inverter and power systems

5/24/2018 Inverter and Power Systems

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Copyright 1999, Trace Engineering. No part of this publication may be used,reproduced or copied without the express written permission of Trace Engineering.

When Trace Engineering got its start in 1984, our initialgoal was simple: to build the worlds best

independent power systems and components. Sincethat time, we have set the standard for off-grid inverterperformance. Thousands of people worldwide now depend onTrace equipment in their daily lives. Our inverters are also atthe forefront of utility line-tie and back-up power industries.Emerging technologies such as fuel cells utilize Trace invertersto create useful household electricity.

Utility companies are opening up their distribution systems toindependent power producers, thus creating new opportunitiesfor renewable energy sources. Today we build grid-interactive,solar and wind powered inverters, ranging in size from a mere100 watts all the way up to a megawatt (one million watts).

Backup power is increasingly important to those who need asecure supply of electricity. Aging infrastructure and

increasingly fierce local storms have undermined the old ideathat being connected to a utility automatically guaranteesreliable electric service. Coupled with batteries and generators,our inverters ensure that electricity is always available, no matterwhat happens to the utility grid.

As we enter a new millennium, Trace is proud to have helpedshape important changes in the electric power industry.Electricity generated from sunshine and wind is becomingcommon, and people around the world are using Trace systemsto harness those renewable energy sources.

Weve updated our product line to keep pace with the times,yet remain true to the original Trace goal - to build the bestinverters, charge controllers and system integration equipment

Introduction

TABLE OF CONTENTSAccessories ........................................... 13, 14, 15

Backup Power ............................................... 5, 6

Battery Charging............................................. 22

Certifications ................................................... 22

Charge Controllers.................................... 11, 12

Charging Sources ............................................ 22

DR Series ................................................. 3, 6, 18Glossary ........................................................... 24

Inverter Basics..................................... 21, 22, 23

Microsine ..................................................... 7,18

Power Centers ................................................... 9

Power Inverters................................................. 1

Power Modules................................................ 10

in the world. Weve produced this catalog to make it easy tofind the right equipment for your unique electricalrequirements. For additional information please visit our WebSite at www.traceengineering.com. Contact your local

authorized Trace reseller with your specific inverter powerneeds.

The Trace International family of companies make upthe worlds largest supplier of inverters and relatedcomponents. Together, Trace Engineering and Trace

Technologies' products address the power conversion andcontrol requirements of virtually any power system.

Trace Engineering manufactures a complete line-up of Marine,RV, Utility, and Fleet Truck inverters which, not surprisingly,lead the way in their respective industries. Look for these

products where the best quality Marine, RV and Truckequipment is sold.

In addition to manufacturing their all new PV series of utilityinterconnect inverter, Trace Technologies continues to buildcustom renewable energy conversion equipment of up to1 megawatt1,000,000 watts. Contact their Livermore, CAoffice or visit their Web Site at www.tracetech.com for moreinformation on custom industrial inverters.

Trace Engineering manufactures inverters and systems up to16.5 kW at their plants in Arlington, WA and Sacramento, CA.Trace Technologies has manufacturing facilities in Sacramento, CA.

Power Panels ................................................... 10

PS Series .................................................. 2,7,17

PV Series ..................................................... 8,17

Renewable Energy Sources............................... 1

Selecting an Inverter....................................... 23

SW Series............................................. 2,5,7,16

Technical Specifications ................ 16, 17,18, 19Three Phase..................................................... 14

Tiger Series ............................................. 4, 6, 19

Utility Interactive .......................................... 7,8

UX Series................................................. 4,6,19

Wiring Designs ................................................ 21

Rev 8/26/99
http://www.traceengineering.com/http://www.tracetech.com/http://www.tracetech.com/http://www.traceengineering.com/


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Be Your Own Power Company

Many parts of the world are not serviced by electrical utilities. Inother cases, electrical service is available but at prohibitive prices.Power line extensions typically cost over $25,000 per mile. Utilitiesoften discourage remote connections because of high maintenancecosts. Consequently, off-grid locations have often been shunned aspotential home sites, since so many of the conveniences of themodern world rely upon electricity.

Today cost-effective renewable energy systems, coupled withpowerful Trace inverters, have opened the way to reliable, full-time independent electrical service, anywhere in the world!Thousands of off-grid homeowners have connected to a new kindof power companytheir own. Instead of paying for costly utilityline extension, or running noisy and expensive-to-operategenerators, they are choosing battery-based electrical systems. Manyof them now report that they enjoy cheaper and more reliableelectrical service than their connected neighbors. In fact, off-gridelectrical systems have proven so cost effective and reliable thatsome utility companies are recommending them for remotecustomers. Your local alternative energy dealer can advise you howto create your own independent electrical service for a fraction ofwhat it would cost to extend utility lines or operate a generator.

The ability to recharge batteries from renewable energy sources is only part of the reason that off-grid living is now a practical

reality. Batteries alone will not provide the comforts and conveniences of modern living. To take full advantage of an independent

electrical system, a DC to AC inverter is essential.

At Trace we have pioneered the development of affordable, efficient inverters and energy systems. We have an inverter model designed for

almost every conceivable application. Summer cabins with modest household current requirements such as lights and TV can get by with

our smallest, TS and UX Series inverters. For full-time homes, farms, and ranchesrequiring greater amounts of AC power to run water

pumps, washing machines, shop tools, kitchen appliances, and computersour DR, and SW Series inverters are widely used. No matter

how muchor littleAC power you require, Trace has an inverter that will do the job for you.

Many independent electrical systems rely onrenewable energy sources for battery recharging.The power of the sun, wind, and even moving wateris harnessed to provide electrical power for homes,farms, ranches, seasonal residences, and smallvillages. What these systems have in common is thattheir source of electrical energy is clean,nonpolluting and, after initial purchase,

virtually free.

Renewable energy is hardly a new conceptwindgenerators have been in use for almost a century.What is new is that the advent of efficient andpowerful inverters has now made these systemspractical for everyday use. Solar electric systems andwind generators charge batteries when the sun isshining or the wind is blowing. When all else fails,gas, diesel, or propane generators, coupled to thepowerful, automatic battery chargers built into mostTrace inverters, can provide reliable backup powerto the renewable energy systems.


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Traces line of sine wave invertersthe SW Series IImakes operating an off-grid electrical system virtuallytransparent. The AC output of these inverters is so cleanthat they are approved for utility interconnect in manyareas. Loads that are difficult or impossible to operatefrom a modified sine wave inverter (including clocks,timers, laser printers, photocopiers, bread makers,pellet stoves, and sensitive electronic equipment) all runflawlessly on our SW Series inverters. A commonproblem with some radios and televisions is noisecaused by modified sine wave inverters. This iseliminated in most Trace SW installations.

