter and easier-to-use power inverter.

The 750 Watt Power Inverter with USB Charging Portconverts power in two stages. The first stage is a DC-toDC conversion process that raises the low voltage DC at the inverter input to 145 volts DC. The second stage is a MOSFET bridge stage that converts the high voltage DC into 115 volts, 60 Hz AC.

The DC-to-DC converter stage uses creative, high frequency, zero voltage switching power conversion techniques that replace the bulky transformers found in less technologically advanced models. The inverter stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors in a full bridge configuration.

Power Inverter Output Waveform

The AC output waveform of this inverter is known as a modified sine wave. It is a stepped waveform that has characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. This type of waveform is suitable for most AC loads, including linear and switching power supplies used in electronic equipment, transformers, and small motors.

The modified sine wave produced by this inverter has an RMS (root mean square) voltage of 115 volts. Most AC voltmeters (both digital and analog) are sensitive to the average value of the waveform rather than the RMS value. They are calibrated for RMS voltage under the assumption that the waveform measured will be a pure sine wave. These meters will not correctly read the RMS voltage of a modified sine wave. Non-TRUE RMS meters will read about 20 to 30 volts low when measuring the output of this inverter. For accurate measurement of the output voltage of this unit, use a TRUE RMS reading voltmeter such as a Fluke 87, Fluke 8080A, Beckman 4410 or Triplett 4200.

115 Volt AC Output

Rechargeable Devices

• Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be charged by plugging them directly into an AC receptacle. Thesedevices may damage the inverter or the charging circuit.
• When using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for the initial ten minutes of use to determine if itproduces excessive heat.
• If excessive heat is produced, this indicates the device should not be used with this inverter.
• This problem does not occur with most battery-operated equipment. Most of these devices use a separatecharger or transformer that is plugged into an AC receptacle.
• The inverter is capable of running most chargers and transformers.

MAXX SST^® Soft Start Technology^®
Black & Decker's Soft Start Technology gradually "ramps up" the inverters power to slowly start appliances that require a surge to get started. This gradual ramp up protects the inverter and the appliance, as well as the power source, from damage and failure.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

The Power Inverter must be connected only to batteries with a nominal output voltage of 12 volts. The unit will not operate from a 6 volt battery and will sustain permanent damage if connected to a 24 volt battery.
Always connect the PI750ABto the 12 volt DC power source before plugging any devices into the unit.
The standard North American 115 volt AC and USB outlets allow simultaneous operation of multiple devices. Simply plug the equipment into the unit and operate normally. Ensure that the wattage of all equipment simultaneously plugged into the PI750AB does not exceed 750 watts continuous.

Connection to Power Source

The Power Inverter comes equipped with Battery Clips for connection to a power source.

Connecting to a Power Source Using the Provided Battery Clips
Use the provided Battery Clips (with cables) to connect the Power Inverter directly to the 12 volt power source as follows:

1. Check to make sure the inverter's Power Pushbutton has been pressed OFF (no LEDs are lit) and that no flammable fumes are present in the installation area.
2. Connect the RED cable to the RED post marked (+) on the back of the inverter. Connect the RED Battery Clip to the POSITIVE terminal of the battery.
3. Connect the BLACK cable to the BLACK post marked (–) on the back of the inverter. Connect the Black Battery Clip to the NEGATIVE terminal of the battery.
4. Make sure that all connections between cables and terminals are secure.

• Do not use with positive ground electrical systems.
• Reverse polarity connection will result in a blown fuse and may cause permanent damage to the inverter. Note: The majority of modern automobiles, RVs and trucks are negative ground.

Direct Hardwiring to Power Source (optional connection method; hardware not included)

It is not recommended to install with cables longer than 10ft as this can adversely effect the operation of your inverter.
Use #4 AWG wire if the inverter to power source connection is 6 feet or less. For cable lengths up to 10ft use #2AWG wire. In either case, protect the positive (+) wire from shorts by installing a 125 ANL fuse or circuit breaker close to the DC power source (battery) terminal.

1. Check to make sure the inverter's Power Pushbutton has been pressed OFF (no LEDs are lit) and that no flammable fumes are present in the installation area.
2. Identify the POSITIVE (+) and NEGATIVE (–) DC power source (battery) terminals.
3. Install a fuse holder or breaker close to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the DC source (battery).
4. Connect a length of wire on one side of the fuse holder or circuit breaker. Connect the other end of the wire to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the inverter.
5. Connect a length of wire between the inverter's NEGATIVE (–) terminal and the DC power source NEGATIVE (–) terminal.
6. Connect a short length of wire to the other terminal of the fuse holder or circuit breaker. Mark it "POSITIVE" or "+".
7. Connect the free end of the fuse or breaker wire to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the DC power source (battery).
8. Insert a fuse appropriate to the inverter in the fuse holder.
9. Test the inverter by turning it on and plugging in a 100 watt lamp or equipment.
10. If the inverter is not properly operating, then refer to the Troubleshooting section of this manual.

