back to 120 volt AC

inverters:


When you need 120VAC, often times a DC inverter is the most convenient option. (especially for lower power)

Most inverters nowadays are either "modified sine wave" aka "stepped sine wave", or "true sine wave".
MSW inverters are more efficient, but create A LOT of noise on the output, and the jagged waveform causes
a lot of equipment to malfunction, especially computer monitors and peripherals. But even rechargeable
razors can be a problem. You can't supply power through most UPSs from a MSW inverter because the UPS
interprets the stepped sine wave as a problem with the commercial power and stays tripped in to protect the
equipment that's plugged into it. So if you have a MSW inverter handy to run your computer during a blackout,
you should test it to see how your computer, monitor, and UPS behave.

TSW inverters used to be very expensive, but prices have come down a lot and they're slowly becoming the
standard in inverters. They're also approaching the efficiency of the MSW inverters. They also generate
noise, but most of it is on the INPUT side. (MSW inverters also generate noise on the input, but it's a
different kind of noise) Most equipment (including UPSs) is compatible with a typical TSW inverter.

Pay attention to the inverter's ratings. Most inverters can only provide full power for a short time, and
are limited to around 50% of their full rating when used for more than a minute or two. As with gasoline
generators, it's recommended to ground your inverter, especially when used outdoors. Don't just connect the
ground screw to the negative, run it to a separate ground rod.

Even the TSW inverters are going to generate some noise on their 12v power wires. This noise is especially bad
on 40m and 80m receivers. If you intend to run an inverter near an HF receiver, you'll either need to run it
on its own isolated battery, or isolate it with an EMI filter that's rated to handle the inverter's current.



1000w EDECOA TSW inverter


1000w PowerDrive MSW inverter


1000w Reliable Electric TSW inverter (24vdc)


1000w Walfront TSW board


2000w Samlex MSW inverter


400w PowerLine MSW inverter


7000w EDECOA MSW inverter



last updated 03/24/2025 at 09:22:00 by make_www_index.command version 2025.03.04.A