The AC power created by our SW Series inverters isonly part of why they are widely regarded as the worlds

best and most advanced inverter . They are alsoextremely efficientover 90% through most of theirload range, peaking at up to 96% efficiencyand havenegligible idle current. These brainy inverters can

be programmed to perform a multitude of tasksincludingautomatic generator start and stop, automatic load sensing,and generator support. When connected to both the grid anda renewable energy system, the SW Series inverter can actuallyprocess and sell power to the utility company. All Trace SWSeries inverters include a built-in, fully automatic, three-stage

battery charger, specially designed to bring maximum chargeto the batteries while using minimum generator time and fuel.

Trace produces several versions of SW inverters, the smallestbeing a 2.5 kW output, 12 volt model and the largest being a5.5 kW, 48 volt model. The most popular models in this seriesare the 4 kW, 24 and 48 volt inverters. Trace SW inverters

may be stacked in series or parallel for increased total capacity(optional equipment required for stacking). With a peakpower rating up to 2.5 times greater than their continuouspower rating, there is almost nothing that will not start andrun on one (or two) of these inverters.

SINE WAVE

2

We will soon introduce the PS (Power Station)inverter/charger, our newest sine-wave inverter/charger. This model was designed to significantlylower the cost of sine wave power in Off-Grid, UtilityTie, and Backup Power applications. The PS2512produces 2.5 kW of power. It includes our fullyautomatic three-stage battery charger, and is readyto connect to utility power, a generator, or arenewable power system. (North American versionsavailable Fall 1999).


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Powerful, reliable, adjustable and efficient, Trace DR Seriesinverters set the standard for midsize inverters. We buildseveral models of DR Series inverters, ranging in size from 1.5kW all the way to 3.6 kW. Output power in this series inverteris a modified sine wave. These inverters can run most commontools and appliances, including microwaves and refrigerators.

Standard with all DR inverters is our built-in, three-stagebattery-charging system (Bulk, Absorption, and Float) andautomatic AC transfer relay. Easily accessible on the front panelof the DR inverters are controls for battery type, batterycapacity, maximum charge rate, battery equalization, and low-voltage disconnect. Once set up, all functions of the inverter/charger are fully automatic. LED status indicators provide suchvital information as charge mode, high or low battery voltage,and over temperature or over load.

One of the many reasons why Trace DR Series inverters havebecome so popular for alternative energy applications is their

efficiency. They use virtually no power when idling (SearchMode) and even when the inverter is powered up, DR Seriesinverters use less than 8 watts.

Expandability is another unique feature of our DR Seriesinverter. Load capacity can be doubled by stacking a secondinverter. A simple stacking cable kit (DRI) is all that is neededto connect them together. When connected in series, a pair ofDR inverters produces both 120 and 240 VAC power, enablingit to operate such difficult household loads as deep well pumpsand heavy power tools. A pair of properly sized DRs will powermost tools and appliances. (Only North American versions may

be stacked.)

Many DR inverters are available in export voltages of 230VAC 50 Hz., 105 VAC 50 Hz., and 105 VAC 60 Hz. Thesemodels are presently not stackable, but multiple invertersmay be connected to a single battery bank to increase thetotal amount of AC power available to separate loads. Both

battery charging and power output are increased whenevertwo or more inverter/chargers are connected to a single

battery bank. The individual inverters AC outputs shouldbe connected to separate distribution panels when used inthis manner.

A number of optional features make DR Series inverterseven more versatile. In addition to the stacking cable kit(DRI), we also offer a battery temperature sensor (BTS) toensure more precise battery charging. Trace also makes awall-mountable remote control panel (RC8) so that theinverter can be controlled from a convenient location. Forinstallations where strict electrical code compliance is anissue, Trace offers a conduit box (DRCB) that covers theDC input wires.

The DR Series is ETL listed to UL and CSA specifications(E models carry CE approval). All AC wiring terminatesinside the chassis, while the DC connections are covered bycolor-coded plastic caps.

DR SERIES

Trace DR Series inverters are powerful,

reliable, flexible and efficient.


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600 to 1400 Watts of Compact Power

Combine easy, automatic operation and enough power to runelectric tools and small microwave ovens and you have theTrace UX Series inverter. This series ranges in output from600-1400 watts. They are approved by UL and cUL, and Emodels are CE compliant. Even circular saws and small pumpswill run on the 1400 watt model. Like the Tiger, the batterycharger (SB) in this series is optional. When the charger isinstalled its automatic mode switching provides true set itand forget it operation.

A System in a Box

The TS Series (Tiger) inverter is Traces all-new entry-level inverter. TS inverters range in size from 400-800watts. Simplicity is a key feature of TS inverters, withfeatures like built in electric power outlets, and four,multi-color LED indicators they are very easy to operate.When used with the optional battery charger/automatictransfer relay, a TS inverter becomes a completeelectrical system in a box.

The TS Series is a great off-grid inverter wherehousehold current demands are modest. Everydayappliances such as televisions, lights, even blenders andother small kitchen appliances, and hand tools willoperate on a Tiger inverter. With the three-stage batterycharger (SB) option installed the TS inverter willcompletely recharge your batteries even from a modestlysized generator.

Coming soon for this inverter is an optional, built-inPV (solar electric) charge controller. With this optioninstalled the Tiger becomes a complete, stand-alonerenewable energy system.

TIGER SERIES

UXSERIES

4

Both the TS and UX Series of inverters have a numberof options which, when installed expand the versatilityand convenience of these already great products.

Battery Charger/AC Transfer Switch

The standby option (SB) includes an AC transfer switch,and a three-stage, constant current/constant voltage

battery charger. Whenever an external source of AC

power is available the inverter automatically transfersits load to that source and begins to rechargethe batteries.

Remote Control

A remote control panel (RC-8) may be mounted up to50 feet (15 meters) away for convenient monitoring ofoperating status and On/Off activation.

Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS)

This option looks at the temperature of the batteryand adjusts charging voltage to compensate for theeffects of cold temperature s on batteries. Itautomatically provides more precise battery charging.


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With all the electricity infrastructure

that exists, one might think that

power security is a non-issue. After all,how often do large utility grids fail? The answer,

actually, is quite often. In many parts of the world,

power outages are a daily event. Elsewhere,

fa ilur es oc cur of ten enou gh to warran t an

independent source of electricity. Over the past

few years unprecedented weather events have

caused power interruptions that have lasted for

days, weeks, and in some cases even months.