• The cable and fuse sizes given here are a general recommendation. You should always consult your National Electrical Code prior to beginning each specific installation.
• Loose connectors may cause overheated wires and melted insulation.
• Check to make sure you have not reversed the polarity. Damage due to reversed polarity is not coveredby our warranty.
• Loose connectors may cause overheated wires and melted insulation.
• Check to make sure you have not reversed the polarity. Damage due to reversed polarity is not covered by our warranty.

Connection To Load

The Power Inverter is equipped with dual standard North American three-prong type outlets. Plug the cord from the equipment you wish to operate into the AC receptacle(s). Make sure the combined load requirement of your equipment does not exceed maximum continuous power.

The Power Inverter is engineered to be connected directly to standard electrical and electronic equipment in the manner described above. Do not connect the Power Inverter to household or RV AC distribution wiring. Do not connect the Power Inverter to any AC load circuit in which the neutral conductor is connected to ground (earth) or to the negative of the DC (battery) source.

Do not connect to AC distribution wiring!

Rated Versus Actual Current Draw of Equipment

Most electrical tools, appliances, electronic devices and audio/visual equipment have labels that indicate the power consumption in amps or watts. Be sure that the power consumption of the item to be operated is below 750 watts. If the power consumption is rated in amps AC, simply multiply by the AC volts (115) to determine the wattage.

Resistive loads are the easiest for the inverter to run; however, it will not run larger resistive loads (such as electric stoves and heaters), which require far more wattage than the inverter can deliver. Inductive loads (such as TVs and stereos) require more current to operate than do resistive loads of the same wattage rating.

For safety reasons, the unit will simply shut down if it is overloaded. To restart the unit, simply unplug all devices plugged into the unit; disconnect the unit from any 12 volt DC power source; then reconnect the unit BEFORE plugging the appliance back in.

Operation of the 115 Volt AC Outlets

1. Connect the inverter to a functioning 12 volt DC power source as described in this Instruction Manual. Make sure there is adequate space for proper ventilation of the inverter.
2. Press the Power Pushbutton to turn the unit ON.
3. The green Power LED Indicator will light, indicating a proper connection. If either the yellow Input Fault LED Indicator or red Output Fault LED Indicator lights, indicating a fault condition exists, refer to the "Troubleshooting" section of this Instruction Manual.
4. Plug the (110/120 volt AC) appliance into one of the Inverter's three-prong AC outlets and operate normally.

Note: The Inverter will not operate appliances and equipment that generate heat, such as hair dryers, electric blankets, microwave ovens and toasters.
Remember to disconnect the inverter from any power source when not in use.

Operation of the USB Charging Port

1. Connect the inverter to a functioning 12 volt DC power source as described in this Instruction Manual. Make sure there is adequate space for proper ventilation of the inverter.
2. Press the Power Pushbutton to turn the unit ON.
3. The green Power LED Indicator will light, indicating a proper connection. If either the yellow Input Fault LED Indicator or red Output Fault LED Indicator lights, indicating a fault condition exists, refer to the "Troubleshooting" section of this Instruction Manual.
4. Plug the USB-powered device into the inverter's USB Charging Port and operate normally.

Note: This unit's USB Charging Port does not support data communication. It only provides 5 volts/500mA DC power to an external USB-powered device.
Remember to disconnect the inverter from any power source when not in use.

Protective Features

The inverter monitors the following conditions:

Low Battery Voltage— This condition is not harmful to the inverter, but could damage the power source, so the inverter will automatically shut down when input voltage drops below 10.5 ± 0.3 volts DC.
Input Voltage Too High— The inverter will automatically shut down when DC input voltage exceeds 15.5 ± 0.5 volts, as this can harm the unit.
Thermal Shutdown Protection —The inverter will automatically shut down when the unit becomes overheated. Overload/Short Circuit Protection —The inverter will automatically shut down when a short circuit occurs.

Operating Tips

The inverter should only be operated in locations that are:

DRY — Do not allow water or other liquids to come into contact with the inverter.
COOL — Surrounding air temperature should ideally be 10-20°C (50-68°F). Keep the inverter away from direct sunlight, when possible.
WELL-VENTILATED — Keep the area surrounding the inverter clear to ensure free air circulation around the unit. Do not place items on or over the inverter during operation. The unit will shut down if the internal temperature gets too hot. The inverter will auto-reset after it cools down.
SAFE — Do not use the inverter near flammable materials or in any locations that may accumulate flammable fumes or gases. This is an electrical appliance that can briefly spark when electrical connections are made or broken.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Storage

1. Ideal storage temperature range is 0-40°C (32-104°F).
2. Store and use the PI750AB in a cool, dry place with adequate ventilation for all-around air circulation.
3. Avoid locations that are exposed to heating units, radiators, direct sunlight, or excessive humidity ordampness.

