Outback Power Systems Marine Battery GFX1312E User Manual

International Series  
GFX Inverter/Charger  
GFX1312E  
GFX1424E  
GFX1448E  
Operator’s Manual  
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Important Safety Instructions  
READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!  
This manual contains important safety instructions for the International Series GFX inverters. Read all  
instructions and cautionary markings on the inverter and on any accessories or additional equipment  
included in the installation. Failure to follow these instructions could result in severe shock or possible  
electrocution. Use extreme caution at all times to prevent accidents.  
Audience  
This manual is intended for anyone required to operate the GFX inverter. Operators must be familiar  
with all the safety regulations pertaining to operating this kind of equipment as dictated by local code.  
Operators must also have a complete understanding of this equipment’s features and functions. Do  
not use this product unless it has been installed by a qualified installer in accordance with the  
International Series GFX Installation Manual.  
Symbols Used  
WARNING: Hazard to Human Life  
This type of notation indicates that the hazard could be harmful to human life.  
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment  
This type of notation indicates that the hazard may cause damage to the equipment.  
IMPORTANT:  
This type of notation indicates that the information provided is important to  
the installation, operation and/or maintenance of the equipment. Failure to  
follow the recommendations in such a notation could result in voiding the  
equipment warranty.  
General Safety  
WARNING: Limitations on Use  
This equipment is NOT intended for use with life support equipment or other medical  
equipment or devices.  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
Only use components or accessories recommended or sold by OutBack Power  
Technologies or its authorized agents.  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Important Safety Instructions  
Definitions  
The following is a list of initials, terms, and definitions used in conjunction with this product.  
Table 1  
Definition  
Terms and Definitions  
Term  
AC  
Alternating Current; refers to voltage produced by the inverter, utility grid, or generator  
Advanced Generator Start  
AGS  
AUX  
CE  
Inverter’s 12-volt auxiliary output  
Conformité Européenne; French for “European Conformity”; a marking on OutBack  
products indicating that they meet certain European Union requirements  
DC  
Direct Current; refers to voltage produced by the batteries or renewable source  
Digital Voltmeter  
DVM  
Grid-interactive,  
Utility grid power is available for use and the inverter is a model capable of returning  
grid-intertie, grid-tie (selling) electricity back to the utility grid  
HBX  
IEEE  
High Battery Transfer; a function of the remote system display  
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers; refers to a series of standards and  
practices for the testing of electrical products  
LBCO  
Low Battery Cut-Out; set point at which the inverter shuts down due to low voltage  
Light-Emitting Diode; refers to indicators used by the inverter and the system display  
LED  
Off-grid  
On-grid  
PV  
Utility grid power  
available for use  
is not  
Utility grid power is available for use (does not imply grid-interactive capability)  
Photovoltaic  
RE  
Renewable Energy  
RTS  
Remote Temperature Sensor; accessory that measures battery temperature for charging  
System display  
Remote interface device (such as the MATE), used for monitoring, programming and  
communicating with the inverter; also called “remote system display”  
Utility grid  
The electrical service and infrastructure supported by the electrical or utility company;  
also called “mains”, “utility service”, or “grid”  
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Table of Contents  
Important Safety Instructions ........................................................................1  
Audience .................................................................................................................................................................................1  
Symbols Used ........................................................................................................................................................................1  
Definitions...............................................................................................................................................................................2  
General Safety .......................................................................................................................................................................1  
Introduction.................................................................................................7  
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies.................................................................................................................7  
System Display and Controller ........................................................................................................................................8  
Commissioning ............................................................................................9  
Functional Test......................................................................................................................................................................9  
Pre-startup Procedures ..................................................................................................................................................................9  
Startup.................................................................................................................................................................................................9  
Powering Down..............................................................................................................................................................................10  
Adding New Devices.....................................................................................................................................................................10  
Operation ..................................................................................................11  
LED Indicators..................................................................................................................................................................... 11  
Description of Functions ................................................................................................................................................ 13  
Inverting............................................................................................................................................................................................13  
Search ................................................................................................................................................................................................14  
Input...................................................................................................................................................................................................14  
Generators........................................................................................................................................................................................16  
Transfer..............................................................................................................................................................................................16  
Input Support..................................................................................................................................................................................17  
Battery Charging ............................................................................................................................................................................18  
Equalization .....................................................................................................................................................................................22  
Battery Temperature Compensation.......................................................................................................................................22  
Selling ................................................................................................................................................................................................24  
Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking)...............................................................................................................................25  
Power Save Levels..........................................................................................................................................................................27  
Auxiliary Terminals ........................................................................................................................................................................28  
System Display-Based Functions................................................................................................................................. 30  
Automatic Generator Start (AGS) .............................................................................................................................................30  
High Battery Transfer (HBX)........................................................................................................................................................30  
Grid Use Programming ................................................................................................................................................................30  
Troubleshooting.........................................................................................31  
Basic Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................................................... 31  
Error Messages ................................................................................................................................................................... 37  
Warning Messages............................................................................................................................................................ 38  
Disconnect Messages ...................................................................................................................................................... 39  
Selling or Charging Stopped......................................................................................................................................... 40  
Specifications .............................................................................................43  
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Table of Contents  
Specifications for Model GFX1312E.............................................................................................................................43  
Specifications for Model GFX1424E.............................................................................................................................44  
Specifications for Model GFX1448E.............................................................................................................................45  
Environmental Specifications........................................................................................................................................46  
Regulatory Specifications................................................................................................................................................46  
Grid-Interactive Use......................................................................................................................................................................46  
Default Settings and Ranges..........................................................................................................................................47  
Product Registration................................................................................... 53  
Warranty ................................................................................................... 55  
How to Arrange for Warranty Service.........................................................................................................................56  
Contacting OutBack......................................................................................................................................................................56  
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................................................................56  
Return Material Authorization (RMA) .....................................................................................................................................56  
Returning Product to OutBack..................................................................................................................................................57  
Index......................................................................................................... 59  
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Table of Contents  
List of Tables  
Table 1  
Table 2  
Table 3  
Table 4  
Table 5  
Table 6  
Table 7  
Table 8  
Table 9  
Terms and Definitions..................................................................................................................... 2  
Battery LED Values..........................................................................................................................11  
Status LED Quick Reference ........................................................................................................12  
Basic Troubleshooting Steps ......................................................................................................31  
Error Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................37  
Warning Troubleshooting............................................................................................................38  
Disconnect Troubleshooting......................................................................................................39  
Stop Sell (and Charge) Reasons .................................................................................................40  
Electrical Specifications (GFX1312E)........................................................................................43  
Table 10 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1312E)...................................................................................43  
Table 11 Electrical Specifications (GFX1424E)........................................................................................44  
Table 12 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1424E)...................................................................................44  
Table 13 Electrical Specifications (GFX1448E)........................................................................................45  
Table 14 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1448E)...................................................................................45  
Table 15 Environmental Specifications for All Models........................................................................46  
Table 16 Interconnection Response to Voltage and Frequency .....................................................46  
Table 17 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)...............................................................................................47  
Table 18 24-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)...............................................................................................48  
Table 19 48-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)...............................................................................................49  
Table 20 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3).............................................................................................50  
Table 21 24-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3).............................................................................................51  
Table 22 48-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3).............................................................................................52  
List of Figures  
Figure 1  
Figure 2  
Figure 3  
Figure 4  
Figure 5  
Figure 6  
Figure 7  
Figure 8  
Figure 9  
International Series GFX Inverter/Charger .............................................................................. 7  
MATE3 and MATE System Display and Controller................................................................ 8  
AC Wiring Compartment................................................................................................................ 9  
LED Indicators...................................................................................................................................11  
Charging Stages Over Time.........................................................................................................18  
Repeated Charging Cycles...........................................................................................................21  
OutBack HUB4 and MATE.............................................................................................................25  
Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters) ........................................26  
Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)..............................26  
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Introduction  
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies  
Thank you for purchasing the OutBack International Series GFX Inverter/Charger. This product offers a  
complete power conversion system between batteries and AC power. It can provide backup power or  
complete off-grid service.  
¾ Battery-to-AC inverting which delivers 230 Vac at 50 Hz  
¾ AC-to-battery charging  
¾ Rapid transfer between AC source and inverter output with minimal delay time  
¾ Inverter load support for a small AC source  
¾ 12-, 24-, and 48-volt inverters  
¾ Wattages from 1.3 kVA to 1.4 kVA  
¾ Stackable in parallel and three-phase configurations  
¾ Uses energy from PV, wind, and other renewable resources. Use of OutBack FLEXmax charge controllers will  
optimize power production from PV sources.  
¾ Grid-interactive capable  
¾ CE compliant for off-grid use  
Figure 1  
International Series GFX Inverter/Charger  
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Introduction  
System Display and Controller  
The GFX inverters have no external controls. They can operate normally without an external control or  
interface. Basic modes and settings are pre-programmed at the factory. (See page 47 for default  
settings.)  
The MATE and MATE2 System Display and Controller (sold separately) are OutBack products designed  
to accommodate programming and monitoring of an OutBack power system.  
The MATE3 System Display and Controller (also sold separately) is an advanced system display that  
can interface with the GFX inverter. It has a simpler user interface and more options than the MATE or  
MATE2. It also has data logging and Web interface functions.  
Each system display provides the means to adjust the factory default settings to correctly match the  
installation where needed. It also provides the means to monitor system performance and  
troubleshoot fault or shutdown conditions.  
Once settings are modified, the system display can be removed from the installation. The settings are  
stored in the nonvolatile memory of the GFX inverter. However, it is highly recommended to include a  
system display as part of the system. This provides the means to monitor system performance and  
respond quickly should it be necessary to correct a fault or shutdown condition.  
The MATE3’s Configuration Wizard is capable of automatically configuring inverters to a series of  
preset values. This is often more efficient than attempting to manually program each setting in each  
inverter. Affected fields include system type, battery charging, and AC source configuration. (For  
more information, see the MATE3 Owner’s Manual).  
IMPORTANT:  
Some functions are not based in the inverter, but are part of the system  
display’s firmware. They will not function if the system display is removed.  
These functions are listed on page 30. For a detailed description of functions  
and programming, please see the manual for the system display.  
MATE  
MATE3  
Figure 2  
MATE3 and MATE System Display and Controller  
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Commissioning  
Functional Test  
Pre-startup Procedures  
1. Ensure all DC and AC overcurrent devices are opened or turned off.  
2. Double-check all wiring connections.  
3. Inspect the work area to ensure tools or debris have not been left inside.  
4. Verify battery voltage using a digital voltmeter (DVM). Confirm the voltage is correct for the  
inverter model. Confirm the polarity.  
5. Connect the system display (if present).  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
Incorrect battery polarity will damage the inverter. Excessive battery voltage also may damage  
the inverter. This damage is not covered by the warranty.  
Startup  
If steps are inapplicable, they can be omitted. However, it is highly  
recommended that all applicable steps be performed as below.  
If the results of a step do not match the description, see the  
Troubleshooting section on page 31.  
To start the system:  
1. Close the main DC circuit breaker (or connect the fuse) from the  
battery bank to the inverter. Repeat for every inverter present.  
2. Observe the LEDs in the AC wiring compartment. One of the  
three BATTERY LEDs should be illuminated — green, yellow, or  
red. Any of them are acceptable at this stage. (See page 11 for  
a description of the LEDs.) The INVERTER LED (green) may  
come on at this time. The fan will run briefly and the relay will  
click as a self-test.  
3. The ERROR LED may flash briefly. If it remains illuminated or  
continues to flash during any step, proceed immediately to  
page 31 for troubleshooting.  
4. Confirm that the system display is operational. (See the system  
display manual for a description of the menu items that appear  
on a correctly functioning display.)  
Continued on the next page...  
Figure 3  
AC Wiring Compartment  
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Commissioning  
continued from previous page....  
5. If the INVERTER LED (green) is not illuminated, turn on the inverter using the system display or  
external switch.  
6. Check the STATUS LEDs. Confirm that the INVERTER LED (green) is illuminated.  
7. Using a DVM, verify 230 Vac between the AC HOT OUT and AC NEUTRAL OUT terminals. Do not  
turn on any AC circuit breakers at this time.  
8. Using the system display, perform all programming for stacking, battery charging, AC current,  
generator starting, and any other functions. Refer to the Description of Functions section  
beginning on page 13. Also refer to the system display manual and any other literature as needed.  
After programming is completed, perform the following steps:  
1. If other inverters are on the system, use a DVM to verify correct voltage from AC HOT OUT on one  
inverter to the next. Parallel-stacked inverters should collectively read 0 Vac (although individually  
they should still read 230 Vac). Three-phase inverters should collectively read 400 Vac.  
2. Close the AC output circuit breakers. If AC Bypass circuit breakers are present, place them in the  
normal (non-Bypass) position. Do not connect an AC input source or close any AC input circuits.  
3. Use a DVM to verify correct voltage at the AC load panel.  
4. Connect a small AC load and test for proper functionality.  
5. Close the AC input circuit breakers and connect an AC source.  
6. Check the STATUS LEDs. The AC IN LED (yellow) should flash. The INVERTER LED will remain  
illuminated for a short time. When the AC IN LED stays illuminated, the INVERTER LED should go  
dark. This means the inverter is no longer drawing on batteries, but is using the AC source.  
7. If the battery charger has been enabled, confirm that it is charging by using the system display.  
The inverter will perform a full battery charge when first powered up. This may take several hours.  
If restarted after a temporary shutdown, the inverter may skip most or all of the charging cycle.  
8. Test any other functions which have been enabled, such as generator start, selling, or  
search mode. International Series GFX inverters have a minimum one-minute delay before selling  
will begin.  
9. Compare the DVM’s readings with the system display meter readings. If necessary, the system  
display’s readings can be calibrated to match the DVM more accurately. AC input voltage, AC  
output voltage, and battery voltage can be calibrated.  
Powering Down  
If steps are inapplicable, they can be omitted. However, it is highly recommended that all applicable  
steps be performed in the following order.  
To Power Down the System:  
1. Turn off all load circuits and AC input sources.  
2. Turn off all renewable energy circuits.  
3. Turn each inverter OFF using the system display or external switch.  
4. Turn off the main DC overcurrent device for each inverter.  
Adding New Devices  
When adding new devices to the system, first power down the system according to the preceding  
instructions. After adding new devices, perform another functional test, including programming.  
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Operation  
LED Indicators  
AUX LED  
(see page 27)  
BATTERY LEDs  
STATUS LEDs  
Figure 4  
LED Indicators  
BATTERY LEDS  
The battery LEDs show the approximate battery state. (See  
note below.) The BATTERY  
IMPORTANT  
LEDs are independent of STATUS LEDs. Any STATUS LED could accompany any BATTERY LED based  
on certain conditions. Common combinations are noted.  
¾ A GREEN LED means the batteries have an adequate charge at that time. It does not always mean they are  
full. May be accompanied by a YELLOW STATUS LED when an AC source is charging.  
¾ A YELLOW LED means the batteries are somewhat discharged.  
¾ A RED LED means the batteries are greatly discharged and may require attention. May be accompanied by a  
RED STATUS LED to indicate a Low Battery ERROR.  