We depend upon electricity for virtually every facet

of daily life in our homes. Our computers, door

openers, security systems, furnace fans, and even

gas stoves all require electricity to operate.

Combine our reliance on power with the

increasing unreliability of utility power and itbecomes clear why people around the world are

installing Trace Backup Power Systems in their

homes and businesses.

BACKUP POWER

Sine Wave

Trace SW and PS Series inverters are a great choice for backuppower. The internal transfer speed from charger to inverter isso fast that most computers will stay running during the change-over. The sine wave output of these inverters ensures that whenyou switch power source from utility to battery, you will noticeno differences from public power. (Actually, many people reportthat the power from their inverter is superior to their local powercompany.)

With a Trace SW or PS inverter for backup power, you can addsolar modules or another renewable charging source to yoursystem and sell electricity to your utility company (wherepermitted). Imagine full-time, reliable electrical power andreduced power bills as a side benefit!

This drawing shows how all the components of a Backup electric

system work together to ensure that you will always have a reliable

source of electricity. The main electric panel gets its power from the

utility grid. The loads connected to it are sacrificial and will be

shut down in the event of a power failure. The loads connected to the

sub-electric panel are powered by either the utility or the inverter

and will automatically remain powered even if utility power shutsdown. Both the generator and solar photovoltaic array are optional

sources of battery charging. Generally, if the power failure lasts for

more than a few days, a source of battery charging will be necessary.


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The UX family of inverters offers powerful performance in acompact package. Their simplicity and ease of installationcoupled with UL and cUL listing make them a great choicefor small to intermediate Power Security systems. With theoptional three-stage battery charger/AC transfer relay (SBoption) the UX will automatically recharge the batterieswhenever utility or generator power is available. UX invertersmake the most of battery power by operating loads atefficiencies up to 92%, and by consuming as little as 1/2 wattunder no-load conditions. Our load compensated protectioncircuitry ensures that the UX will shut down if your batteriesapproach a dangerously low level of charge. Options such asthe Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) and Remote Control(RC8) expand the ease of use of this family of inverters.

Trace DR Series inverters were originally designed forinternational interruptible power demands. In many ofthose areas, utility power is only available for a few hoursa day. So a battery and inverter backup electrical systemare essential for those who require a full-time powersupply for such necessities as lights, computers,communication equipment, refrigeration devices, and

water pumps .The Trace DR Series inverter addresses intermittentpower with a built-in AC transfer relay and a high-capacity

battery charger that puts maximum charge current intobatteries for later use. When power is interrupted, theinverter switches automatically and provides continuouselectrical power to appliances.

DR Series inverters are available in a wide range ofinternational output voltages, including popular 230 VAC50 Hz models. The smallest DR inverter produces 1.5kW of power and the largest produces 3.6 kW. No otherinverter in its class offers so many features as standardequipment. The DR is known worldwide for its reliability.

Need something smaller? The TS Series (Tiger) inverter,

along with its optional three-stage battery charger/automatictransfer relay, makes a complete Backup power system in a

box! With output that ranges from 400-800 watts this seriesof inverter is perfect for providing power security toindividual loads or even rooms. Connect a Tiger and a sealed

battery to your computer, fax, or phone system, and you willhave power to operate for hours in the event of a powerfailure. When the power comes back on the Tiger willautomatically recharge your batteries (SB option). With built-in battery cables and household power receptacle, the Tigeris incredibly simple to installno rewiring of your home oroffice will be necessary.


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The all new Trace PS Series (Power Station) inverter

is a 2.5 kW entry level version of the SW Seriesinverter. It is designed specifically to make startingyour own solar electric utility as economical aspossible. The PowerStation will process up to2.4 kW of solar power.This model includes ourthree-stage battery chargerand provides backuppower along with completeutility interconnectionabilities.

Traces SW Series inverter is the most versatile Line-Tie inverter we produce, this is because many modelsof this series can be used for both backup power and

utility interconnection. In sell mode, the SW Seriesinverters can convert up to 3.5 kW of solar electricitywhich you can sell to your power company. Manypeople prefer not to have costly batteries as part of theirsolar generating system and we build a special SW Serieswhich interacts only with the utility. While no backuppower is available with these models, system costs aregreatly reduced by eliminating the battery bank. When

batteries are included in the SW Line-Tie system, thefull capacity of the inverterup to 5.5 kWautomatically supplies power to your home or businesswhen the utility fails.

Designed to meet exacting utility standards, the SWSeries inverter automatically synchronizes with the

utilities power to produce a wave form suitable to feedinto the electricalgrid. Safety is also akey feature of theseunique inverters.When a poweroutage occurs, theTrace SW inverterimmediately stopssending electricity tothe grid in order toprotect servicepersonnel who may

be working onthe lines.

Options for thisinverter includeremote control(SWRC), Sine WaveCommunications

Adaptor (SWCA),and a weather- proofinverter enclosure(SWODE).

I

magine using clean, nonpolluting, renewable energy

to run your electric meter backwards. Trace Utility

InteractiveLine-Tieelectric systems allow you to do

exactly that. Now you can start a small-scale utility of your own,powered by solar, wind, or micro-hydro, and connect it to your

local power company. (Check with local authorities for any

restrictions.) No matter what the renewable energy source one

thing is certain; a Trace inverter will be the best way to convert

the power for utility connection. With sizes ranging from 100

watts to a megawatt, Trace is sure to have a utility interactive

inverter system which will suit your needs.

Solar electricity is the simplest and most common form of small

scale utility line-tie power. During the day, when the sun is

shinning, energy from sunlight is converted into utility grade

electricity by the Trace inverter, this power is then either used in

the house or sold to the electric company. At night, when solar

power is unavailable, or when load demands exceed the capacity

of your renewable generating system, utility power isautomatically supplied through the Trace inverter. Some people,

who have large solar (PV) systems, actually get monthly checks

instead of bills, from their local utilities, because their systems

consume less power than

they generate.

UTILITYINTERACTIVE

Trace Engineering is leading the way once again with ournew miniature utility interactive inverterthe Micro Sine.Designed to fit on the back of an individual PV solar module,this totally weatherproof inverter produces utility-gradepower suitable for supply to a power distribution grid. Thistiny powerhouse fits easily into the palm of your hand. Thisinverter is designed for utility interconnection only, it doesnot use batteries, and will not provide any backup powercapabilities. The Micro Sine automatically stops sendingelectricity to the grid in the event of a utility power outage.