Fuse Replacement

This inverter is equipped with multiple internal fuses. Normally, these fuses will not "blow" unless there is a serious problem inside the unit. Internal fuses are replaceable; however, only trained personnel should attempt fuse replacement. If the unit is damaged during fuse replacement, the warranty may be voided.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Common Audio/Visual Problems

Common Power Output Problems

Red or Yellow Fault LED Indicator Lights

The red Fault LED indicates inverter shutdown from an over-load fault and the yellow Fault LED indicates an input or over-temperature fault. See the "Protective Features" and "Common Power Output Problems" sections.

ACCESSORIES

Recommended accessories for use with your tool are available from your local dealer or authorized service center. If you need assistance regarding accessories, please call: 1-800-544-6986.

The use of any accessory not recommended for use with this tool could be hazardous.

SERVICE INFORMATION

All Black & Decker Service Centers are staffed with trained personnel to provide customers with efficient and reliable power tool service. Whether you need technical advice, repair, or genuine factory replacement parts, contact the Black & Decker location nearest you. To find your local service location, refer to the yellow page directory under "Tools—Electric" or call: 1-800-544-6986 or visit www.blackanddecker.com

SPECIFICATIONS

SAFETY GUIDELINES/DEFINITIONS

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

Used without the safety alert symbol indicates potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

RISK OF UNSAFE OPERATION. When using tools or equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of personal injury. Improper operation, maintenance or modification of tools or equipment could result in serious injury and property damage. There are certain applications for which tools and equipment are designed. Black & Decker strongly recommends that this product NOT be modified and/or used for any application other than for which it was designed. Read and understand all warnings and operating instructions before using any tool or equipment.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL APPLIANCES
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

Read all instructions before operating product. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

• AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS.
  Don't use appliances in damp or wet locations. Don't use appliances in the rain.
• STORE IDLE APPLIANCES INDOORS.
  When not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in dry, and high or locked-up place – out of reach of children.
• DON'T FORCE APPLIANCE.
  It will do the job better and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which it was designed.
• USE RIGHT APPLIANCE.
  Do not use the appliance for any job except that for which it is intended.
• DISCONNECT APPLIANCES.
  Disconnect the appliance from the power supply when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as blades and the like.
• PROPER COOLING IS ESSENTIAL WHEN OPERATING THE INVERTER.
  Do not place the unit near the vehicle's heat vent or in direct sunlight.
• ELECTRICAL FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTOR protection should be provided on the circuits or outlets to be used. Receptacles are available having built in electrical fault circuit interruptor protection and may be used for this measure of safety.
• USE OF ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS.
  The use of any accessory or attachment not recommended for use with this appliance could be hazardous. Note: Refer to the accessory section of this manual for further details.
• CHECK DAMAGED PARTS.
  A part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center.
• OUTDOOR USE EXTENSION CORDS.
  When an appliance plugged into this unit is used outdoors, use only extension cords intended for use outdoors and so marked. NOTE THAT THIS INVERTER IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED OUTDOORS.
• EXTENSION CORDS.
  Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

This product or its power cord contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defect or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK:

• Do not connect to AC distribution wiring.
• Do not make any electrical connections or disconnections in areas designated as IGNITION PROTECTED. This includes DC cigarette lighter type plug connection or airplane adapter. This unit is NOT approved for ignition protected areas.
• NEVER immerse the unit in water or any other liquid, or use when wet.
• Do not insert foreign objects into the AC outlet or the USB outlet.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE:

• Do not operate near flammable materials, fumes or gases.
• DO NOT expose to extreme heat or flames.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE:

• Remove appliance plug from outlet before working on the appliance.
• DO NOT attempt to connect or set up the unit or its components while operating your vehicle. Not paying attention to the road may result in a serious accident.
• Always use the inverter where there is adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation slots.
• ALWAYS turn the inverter OFF by disconnecting it from the DC accessory outlet when not in use.
• Make sure the nominal powering voltage is 12 volts DC, center connection positive (+).
• When using this unit in a vehicle, check the vehicle owner's manual for maximum power rating and recommended output. Do not install in engine compartment — install in a well ventilated area.
• Do not use with positive ground electrical systems.* Reverse polarity connection will result in a blown fuse and may cause permanent damage to the inverter and will void warranty. *The majority of modern automobiles, RVs and trucks are negative ground.
• Keep in mind that this inverter will not operate high wattage appliances or equipment that produce heat, such as hair dryers, microwave ovens and toasters.
• Do not open the inverter — there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• Do not use this inverter with medical devices. It is not tested for medical applications.
• Keep away from children. This is not a toy!
• Install and operate unit only as described in this Instruction Manual.
• Do not use this inverter on a watercraft. It is not qualified for marine applications.
• Check unit periodically for wear and tear. Take to a qualified technician for replacement of worn or defective parts immediately.
• Read And Understand This Instruction Manual Before Using This Unit.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY: Follow these instructions and those published by battery manfacturer and the manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use with this unit. Review cautionary markings on these products and on engine.