Table 2 Battery LED Values  
Color  
GREEN  
YELLOW  
RED  
12 Vdc Unit  
12.5 Vdc or higher  
11.5 to 12.4 Vdc  
11.4 Vdc or lower  
24 Vdc Unit, 0.2 Vdc  
25.0 Vdc or higher  
48 Vdc Unit, 0.4 Vdc  
50.0 Vdc or higher  
Battery Status  
ACCEPTABLE  
MARGINAL  
LOW  
23.0 to 24.8 Vdc  
46.0 to 49.6 Vdc  
22.8 Vdc or lower  
45.6 Vdc or lower  
:
NOTES  
¾ Gaps in the table (higher-voltage units) are due to the resolution of the inverter’s DC meter.  
¾ These voltage settings are not the same as the Low Battery Cut-Out (LBCO) set point. (See pages 13 and 37.)  
The Battery LED settings cannot be changed.  
¾ Voltages higher than shown in the GREEN row usually means that the batteries are charging.  
IMPORTANT:  
Battery voltage does not always indicate an accurate state of charge. It is accurate if batteries have been  
at rest for several hours at room temperature (25°C or 77°F, or as specified by the battery manufacturer).  
If they have  
loads, a charging source, or are at another temperature, their voltage may not reflect  
any  
their true state. The OutBack FLEXnet DC is a battery monitor which can provide accurate measurements.  
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Operation  
STATUS LEDS  
GREEN  
¾
Solid: The inverter is ON and providing power. If accompanied by solid yellow LED, unit is selling power to  
the utility grid. (See page 24 for a description of the Sell function.)  
¾
Flashing: The inverter has been turned ON but is idle. May be accompanied by the yellow LED. If not  
accompanied by the yellow LED, the unit is in inverting mode and is idle due to lack of demand. This can be  
because the unit is in Search mode. (See page 14 for a description of Search.)  
¾
Off: Unit is OFF. It is not waiting to provide power. Any power present is from another source such as the  
utility grid or generator. (See Startup on page 9, or the system display manual, to turn the unit ON.) The unit  
may also be a slave that is in Power Save mode. If so, the master inverter may still be providing power to the  
system. (See page 27 for a description of Power Save.)  
YELLOW  
¾
Solid: The AC source is connected and providing power. Unit may or may not be charging the batteries,  
depending on settings. May be accompanied by green LED.  
¾
Flashing: The AC source is present but has not been accepted. If flashing continues, the unit is refusing the  
source. This can occur for the following reasons.  
The AC source may have quality issues. External diagnosis may be required. (See page 15 for a  
description of input criteria. See the system display manual for diagnosis using the meter displays.)  
In the system display, the AC Input menu is set to DROP. (See the system display manual for a  
description of the AC IN or AC INPUThot key.)  
In the system display, the High Battery Transfer (HBX) feature or the Grid Use feature intentionally  
disconnected the inverter. (See the system display manual for a description of these modes.)  
¾
Off: No AC source is detected. If a source is supposed to be present, confirm the voltage between AC HOT IN  
and AC NEUTRAL IN terminals.  
RED  
¾
¾
¾
Solid: ERROR. Unit has shut down due to a critical problem which may be internal or external to the inverter.  
This LED is accompanied by an error message in the system display. See page 37 for a description of  
error messages.  
Flashing: WARNING. Unit has detected a non-critical problem but has not yet shut down. A warning does  
not always lead to a shutdown — if it does, it becomes an error. This LED is accompanied by a warning  
message in the system display. See page 37 for a description of warning messages.  
Off: No problems are detected.  
Table 3 Status LED Quick Reference  
Color  
State  
Inverter State  
Notes  
Inverter is ON and providing power.  
Inverter is ON but standing by.  
Inverter is not providing power.  
If accompanied by YELLOW LED, unit is selling.  
Solid GREEN  
Flashing GREEN  
Off  
Unit may be in Search mode.  
Unit is either OFF or has been replaced by an  
AC source (see next item).  
GREEN  
AC source connected and providing  
power.  
Unit may or may not be charging batteries,  
depending on settings.  
Solid YELLOW  
AC source present but not yet accepted. Unit may be programmed not to accept the  
source, or the source may have quality issues.  
YELLOW  
Flashing YELLOW  
No AC source is detected.  
If source is present, check AC input.  
Off  
ERROR. Unit has shut down. See  
Troubleshooting.  
To see error messages, see the system display  
manual.  
Solid RED  
WARNING. Unit detected a problem but To see warning messages, see the system  
Flashing RED  
RED  
has not yet shut down. See  
Troubleshooting.  
display manual.  
No problems detected.  
Off  
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Operation  
Description of Functions  
All items identified as settable or adjustable have set points which can be accessed using the remote  
system display. (See the system display manual for instructions on locating these set points.) The  
default settings and ranges of adjustment are listed near the end of this book, beginning on page 47.  
Each function is accompanied by a symbol representing the inverter and that function:  
These items represent the input from the AC  
DC  
source, the output to the AC loads, DC functions  
TRANSFER  
(inverting, charging, etc), and the transfer relay.  
Arrows on each symbol represent current flow.  
AC IN  
AC OUT  
The symbols for each function may have other features depending on the function.  
Inverting  
A GFX inverter uses a transformer and a high-frequency H-Bridge FET design to convert DC voltage  
from batteries into AC voltage that is usable by AC appliances. It will continue to do this as long as the  
batteries have sufficient energy. The batteries can be supplied or recharged from other sources, such  
as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power.  
The inverter requires batteries to operate. Other sources may not maintain DC voltages that are  
consistent enough for the inverter to operate reliably.  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
Do not substitute other DC sources in place of the batteries. High or irregular voltages  
may damage the inverter. It is normal to use other DC sources in conjunction with the  
batteries and the inverter, but not in place of the batteries.  
Certain features will affect the inverter’s operation. These features only operate when the inverter is  
generating AC power on its own. They do not function when the inverter is supplied by an AC source.  
¾ Low Battery Cut-Out (LBCO): This function prevents the inverter from draining the batteries completely.  
When the DC voltage drops below a specified level for 5 minutes, the inverter will stop functioning. The  
system display will give a  
or error. This is one of the Error messages  
Low Battery Voltage Low Battery V  
described on page 37. This function is intended to protect both the batteries and the inverter’s output.  
(Continuing to invert on a low DC voltage may produce a distorted waveform.) This item is adjustable.  
¾ Low Battery Cut-In (LBCI): The recovery point from Low Battery Cut-Out. When the voltage rises above this  
point for 10 minutes, the Low Battery error will clear and the inverter will function again. This is adjustable.  
Connecting an AC source to charge the batteries will also clear a Low Battery error.  
¾ AC Output Voltage: The inverter’s AC output can be turned up or down by a certain amount to adjust for  
conditions. This item is adjustable.  
¾ The inverter is also controlled by a high battery cut-out function. If the DC voltage rises above a certain level,  
the inverter will immediately stop functioning. The system display will give a  
or  
High Battery Voltage High  
error. This is one of the Error messages displayed on page 37. (If the voltage drops below this  
Battery V  
point, the inverter automatically recovers.)  
This function is intended to protect the  
inverter’s output and loads. Continuing to  
invert on a high DC voltage may produce a  
distorted waveform. Note that the high battery  
cut-out does not alleviate the high battery  
condition itself; it is an external condition.  
For a 12-volt inverter, this voltage is 17 volts.  
For a 24-volt inverter, the voltage is 34 volts  
For a 48-volt inverter, the voltage is 68 volts.  
The high battery cut-out voltages cannot be changed.  
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Operation  
Search  
An automated search circuit is available to minimize the power draw when no loads are present.  
When enabled, the inverter does not always deliver full output. The output is reduced to brief pulses  
with a delay between them. These pulses are sent down the output lines to see if a resistance is  
present. In effect, the pulses “search” for a load. If one is detected, the inverter’s output increases to  
full voltage so that it can power the load. When the load is turned off, the inverter “goes to sleep” and  
begins searching again.  
The sensitivity of Search mode is in increments of approximately 0.1 Aac. The default is 6 increments,  
or 0.6 Aac. A load which draws this amount or greater will “wake up” the inverter.  
Due to changing load characteristics, these increments are only approximate and may not  
NOTE:  
function exactly as listed.  
The pulse duration and the delay both have a time period that is measured in AC cycles. These two  
items and the load detection threshold are adjustable.  
¾ Search mode can save a considerable amount of power, particularly in smaller systems with intermittent use.  
¾ Search mode may not be useful in larger systems with loads that require continuous power (e.g., clocks,  
answering machines, fax machines). Search mode may cause nuisance shutdowns, or it may sleep so rarely  
that there is no benefit.  
¾ Some devices may not be easily detectable by Search mode.  
Input  
When the GFX inverter input terminals are connected to a stable AC source, the inverter will  
synchronize itself with that source and use it as the primary source of AC power. (See “AC Source  
Acceptance” on page 15.) In this situation, the transfer relay will engage, linking the AC source directly  
with the inverter’s output. It can also use the source to charge batteries. (See “Transfer” on page 16  
and “Battery Charging” on page 18.)  
¾ Two sets of input criteria are available, one for the utility grid and one for a generator. Only one source can  
be selected at a time. In the MATE system display, the source is selected using the  
menu.  
AC Input and Current  
ac transfer control  
or the  
In the MATE3 system display, it is selected using either the  
Inverter Input Select  
menus. See the system display manual for more information. (For other aspects of input selection, see  
Limit  
the items below. Also see AC Current Settings on page 15.) Both grid and generator criteria are adjustable.  
¾ The grid-interactive function can sell power using the input connection. (See the section entitled “Selling” on  
page 24.) In the MATE, this function only operates if  
is selected in the  
menu. It does  
ac transfer control  
grid  
not function if  
is selected.  
gen  
¾ The Input Support feature can use battery power to assist a smaller AC source. (See the section entitled  
“Input Support” on page 17.)  
¾ There are a number of considerations when selecting the type and size of an AC generator. (See the section  
entitled “Generators” on page 16.)  
¾ The AC input current is used to power both loads and battery charging. The total should not exceed the size  
of the AC overcurrent device or AC source. These devices should be sized appropriately during planning.  
¾
The loads powered by the inverter  
entitled “Transfer” on page 16.)  
exceed the size of the inverter’s transfer relay. (See the section  
must not  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
Current draw in excess of the inverter’s transfer relay rating can damage the transfer  
relay. This damage is not covered by warranty.  
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Operation  
AC Current Settings  
The AC current settings control the amount of current that the inverter draws from the source(s). The  
amount of current is controlled by the grid or generator limit settings. These settings should be  
adjusted to match the size of the input circuit breaker or input conductor. In the system display, if the  
source is set to  
, the inverter uses the grid settings. If the source is set to  
grid  
, the inverter uses the  
gen  
generator settings.  
¾ This is intended to protect a generator or source that may not be large enough to supply enough current for  
both charging and loads. If the combined charging and loads exceed this setting, the inverter will reduce its  
charge rate and give priority to the loads. If the loads exceed this number on their own, the charge rate will  
be reduced to zero. The inverter is capable of supporting the source with power from the batteries. See the  
section entitled “Input Support” on page 17.  
¾ If multiple parallel inverters are installed with an AC source of limited amperage, the total combined  
amperage settings for all units must be less than the AC input circuit. The Configuration Wizard in the  
MATE3 can perform this calculation. However, the inverters do not perform this calculation. If the MATE3 or  
the Configuration Wizard are not used, it may be necessary to divide the input size by the number of  
inverters and assign an equal part of the amperage to each port.  
AC Source Acceptance  
The input source must meet the following specifications to be accepted:  
¾
¾
230 Vac, 22 Vac (default setting), and  
50 Hz, 5 Hz  
When these conditions are met, the inverter will close its transfer relay and accept the input source.  
This occurs after a delay which is specified below. If the conditions are not met, the inverter will not  
accept the source. If it was previously accepted and then rejected, the inverter will open the relay and  
return to inverting power from the batteries.  
¾ If the source is set to  
, there is a connection delay of approximately 15 seconds. This time is not  
grid  
adjustable.  
¾ If the source is set to  
, there is a connection delay with a default setting of 0.5 minutes. This is intended as  
gen  
a generator warmup period. This item is adjustable.  
NOTES:  
Several items, external to the inverter, may prevent the inverter from accepting AC power even if  
electrical conditions are met. One is the high-battery transfer (HBX) mode, which is operated by the  
system display. (See page 30 and the system display manual.) Another is the system display’s  
AC IN  
AC INPUT  
or  
hot key, which can turn off the input to all inverters. (See the system display manual.)  
The inverter has additional criteria that control whether it sells power. The inverter may accept AC  
power but refuse to sell if the acceptance criteria are met, but the grid-interactive criteria are not. (See  
the section entitled “Selling” on page 24.)  
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Operation  
Generators  
A generator should be sized to provide enough power for both loads and battery charging.  
¾ The generator needs a single circuit which is sized to provide current to  
inverters on a given phase or leg.  
all  
¾ It is usually recommended that the generator be sized at twice the wattage of the inverter system. Many  
generators may not be able to maintain AC voltage or frequency for long periods of time if they are loaded  
more than 80% of rated capacity.  
¾ Using the MATE system display, it is recommended to set the AC source to  
when connecting a generator.  
gen  
If the setting is left on  
, the inverter’s internal settings will still be set for utility-grade power. Unless the  
grid  
generator delivers extremely high-quality power, it might not be accepted. (Alternately, the inverter might  
accept the generator and attempt to sell power back to it.) Changing to  
for high-grade power and will prevent selling.  
will remove the requirements  
gen  
The generator is required to have a stable output before its power is accepted by the inverter. Some  
generators with less stable or uneven outputs may not be accepted.  
When using capacitor-excited generators or self-excited induction generators, there can be side  
effects while using the Input Support feature (see page 17). These generators do not always deliver  
full output when operating in parallel with another source of power, such as the Input Support  
feature. The inverter’s battery charger may work erratically or at a low charge rate. It may be  
necessary to disable the Input Support feature. Consult the generator manufacturer if necessary.  
Transfer  
The inverter uses a transfer relay to alternate between the states of inverting and of accepting an AC  
source. Until the relay energizes, the AC HOT IN and AC HOT OUT terminals are electrically isolated  
from each other; when it closes, they become electrically common. When the relay changes states,  
the physical transfer delay is approximately 12 milliseconds.  
¾ The AC NEUTRAL IN and AC NEUTRAL OUT terminals are electrically common regardless of the state of  
the relay.  
¾ The relay contacts are limited to 30 amps per phase or leg. The continuous loads on that output should  
never exceed this number. When connected to an AC source, the inverter cannot limit the load current. An  
overload condition is possible.  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
Current draw in excess of the inverter’s transfer relay rating can damage the transfer  
relay. This damage is not covered by warranty.  
The inverter does not filter or clean up the power from the AC source. The voltage and power quality  
received by the output loads is the same as that of the source. If the voltage or quality do not meet  
the inverter’s input limits (see page 15), it will disconnect and return to the inverting mode.  
¾ If the AC source meets the inverter’s requirements but is irregular, any fluctuations will be transferred to the  
loads. If the loads are sensitive, it may be necessary to improve the quality of the AC source.  
