Projecta IM120 User Manual page 10

Q. Can I run fluorescent lighting from my inverter?
A. Most portable fluorescent work lamps should operate fine on an inverter even though they may
be slow to start.
• Fluorescent lights are an inductive & capacitive load and often draw at least twice as much
power from the inverter than their normal rating to start.
• Normal household fluorescent lights should be avoided, because they contain power factor
correction capacitors. Power factor correction is used in normal buildings to help smooth out the
inductive effects of fluorescent light ballasts. If used with portable power inverters the power
factor correction is effected by the harmonic distortion in the modified waveform, this causes a
high load on the inverter that can overload and damage the unit. If normal household
fluorescent lights must be used, you will need to have a qualified electrician remove the power
factor correction capacitor. The light should then be marked "For Inverter Use only".
Q. How do I check or change the fuse?
A. The IM120 Inverter 'Power-Can' is fitted with a 20Amp 3AG glass fuse found in the cigarette
lighter plug. If the unit does not function, disconnect the inverter from the DC power source and
disconnect any AC appliances. Unscrew the tip of the plug, then remove the fuse and check if it
is blown and replace if required.
THE DC SUPPLY MUST BE DISCONNECTED BEFORE ANY REPAIR.
Q. Why does my Residual Current Device (RCD) trip each time I turn an appliance on?
A. Some RCD's disconnect (trip) when they do not receive any power. These types of RCD's can be
tripped by the inverter's Peak Power Technology which allows a gradual ramp up of power. Use a
continuous RCD which does not trip out when the power is turned off, these only trip when there
is a fault.
Q. Can I run laptop computers?
A. Most laptop/notebook computer AC power adaptors work perfectly with the inverter's
modified sine wave. Some however are more sensitive and may not function properly. If your
power adaptor does not function or causes a humming noise it is probably not compatible. The
best way to operate a laptop/notebook from your vehicle is to use the Projecta 12V Laptop
Power Adaptor P/No. DC3500 or P/No. DC6000. This is a much more convenient and efficient
way to charge and operate the laptop direct from a 12V source.
Q. Can I connect lights with dimmers to the inverter?
A. Older light dimmers may function, but most newer light dimming circuits are designed
for household sine wave AC power and these may not work properly with modified
sine wave inverters.
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