The Micro Sine microprocessor control includes MaximumPower Point Tracking, a feature used to assure that yourPV module is operating at maximum output under all light

conditions. An optional communications system allows forfull system monitoring and troubleshooting. Features of theCommunications Module include tracking and diagnosticsof each AC PV module in your system. Any module that isnot performing properly can be identified by thecommunications system.

Now anyone can contribute to the greening of local utilitypower. With a single solar PV module you can begin toreduce your electricity bill and dependence on utility grid.

As the price of solar modules decreases, or as your financespermit, you can expand your utility by adding more MicroSine inverters and PV modules, thereby further loweringelectricity bills. (Check with your local utility and electricalinspection authority on how to connect to the grid.)


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SOLAR LINE-TIE

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Innovative engineering and state-of-the-art technology are at the heart of TraceTechnologies grid interactive inverters and hybrid stand-alone powerprocessing systems. Our custom designed power conversion equipment can

be found at the center of some of the worlds largest photovoltaic (PV) systems,including the Olympic Natatorium in Atlanta, Ga.

Now we bring this leading-edge technology to our new UL listed 3-phase 10kW grid interactive inverter. Like its larger cousins, the new PV Series inverterincludes utility islanding protection, maximum peak power tracking of thearray, and user setable parameters via the operator interface. (Operatorinterface not shown in photo.) This inverter is designed to make commercialscale, green power production easier than ever before.


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Making It Easy To Install

Weve brought together

a wide range of system

integration equipment and are

proud of our Complete Power

Solutions product line.

Our new Power Centers combine the major elements of a

renewable energy system - charge control, circuitprotection, grounding, and AC/DC load breakers into asingle enclosure. The PC250 and PC500 are both fullycertified to UL and CSA standards and may be bestdescribed as the ultimate renewable energy system serviceentrance.

This product line totally simplifies the installation of aninverter/battery/solar PV system. The PV Series offersunrivaled flexibility; system voltage is field selectable for12, 24, or 48 Volts, and the capacity of the charge controllercan be expanded as well. Retrofitting a PC250 or PC500Power Center is a great way to upgrade existing invertersystems.

Our 250 and 500 amp Power Centers work with a widevariety of Trace inverters - up to and including a pair ofSW5548s. The PC250 is designed for a single inverterand its 500 amp cousin is intended for dual inverteroperation. Both models come with our 60 amp Pulse WidthModulated charge controller built right in. They alsoinclude LED battery status indicators and a 500 amp shuntwhich is ready to connect to a Trace Meter. Both PowerCenters have generator start/stop, PV Ground FaultInterruption, and remote battery temperature sensingoptions.

In order that loads can be powered directly from anexternal source of electricity, the PC250 is equipped witha single inverter input/output/bypass breaker on the ACoutput side. Dual breakers wired in this configuration are

standard on the PC500. The PC250 comes with a single250 amp battery main breaker and the PC500 has dualmain breakersone for each inverter.

On the DC input/load side, the PC250 has one 60 amp DCbreaker standard with room to add two more. The PC500comes with a single breaker as well and has room for anadditional four more breakers.

At Trace we recognize that we need to bring

you more than the worlds best and most

reliable inverters and controllers. Weve

brought together a wide range of system integration

equipment and are proud of our Complete Power

Solutions product line. They share a common

threadtheyre all designed to make installing and

operating Trace products safer and easier.

Weve expanded our Complete Power Solutions to

include a new series of Power Centers, which are a

welcome addition to our pre-wired Power Panels,

and our industrial grade Power Modules. All of

these products are fully listed to UL, cUL, and otherinternational standards and are built especially for

Trace inverters and power conditioning accessories.

Inverters sold separately. Actual conduit

not as illustrated.

Inverter sold separately. Actual conduit

not as illustrated


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Inverters included

FLEXIBILITYFACTORYPOWER

10

Traces revolutionary Power Modules allow our customers

to seamlessly integrate the many diverse components thatmake up a renewable energy system. Using our uniquestacking design, all of a systems electrical componentsincluding inverter(s), charge controller(s), wiring, and even

batteries can be configured to meet your unique specifications.The Power Module is a rainproof enclosure suitable forinstallation either indoors or outdoors. Circuit breakers anddisconnect switches are mounted on the outside of the PowerModule and are protected by locking weather-tight plasticcovers. Sealed batteries may be installed in another PowerModule enclosure below the electronic modules. Floodedelectrolyte batteries should be installed next to the electronicmodules in a separate Power Module case.

Power Modules may be ordered in both DR and SW

configurations to accommodate single, dual and in some caseseven triple inverters. One of the most remarkable featuresof this product line is its design flexibility. Since theirintroduction, Power Modules have been used in off-grid,utility interconnect, backup power and industrialthree-phase applications.

Inverters and accessories sold separately.

Buying a fully engineered, professionallyassembled alternative energy system is as easyas calling your Trace dealer and ordering aPower Panel. You can be assured of NECcompliance and quality components when its

built and assembled at our factory.

This unique product line combines flexiblesystem design with the convenience andreliability of a turn-key project. Standard on allmodels, are all AC and DC overcurrentprotection and disconnects required by the NEC/UL. All Power Panels also include single or dualinverter input/output/bypass breakers whichallow for operation of loads by external AC power

sources.

Depending upon how they are equipped, PowerPanels may be used in Off-Grid, Backup Power,and Utility Interconnect applications. PowerPanels are built in single and dual SW or DRconfigurations and may optionally include singleor dual C40 charge controllers which managepower generated by PV, wind and/or micro-hydro.

DR Series Power Panels can be ordered with upto 7.2 kW of 120/240 VAC output power. Theycan regulate up to 2 kW of PV input power withoptional controllers. Standard input voltages

available are 12 and 24 VDC.SW Series Power Panels may be used in UtilityInterconnect and generator support modes.They may be used for off-grid and backup powerapplications as well and have input voltages of12, 24 and 48 VDC. SW Series Power Panels willregulate up to 3.8 kW of input power fromrenewable energy sources such as the sun, andmicrohydro or wind.

Power Panels come

ready to produce

powersimply hook upsolar, batteries and AC.

Thats all it takes! With

configurations that

range from 1.5 kW to 11

kW, we are sure to have

a Power Panel to suit

your needs.


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Trace Engineering has long been an industry leader in the area of solar electric controls.

Our C12 and C40 charge controllers are used worldwide because of the flexibility

and reliability of their design. You can ensure more power to and longer life from

your batteries with our automatic, microprocessor controlled charge management routines.

Our charge controller lineup ranges all the way from our new 8 amp solar PV controller to

our full-featured, TC60 System Controller. Many of our controllers are extremely versatile

and can work as load-diversion controllers for wind and small hydro systems, or as three-

stage charge controllers for solar electric PV systems. No matter what your charging sourceis, we have the right controller for you.