¾ For a smoother transition, it may be useful to raise the inverter’s lower acceptance limit. The default setting  
is 208 Vac. A higher setting will cause the inverter to transfer sooner in the event of a quality problem.  
In a stacked system, slaves are ordered to transfer at the same time as the master. If a slave does not  
sense an AC source, it will suffer a  
Error (see page 37). The slave will continue inverting.  
Phase Loss  
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Operation  
Input Support  
A system display is required to control this function. When this function is enabled, the inverter limits  
the current draw from an AC source, augmenting it with additional current from the batteries when  
necessary. This helps prevent overloading a small AC circuit or generator during short-term use.  
Initially the AC source current is used for both loads and battery charging. In the MATE system display,  
the  
or  
settings control the maximum AC draw. In the MATE3 system  
ac1/grid limit ac2/gen limit  
display, these settings are made by the and menu items. If the  
Grid Input AC Limit  
Gen Input AC Limit  
AC draw exceeds the setting, the inverter reduces its charge rate to give priority to the loads.  
¾ The charge rate will be reduced as much as necessary to support the loads. If the loads equal the amperage  
setting, the charge rate will be zero.  
¾ If the AC loads  
the amperage setting, the charger will begin operating in reverse. It will take power  
exceed  
the batteries and use it to support the incoming AC current.  
from  
IMPORTANT:  
If the AC loads exceed the amperage limit setting, the inverter will drain the batteries. If  
the loads are sustained, the batteries may discharge to the point of  
Low Battery Cut-Out  
error. (See pages 13 and 37.) To  
and the inverter may shut down with a  
Low Battery  
prevent the loss of backup power, load use should be planned accordingly.  
In the MATE system display, this feature is activated by the  
menu item, located in the  
ac2/gen support  
ADVANCED menus. In the MATE3 system display, it is activated by the  
menu item,  
Input Support  
menu. (See the system display manual.)  
located in the  
AC Input and Current Limit  
¾ Although the menu is titled “  
” in the MATE, it functions equally well whether the AC source  
ac2/gen support  
is a generator or the utility grid.  
¾ Choose between generator or grid criteria using the MATE’s  
menu. The default is  
.
grid  
ac transfer control  
soft keys will toggle between these respective options.  
The  
and  
<GEN>  
<GRID>  
¾ The default selection is . It can be switched  
using the  
soft key. The MATE’s  
<OFF>  
on  
menu must be selected to  
off  
in order to do this. In current models, if  
ac transfer control  
is set to , the  
gen  
ac transfer control  
grid  
support feature cannot be disabled.  
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Operation  
Battery Charging  
IMPORTANT:  
Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow  
battery manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at  
factory default settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.  
Voltage  
Absorption Set Point  
Float Set Point  
Absorption  
Float Timer  
Sell RE Set Point  
Sell RE  
Sell RE  
Float  
Refloat Set Point  
Silent  
Silent  
Bulk  
No  
Charge  
Time  
Figure 5  
Charging Stages Over Time  
All voltages in this section are given for a 12-volt system. For higher-voltage systems, the voltage can  
be multiplied by the appropriate amount. (Factory defaults for each voltage are shown beginning on  
page 47.) Set points can be adjusted using the system display (see the appropriate manual).  
The inverter uses a “three-stage” battery charging process. The three stages are Bulk, Absorption, and  
Float. These stages follow a series of steps, which are marked on the chart above. The points where  
the dark line intersects the vertical dotted line indicate a change from one step to the next. A circle  
indicates that the inverter has switched to a new target voltage. A square indicates that the inverter  
has reached the target voltage (a horizontal dotted line). A triangle  
indicates that the inverter has  
acquired a new target voltage, but is still inactive. (See Figure 6 on page 21.) The process shown here  
also includes the step of selling power to the utility, as this is integrally tied with the battery charger.  
The Target Points and Time Limits cited under various steps are settable using the system display.  
No Charging  
If the inverter is not charging, any of the following conditions may apply:  
¾ The unit is inverting or not connected to a qualified AC source.  
¾ The unit is connected to an AC source but is in a mode or stage that does not use the charger. (Silent mode is  
one example.)  
¾ The unit is connected to an AC source but the charger has been turned off.  
Bulk Stage  
This stage activates the charger. This is the first stage in the three-stage charge cycle. It is a  
constant-current stage which drives the battery voltage up. This stage typically leaves the batteries at  
75% to 90% of their capacity, depending on conditions.  
or  
setting. The default is 14.4 Vdc (in a 12-volt  
Target point: absorb setpoint Absorb Voltage  
system).  
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The initial DC current is the maximum current the charger can deliver. It will begin at the charger’s  
specified maximum, but will gradually decrease as the voltage increases. This is a tradeoff in wattage  
and is normal for the charger.  
Absorption Stage  
This is the second stage of charging. It is a constant-voltage stage. Current varies as needed to  
maintain the voltage, but will typically decrease to a very low number over time. This “tops off the  
tank”, leaving the batteries at essentially 100% of capacity.  
or  
Target point: absorb setpoint Absorb Voltage  
setting.  
or setting. This timer counts down from the inception of  
Time limit: absorb time limit Absorb Time  
the Absorption stage until it reaches zero. The timer can be viewed. (See the system display manual.)  
For multiple inverters only:  
The charging of multiple stacked inverters is synchronized and is governed by the master. When the  
master inverter reaches the end of Absorption (and other stages), the slaves will exit Absorption as  
well, even if their timers have not expired. The remaining time for the slaves will be retained in the  
timer for each inverter.  
The Absorption timer does not reset to zero when AC power is disconnected or reconnected. It only  
resets to zero if it runs out, or if an external STOP BULK command is sent. The rest of the time, it retains  
any remaining time. It adds more time to the Absorption period whenever the batteries fall below a  
certain voltage. (See page 21 for more information on how the timer works.)  
If the voltage exceeds the Absorption voltage setting (usually due to another charging source), the  
inverter(s) can sell current to the loads (or the source) in an effort to bring the voltage  
point. This will reduce the inverter’s draw from the AC source.  
to the set  
down  
Sell  
This is not a charging stage and is only used once the batteries are recharged. Sell is a  
constant-voltage mode of operation. The inverter cannot import current to charge the batteries to  
this value, but it can export any excess current to hold them at a constant voltage. (Usually excess  
current comes into the batteries from a PV array, wind turbine, or similar renewable source.)  
or  
setting. The default setting is 13.0 Vdc  
Target point: sell re volts Sell Voltage  
(in a 12-volt system).  
This setting is typically lower than the Float voltage setting. Although the batteries are not  
discharged, they are maintained at a somewhat lower voltage so that the maximum amount of power  
can be exported.  
Excess power is sent first to any loads on the inverter’s output, in what is known as “zeroing”. If the  
exported power exceeds the loads, the remainder is sold back to the utility grid, using the inverter’s  
AC input terminals. The unit will maintain this activity for as long as excess power is available. If  
excess power is not available, the battery voltage will drop below the  
leave this stage.  
voltage and the unit will  
Sell  
See page 24 for more notes on the Sell function.  
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Operation  
Silent  
This is not a charging stage, but a quiescent period between stages. The inverter remains on the AC  
source, but the charger is inactive. It enters this condition upon completing the Absorption stage, or  
when there is not enough energy to sustain selling.  
The term “Silent” is also used in the context of stacking inverters and Power Save levels. See page 27.  
In Silent, the batteries are not in significant use by the inverter, but they are also not being charged.  
The battery voltage will naturally decrease when not maintained by another means such as a  
renewable source.  
or  
setting, which activates the charger again. The  
Target point: refloat setpoint Re-Float Voltage  
default setting is 12.5 Vdc (in a 12-volt system).  
If the MATE’s  
menu is set to  
ac transfer control  
, the charger skips both Sell and Silent, and  
gen  
NOTE:  
proceeds directly to Float stage. The same is true if the MATE3’s  
menu is set to . (It  
charger control  
will remain in Float until a new charge cycle is required, possibly through loss of AC power.) If  
on  
ac  
is set to ), the charger goes through Silent as  
is set to  
(or if  
charger control  
transfer control  
grid  
off  
noted and proceeds to Float only when the batteries drop to the Refloat voltage level. (See pages 14  
and 15 for more information on this function.)  
Float Stage  
This is the third stage of charging. It is a constant-voltage stage. Current varies as needed to maintain  
the voltage, but typically drops to a low number. This stage offsets the batteries’ tendency to  
self-discharge (as well as the draw of any other DC loads), and maintains them at 100% of capacity.  
or  
setting. The default setting is 13.6 Vdc (in a 12-volt  
Target point: float setpoint Float Voltage  
system).  
or  
setting.  
Time limit: float time period Float Time  
If the voltage exceeds the Float voltage setting (usually due to another charging source), the inverter  
can sell current to the loads (or the source) in an effort to bring the voltage  
This will reduce the inverter’s draw from the AC source.  
to the set point.  
down  
Float Timer  
This is part of Float stage and is not a separate stage of charging. On the chart, it is marked as a  
separate step to note that the timer only begins running upon reaching the Float set point. It does  
begin running at the beginning of Float stage. (The Float timer is reset to its maximum amount  
not  
whenever the batteries drop to the Refloat voltage.)  
Repeated Silent  
The unit re-enters the Silent mode as it did on page 20. The unit remains on the AC source, but the  
charger is inactive.  
or  
setting, which activates the charger again. The  
Target point: refloat setpoint Re-Float Voltage  
default setting is 12.5 Vdc (in a 12-volt system).  
The unit will continue cycling between Float and Silent for as long as the AC source is present.  
However, if excess DC power is available and the batteries rise above the Sell RE set point, the unit can  
re-enter Sell and begin selling the excess as described above.  
The unit can only re-enter Sell when none of the timers are active. If any of the timers have accumulated  
time while in Silent, the unit will enter the highest stage with accumulated time and proceed from  
that point.  
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Operation  
Voltage  
Absorption  
Absorption Set Point  
Float Set Point  
Absorption  
Float  
Timer  
Sell RE Set Point  
Silent  
Float  
Sell RE  
Sell RE  
Refloat Set Point  
Rebulk Point  
Bulk  
AC Loss  
No  
Charge  
Bulk  
Time  
Figure 6  
Repeated Charging Cycles  
New Charging Cycle  
If the AC source is lost or disconnected, the unit will return to inverting mode if enabled. The battery  
voltage will begin to decrease due to loads or natural loss. When the AC source is restored, the  
inverter will return to the charging cycle. If the batteries drop below the Rebulk voltage (see below),  
the inverter will restart the cycle, beginning at Bulk stage. (See the triangle symbol  
in Figure 6.)  
If the batteries do not drop below Rebulk, the charger will not enter the Bulk stage and will return to  
its previous stage.  
New Absorption Stage  
When entering the second stage, Absorption, the charger will not necessarily run through its full  
duration. The timer will count down whatever time remains from the previous cycle, or whatever time  
it has accumulated since then.  
Absorption Timer  
The Absorption timer does not reset to its maximum like the Float timer does. Instead, the timer  
counts upward (gaining time) whenever the battery voltage drops below the Rebulk point. This  
means that the Absorption period may not always be the same, depending on how much time it  
has acquired.  
In a 12-volt system, the Rebulk voltage is 12.2 Vdc. (All voltages in this section are given for a 12-volt  
system.) This is a fixed setting and cannot be changed. For as long as the inverter remains below this  
voltage, the Absorption timer will gain an equal amount of time. This dictates the duration of the  
Absorption stage. Note that in Figure 6 the duration of time spent below the Rebulk voltage is the  
same as the subsequent Absorption period (as shown by the small arrows).  
If the battery voltage drops below 12.0 Vdc (in a 12-volt system), the timer increments (counts  
upward) at double the normal rate. For example, if the batteries spent 8 minutes below this voltage,  
16 minutes would be added to the Absorption timer. Similarly, if the battery voltage drops below  
11.8 Vdc (in a 12-volt system), the timer increments at quadruple the normal rate.  
The Absorption timer continues this behavior even if the charger is still on. For example, if the charger  
is in Float stage and there is a significant battery drain, the charger may not be able to maintain the  
batteries at the Float voltage. Once the batteries fall below the Rebulk point, the Absorption timer will  
begin accumulating time. (However, the accumulation will be minor, as this will also cause the  
charger to re-enter the Bulk stage.)  
The timer will stop incrementing when it reaches the  
or setting. This is  
absorb time limit Absorb Time  
the maximum duration of the Absorption stage. This means that regardless of the voltage, the timer  
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Operation  
will always run for the full Absorption period if the batteries dropped below the appropriate voltage  
for that amount of time. If significant battery drain caused them to drop below the set points for  
doubling or quadrupling the rate, it may run for the full Absorption period even after a lesser amount  
of time.  
The rest of the charging stages will proceed as described on the previous few pages.  
Equalization  
Equalization is a controlled overcharge that is part of regular battery maintenance. Equalization  
brings the batteries to a much higher voltage than usual and maintains this high voltage for a period  
of time. This has the result of removing inert compounds from the battery plates and reducing  
stratification in the electrolyte.  
This process must be started manually using the system display. The inverter cannot be programmed  
for automatic battery equalization. This is a safety measure.  
Equalization follows the same pattern as standard three-stage charging, as shown in Figure 5.  
However, instead of the Absorption voltage set points, it is controlled by the  
or  
equalize set point  
settings in the system display. The time is controlled by the  
or  
equalize time period  
Equalize Voltage  
setting.  
Equalize Time  
Equalization is normally performed only on flooded lead-acid batteries. The schedule for equalization  
varies with battery use and type, but it is usually performed every few months. If performed correctly,  
this process can extend battery life by a considerable amount.  
Equalization is not normally performed on nickel-technology batteries or any sort of sealed battery.  
CAUTION: Battery Damage  
¾ Do not equalize any sealed battery types (VRLA, AGM, Gel, or other) unless  
approved by the manufacturer. Some batteries may suffer severe damage  
from equalization.  
¾ Contact the battery manufacturer for recommendations on equalization  
voltage, duration, schedule, and/or advisability. Always follow  
manufacturer recommendations for equalization.  
Battery Temperature Compensation  
Battery performance will change when the temperature varies above or below room temperature  
(77°F or 25°C). Temperature compensation is a process that adjusts battery charging to correct for  
these changes.  
When a battery is cooler than room temperature, its internal resistance goes up and the voltage  
changes more quickly. This makes it easier for the charger to reach its voltage set points. However,  
while accomplishing this process, it will not deliver all the current that the battery requires. As a result,  
the battery will tend to be undercharged.  
Conversely, when a battery is warmer than room temperature, its internal resistance goes down and  
the voltage changes more slowly. This makes it harder for the charger to reach its voltage set points.  
It will continue to deliver energy as time passes until the charging set points are reached. However,  
this tends to be far more than the battery requires, meaning it will tend to be overcharged.  
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Operation  
The inverter, when equipped with the Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS), will compensate for changes  
in temperature. The RTS is attached to a single battery near the center of the bank, to achieve a  
representative temperature. If installed in a multiple-inverter system, only a single RTS is necessary. It  
must plug into the master inverter and will control the charging of all slaves and all charge controllers.  
(See the International Series GFX Installation Manual to locate the RTS port.) This process is automatic.  
