What is an Inverter or Inverter/Charger?
An Inverter or Inverter/Charger is a device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) to power a variety of equipment, including power tools, computers, appliances, pumps, audio/video equipment and more. Inverters and Inverter/Chargers utilize a vehicle's or boat's battery or separate user-supplied batteries to supply power to connected equipment. In addition, Inverter/Chargers provide reliable alternate AC power during utility power problems, such as blackouts, brownouts, overvoltages and surges. When utility power is present, Inverter/Chargers automatically pass through power to your equipment while simultaneously recharging your connected batteries. When utility power is absent, such as during a blackout in stationary applications or while driving in mobile applications, Inverter/Chargers automatically switch from utility power to battery backup power.
Important Inverter and Inverter/Charger Features
- Conversion from direct current (DC) power to alternating current (AC) power
- Mobile AC power source: portable and permanent-mount
- Higher wattage models can power multiple pieces of equipment simultaneously
- Peak surge wattage output to handle heavy-draw equipment start-up
- Rated over 90% efficient to ensure more battery power is used to run connected equipment
- Automatic low-battery shutdown feature ensures battery power is always available for vehicle start-up
- Stable, micro-processor controlled output to help equipment perform at its peak
- Built-in cigarette lighter/accessory plug or direct connection to batteries
- Frequency-controlled output on most models accommodates the widest variety of equipment
- Up to 200% of continuous output for up to 10 seconds on most models for extra power needed to start heavy-duty tools and equipment
- Up to 150% of continuous output for up to 1 hour on most models to reliably support tools and equipment longer
- 3-stage battery charger on inverter/charger models recharges batteries faster than conventional chargers
- Remote control compatibility via module on select models
Types of Inverters and Inverter/Chargers and Their Typical Applications
Inverters and Inverter/Chargers are typically used in mobile applications where utility AC power is not available. To understand their applications, you need to consider the different types of Inverters and Inverter/Chargers.
Compact/Lightweight Inverters
Compact/Lightweight Inverters are smaller with lower continuous wattage output for mobile business, traveling, camping/boating and trucking applications. They're ideal for powering laptop computers, cell phone chargers, game systems, DVD players and other low-wattage devices.
Heavy-Duty Inverters
Heavy-Duty Inverters are designed for industrial, service fleet, jobsite, trucking and camping/boating applications. They deliver peak surge wattage output to handle heavy-draw start-up of drills, saws, pumps, timing motors and other equipment.
Inverter/Chargers
Inverter/Chargers are reliable power sources for uninterruptible emergency backup applications. When utility power is present, Inverter/Chargers automatically pass through power to your equipment while simultaneously recharging your connected batteries. When utility power is absent, such as during a blackout in stationary applications or while driving in mobile applications, Inverter/Chargers automatically switch from utility power to battery backup power. Inverter/Chargers are designed for EMS, RV and other applications where reliable battery backup is necessary while on the road.
Purchasing an Inverter or Inverter/Charger
Tripp Lite offers a wide range of Inverters and Inverter/Chargers to meet your specific application. When choosing a Inverter or Inverter/Charger, you should consider the following:
- The total wattage of connected devices should not exceed the model's continuous wattage rating.
- The number of connected items of equipment to determine how many outlets are required.
- The application to help you choose the proper type of inverter or inverter/charger.