Even our most modest charge controllers pack some big systemfeatures including Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) battery charging,reverse polarity protection and LEDs which show charging andlow battery status. The TC8 and TC12 controllers are fieldconfigurable for sealed or flooded batteries, and have charge andload control capabilities (low voltage disconnect and reconnect).This series is perfect for small cabin or RV systems and other similarlow current application.

The Trace C12 Charge/Lighting/Load controller is unique in thatno other small controller offers as much sophistication. As a chargecontroller, it offers three-stage charging, user definable voltageparameters, and automatic equalization. Standard in the loadcontrol circuitry of the C12 are field adjustable low voltagedisconnect and reconnect points, along with a five minute low

battery disconnect warning. The C12 also functions as a lightingcontroller. Run time of the lights is adjustable from 2 to 8 hours orthey may be set to run from dusk to dawn.

This controller is used worldwide in a variety of applications,including remote village lighting systems in Africa, Latin America,and Asia.

Our new TC25 is the most economical way to get three-stage PWMcharge control in a medium sized controller. This controller is

built in the same enclosure as the C30 and C30A, both of which itreplaces. The TC25 is field selectable for use as a charge or loadcontroller and can be configured for 12 or 24 Volt operation.


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Our new TC60 is an outstanding, top-of-the-line, largesystem controller. It is UL and cUL listed for 60 ampsof continuous charging . In addition to all the featuresof most of our other controllers, this PWM chargecontroller has a ten segment LED battery levelindicator, which provides accurate measurement of

battery level, charge and load current. The TC60 isfield selectable for 12, 24 and 48 VDC operation. Theenclosure leaves ample room for large wires and comesstandard with a 60 amp DC rated input breaker builtin. There is an optional remote battery temperatureprobe available for this controller (BTC).

The C40 has long been the mainstay of our chargecontroller lineup. It is field configurable for 12, 24, and48 VDC operation, and can be used as a charge ordiversion or load controller. In addition to the standardmulti-color charge status LED, the C40 offers anoptional cumulative amp hour meter (DVM/C40). Thismeter can either be installed on the face of the controller(C40/DVM) or remotely up to 50 feet (15 m.) away withthe C40R/50.

An optional temperature sensor (BTS) for this controllerensures precise battery charging regardless of outsidetemperature fluctuations. The C40 is designed for usewith solar electric, hydro electric, wind generator, PV/wind hybrid, and telecommunications power systems.

Features include: silent, Pulse Width Modulated (PWM)microprocessor control (which maximizes battery life),field-adjustable voltage and battery type set points,electronic protection against short-circuit, overload, overtemperature and reverse-polarity conditions.


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Our Ground Fault Protectionbreakers disconnect and shortcircuit the solar array if a groundfault occurs in the wiring. GFPBreakers may be ordered in onethrough four pole configuration.

The last digit in the GFP partnumber refers to poles (i.e. aGFP3 is a three pole device).This accessory also provides asolar array combining function.24 amp max per input for 12 and24 VDC, 16 amp max for 48VDC. The GFP works with 12,24 and 48 VDC systems with orwithout batteries.

Building the worlds best inverters is not enough for Trace

engineers. After all, theres more to a power system than an

inverter. Trace offers a full line of accessories, like properly

sized cables and disconnects to ensure maximum performance from

your inverter/battery system. With these accessories and your Traceinverter, you can be assured of reliable and trouble-free performance

for years to come.

Trace Fuse Block has a DC rated class T fuse in aprotective holder with slide-off cover. Available in400, 300, 200, and 110 amps. We now make twotypes of this useful accessoryone with a wire clampto accept bare copper wire, the other with a posttype terminal to accept cables with ring terminals.

The new upgraded version of our step-up/step-downtransformerT240now carries a UL Listed continuousrating of 3900 Watts (3.9 kVa). Its built-in, two pole 25 ampcircuit breaker/disconnect makes installation very simple .

The Trace T240 is a great way to operate 240 VAC powertools and water pumps from a single Trace inverter. 120 VACis supplied to the T240 which steps it up to 240 VAC. Thisversatile autoformer can also be used to turn 240 VAC into120 VAC. This allows the full output of a 240 VAC generatorto be used by our 120 VAC battery chargers. The T240 mayalso be used as an isolating transformer.

Connections &Accessories

The Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) mounts onyour battery and measures its temperature. It sendsinformation to the inverter/charger or chargecontroller, which automatically adjusts chargingvoltage to ensure full battery charge regardless ofthe ambient temperature of your battery installation.It is standard equipment on all SW Series invertersand optional on all other models. It may also beused with our C12 and C40 charge controllers, andTS, UX, DR, PS and SW Inverters.

This PV Combiner Box is a new offering from Traceand is part of our continuing commitment to make

installing inverters and renewable energyequipment simple and code compliant. These newTrace Combiner Boxes (TCB) meet the ULrequirement for series fusing of PV modules whenconnected in parallel to form larger arrays.

The Combiner Box will accommodate ten PV inputcircuits fused at up to 15 amps per circuit. Themaximum total continuous current rating of theTCB is 80 amps at 12, 24 or 48 VDC. CombinerBox and fuses are sold separately. Fuses areavailable in 5,6,8,10 and 15 amp sizes.


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14

DATA ACQUISITION

SWRC

Full-function remote control withbacklit LCD display for all SW and PSSeries inverters. 25 foot (7.5 m.) cable

standard. 50 foot (15 m.) cableavailable.W

e build Remote Control Panels and

various types of meters with a singlepurpose in mindto make it easier than

ever to operate and understand your Trace powered

electrical system. All Trace RC panels use

telephone cable connections which makes

installation a simple matter.

Our range of choices, particularly in the area of

metering and data acquisition is constantly

expanding. In this catalog we are introducing an

entirely new line of accumulating meters.

Stacking

Sine wave inverters can be connected together in a variety of ways,this greatly increases operating range of the product line. The SWI

(Sine Wave Interface) is a series stacking interface for twin SW or PSinverters. It provides twice the power in a 3 wire 120/240 VAC 60 Hzconfiguration. This option is available in North American voltagesonly. The new SWI/PAR connects twin SW or PS inverters togetherin parallel for twice the output power at the same voltage. There is anE version of this option for export inverters.

Three-Phase Power

We recently released our new Three-Phase Power System configurationwhich is available in two output voltages and four power ratings. Sizesrange from 12 kVA to 16.5 kVA and all systems include Tracesrevolutionary Phase Monitoring Control System, Power ModuleEnclosures, and full SWCA hardware and software.