When charging, an inverter system with an RTS will increase or decrease the charge voltage by 5 mV  
per degree Celsius per battery cell. This setting affects the Absorption, Float, and Equalization set  
points. The Sell RE and Refloat set points are not temperature compensated. The Equalization set  
points are not compensated in OutBack charge controllers.  
¾ In a 12 Vdc system (6 cells, 2 volts each), this means 0.03 volts per degree Celsius above or below 25°C.  
Maximum compensation is 0.6 Vdc.  
¾ In a 24 Vdc system (12 cells, 2 volts each), this means 0.06 volts per degree Celsius above or below 25°C.  
Maximum compensation is 1.2 Vdc.  
¾ In a 48 Vdc system (24 cells, 2 volts each), this means 0.12 volts per degree Celsius above or below 25°C.  
Maximum compensation is 2.4 Vdc.  
Examples:  
¾ A 12 Vdc system with batteries at 10°C will compensate its charging to 0.45 Vdc  
than the set points.  
higher  
¾ A 24 Vdc system with batteries at 35°C will compensate its charging to 0.6 Vdc  
than the set points.  
lower  
¾ A 48 Vdc system with batteries at 15°C will compensate its charging to 1.2 Vdc  
than the set points.  
higher  
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Operation  
Selling  
IMPORTANT:  
Selling power to the utility company requires the authorization of the local  
electric jurisdiction. How the local utility company handles this will depend on  
their policies on this issue. Some may pay for power sold; others may issue  
credit. Some policies may prohibit the use of this mode. Please check with the  
utility company and obtain their permission before using this mode.  
The GFX inverters are grid-interactive. This means that in addition to using power from the utility grid  
for charging and loads, these models can also convert excess battery power and sell it to the utility  
grid. This is known as the “grid-tie” or “Sell” feature. Excess battery power usually comes from  
renewable energy sources, such as PV arrays, hydroelectric turbines, and wind turbines.  
¾ The operation of the Sell feature is referenced heavily in the Battery Charging section, as it is integrally tied  
with the battery charger. In fact, selling is occasionally referred to as “charging in reverse”. Where the  
charger draws power from the AC input and puts it into the batteries, the Sell feature removes power from  
the batteries (or the DC system) and returns it to the AC input.  
¾ The Sell feature can only operate while the utility grid power is stable and within certain limits. If the AC  
voltage or frequency vary outside these limits, the inverter will stop selling. It may not disconnect from the  
utility grid. If the inverter stops selling, the system display will show the reason (page 40 has a list of reasons).  
¾ The inverter’s grid-interactive limits are specified on page 46. The AC source acceptance limits are specified  
on page 15. These numbers are often not the same.  
¾ Once the AC voltage and frequency become acceptable, the inverter has a minimum one-minute delay  
before selling will begin. Upon initial connection to the utility grid, the inverter may be required to perform a  
full battery charge. This may delay the operation of the sell feature.  
¾ In the MATE system display, the key set point is  
. In the MATE3, it is  
. (See the system  
Sell Voltage  
sell re volts  
display manual to change this set point.) When the charger enters the Sell stage (see pages 18 and 19), it  
uses or as a reference point. When a renewable source of energy raises the voltage  
sell re volts Sell Voltage  
above this point, the inverter exports power to bring the voltage back down or prevent it from rising further.  
The Sell feature only functions when excess DC (renewable) power is available.  
The inverter cannot import AC power to raise the voltage to the sell re volts or Sell Voltage set point.  
The Sell feature can use other set points than sell re volts or Sell Voltage. If the charger is in a different  
stage, such as Absorption or Float, it uses the Absorption or Float voltage as reference points. As long  
as the renewable energy exceeds the voltage for that stage, it sells exactly the same as noted above.  
¾ When power is returned to the utility grid, it is possible to completely reverse the utility meter. The net result  
would be to sell power to the utility company. However, this depends on whether there are other loads in  
the system. Loads on the main panel (not on the inverter’s output) may consume this power as fast as it is  
generated, preventing the meter from running backwards. In this case, the result of selling would be to  
reduce the consumption of AC power, not reverse it.  
¾ The maximum amount of power an inverter can sell is not equal to its specified output wattage. It can  
exceed the specified wattage under some conditions, usually temporarily. (Its maximum output is 30 amps.)  
However, output will vary with inverter temperature, battery type, and other conditions. The inverter  
should not be expected to sell 100% of its specified output wattage continuously. Even though it may  
be able to do so, this may leave it too hot to perform other functions (such as starting heavy loads if  
they are needed during a utility outage).  
A good guideline is that the renewable source should be sized to continuously deliver no more than  
85% of the inverter’s specified wattage (per inverter, in a multi-inverter system). This recommendation  
is specifically for the inverter’s Sell feature. In some cases, the source may be sized larger to account for  
environmental conditions or the presence of DC loads. This depends on individual site requirements.  
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Operation  
Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking)  
Multiple inverters in a single system can support larger loads than a single inverter can handle.  
Installing inverters in this configuration is called “stacking”. Stacking inverters does not refer to  
physically placing one on top of another. It refers to how they are wired within the system and then  
programmed to coordinate activity. Stacking allows all units to work together as one system.  
Each inverter is programmed to power an individual phase of the system and to operate at certain  
times. This order is assigned using a system display, such as the OutBack MATE or MATE3. (Stacking  
the GFX inverters requires a MATE with firmware revision 4.1.6 or above.)  
Examples of stacking configurations include “parallel” and “three-phase” configurations.  
Stacking requires an OutBack HUB product, as well as a system display. A system of four or fewer units  
may use the HUB4. Systems of up to ten units require the HUB10. All interconnections are made using  
CAT5 non-crossover cable. (See the International Series GFX Installation Manual for more stacking  
instructions.)  
Each inverter needs to be assigned a status — “master” or “slave”. The master is the primary and most  
heavily used unit. Slave inverters provide assistance when the loads are more than the master can  
handle alone. Programming involves using the system display to assign a status and stacking value to  
the inverter on each port. See the system display and HUB manuals for programming instructions.  
HUB4  
MATE  
Port 1  
Additional Ports  
MATE Port  
Figure 7  
OutBack HUB4 and MATE  
IMPORTANT:  
¾ The master inverter must always be connected to port 1 on the HUB. Connecting  
it elsewhere, or connecting a slave to port 1, will result in backfeed or output  
voltage errors which will shut the system down immediately.  
¾ Installing multiple inverters without stacking them (or stacking them incorrectly)  
will result in similar errors and shutdown.  
¾ Although stacking allows greater capacity, the loads, wiring, and overcurrent  
devices must still be sized appropriately. Additional terminations and bus bars  
may be required. Overloading may cause circuit breakers to open or the inverters  
to shut down.  
CAUTION: Equipment Damage  
The inverters in a stacked system should all be the same DC voltage, wattage, and  
model. Do not stack inverters of different wattages.  
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Operation  
Parallel Stacking (Dual-Stack and Larger)  
In parallel stacking, two or more inverters are stacked to create a single, common 230 Vac output.  
¾ The master provides the primary output. The slaves are connected to the same output and assist the master.  
¾ The slave inverters can be programmed to activate on demand, reducing idle-power consumption. They will  
remain off until the loads exceed a certain threshold.  
¾ A two-inverter system can continuously power 2.6 to 2.8 kVA of loads, depending on the inverter model.  
¾ Up to ten inverters may be installed in a parallel arrangement. The example on this page shows  
three inverters.  
3.9 kVA  
230 Vac  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
Figure 8  
Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)  
Three-Phase Stacking  
In three-phase stacking, three inverters are stacked to create three separate 230 Vac output legs.  
These outputs are 120° out of phase. Any two outputs produce 400 Vac between them. The three  
outputs can be used to power three-phase loads when all inverters work together.  
¾ A three-phase system can continuously power 3.9 kVA to 4.2 kVA of loads, depending on the inverter model.  
¾ Only three inverters, one per phase, may be installed in a three-phase arrangement.  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
1.3 kVA 230 Vac  
1.3 kVA  
230 Vac  
3.9 kVA  
400 Vac  
1.3 kVA  
230 Vac  
1.3 kVA  
230 Vac  
Figure 9  
Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)  
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Operation  
Power Save Levels  
Depending on the model, each inverter consumes approximately 20 watts of idle power while it  
remains on, even if it is not actively inverting or charging. The Power Save function allows the option  
to put some or all slave inverters into a quiescent state known as Silent mode. This mode minimizes  
the inverter’s idle consumption. The inverters will come on again when the loads require power.  
(The term “Silent” is also used in the context of battery charging. See page 20.)  
¾ The master inverter remains active unless specifically ordered to turn off. It does not enter Silent mode.  
¾ When the majority of the inverter’s wattage is consumed by loads, the master turns on one or more slaves  
for assistance. When the load drops back to a lesser wattage (as detected by the master), the slaves return  
to Silent mode.  
¾ The order in which slaves turn on (or return to Silent mode) is controlled by programming in the system  
display. The slaves are given a “rank”, or level number. The lower the number, the sooner a slave will be  
turned on.  
IMPORTANT:  
It is important to use the system display to set up the Power Save menus for any system  
with multiple inverters, regardless of system type. The Power Save feature itself is only  
usable by systems with inverters that have been programmed as  
. However,  
OB Slave L1  
many other system types have internal priorities that are controlled by the  
power save  
settings. Failing to set these correctly may cause erratic or unusual behavior.  
level  
In the MATE system display, the  
menus contain two screens. These are  
power save level  
master  
and  
. Both screens have a settable range of values. In the MATE3, these  
adjust only  
slave adjust only  
Inverter Stacking  
. (See the system display manual for more information.)  
items are located in the  
Power Save Level  
menu and are named  
and  
Slave  
Master Power Save Level  
¾ The first screen,  
or  
, must only be used when port P01 is  
soft key. This should be the master inverter. Although the screen is still visible  
master adjust only Master Power Save Level  
<PORT>  
selected with the  
when other (slave) ports are available, it should not be programmed when other ports are selected. The  
range of rank numbers is 0 to 7. The default value is 0. The master is normally left at this value.  
¾ The second screen,  
or , must only be used when ports other than  
slave adjust only Slave Power Save Level  
P01 are selected. Although the screen is still visible when the P01 (master) port is selected, it should not be  
programmed for P01. The range of rank numbers is 1 to 15. The default value for all ports is 1.  
¾ The ranks are prioritized so that lower-numbered ranks turn on sooner and higher ranks turn on later. The  
lowest-ranked unit will not go silent and will remain on unless ordered otherwise. The lowest-ranked unit is  
expected to be the master. The priorities are the same across both screens; thus, if P01 (master) is set at 0  
and P02 (slave) is set at 1, the slave will turn on later. Since the  
or  
master adjust only Master Power Save  
is the only one that goes to 0, it is easy to ensure that all other units besides the master go silent.  
Level  
¾
Leaving the master at 0  
It is highly recommended to rank the slave inverters in order (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.).  
automatically makes the master’s full wattage instantly available. If a slave is prioritized higher than the  
master (by raising the master level to 2 and the slave to 1, for example), that slave will not go silent. This will  
keep the power save mode from functioning. In general, if the slave settings have not been programmed  
correctly, the master may override them and begin turning on unnecessary slaves, defeating the purpose of  
the Power Save feature.  
¾ It is also recommended that slaves do not share rank numbers. If, for example, multiple slaves were all  
ranked at 1, they would all come on at the same time. Once they came on, the divided load would cause the  
master to detect a minimal load on its output, so it would shut off all the slaves, at which point the master  
would read a high load again. This could quickly escalate into a rapid on/off cycling of inverters and could  
cause long-term system problems.  
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Operation  
Auxiliary Terminals  
The inverter’s AUX terminals provide a 12 Vdc output that can deliver up to 0.7 Adc to control external  
loads. The AUX LED (see page 11) illuminates when this output is present. Typical loads include  
signaling a generator to start, sending a fault alarm signal, or running a small fan to cool the inverter.  
See the International Series GFX Installation Manual for more information on hooking up the AUX  
terminals. See the system display manual for instructions on programming this feature.  
The inverter has a series of automatic AUX functions built into it which are accessed using the system  
display. The system display and other devices also have programming, such as AGS, that can control  
the AUX output. To avoid conflicts, this menu should be turned  
(See page 30.)  
when the AGS function is active.  
off  
There are nine functions, each geared toward a different application. They may not appear in the  
same order as shown here.  
¾
activates the AUX output when the inverter reaches a high internal temperature. It is intended to  
Cool Fan  
operate a small external fan for additional cooling. This is the default setting. See the Warning  
Troubleshooting table on page 37 for a description of the fan criteria.  
This function does not have settable parameters.  
¾
activates the AUX output to divert excess renewable energy to a DC load, such as a resistor, a  
DivertDC  
heater, or a fuel cell. When battery output rises above a settable high voltage level, the AUX output is  
activated after a settable delay. The AUX output operates a larger relay, which allows current to flow from  
the batteries to a dedicated DC load when energized. (This is illustrated in the International Series GFX  
Installation Manual.) Diversion is usually used to regulate battery charging. The resistor must be sized to  
dissipate all of the energy from the renewable source if necessary.  
DivertDC and DivertAC use the same settable DC voltage and time parameters.  
¾
activates the AUX output to divert excess renewable energy to an AC load, usually an AC device  
DivertAC  
powered by the inverter itself. When battery voltage rises above a settable high voltage level, the AUX  
output is activated after a settable delay. The AUX output operates a larger relay, which allows current to  
flow from the batteries to a dedicated AC load when energized. Diversion is usually used to regulate battery  
charging. The AC device is usually wired to the output or load panel and must be left on. It must be sized to  
dissipate all of the energy from the renewable source if necessary. Diversion will deactivate following a delay  
when a low DC voltage setting is reached.  
Divert AC and Divert DC use the same settable DC voltage and time parameters.  
During variable conditions, the AUX output is activated no more than once per minute. This prevents  
rapid nuisance cycling of the AC load in the event of rapidly changing conditions.  
Divert AC should not be used as the sole source of battery regulation. If the inverter shuts down or fails, the  
batteries could suffer severe damage. This function should be supported by an external regulator.  
If the inverter shuts down due to overload, the AUX output will also deactivate. If the inverter load  
exceeds 12.5 Aac, the AUX output will deactivate to prevent an overload condition.  
If either the FETs or the capacitors (see page 37) become too hot, the AUX will deactivate due to  
diminished inverter wattage capacity.  
¾
¾
activates the AUX output whenever the inverter disconnects from an AC source. It can activate a  
light (or alarm) to show that the utility grid has failed or that a generator has shut off. Alternately, it could be  
used to show that the source is operating.  
AC Drop  
This function does not have settable parameters.  
activates the AUX output in response to high battery voltage. It can run a small fan to ventilate the  
Vent Fan  
battery compartment to eliminate gases that result from battery charging.  
then stops for a delay period before running again for another minute.  
runs for one minute. It  
Vent Fan  
This function has settable DC voltage and settable time delay parameters.  
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Operation  
¾
¾
activates the AUX output when the inverter shuts down due to an error condition (see page 37). It can  
activate a light or alarm to show that the inverter has failed. With the appropriate devices, it could send an  
alarm signal through a radio, pager, or telephone dialer.  
Fault  
This function does not have settable parameters.  
This function is not triggered by Phase Loss Error, as Phase Loss Error does not shut down the inverter.  
is used as a controller for an AC generator with a remote start feature, although it has limited  
Gen Alert  
functionality. (The generator recharges batteries using the inverter’s battery charger.) When the battery  
voltage falls to a low set point for a settable delay, the AUX output is activated. The AUX output is used to  
energize a relay. The relay contacts then operate the remote start/stop circuit on the generator. (This is  
illustrated in the International Series GFX Installation Manual.) The AUX output will be deactivated once the  
battery voltage rises to a high voltage setting for a settable delay period.  
This function has settable voltage and time parameters.  
Gen Alert control logic is located in the inverter. It has the advantage of functioning when the system  
display is removed. However, it may not completely charge the batteries and does not have all the  
advantages of the Advanced Generator Start (AGS) feature that is found in the system display. For many  
users, the AGS function may prove more useful than Gen Alert. Gen Alert, however, could be used as a  
literal “Generator Alert”, a signal to the user to manually start a generator.  
¾
¾
activates the AUX function to perform load management. When battery voltage drops below a  
certain level, the AUX output is activated. The AUX output energizes a normally closed (NC) relay, which is  
connected to non-vital loads. When the relay is energized, the loads are disengaged to conserve battery  
Load Shed  
power.  
will also occur when the inverter enters a high-temperature condition or when the AC  
Load Shed  
output voltage drops below 210 Vac for more than three seconds. After these conditions have cleared, there  
is a three-minute fixed delay before the AUX output is deactivated.  
This function has a settable DC voltage parameter.  
allows the AUX output to be activated in response to manual or automatic commands external to  
Remote  
the inverter, such as the system display’s AGS function. It is strongly recommended to select  
the AUX output is controlled by AGS or similar functions. This will prevent software conflicts.  
when  
Remote  
Note that even if this menu is set to , the AUX output may still be triggered by an external function  
off  
such as AGS (see page 30).  
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Operation  
System Display-Based Functions  
Advanced Generator Start (AGS)  
As noted under the Gen Alert feature (see page 28), the system is capable of starting a generator.  
Gen Alert simply starts and stops the generator based on battery voltage. For more advanced control,  
the inverter system can use the Advanced Generator Start (AGS) feature, which runs through the  
entire three-stage charging cycle. It can start according to battery voltage, inverter load, time of day,  
and other criteria. It has a quiet time feature which restricts the generator from starting at  
inconvenient times. Additional features are also available.  
Because this is an advanced function with capabilities beyond the inverter’s Gen Alert, the control  
logic for AGS is based in the system display, not the inverter. See the system display manual for more  
information on programming and using the AGS mode.  
High Battery Transfer (HBX)  
In HBX mode, the system is connected to an AC source such as the utility grid; however, it will use  
battery power as the first priority. The AC source is locked out until needed. In this mode, the system  
runs on battery-supplied power for as long as the batteries can be sustained. It is expected that the  
system will be supplied by renewable sources such as PV power. When the batteries become  
depleted, the system reconnects to the AC source to operate the loads. The batteries may be  
recharged using the renewable source. When the batteries are recharged to a high voltage, the  
system transfers back to the batteries as the primary source (hence the name High Battery Transfer).  
It is recommended to turn the inverter’s charger off. The intent of HBX mode is to use only the  
NOTE:  
renewable source for charging batteries. Renewable charging is the motivator for returning to battery  
(and renewable) operation. Any use of the inverter’s charger interferes with this priority. (Conflicts  
between the charger and HBX mode may also keep it from charging effectively.)  
Because this is a system-wide function and not a function of individual inverters, the control logic for  
HBX is based in the system display. See the system display manual for more information.  
Grid Use Programming  
The inverter system is capable of connecting to, or disconnecting from, the utility grid based on time  
of day. It can also be programmed to connect at different times on weekdays and on weekends.  
Because this is a system-wide function and not a function of individual inverters, the control logic for  
Grid Use is based in the system display. See the system display manual for more information.  
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Troubleshooting  
Basic Troubleshooting  
This list is organized in order of common symptoms, with a series of possible causes. Each possible  
cause also has inverter LEDs which may be unusual for that mode of operation. (LEDs which are  
normal, and LEDs on the system display, are  
shown.) Each possible cause also shows possible  
not  
troubleshooting remedies, including system display checks where appropriate.  
: The phrase “MATE system display only” also includes the MATE2 system display. This item is  
NOTE  
intended to differentiate it from the MATE3, which has different content.  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause  
Possible Remedy  
All LEDs off, including No DC voltage.  
battery LEDs  
No LEDs.  
Use a DC voltmeter to check the voltage  
directly on the DC terminals. If not present,  
the problem is external. If present, the  
inverter could be damaged. Contact  
OutBack Technical Support (see inside front  
cover of this manual).  
Inverter LED off  
Inverter LED off  
Jumper JP1 missing.  
See the Installation Manual for the location  
of JP1. Confirm the jumper is present. If  
missing, replace the jumper. Or follow the  
Installation Manual instructions to install an  
external switch.  
Unit defaulted off  
The inverter may have been given an OFF  
command in the factory. With DC present,  
use narrow pliers to remove jumper JP1  
from its pins. Once removed, install it again.  
This is the equivalent of “jiggling the switch.”  
(No system display present;  
initial install; JP1 confirmed  
present).  
No AC output  
(will not invert).  
Inverter LED off  
Inverter set to  
.
MATE system display only: Set to  
with the  
ON  
OFF  
hot key.  
INV  
MATE3 system display only: Set to  
with  
ON  
INVERTER  
the  
hot key.  
Inverter LED flashes  
Inverter set to  
(Search mode).  
MATE system display only: If constant power  
is required, set to ON with the hot key.  
Search or SRCH  
INV  
MATE3 system display only: Set to  
with  
ON  
hot key. (If this setting was  
intentional, then no action is required.)  
INVERTER  
the  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause Possible Remedy  
One or more  
inverters will  
Inverting LED not  
illuminated on  
Unit is slave and is in Power Save MATE system display only: Check Power Save  
mode.  
levels in the  
menu and test  
ADV/FX/STACK  
not invert while questionable unit  
others do (in  
with loads. Determine if the inverter comes  
on at the appropriate levels.  
multi-inverter  
system).  
MATE3 system display only: Check Power  
Save levels in the  
menu  
Inverter Stacking  
and test with loads. Determine if the  
inverter comes on at the appropriate levels.  
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
AC IN LED off  
No AC input.  
See “Will not connect to AC” category below.  
AC IN LED normal  
Charger set to  
.
MATE system display only: Check the  
OFF  
Charger  
hot key and  
AC IN  
screen with the  
Control  
set to  
or  
ON AUTO  
.
Will not charge.  
MATE3 system display only: Check the  
CHARGER  
screen with the  
Charger Mode  
hot key and set to  
or  
On Auto  
.
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
AC IN LED normal  
AC IN LED normal  
Charge complete or nearly  
complete.  
Check the DC voltage and charging stage  
using the system display, if present. Confirm  
with DC voltmeter.  
System display’s DC meter reads Check the DC voltage on the inverter’s DC  
significantly higher than actual  
battery voltage.  
terminals. If different from the system  
display reading, the inverter could be  
damaged. Otherwise, check the DC voltage  
on batteries with a voltmeter. If different  
from the reading on the inverter, this could  
be a DC connection problem.  
AC IN LED normal  
Low charge  
rate.  
Generator type does not work  
well in conjunction with Input  
Support feature (see page 16).  
MATE system display only: Turn off the  
function in the  
ac2/gen support  
menu. The  
ADV/FX/GEN  
ac transfer control  
in order to do this. In  
must be set to  
gen  
current models, if  
is set  
ac transfer control  
, the support function cannot be  
to  
grid  
disabled.  
MATE3 system display only: Turn off the  
Input  
function in the  
Support  
AC Input and  
menu.  
Current Limit  
AC IN LED normal  
High output loads. If total loads Turn off some of the output loads and test  
and charge exceed input setting, the charge rate again.  
charge will decrease to give  
priority to loads.  
Reduced power None  
sold to the  
utility grid.  
AC source voltage is driven high When the inverter senses a rise in grid  
when the inverter sells large  
voltage while selling, it reduces the sell  
current, to avoid forcing the voltage to  
unacceptable levels. Check AC input voltage  
while selling. The inverter may be behaving  
correctly.  
amounts of power.  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause Possible Remedy  
None (AC IN LED is  
illuminated)  
Inverter priority  
MATE system display only: Check  
Stop Sell  
. The  
screen  
Reasons  
(STATUS/FX/SELL)  
inverter may be behaving correctly.  
MATE3 system display only: Check  
Sell Status  
soft key. The  
screen with  
Grid Status  
inverter may be behaving correctly.  
None (AC IN LED is  
illuminated)  
AC source does not meet  
requirements.  
Verify grid voltage and frequency.  
Determine if they are within the inverter’s  
approved limits. If not, the inverter is  
behaving correctly. Contact the utility  
company if necessary.  
MATE and MATE3 system display: The  
program selections for limits are  
or  
IEEE  
.
USER  
Will not sell  
power to the  
utility grid.  
None (AC IN LED and  
Inverter are  
illuminated)  
High output loads will consume Turn off some output loads and observe the  
power before it is returned to  
the utility grid.  
sell function.  
None (AC IN LED is  
illuminated)  
Inverter has been set to accept a Inverter will not intentionally sell to a  
generator.  
generator.  
MATE system display only: Set  
ac transfer  
to  
control grid.  
MATE3 system display only: Set  
Input Type  
to  
Grid  
menu.  
in the  
AC Input and Current Limit  
None (AC IN LED is  
illuminated)  
Sell function has been disabled.  
No AC input.  
MATE system display only: Set  
grid tie  
authority GridTied (ADV/FX/SELL)  
to  
MATE3 system display only: Set  
to  
Enable Y.  
Grid-Tie  
AC IN LED off  
Check the AC voltage on the inverter’s input  
terminals. If not present, the problem is  
external. If present, the inverter could be  
damaged. Contact OutBack Technical  
Support (see inside front cover of this  
manual).  
Will not  
connect to the  
AC source.  
(Continued on  
next page)  
AC IN LED flashes  
Inverter set to disconnect  
from AC.  
MATE system display only: Change the  
AC  
setting from  
to  
DROP USE  
Input Control  
with the  
hot key.  
AC IN  
MATE3 system display only: Change the  
AC  
setting from  
to  
DROP USE  
with  
Input Mode  
the  
hot key.  
AC INPUT  
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause  
Possible Remedy  
AC IN LED flashes  
HBX mode has disconnected  
from AC.  
MATE system display only: Check the  
hot key screen to see if HBX mode is in use.  
AC IN  
(Continued)  
MATE3 system display only: Check the  
AC  
setting with the  
Input Mode  
AC INPUT  
Will not  
connect to the  
AC source.  
hot key. In either case, if activated  
prematurely, check the HBX settings.  
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
AC IN LED flashes  
Grid use function has  
disconnected from AC.  
If activated prematurely:  
(MATE system display only) Check both  
menu settings and  
ADV/MATE/GRIDUSE  
clock settings.  
(MATE3 system display only) Check both  
Grid  
menu settings and clock settings.  
Use Time  
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
AC IN LED flashes  
AC source does not meet  
requirements.  
MATE system display only: Check  
for the reason for  
STATUS/FX/DISCON  
disconnection.  
MATE3 system display only: Check the  
Last  
screen with the  
AC Disconnect  
AC INPUT  
hot key for the reason for disconnection.  
In either case, if the unit never originally  
connected, check the Warning menu.  
Confirm the source voltage and frequency.  
AC IN LED switches  
between continuous  
and flashing. Inverter shifts are the result of trying to  
Inverter’s output has been  
connected to its input. Voltage  
Disconnect the wires from the inverter’s AC  
input terminals or AC output terminals, or  
both. If the problem immediately  
LED remains  
illuminated.  
match its own voltage.  
disappears, it is an external wiring issue.  
The inverter’s AC HOT IN and AC HOT OUT  
must remain isolated from each other.  
AC IN LED switches  
between continuous  
and flashing. Inverter faulty input connection.  
LED turns on and off  
Low AC input voltage. Can be  
caused by weak AC source, or by connections with AC voltmeter. If low or  
Test AC HOT IN and NEUTRAL IN  
Inverter clicks  
repeatedly. AC  
output voltage  
rises or drops  
to unusual  
fluctuating, this is an external problem.  
with each cycle.  
AC IN LED switches  
between continuous  
and flashing. Inverter connected to a generator.  
Inverter has been set to sell to  
utility grid but has been  
Unit will drive the generator voltage up to  
disconnection, then reconnect to the  
generator and try again.  
levels with  
every click.  
LED turns on and off  
with each cycle.  
(Generator only)  
MATE system display only: Set  
ac transfer  
This will keep it from  
gen.  
menu to  
control  
selling.  
MATE3 system display only: Set  
Input Type  
to  
in the  
AC Input and Current Limit  
Gen  
menu. This will keep it from selling.  
34  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause Possible Remedy  
None (Solid AC IN LED Erratic AC source voltage.  
is replaced with solid  
Inverter LED)  
Check AC voltage on the inverter’s input  
terminals. If not consistent, the problem is  
external. AC source voltage may have  
dipped or hovered at a low enough point to  
crash a sensitive load before the inverter  
could take over.  
MATE system display only: This can happen if  
or  
ac1/grid lower limit ac2/gen lower limit  
were turned down to accommodate a  
problematic AC source.  
MATE3 system display only: This can happen  
if  
setting were turned  
Lower Voltage Limit  
down to accommodate a problematic AC  
source in either the  
Grid AC Input Voltage  
or  
Limits Gen AC Input Voltage Limits  
menus.  
In either case, to make the inverter respond  
sooner, raise the lower limit setting. (If this  
setting was intentional, then no action is  
required.)  
Inverter LED flashes  
Inverter set to SRCH (Search  
mode).  
The unit will take a moment to come out of  
Search mode after transferring.  
Loads drop out  
or crash during  
transfer.  
MATE system display only: If constant power  
is required, set to  
with the  
hot key.  
INV  
ON  
(If this setting was intentional, then no  
action is required.)  
MATE3 system display only: Set to  
with  
ON  
hot key. (If this setting  
the  
INVERTER  
was intentional, then no action is required.)  
None (Solid AC IN LED Loads sensitive to inverter’s  
is replaced with solid minimal transfer time.  
Inverter LED)  
This product is not an uninterruptible power  
supply. Certain loads (such as highly  
sensitive computers) may not respond well  
to the inverter’s 12 ms transfer time. It may  
be necessary to put a true UPS on the  
inverter’s output.  
Inverter LED flickers;  
Error LED  
Loads too large.  
The unit can transfer more power than it can  
invert. If loads are oversized, the unit will  
falter or crash when switching to batteries.  
Reduce the size of the loads.  
Inverter LED flickers;  
Error LED  
Undersized battery cables.  