Sine Wave Configurations

RC8

Remote On/Off control with statusLED indicator for all TS, UX, DR, PSand SW Series inverters. 50 foot (15m.) cable standard.

Power Tracer

We now offer sophisticated powermeasuring equipment which isdesigned to provide accurate dataon system performance andindividual load profiles. The PowerTracer measures and records volts,amps, kVa, kW, VARS, PF andTHD. Current transducers whichrange in size from 15-150 amps aresold separately.

Line Logger

This power measurement device isdesigned to plug right into a wall socket

and measure a specific load (or combinationof loads) power consumption. The LineLogger will display Volts and Watts, andwill record cumulative kWh.

TM500

The TM500 is designed to provideeasy to understand information about

battery condition and current, bothproduced and used. The fuel gaugestyle battery meter makes keepingtrack of state-of-charge virtually foolproof. The TM500 comes with 50 feet(15 m.) of cable, a Deltek 50mV/500amp shunt, a prewired cable, and aplug-in adapter board.

SWCA

Al lows remote Setup andmonitoring of all SW and PSSeries inverters.


17/27

DC DISCONNECTS

No electrical circuit should ever be installed without overcurrent protection, yet findingfuses, breakers and enclosures suitable for the DC input current of large inverters has long

been problematical. Even systems which do not require all the features of Power Centers

or Power Panels must have NEC/UL approved disconnects and circuit protection betweenthe batteries and inverter.

Trace makes DC input safety a simple matter with our line of DC Disconnects and Breakers.A high amperage DC breaker is housed within a powder coated enclosure which has conduitknockouts placed for SW and DR Series inverter connection. Trace DC disconnects aresimple to install and meet all electrical code requirements for appropriate circuit protection.

Our DC Disconnects are expandable; an additional 175 or 250 amp inverter breaker maybe installed for dual inverter installations. DC input/output breakers for PV, chargecontrollers, or DC loads may also be field installed into Trace DC Disconnects. The TM500shunt may be installed in a DC175 or DC250

No electrical

circuit should ever

be installed without

overcurrent

protection.

DC250

250 amp breaker with enclosure.

DC175

175 amp breaker with enclosure.

GJ250

Additional 250 amp breaker(field installable).

GJ175

Ad di tion al 175 amp breaker(field installable).

DCBB

Negative/ground bonding block.Connects up to two 4/0 AWG negativecables and grounding system.

CD60DC

60 amp circuit breaker for solar arrayinput disconnect for a C40. Mounts onside of DC250 or DC175.

CD15

15 amp circuit breaker for small DCload circuit. Mounts on side of DC250or DC175.

CD20

20 amp circuit breaker for small DC

load circuit. Mounts on side of DC250or DC175.

SW and DR have optional conduit boxesto facilitate wiring practices as dictated

by the NEC.

SWCB

Conduit box for SW Series. Fits on DCend of inverter. 1/2", 3/4", 2" and 2-1/2"knockouts.

DRCB

Conduit box for DR Series. Fits on DCor AC end of inverter. 1/2", 3/4", 2" and2-1/2" knockouts.

These conduit boxes allow for NEC codecompliant installation of DC input cables.

It hardly matters how good yourcircuit protection equipment is if thewire between components is not ofthe appropriate gauge and type. Wemake it easy to ensure that yoursystem has the right cabling bymaking a complete line of UL listedflexible battery and inverter cables.Check with your Trace reseller todetermine which cable sizes are rightfor your system and then insist ongenuine Trace cables.


18/27

16

SWSERIES


19/27

PSSERIES

PV Series

Imagine using clean,

nonpolluting, renewable

energy to run your

electric meter backwards.

Trace Utility Interactive

Line-Tieelectric systems

allow you to do exactly that.

Now you can s tart a small-

scale utility of your own,

powered by solar, wind, micro-

hydro, fuel cell or even biomass

and connect it to your localpower company. (Check with

local authorities for any

restrictions.)


20/27

18

DR Series

MICRO SINE


21/27

Visit us on the web:www.traceengineering.com

Get complete and up-to-date specification sheets andpricing at our Document Depot. In addition toproduct literature and brochures, you may downloadtech notes, application examples, and frequentlyasked questions.

Visit our press room or download the Tracer whileyoure at our virtual home and find out the latestnews from Trace. Be sure to check out our PowerTalk Bulletin Board for lively and informativeexchanges about our products and their applications.

UXSERIES

TSSeries

If you have additional

questions regarding

specifications of any

Trace product please call us:

360-435-8826 or

fax: 360-435-2229.
http://www.traceengineering.com/http://www.traceengineering.com/


22/27

20

To begin with one of the most common questions, Do I needbatteries? The answer is yes, most inverters are installed andused in conjunction with a battery bank of some sort. (For theexceptions to this rule see the Utility Interactive section ofthis catalog.)

Batteries are the heart of an inverter-powered electrical system,storing power for use on demand. The most basic way to drawelectrical power from a battery is direct current (DC) at the

nominal voltage of the battery. Your car radio, for example,uses 12 volts DC (12 VDC), the same voltage as your car battery.Many off-grid electrical systems (those not powered byelectricity from a utility company) use 12 VDC power to runsimple loads such as lights. (Any consumption of electricalpower is called a load.) Such systems are commonly referredto as low-voltage DC systems. Powered by a 12 VDC system,you can enjoy the benefits of electric lights, entertainmentsystems, laptop computers, and other devices that can beoperated from a car battery. However, you cant run powertools, kitchen appliances, or office machines, without the helpof some device that generates household electricity. In North

America, 120 volts alternating current (120 VAC) is thestandard. In many countries 230 VAC is the norm.

An engine powered generator is one way to run standardappliances. Turn it on and as long as it is running (noisily),you can use your appliances and tools. But as soon as youturn it off or it runs out of fuel the electricity stops.

A better way to produce 120/240 VAC from batteries is to usean inverter. An inverter is a device that converts battery power(DC) into ordinary household electricity. DC-to-AC invertershave been around for a long time. Energy loss in thisconversion process at first was very high: the average efficiencyof early inverters hovered around 60%. In other words, youwould have to draw 100 watts of battery power to run a 60watt bulb.

A new way to build inverters was introduced in the early1980s. These fully solid state inverters boosted efficiencyto 90%. Trace Engineering helped to pioneer thistechnology. Our first model, the 1512, was introduced in1984, and thousands of our firstborn are still goingstrong in every corner of the globe.

The key to Trace reliability is the elegance of our design.We use Field Effect Transistor (FET) circuitry to convert

the batteries DC voltage (usually 12 or 24 VDC) into AC.The resulting low voltage AC is then transformed into ahigher voltage, usually 120 or 220 VAC. All of the powershaping conversion to AC and waveform shapingtakes place on the low voltage side of the transformer.

As our product line has evolved and become moresophisticated, we have introduced microprocessors whichhave vastly increased our ability to build state-of-the-art

battery charging, load support, generator start and powerconversion software right into our inverters.

One note of caution: when connected to an electrical grid,its easy to be casual about electrical consumption. As longas you can afford it, the thinking goes, the utility companyprobably wont run out of power. With a battery, however,

the quantity of electrical power is finite. You need tocalculate and monitor your electrical consumption if youdont want to run the batteries down. (At the back of thiscatalog, we show you a simple way to calculate yourenergy needs.)

Questions,

questions,

questions.

We get

hundreds: What is an

inverter? How does it

work? How much can

I get out of my

batteries? How do I

recharge them? The

purpose of this

catalog is to answer

these and many other

questions. We hope

that as you read you

will become familiar

with our product line

and be able to make

well-educated choices

as to how Trace

Engineering products

can work for you.

One note of caution: when connected to an

electrical grid, its easy to be casual

about electrical consumption.

With a battery, however, the quantity of electrical

power is finite. Conservation really pays off.


23/27

Trace Inverters of all sizes

produce an d ma nage cl ea n,reliable, alternating current (AC)

power from a var iety of d irect current (DC)

sources. They use no fossil fuel and produce

no pollutants. They provide electrical power,

on demand, 24 hours a day, for almost all

normal household requirements except for

electric stoves, heaters and air conditioners.

A Trace inver ter /charger coupled to a

generator and battery bank typically

reduces fuel consumption by 50%, lowering

fue l, maint enance and env ironm ental cos ts.

Unlike old fashioned fossil fuel-dependent

sources of remote AC power, Trace inverters

are totally silent. In fact, most people canteven tell whether their inverter is on or off

without listening carefully.

We pride ourselves on producing inverters

that are extremely efficient at converting DC

to AC. Across our produc t range our

inverters average better than 90% efficiency

at their mid range output levels.

Instant Power On Demand24 Hours a Day

Batteries are the heart ofevery solar electric system.We recommend you buy the

best battery you can afford.Only batteries of the sametype, capacity, and age can

be put together to build apower bank. Choose your

batteries carefully to giveyour system a long andefficient life. Contact your

Trace re-seller for furtherinformation.

Vacation and weekendsystems can save on PVmodules by adding more

ba tt ery storag e in st ea d.While youre away, yourmodules make power thatcan be stored in your battery

bank.


24/27

22

Nearly all Trace inverters and accessories are fully

certified to demanding North American standards as

set forth by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and the

CSA (Canadian Standards Association). Trace inverters also

comply with CE standards for use in Europe Our inverters and

accessories must undergo extensive testing to ensure that they

meet all applicable safety and performance standards.

Many electrical inspection jurisdictions, financing institutions,

and insurance companies require UL or ETL certification before

accepting a product for installation. We have made it simple for

installers and end users by ensuring that our product linecomplies with domestic and international regulations.

BatteryCharging

We have made it simple for

installers and end users by ensuring that

our product line complies with domestic

and international regulations.

PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER

SYSTEMS ACCESSORY

UL1741

RAINPROOF MODULARENCLOSURE

LISTED

95ML

UL

Flexibility and independence are among the mostsignificant benefits of a battery-based electrical system.Batteries can be recharged in a number of different ways.

Generator and/or utility power, connected to the AC inputof most Trace inverter models, turns them into batterycharging power houses. Our automatic three-stage, built-in chargers, are designed to ensure fast and complete

battery recharging. Adding a Trace inverter/charger to agenerator powered system will reduce operating costs upto 75%. And while the generator is charging batteries, itcan also be powering heavy loads such as power tools, awashing machine, or a water pump.

Renewable power sources can also be harnessed to takethe place of generators or utility companies as a source ofenergy. One of the worlds best battery chargers is thesun. Solar electric charging systems are the essence ofsimplicity. Photovoltaic panels (also known as PV modules)produce DC electricity whenever the sun is shining.Because electricity is being produced at a molecular level(photons in light cause a spare electron in the silicon atomto move and create an electrical charge), there are nomoving parts to wear out in a solar electric generator.

Hundreds of thousands of people worldwidefrom theSouth Seas to the High Arcticrely on the sun to keeptheir batteries charged. With solar electricity your chargingsystem can be expanded at any time simply by adding

more PV modules.The wind is another extremely viable source of electricalpower for battery charging. A well-sited wind generator(windmill) can provide ample power for remote homesand other off-grid applications. Because wind is a moreintermittent resource than sunlight, battery banks in windpowered systems are often larger in order to accommodatethe intervals between windy periods. Wind power is oftenused in conjunction with PV modules. Having two sourcesof renewable electricity makes for a very reliable andflexible battery-charging system.

Another common source of battery charging is micro-hydro (sometimes referred to as run-of-stream hydro).This method of electricity production directs falling water,such as a stream, through a small turbine, which in turnis connected to a generator or alternator. The actualamount of power generated by most micro-hydroinstallations at any one time is relatively small100-2500watts. Because the power is being generated around theclock, however, most micro-hydro systems far surpasssimilar-sized PV and wind systems in the total amount ofpower they generate for storage and use.

New technologies for producing energy are emerging.Fuel Cells use hydrogensome day made from waterusing PVto produce DC electricity. Trace inverters areused to convert the power from Fuel Cells into ordinaryhousehold electricity. It is hoped by many that Fuel Cellsmay replace batteries in inverter based electric systems.


25/27

Fill out the work

sheet on this page

to determine the

inverter/battery

power package that

fits your

individual needs.

Sizing your system iselementary math. Poweris measured in watts. Alight bulb, for instance,

may require 40 watts ofpower, a blender 400.

Appliance wattage isusually listed on themanufacturers label. Ifonly amperage is listed,the formula to determinewatts is as follows: ampsx volts = watts.

The amount of poweryou will take out of the

battery will depend uponthe relationship betweenthe size of your load andthe time it is operating.Your battery bankshould be big enough tosupply power to youranticipated electricalwish list (see right) forat least a few days

Choosing the right sizeinverter is based on a fewmajor considerations.First and foremost is thelargest single load whichwill be operated by the

inverter. Another factorto consider is the largest group of loads which may run atonetime. For example, a system which has a 1 kW electricmotor on a washing machine and 1kW automatic water pumpin the well has the potential to have a 2 kW load operating.The inverter must be large enough to handle either maximumload condition.