Battery cables that are smaller than  
recommended will cause a significant  
voltage drop when switching to batteries,  
acting like either an overload or a  
low-battery condition. Size all cables  
correctly.  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 4 Basic Troubleshooting Steps  
Symptom Unusual LEDs Possible Cause Possible Remedy  
Generator,  
Amber AUX LED is on AUX output is not connected, or Test the generator or device to confirm  
external fan,  
is not delivering 12-volt output.  
functionality. Test the AUX+ and AUX–  
terminals with a DC voltmeter. If voltage is  
present with the AUX LED on, then there is  
an external connection problem. If voltage  
is not present with the AUX LED on, the AUX  
circuit may be damaged. Contact OutBack  
Technical Support (see inside front cover of  
this manual).  
etc. fails to start  
when triggered  
by AUX output.  
Unit reads AC  
input, even  
though no  
source is  
AC IN LED flashes  
Internal transfer relay may be  
damaged.  
Disconnect AC input wires and turn inverter  
on. Test the AC HOT IN and NEUTRAL IN  
connections with an AC voltmeter. If  
voltage appears there, the transfer relay may  
be jammed. Contact OutBack Technical  
Support (see inside front cover of this  
manual).  
present.  
Inverter output is being fed with Disconnect AC output wires. Turn the  
an external AC source that is out inverter off and then on. If the problem  
of phase.  
clears, reconnect the AC output wires. If the  
problem recurs when reconnected, an  
external AC source is connected to the  
output.  
Inverter hums  
loudly. System  
display may  
show messages  
for high battery Error LED  
voltage,  
low battery  
voltage, or  
backfeed error.  
Inverter has been incorrectly  
stacked with another unit on the  
same output. All units come  
defaulted as master.  
Check HUB ports and make certain the  
master inverter is plugged into port 1.  
MATE system display only: Check stacking  
settings in the  
menu. Only  
ADV/FX/STACK  
one master is allowed per system on a single  
output.  
MATE3 system display only: Check stacking  
settings in the  
menu.  
Inverter Stacking  
Only one master is allowed per system on a  
single output.  
36  
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Troubleshooting  
Error Messages  
An error message is caused by a critical fault. In most cases when this occurs, the unit will shut down  
and the inverter’s ERROR LED (see page 11) will illuminate. See the system display manual for  
instructions on viewing errors. One or more messages will display  
in the MATE system display;  
yes  
(or ), it is not the cause of the error.  
Y
in the MATE3. If a message says  
no  
N
Error screens can only display errors; they cannot clear them. It is possible to clear an error by  
resetting the inverter. The inverter must be turned off, and then on, to reset it. Other possible steps  
are shown below (although it is still necessary to reset the inverter).  
Table 5 Error Troubleshooting  
Message Message  
(MATE) (MATE3)  
Causes  
Possible Remedy  
Inverter’s AC regulation cannot be  
maintained under high load conditions.  
Check loads and measure current draw.  
Remove loads as necessary.  
low ac  
output  
voltage  
Low Output  
Voltage  
Programming problem among stacked  
units. (Often occurs if there is no master.)  
Check stacking programming and designation  
of master. (See page 25.)  
stacking  
error  
detected  
Stacking Error  
Can also occur when  
occurs.  
ac output backfeed  
Check for output backfeed from external  
source. Disconnect output if necessary.  
Inverter has exceeded its maximum  
allowed operating temperature.  
Shut off the inverter to reduce the  
temperature, or add external cooling.  
inverter  
overtemp  
Over  
Temperature  
DC voltage is below Low Battery Cut-Out  
(LBCO) set point.  
If this error accompanies other errors, treat  
those conditions as appropriate.  
low battery Low Battery V  
voltage  
If it occurs by itself: Recharge the batteries.  
The error will clear automatically if an external  
AC source is connected and the inverter’s  
charger comes on.  
This error can be triggered by other  
causes. It can appear along with  
low ac  
, or  
,
output voltage ac output shorted  
errors.  
ac  
output backfeed  
A slave was ordered to transfer to AC by  
the master, but no AC is present. The unit  
continues inverting. This is the only  
“Error” that is not accompanied by a  
shutdown.  
Check the AC voltage on the inverter input  
terminals. If AC voltage is not present,  
problem is external. If AC voltage is present,  
the unit may be damaged. Contact OutBack  
Technical Support (see inside front cover of  
this manual).  
phase loss  
error  
Phase Loss  
DC voltage exceeded acceptable level  
(specified on page 13).  
Check the charging source. This problem is  
usually the result of external charging. This  
error will clear automatically if conditions  
are removed.  
high battery High Battery V  
voltage  
Inverter exceeded its maximum surge  
current due to severe overload.  
Check the loads and wiring. This issue is  
usually the result of a wiring problem (a short),  
as opposed to a poorly-sized load.  
ac output  
shorted  
AC Output  
Shorted  
Usually indicates another AC power  
source (out of phase with the inverter)  
was connected to the unit’s AC output.  
Disconnect the AC OUT wires from the  
inverter. Check the wires (not the inverter)  
with an AC voltmeter. If an AC source is  
present, shut it off.  
ac output  
backfeed  
AC Output  
Backfeed  
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Troubleshooting  
Warning Messages  
A warning message is caused by a non-critical fault. When this occurs, the unit will not shut down, but  
the ERROR LED (see page 11) will flash. See the system display manual for instructions on viewing  
warnings. One or more messages will display  
in the MATE system display; in the MATE3. If a  
yes  
(or ), it is not the cause of the inverter’s warning.  
Y
message says  
no  
N
Some warnings can become errors if left unattended. Frequency and voltage warnings are meant to  
warn of a problematic AC source. Often the inverter will disconnect from the source. This will occur if  
the condition lasts longer than the inverter’s transfer delay settings. If the inverter disconnects, the  
warning will display as long as the source is present, accompanied by a Disconnect message. (See  
next page.)  
Warning screens can only display warnings; they cannot clear them. The way to correct the fault may  
be obvious from the message.  
Table 6 Warning Troubleshooting  
Message  
Definition  
Possible Remedy  
The AC source is above the upper acceptable  
frequency limit (55 Hz) and prevents connection.  
Check the AC source. If it is a generator,  
reduce its speed.  
acin freq too high  
The AC source is below the lower acceptable  
frequency limit (45 Hz) and prevents connection.  
Check the AC source. If it is a generator,  
increase its speed.  
acin freq too low  
The AC source is above the upper acceptable  
voltage limit (252 Vac default setting) and prevents  
connection.  
Check the AC source. The inverter’s range is  
adjustable. However, this will accommodate  
an AC problem, not fix it.  
acin voltage too high  
The AC source is below the lower acceptable  
voltage limit (208 Vac default setting) and prevents  
connection.  
Check the AC source. Check the AC wiring.  
The inverter’s acceptance range is  
adjustable. However, this will accommodate  
an AC problem, not fix it.  
acin voltage too low  
AC loads are drawing more current from the AC  
source than allowed by the input setting.  
Check the loads. Oversized loads can open  
circuit breakers. If they exceed the inverter’s  
transfer relay size, the relay can be damaged.  
acin input current  
exceeds max  
An internal inverter temperature sensor may be  
malfunctioning. This is indicated by an unusual  
Check sensor readings (see below). The  
numeric values represent electronic counts  
between 0 and 255.1  
temperature sensor  
fault  
or  
airtemp, fettemp, captemp  
reading.  
Probable failure on inverter’s control board.  
Despite the name, this is not an inverter-defined  
error and is not accompanied by a shutdown.  
Unit may require repair. Contact OutBack  
Technical Support (see inside front cover of  
this manual).  
internal comm error  
detected  
The inverter’s internal cooling fan is not operating  
properly. Lack of cooling may result in derated  
inverter output wattage.  
Turn the battery disconnect off, and then on,  
to determine if the fan self-tests, then  
contact OutBack Technical Support for the  
next step. Meanwhile, run the inverter at  
reasonable levels or apply external cooling.  
internal fan failure  
detected  
D
isplays a code representing the air temperature  
Lower counts stand for higher temperatures,  
and higher counts mean lower temperatures.  
Room temperature is 210 – 220. The internal  
fan runs at 142 and stops at 164. A count of  
either 0 or 255 is a defective sensor. Contact  
OutBack Technical Support if necessary (see  
inside front cover of this manual).  
airtemp1  
fettemp1  
captemp1  
within the inverter.  
Displays a code representing the temperature of  
the FETs (Field Effect Transistors) and heat sink.  
Displays a code representing the temperature of  
the inverter’s ripple capacitors.  
1These values are in digital counts, not degrees. The values are used for troubleshooting purposes.  
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Troubleshooting  
Disconnect Messages  
Disconnect screens explain the reason that the inverter rejected an AC source. The unit returns to  
inverting mode (if turned on). The ERROR LED (see page 11) will not illuminate for a disconnect  
message, although it may flash for a concurrent warning following the disconnect. (See previous  
section.) If the AC source is removed, the warning and the LED will be blank, but the cause of the last  
disconnect will remain. See the system display manual for instructions on viewing disconnect  
messages. One or more messages in this menu will display  
in the MATE system display; in the  
yes  
(or ), it is not the cause of the disconnection.  
Y
MATE3. If a message says  
no  
N
Disconnect screens only display the reason for the disconnection; they cannot correct it. It is usually  
the result of external conditions, not an inverter fault. A few settings can be changed to  
accommodate problems with the AC source.  
Disconnect messages are not the same as the Stop Sell Reasons (see next page), although they may be  
caused by the same circumstances. A grid-interactive unit can stop selling and still remain connected  
to the utility grid.  
Table 7 Disconnect Troubleshooting  
Message  
Definition  
Possible Remedy  
The unit disconnects if the AC source  
exceeds 55 Hz.  
Check AC source. If it is a generator,  
reduce speed.  
acin freq too high  
The unit disconnects if the AC source  
drops below 45 Hz.  
Check AC source. If it is a generator,  
increase speed.  
acin freq too low  
The unit disconnects if the AC source  
exceeds 252 Vac (default value).  
Check AC source. The inverter’s  
acceptance range is adjustable. However,  
this will accommodate an AC problem, not  
fix it.  
acin voltage > max  
The unit disconnects if the AC source  
drops below 208 Vac (default value).  
Check AC source. The inverter’s  
acceptance range is adjustable. However,  
this will accommodate an AC problem, not  
fix it.  
acin voltage < min  
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Troubleshooting  
Selling or Charging Stopped  
This screen displays a code number that identifies the status of the inverter’s charging or selling  
functions. In the MATE, this screen is titled “Stop Sell Reasons”, even though it also refers to charging.  
If the inverter has stopped selling or charging unexpectedly, this screen may help identify the reason.  
The code numbers do not usually identify inverter failures. More often they are used by a normally  
functioning inverter to identify external conditions that are preventing selling or charging. (If nothing  
has stopped, the code will indicate that as well.) See the system display manual for instructions on  
viewing these messages.  
The acceptable limits for AC source voltage and frequency are displayed on page 46. If the AC source  
exceeds these limits, the inverter will stop selling and display the appropriate code. After the source  
returns to the acceptable range, the system display will begin a 1-minute timer. When the timer  
expires, the inverter will begin selling power again.  
If the AC source is unstable, it may become unacceptable before the timer expires. This may cause the  
timer to continually reset. It is possible for brief fluctuations to occur that are too fast to be seen on a  
DVM. If this happens, the appropriate code will still appear on the system display for a short time to  
help troubleshoot the problem.  
Selling current tends to raise the AC voltage by a few volts. If the utility grid has a higher voltage than  
nominal, selling may raise the voltage to an unacceptable level. The inverter will compensate for this  
effect by automatically reducing the amount of current it sells.  
Additionally, undersized wires or bad connections can result in local voltage problems. If code 5 is  
accompanied by voltage changes that do not appear at the main utility connection, check the wiring.  
Table 8 Stop Sell (and Charge) Reasons  
Code Definition  
0
1
The inverter is selling power to the grid.  
The inverter is charging batteries.  
The inverter is designated as  
charging or selling, usually because the master has gone silent. To find the exact cause, check the  
“Stop Sell Reason” on the master.  
or . It has been commanded to stop  
3p Classic B 3p Classic C  
2
3
4
A 1-minute reconnect timer is in effect for selling. This timer takes effect as soon as the AC source  
becomes acceptable.  
The AC source voltage is below the acceptable limit for selling. Once it is restored, the display will  
change to code 3 and start the 1-minute timer. This code will also appear if the AC source fails or is  
completely disconnected.  
The AC source voltage is above the acceptable limit for selling. Once it is restored, the display will  
change to code 3 and start the 1-minute timer.  
5
6
7
The AC source frequency is below the acceptable limit for selling. Once it is restored, the display  
will change to code 3 and start the 1-minute timer.  
The AC source frequency is above the acceptable limit for selling. Once it is restored, the display  
will change to code 3 and start the 1-minute timer.  
40  
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Troubleshooting  
Table 8 Stop Sell (and Charge) Reasons  
The inverter has been commanded to disconnect from the AC source by the user or by a  
programmed setting. It cannot charge or sell.  
8
9
The inverter has detected an “island” condition. The AC source frequency is unstable. The inverter  
cannot sell.  
The inverter has lost synchronization with the AC source. This is usually the result of a rapidly-  
changing frequency. The inverter cannot sell.  
10  
11  
The inverter went into an overcurrent condition while attempting to sell. This is usually caused by  
incorrect wiring, incorrect programming, or an unstable AC source.  
The inverter's battery voltage sensor has detected an inappropriate voltage (> 17 or < 2 Vdc in a  
12-volt system), and the inverter cannot sell. This is an internal voltage measurement which may  
indicate a failure. The inverter may require service.  
12  
The AC2 (generator) input has been selected. The battery voltage is above the target point (see  
page 24), but the inverter cannot sell to the AC2 input.  
13  
14  
The sell function has been manually turned off. The battery voltage is above the target point (see  
page 24), but the inverter is prevented from selling.  
The inverter has been designated as  
It will display this code regardless of conditions. To determine its status, check the “Stop Sell  
Reason” on the master.  
and is under direct control of the master inverter.  
OB Slave L1  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
The inverter’s Input Support feature is operating (see page 17). It cannot charge or sell while  
supporting.  
The charger has been turned off. The battery voltage is below the inverter’s target voltage for the  
current stage of operation (absorption, float, etc.). The charger programming recognizes the need  
to finish the cycle, but is disabled.  
The battery voltage is below all the inverter’s target voltages for charging stages, but has not fallen  
to the Refloat or Rebulk voltages.  
The battery voltage is exactly equal to the inverter’s target voltage for the current stage of  
operation (absorption, float, sell, etc.). When the inverter achieves its target voltage, no more work  
(charging or selling) is required. The inverter has gone silent.  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Specifications  
Specifications for Model GFX1312E  
Table 9 Electrical Specifications (GFX1312E)  
Specification  
Nominal DC Input Voltage  
Value  
12 Vdc  
Continuous Output Power at 25°C  
AC Output Voltage  
1300 VA  
230 Vac  
AC Output Frequency  
50 Hz  
Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C  
Waveform  
Efficiency (Typical)  
5.65 Aac  
True Sinewave  
90%  
Total Harmonic Distortion (Typical)  
Output Voltage Regulation  
2%  
2%  
Maximum Output Current (1 ms peak)  
Maximum Output Current (100 ms RMS)  
Overload Capability (100 ms surge)  
Overload Capability (5 second)  
Overload Capability (30 minute)  
Idle Consumption - Invert mode, no load  
Idle Consumption - Search Mode  
AC Input Voltage Range (Adjustable)  
AC Input Frequency Range  
AC Input Current (Maximum)  
Grid-Interactive Voltage Range (Default)  
Grid-Interactive Frequency Range (Default)  
Battery Charger Maximum AC Input  
Battery Charger Max Continuous DC Output  
DC Input Voltage Range  
28 Aac  
20 Aac  
4600 VA  
2900 VA  
1800 VA  
18 Watts  
6 Watts  
140 to 280 Vac  
45 to 55 Hz  
30 Aac  
208 to 252 Vac  
48 to 52 Hz  
6 Aac  
70 Adc  
10.5 to 17 Vdc  
130 Adc  
460 Adc  
12 Vdc, 0.7 Adc  
DC Input Current at Rated Power  
Maximum DC Input Current on Surge  
Auxiliary Output  
Table 10 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1312E)  
Value  
Specification  
Inverter Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Shipping Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Inverter Weight  
33 cm (13”) x 21 cm (8.25”) x 41 cm (16.25”)  
55 cm (21.75”) x 33 cm (13”) x 56 cm (22”)  
22.5 kg (49.6 lb)  
25.6 kg (56.4 lb)  
RJ11 and RJ45  
Yes  
No  
No  
Shipping Weight  
Accessory Ports  
Non-volatile Memory  
Neutral-Ground Bond Switching  
Turbo Fan  
Chassis Type  
Sealed  
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Specifications  
Specifications for Model GFX1424E  
Table 11 Electrical Specifications (GFX1424E)  
Specification  
Nominal DC Input Voltage  
Value  
24 Vdc  
Continuous Output Power at 25°C  
AC Output Voltage  
1400 VA  
230 Vac  
AC Output Frequency  
50 Hz  
Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C  
Waveform  
Efficiency (typical)  
6.09 Aac  
True Sinewave  
92%  
Total Harmonic Distortion (typical)  
Output Voltage Regulation  
2%  
2%  
Maximum Output Current (1 ms peak)  
Maximum Output Current (100 ms RMS)  
Overload Capability (100 ms surge)  
Overload Capability (5 second)  
Overload Capability (30 minute)  
Idle Consumption - Invert mode, no load  
Idle Consumption - Search Mode  
AC Input Voltage Range (Adjustable)  
AC Input Frequency Range  
AC Input Current (Maximum)  
Grid-Interactive Voltage Range (Default)  
Grid-Interactive Frequency Range (Default)  
Battery Charger Maximum AC Input  
Battery Charger Max Continuous DC Output  
DC Input Voltage Range  
28 Aac  
20 Aac  
4600 VA  
2900 VA  
2000 VA  
18 Watts  
6 Watts  
140 to 280 Vac  
45 to 55 Hz  
30 Aac  
208 to 252 Vac  
48 to 52 Hz  
6 Aac  
40 Adc  
21.0 to 34.0 Vdc  
70 Adc  
DC Input Current at Rated Power  
Maximum DC Input Current on Surge  
Auxiliary Output  
230 Adc  
12 Vdc, 0.7 Adc  
Table 12 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1424E)  
Value  
Specification  
Inverter Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Shipping Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Inverter Weight  
33 cm (13”) x 21 cm (8.25”) x 41 cm (16.25”)  
55 cm (21.75”) x 33 cm (13”) x 56 cm (22”)  
22.5 kg (49.6 lb)  
25.6 kg (56.4 lb)  
RJ11 and RJ45  
Yes  
No  
No  
Shipping Weight  
Accessory Ports  
Non-volatile Memory  
Neutral-Ground Bond Switching  
Turbo Fan  
Chassis Type  
Sealed  
44  
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Specifications  
Specifications for Model GFX1448E  
Table 13 Electrical Specifications (GFX1448E)  
Specification  
Nominal DC Input Voltage  
Value  
48 Vdc  
Continuous Output Power at 25°C  
AC Output Voltage  
1400 VA  
230 Vac  
AC Output Frequency  
50 Hz  
Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C  
Waveform  
Efficiency (Typical)  
6.09 Aac  
True Sinewave  
93%  
Total Harmonic Distortion (Typical)  
Output Voltage Regulation  
2%  
2%  
Maximum Output Current (1 ms peak)  
Maximum Output Current (100 ms RMS)  
Overload Capability (100 ms surge)  
Overload Capability (5 second)  
Overload Capability (30 minute)  
Idle Consumption - Invert mode, no load  
Idle Consumption - Search Mode  
AC Input Voltage Range (Adjustable)  
AC Input Frequency Range  
AC Input Current (Maximum)  
Grid-Interactive Voltage Range (Default)  
Grid-Interactive Frequency Range (Default)  
Battery Charger Maximum AC Input  
Battery Charger Max Continuous DC Output  
DC Input Voltage Range  
28 Aac  
20 Aac  
4600 VA  
2900 VA  
2000 VA  
18 Watts  
6 Watts  
140 to 280 Vac  
45 to 55 Hz  
30 Aac  
208 to 252 Vac  
48 to 52 Hz  
6 Aac  
20 Adc  
42.0 to 68.0 Vdc  
35 Adc  
DC Input Current at Rated Power  
Maximum DC Input Current on Surge  
Auxiliary Output  
115 Adc  
12 Vdc, 0.7 Adc  
Table 14 Mechanical Specifications (GFX1448E)  
Value  
Specification  
Inverter Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Shipping Dimensions (H x W x L)  
Inverter Weight  
33 cm (13”) x 21 cm (8.25”) x 41 cm (16.25”)  
55 cm (21.75”) x 33 cm (13”) x 56 cm (22”)  
22.5 kg (49.6 lb)  
25.6 kg (56.4 lb)  
RJ11 and RJ45  
Yes  
No  
No  
Shipping Weight  
Accessory Ports  
Non-volatile Memory  
Neutral-Ground Bond Switching  
Turbo Fan  
Chassis Type  
Sealed  
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Specifications  
Environmental Specifications  
Table 15 Environmental Specifications for All Models  
Specification  
Rated Temperature Range (meets all specifications)  
Value  
0°C to 50°C  
(32°F to 122°F)  
Operational Temperature Range (functions, but does not necessarily meet all specifications) –40°C to 60°C  
(–40°F to 140 °F )  
Storage Temperature Range  
–40°C to 60°C  
(–40°F to 140°F )  
Regulatory Specifications  
The International Series GFX inverters are CE compliant for off-grid use.  
Grid-Interactive Use  
Inverters intended for grid-interactive use must comply with established local standards which  
provide regulation for acceptable output voltage ranges, acceptable output frequency, total harmonic  
distortion (THD) and anti-islanding performance when the inverter is exporting power to a  
utility source.  
The OutBack grid-interactive models are validated through compliance testing. The following  
specifications refer to exporting power to a simulated utility source of less than 1% voltage total  
harmonic distortion (THD).  
¾ The THD of the root mean square (RMS) current is less than 5%.  
¾ The output of the GFX inverter exceeds the minimum power factor of 0.85 with a typical power factor of 0.96  
or better.  
¾ All International Series GFX inverters are tested to comply with Table 16.  
Table 16 Interconnection Response to Voltage and Frequency  
Voltage Range  
Allowed Time  
Measured Time  
(AC Volts)  
Frequency (Hz)  
(Seconds)  
(Seconds)  
V < 115  
50  
50  
50  
50  
0.16  
0.020  
115 ≤ V < 202.4  
202.4 to 253  
253 < V < 276  
2.00  
No interruption  
1.00  
0.155  
No interruption  
0.157  
Instantaneous, but 0.137 seconds  
V ≥ 276  
50  
0.16  
0.16  
0.16  
1.00  
1.00  
to zero current  
setting  
setting  
setting  
setting  
IEEE  
IEEE  
User  
User  
> 51  
< 49  
> 52  
< 48  
0.098  
0.102  
0.605  
0.656  
The acceptance ranges are selected using the system display. The options are  
and  
The  
USER.  
IEEE  
default setting is  
USER.  
¾ The  
option allows a range of 206 to 250 Vac at 49 to 51 Hz.  
IEEE  
¾ The  
option is not a fixed setting. It follows the  
and  
settings as  
ac1/grid upper limit  
USER  
ac1/grid lower limit  
shown on the tables beginning on page 47. The default is a range of 208 to 252 Vac at 48 to 52 Hz.  
Reconnection delay is 12 seconds after restoration of acceptable conditions. Sell delay is one minute.  
These settings are not adjustable.  
46  
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Specifications  
Default Settings and Ranges (viewed in MATE)  
Table 17 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)  
Field  
Search  
Item  
Default  
Minimum  
Maximum  
6
0
50  
search sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
search pulse length  
search pulse spacing  
ac transfer control  
ac1/grid limit  
8
4
20  
60 AC cycles  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Grid  
25 Aac  
Grid or Gen  
Input  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
30 Aac  
30 Aac  
25 Aac  
ac2/gen limit  
10.5 Vdc  
12.5 Vdc  
230 Vac  
5 Aac  
9 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
210 Vac  
0 Aac  
12 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
250 Vac  
6 Aac  
low battery cut-out (LBCO)  
low battery cut-in (LBCI)  
adjust output voltage  
charger limit  
Inverter  
14.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
13.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
12.5 Vdc  
14.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
6 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
13 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
12 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
12 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
2.5 Aac  
0 AC cycles  
0.2 minutes  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
2.5 Aac  
16 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
15 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
13 Vdc  
17 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
240 AC cycles  
15 minutes  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
absorb voltage  
absorb time limit  
float voltage  
float time period  
Charger  
Grid  
refloat voltage  
equalization voltage  
equalization time period  
ac1/grid lower limit  
ac1/grid upper limit  
ac1/grid input limit  
ac1/grid transfer delay  
gen input connect delay  
ac2/gen lower limit  
ac2/gen upper limit  
ac2/gen input limit  
ac2/gen transfer delay  
ac2/gen support  
Generator  
(Gen)  
6 AC cycles  
ON  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
ON or OFF  
aux output control  
AUTO  
ON, OFF, or AUTO  
Cool Fan  
Cool Fan, DivertDC, DivertAC, AC Drop, Vent  
Fan, Fault, GenAlert, LoadShed, or Remote  
aux output function  
11 Vdc  
4 minutes  
14 Vdc  
9 minutes  
11 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
0 minutes  
12 Vdc  
0 minutes  
10 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
0 minutes  
12 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
240 minutes  
18 Vdc  
240 minutes  
14 Vdc  
16 Vdc  
30 minutes  
16 Vdc  
genalert on voltage  
genalert on delay  
Auxiliary  
(AUX)  
genalert off set point  
genalert off delay  
load shed off voltage  
vent fan on set point  
vent fan off period  
diversion on voltage  
diversion off delay  
13 Vdc  
5 minutes  
14.6 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 seconds  
240 seconds  
stack phase  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B, 3p Classic C  
Stacking  
master adjust only  
slave adjust only  
0
1
0
1
7
15  
Power Save  
sell re volts  
grid tie window  
grid tie authority  
vac input adjustment1  
vac output adjustment1  
battery vdc adjustment2  
13 Vdc  
User  
GridTie  
236  
236  
2
10 Vdc  
15 Vdc  
Sell  
IEEE or User  
GridTie or No Sell  
220  
220  
0
254  
254  
4
Calibration  
(Cal)  
1
These values are in digital counts, not volts. Lower counts stand for higher voltages, and higher counts mean lower voltages. One count equals approximately  
1 Vac. The range of adjustment is 15 Vac above nominal and 17 Vac below nominal.  
2
These values are in digital counts, not volts. One count equals 0.1 Vdc. The range of adjustment is 0.2 Vdc above or below nominal.  
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Specifications  
Table 18 24-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)  
Field  
Item  
Default  
6
Minimum  
Maximum  
search sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
search pulse length  
search pulse spacing  
ac transfer control  
ac1/grid limit  
0
50  
Search  
8
4
20  
60 AC cycles  
Grid  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Grid or Gen  
Input  
25 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
18 Vdc  
30 Aac  
30 Aac  
ac2/gen limit  
25 Aac  
low battery cut-out (LBCO)  
low battery cut-in (LBCI)  
adjust output voltage  
charger limit  
21 Vdc  
25 Vdc  
230 Vac  
5.5 Aac  
28.8 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
27.2 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
25 Vdc  
29.2 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
24 Vdc  
Inverter  
20 Vdc  
28 Vdc  
210 Vac  
0 Aac  
250 Vac  
6 Aac  
absorb voltage  
26 Vdc  
32 Vdc  
Charger  
absorb time limit  
0.0 hours  
24 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
24 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
30 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
26 Vdc  
float voltage  
float time period  
refloat voltage  
equalization voltage  
equalization time period  
ac1/grid lower limit  
ac1/grid upper limit  
ac1/grid input limit  
ac1/grid transfer delay  
gen input connect delay  
ac2/gen lower limit  
ac2/genupper limit  
ac2/gen input limit  
ac2/gen transfer delay  
ac2/gen support  
28 Vdc  
34 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
2.5 Aac  
24.0 hours  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
Grid  
6 AC cycles  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
0.2 minutes  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
15 minutes  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
Generator  
(Gen)  
2.5 Aac  
6 AC cycles  
ON  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
ON or OFF  
aux output control  
AUTO  
ON, OFF, or AUTO  
Cool Fan, DivertDC, DivertAC, AC Drop, Vent  
Fan, Fault, GenAlert, LoadShed, or Remote  
aux output function  
Cool Fan  
genalert on voltage  
genalert on delay  
22 Vdc  
4 minutes  
28 Vdc  
20 Vdc  
0 minutes  
24 Vdc  
28 Vdc  
240 minutes  
36 Vdc  
genalert off set point  
genalert off delay  
load shed off voltage  
vent fan on set point  
vent fan off period  
diversion on voltage  
diversion off delay  
Auxiliary  
(AUX)  
9 minutes  
22 Vdc  
26 Vdc  
0 minutes  
20 Vdc  
20 Vdc  
240 minutes  
28 Vdc  
32 Vdc  
5 minutes  
29.2 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 minutes  
24 Vdc  
0 seconds  
30 minutes  
32 Vdc  
240 seconds  
stack phase  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B, 3p Classic C  
Stacking  
master adjust only  
slave adjust only  
0
1
0
1
7
Power  
Save  
15  
sell re volts  
grid tie window  
grid tie authority  
vac input adjustment3  
vac output adjustment3  
battery vdc adjustment4  
26 Vdc  
User  
GridTie  
236  
236  
2
20 Vdc  
30 Vdc  
Sell  
IEEE or User  
GridTie or NoSell  
220  
220  
0
254  
254  
4
Calibration  
(Cal)  
3
These values are in digital counts, not volts. Lower counts stand for higher voltages, and higher counts mean lower voltages. One count equals approximately  
1 Vac. The range of adjustment is 15 Vac above nominal and 17 Vac below nominal.  
4
These values are in digital counts, not volts. One count equals 0.2 Vdc. The range of adjustment is 0.4 Vdc above or below nominal.  