Finally there is inrush current which is the peak power thatthe load will draw at the instant that it starts up. TVs, stereos,and drills have a surge rating 1 1/2 to 2 times their continuousratings. Power-hungry loads with large motors, such as

Basics of Selecting an Inverter

compressors, water pumps, refrigerators and airconditioners, may surge at start-up 3 to 4 times their runwattage. Most people have seen the effects of inrush currentwhen a refrigerator starting up momentarily dims the lights.

We recommend that you add at least 25% to whatever youcome up with to allow room for system growth.


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24

Absorption Charge The second stage of three-stage battery charging.

Voltage remains constant and current tapers as internal battery resistance

increases during charging. (Ensures complete charging.)

Alternating Current (AC) The type of electrical power supplied by the

power utility. The unique characteristic of this form of electricity is that it

reverses direction at regular intervals. For example, 120 VAC 60 Hz. power

reverses flow 60 times a second, hence the rating 60 Hz. (cycles).

Amp A measurement of the flow of electrical current. One amp is equal

to the electric force of one volt acting across the resistance of one ohm.

Amp Hour One amp of electrical current flowing for one hour. Expresses

the relationship between current (amps) and time. (OHMS law A =V/R)

Array A group of solar electric modules wired together.

Bulk Charge The first stage of three-stage battery charging. Current is

sent to batteries at the maximum rate they will accept while voltage rises

to full charge level.

Current The rate of flow of electrical charge. The flow of amps is often

expressed as current.

Direct Current (DC) The type of electricity stored in batteries and

generated by solar electric devices. Current flows in a single direction.

Electrolyte A conductive medium in which the flow of electricity takes

place; this is the liquid found inside storage batteries.

Float Charge The third stage of three-stage battery charging. After

batteries reach full charge, charging voltage is reduced to a lower level to

reduce gassing (boiling of electrolyte) and prolong battery life. This is

often referred to as a maintenance charge, since rather than charging a

battery it keeps an already-charged battery from self-discharging.

Grid When used in reference to utility power, it refers to a system of

electrical transmission and distribution lines.

Ground Fault Protection (GFP) A circuit protection device that prevents

the flow of electrical current to earth if a short circuit is present. Usuallyrequired in wet locationse.g. for outdoor, kitchen and bathroom circuits.

Hertz (Hz) The frequency, or number of times per second, that the flow

of AC electricity reverses itself. Also referred to as cycles

(see alternating current).

High Battery Protection A control circuit that disconnects charge current

flowing to battery(s) when voltage reaches a dangerously high threshold.

Prevents damage created by excess gassing (or boiling) of electrolyte.

Hydrometer A simple device that measures the specific gravity of battery

electrolyte. Specific gravity readings express state of charge/discharge

of battery.

Idle Current The amount of electrical power required to keep an inverter

ready to produce electricity on demand.

Inrush CurrentThe peak power that a load will draw at the instant

that it starts up.

Kilowatt (kW) One thousand watts of electricity. Ten 100-watt light

bulbs use one Kilowatt of electrical power.

Kilowatt hour (kW/h) One kW of electrical power used for one hour.

The most common measurement of electrical consumption, most grid

connected electrical meters measure kWh for billing purposes.

Light Emitting Diode (LED) A device used to display various

status functions.

Line Loss A voltage drop caused by resistance in wire during transmission

of electrical power over distance.

Line-tie An electrical system that is connected to a utility distribution grid.

For example, Trace SW line-tie inverters are designed to connect to and interact

with utility power.

Load Any device that consumes electricity in order to operate. Appliances,

tools, and lights are examples of electrical loads.

Low Battery Protection A control circuit that stops the flow of electricity

from batteries to loads when battery voltage drops to dangerously low levels.

Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Every PV (solar electric) device

has a point where maximum current is delivered. MPPT electronically adjusts

the output of a PV device to the maximum power point.

Modified Sine Wave An AC wave form (generated by many inverters) that

is a pulse width modified square wave. It consists of a number of very small

on/off steps rather than a fully smooth wave.

National Electric Code The electrical wiring and installation standards used

in the United States.

Off Grid An electrical system that is not connected to a utility

distribution grid.

Oscilloscope A device that displays the wave form created by an electrical

generating device such as a generator, inverter, or utility.

Overload/Overcurrent Protection A control circuit designed to protect an

inverter or similar device from loads exceeding its output capacity. (A fuse,

for example, is an overcurrent protection device.) All Trace inverters have

internal circuitry to protect themselves from overload/overcurrent conditions.

Parallel Wiring A group of electrical devices, such as batteries or PV modules,

wired together to increase ampacity, while voltage remains constant. (Two

100 amp hour 12 VDC batteries wired in parallel will form a 200 amp-hour 12

VDC battery bank.)

Photovoltaic System The components that form a solar electric generating

system, usually consisting of PV modules, charge controller, circuit protectors

(fuses or breakers) and batteries.

Series Wiring A group of electrical devices, such as batteries or PV modules,

wired together to increase voltage, while ampacity remains constant. (Two

100 amp hour 12 VDC batteries wired in series form a 100 amp hour 24 VDC

battery bank.)

Sine Wave The output wave form of an electric generator or utility. A smooth

wave going above and below zero is created.

Surge Capacity The amount of current an inverter can deliver for short

periods of time. Most electric motors draw up to three times their rated current

when starting. An inverter will surge to meet these motor-starting

requirements. Most Trace inverters have surge capacities at least three times

their continuous ratings.

Transfer Switch A switch designed to transfer electricity being supplied to

loads (appliances etc.) from one source of power to another. (A transfer switch

may be used to designate whether power to a distribution panel will come

from a generator or inverter.)

Volts A unit of measure of the pressure in an electrical circuit. Volts are a

measure of electric potential. Voltage is often explained using a liquid analogy

comparing water pressure to voltage: a high pressure hose would be considered

high voltage, while a slow-moving stream could be compared to low voltage.

Watt(s) A quantitative measurement of electrical power. Watts are calculated

by multiplying volts times amps. Using a liquid analogy, watts are similar to

liquid flow such as liters or gallons. (watts = volts x amps)

Watt Hour (W/h) Electrical power measured in terms of time. One watt

hour of electricity is equal to one watt of power being consumed for one hour.

(A one-watt light operated for one hour would consume one watt hour of electricity.)

Glossary


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inverter and power systems

Documents

power inverters

backup power

power centers

power modules

trace invertersto

trace systemsto

electric power industry

backup power industries