48  
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Specifications  
Table 19 48-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)  
Field  
Search  
Item  
search sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
search pulse length  
search pulse spacing  
ac transfer control  
ac1/grid limit  
Default  
6
Minimum  
Maximum  
50  
0
8
4
20  
60 AC cycles  
Grid  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Grid or Gen  
30 Aac  
Input  
25 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
36 Vdc  
ac2/gen limit  
25 Aac  
30 Aac  
low battery cut-out (LBCO)  
low battery cut-in (LBCI)  
adjust output voltage  
charger limit  
42 Vdc  
50 Vdc  
230 Vac  
5.5 Aac  
57.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
54.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
50 Vdc  
58.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
48 Vdc  
Inverter  
40 Vdc  
56 Vdc  
210 Vac  
0 Aac  
250 Vac  
6 Aac  
absorb voltage  
52 Vdc  
64 Vdc  
Charger  
absorb time limit  
0.0 hours  
48 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
48 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
60 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
52 Vdc  
float voltage  
float time period  
refloat voltage  
equalization voltage  
equalization time period  
ac1/grid lower limit  
ac1/grid upper limit  
ac1/grid input limit  
ac1/grid transfer delay  
gen input connect delay  
ac2/gen lower limit  
ac2/genupper limit  
ac2/gen input limit  
ac2/gen transfer delay  
ac2/gen support  
56 Vdc  
68 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
2.5 Aac  
24.0 hours  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
Grid  
6 AC cycles  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
25 Aac  
0.2 minutes  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
15 minutes  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
30 Aac  
Generator  
(Gen)  
2.5 Aac  
6 AC cycles  
ON  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
ON or OFF  
aux output control  
AUTO  
ON, OFF, or AUTO  
Cool Fan, DivertDC, DivertAC, AC Drop, Vent  
Fan, Fault, GenAlert, LoadShed, or Remote  
aux output function  
Cool Fan  
genalert on voltage  
genalert on delay  
44 Vdc  
4 minutes  
56 Vdc  
40 Vdc  
0 minutes  
48 Vdc  
56 Vdc  
240 minutes  
72 Vdc  
genalert off set point  
genalert off delay  
load shed off voltage  
vent fan on set point  
vent fan off period  
diversion on voltage  
diversion off delay  
Auxiliary  
(AUX)  
9 minutes  
44 Vdc  
52 Vdc  
0 minutes  
40 Vdc  
40 Vdc  
240 minutes  
56 Vdc  
64 Vdc  
5 minutes  
58.4 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 minutes  
48 Vdc  
0 seconds  
30 minutes  
64 Vdc  
240 seconds  
stack phase  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B, 3p Classic C  
Stacking  
master adjust only  
slave adjust only  
0
1
0
1
7
Power  
Save  
15  
sell re volts  
grid tie window  
grid tie authority  
vac input adjustment15  
vac output adjustment5  
battery vdc adjustment26  
52 Vdc  
User  
GridTie  
236  
236  
2
40 Vdc  
60 Vdc  
Sell  
IEEE or User  
GridTie or No Sell  
220  
220  
0
254  
254  
4
Calibration  
(Cal)  
5
These values are in digital counts, not volts. Lower counts stand for higher voltages, and higher counts mean lower voltages. One count equals approximately  
1 Vac. The range of adjustment is 15 Vac above nominal and 17 Vac below nominal.  
6
These values are in digital counts, not volts. One count equals 0.4 Vdc. The range of adjustment is 0.8 Vdc above or below nominal.  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Specifications  
Default Settings and Ranges (viewed in MATE3)  
Table 20 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3)  
Field  
Item  
Sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
Pulse Length  
Default  
Minimum  
Maximum  
6
0
50  
Search  
8
4
20  
Pulse Spacing  
60 AC cycles  
Grid  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Input Type  
Grid or Gen  
Input Support  
Y
Y or N  
AC Input and  
Current Limit  
Grid Input AC Limit  
Gen Input AC Limit  
Charger AC Limit  
25 Aac  
25 Aac  
5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
0 Aac  
30 Aac  
30 Aac  
6 Aac  
LowerVoltage Limit  
Upper Voltage Limit  
Transfer Delay  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Grid AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
6 AC cycles  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
LowerVoltage Limit  
Upper Voltage Limit  
Transfer Delay  
Connect Delay  
AC Output  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Gen AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
6 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
230 Vac  
0 AC cycles  
0.2 minutes  
210 Vac  
240 AC cycles  
15 minutes  
250 Vac  
AC Output  
Cut-Out Voltage  
Cut-In Voltage  
Absorb Voltage  
(Absorb) Time  
Float Voltage  
(Float) Time  
10.5 Vdc  
12.5 Vdc  
14.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
13.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
12.5 Vdc  
14.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
9 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
12 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
Low Battery  
13 Vdc  
16 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
12 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
15 Vdc  
Battery Charger  
Battery Equalize  
0.0 hours  
12 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
13 Vdc  
Re-Float Voltage  
Equalize Voltage  
(Equalize) Time  
14 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
17 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
Remote, Load Shed, Gen Alert, Fault, Vent Fan,  
Cool Fan, Divert DC, Divert AC, or AC Drop  
Aux Mode  
Cool Fan  
(Load Shed) Enable Voltage  
(Gen Alert) ON Voltage  
(Gen Alert ON) Delay  
(Gen Alert) OFF Voltage  
(Gen Alert OFF) Delay  
(Vent Fan) Enable Voltage  
(Vent Fan) Off Period  
(Divert DC or AC) Enable Voltage  
(Divert DC or AC) Off Delay  
11 Vdc  
11 Vdc  
4 minutes  
14 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
10 Vdc  
0 minutes  
12 Vdc  
14 Vdc  
240 minutes  
18 Vdc  
Auxiliary  
Output  
9 minutes  
13 Vdc  
5 minutes  
14.6 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 minutes  
10 Vdc  
0 minutes  
12 Vdc  
240 minutes  
16 Vdc  
30 minutes  
16 Vdc  
0 seconds  
240 seconds  
Stack Mode  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B , 3p Classic C  
Inverter Stacking  
Power Save  
Master Adjust Only  
Slave Adjust Only  
Grid Tie Enable  
Sell Voltage  
Grid Tie Window  
Input Voltage7  
Output Voltage7  
Battery Voltage8  
0
1
0
1
7
15  
Y
13 Vdc  
IEEE  
-1  
-1  
0.0  
Y or N  
Grid-Tie Sell  
Calibrate  
10 Vdc  
15 Vdc  
IEEE or user  
-3  
-3  
1
1
-0.2  
0.2  
7
These values represent an adjustable setting with a total range of 4 Vac. The default value of -1 means the calibration will subtract 1 volt from the measured  
value. The range of settings allow up to 1 volt to be added to the measured value, or up to 3 volts to be subtracted from it. The result is also displayed.  
8
These values represent an adjustable setting with a range of 0.2 Vdc from the measured value. The range of settings allow up to 0.2 volts to be either  
added or subtracted from the measured value. The result is also displayed.  
50  
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Specifications  
Table 21 24-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3)  
Field  
Item  
Sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
Pulse Length  
Default  
Minimum  
Maximum  
6
0
50  
Search  
8
4
20  
Pulse Spacing  
60 AC cycles  
Grid  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Grid or Gen  
Y or N  
Input Type  
Input Support  
Y
AC Input and  
Current Limit  
Grid Input AC Limit  
Gen Input AC Limit  
Charger AC Limit  
25 Aac  
25 Aac  
5.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
0 Aac  
30 Aac  
30 Aac  
6 Aac  
LowerVoltage Limit  
Upper Voltage Limit  
Transfer Delay  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Grid AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
6 AC cycles  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
LowerVoltage Limit  
Upper Voltage Limit  
Transfer Delay  
Connect Delay  
AC Output  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Gen AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
6 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
230 Vac  
0 AC cycles  
0.2 minutes  
210 Vac  
240 AC cycles  
15 minutes  
250 Vac  
AC Output  
Cut-Out Voltage  
Cut-In Voltage  
Absorb Voltage  
(Absorb) Time  
Float Voltage  
(Float) Time  
21 Vdc  
25 Vdc  
18 Vdc  
20 Vdc  
24 Vdc  
28 Vdc  
Low Battery  
28.8 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
27.2 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
25 Vdc  
26 Vdc  
32 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
24 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
30 Vdc  
Battery Charger  
Battery Equalize  
0.0 hours  
24 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
26 Vdc  
Re-Float Voltage  
Equalize Voltage  
(Equalize) Time  
29.2 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
28 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
34 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
Remote, Load Shed, Gen Alert, Fault, Vent Fan,  
Cool Fan, Divert DC, Divert AC, or AC Drop  
Aux Mode  
Cool Fan  
(Load Shed) Enable Voltage  
(Gen Alert) ON Voltage  
(Gen Alert ON) Delay  
(Gen Alert) OFF Voltage  
(Gen Alert OFF) Delay  
(Vent Fan) Enable Voltage  
(Vent Fan) Off Period  
(Divert DC or AC) Enable Voltage  
(Divert DC or AC) Off Delay  
22 Vdc  
22 Vdc  
20 Vdc  
20 Vdc  
28 Vdc  
28 Vdc  
4 minutes  
28 Vdc  
9 minutes  
26 Vdc  
5 minutes  
29.2 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 minutes  
24 Vdc  
0 minutes  
20 Vdc  
0 minutes  
24 Vdc  
240 minutes  
36 Vdc  
240 minutes  
32 Vdc  
30 minutes  
32 Vdc  
Auxiliary  
Output  
0 seconds  
240 seconds  
Inverter  
Stacking  
Stack Mode  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B , 3p Classic C  
Master Adjust Only  
Slave Adjust Only  
Grid Tie Enable  
Sell Voltage  
Grid Tie Window  
Input Voltage9  
Output Voltage9  
Battery Voltage10  
0
1
0
1
7
15  
Power Save  
Y
23.6 Vdc  
IEEE  
-1  
-1  
0.0  
Y or N  
Grid-Tie Sell  
20 Vdc  
30 Vdc  
IEEE or user  
-3  
-3  
-0.4  
1
1
0.4  
Calibrate  
9
These values represent an adjustable setting with a total range of 4 Vac. The default value of -1 means the calibration will subtract 1 volt from the measured  
value. The range of settings allow up to 1 volt to be added to the measured value, or up to 3 volts to be subtracted from it. The result is also displayed.  
10  
These values represent an adjustable setting with a range of 0.4 Vdc from the measured value. The range of settings allow up to 0.4 volts to be either added  
or subtracted from the measured value (in increments of 0.2 Vdc). The result is also displayed.  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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Specifications  
Table 22 48-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3)  
Field  
Item  
Default  
Minimum  
Maximum  
Sensitivity (see page 14 for increments)  
6
0
50  
Search  
Pulse Length  
8
4
20  
Pulse Spacing  
60 AC cycles  
Grid  
4 AC cycles  
120 AC cycles  
Input Type  
Grid or Gen  
Input Support  
Y
Y or N  
AC Input and  
Current Limit  
Grid Input AC Limit  
Gen Input AC Limit  
Charger AC Limit  
25 Aac  
25 Aac  
5.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
2.5 Aac  
0 Aac  
30 Aac  
30 Aac  
6 Aac  
AC1/Grid Lower Limit  
AC1/Grid Upper Limit  
AC1/Grid Transfer Delay  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Grid AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
6 AC cycles  
0 AC cycles  
240 AC cycles  
LowerVoltage Limit  
Upper Voltage Limit  
Transfer Delay  
Connect Delay  
AC Output  
208 Vac  
252 Vac  
140 Vac  
250 Vac  
220 Vac  
280 Vac  
Gen AC Input  
Voltage Limits  
60 AC cycles  
0.5 minutes  
230 Vac  
0 AC cycles  
0.2 minutes  
210 Vac  
240 AC cycles  
15 minutes  
250 Vac  
AC Output  
Cut-Out Voltage  
Cut-In Voltage  
Absorb Voltage  
(Absorb) Time  
Float Voltage  
(Float) Time  
42 Vdc  
50 Vdc  
36 Vdc  
40 Vdc  
48 Vdc  
56 Vdc  
Low Battery  
57.6 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
54.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
50 Vdc  
52 Vdc  
64 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
48 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
60 Vdc  
Battery Charger  
Battery Equalize  
0.0 hours  
48 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
26 Vdc  
Re-Float Voltage  
Equalize Voltage  
(Equalize) Time  
58.4 Vdc  
1.0 hours  
56 Vdc  
0.0 hours  
68 Vdc  
24.0 hours  
Remote, Load Shed, Gen Alert, Fault, Vent Fan,  
Cool Fan, Divert DC, Divert AC, or AC Drop  
Aux Mode  
Cool Fan  
(Load Shed) Enable Voltage  
(Gen Alert) ON Voltage  
(Gen Alert ON) Delay  
(Gen Alert) OFF Voltage  
(Gen Alert OFF) Delay  
(Vent Fan) Enable Voltage  
(Vent Fan) Off Period  
(Divert DC or AC) Enable Voltage  
(Divert DC or AC) Off Delay  
44 Vdc  
44 Vdc  
40 Vdc  
40 Vdc  
56 Vdc  
56 Vdc  
4 minutes  
56 Vdc  
9 minutes  
52 Vdc  
5 minutes  
58.4 Vdc  
30 seconds  
0 minutes  
48 Vdc  
0 minutes  
40 Vdc  
0 minutes  
48 Vdc  
240 minutes  
72 Vdc  
240 minutes  
64 Vdc  
30 minutes  
64 Vdc  
Auxiliary  
Output  
0 seconds  
240 seconds  
Inverter  
Stacking  
Stack Mode  
Master  
Master, OB Slave L1, 3p Classic B , 3p Classic C  
Master Adjust Only  
Slave Adjust Only  
Grid Tie Enable  
Sell Voltage  
Grid Tie Window  
Input Voltage11  
Output Voltage11  
Battery Voltage12  
0
1
0
1
7
15  
Power Save  
Y
47.2 Vdc  
IEEE  
-1  
-1  
0.0  
Y or N  
Grid-Tie Sell  
40 Vdc  
60 Vdc  
IEEE or user  
-3  
-3  
-0.8  
1
1
0.8  
Calibrate  
11  
These values represent an adjustable setting with a total range of 4 Vac. The default value of -1 means the calibration will subtract 1 volt from the measured  
value. The range of settings allow up to 1 volt to be added to the measured value, or up to 3 volts to be subtracted from it. The result is also displayed.  
12  
These values represent an adjustable setting with a range of 0.8 Vdc from the measured value. The range of settings allow up to 0.8 volts to be either added  
or subtracted from the measured value (in increments of 0.4 Vdc). The result is also displayed.  
52  
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Product Registration  
The purchase of an OutBack Power Technologies product is an important investment. Registering the  
products will help us maintain the standard of excellence expected in terms of performance, quality  
and reliability.  
Please take a moment to register and provide us with some important information.  
Registration can be done as follows:  
¾ Go to the following website.  
or  
¾ Fill out the information on this form (pages 53 and 54) and return a paper copy using a postal service to the  
following address:  
OutBack Power Technologies  
Attn: Warranty Registration  
5917 – 195th Street N.E., #7  
Arlington, WA 98223 USA  
Be sure to keep a copy for your records.  
SYSTEM OWNER  
Name  
Address  
City, State, Postal Code or  
Zip Code  
Country  
Telephone Number  
E-mail  
SYSTEM PURCHASE  
Product Model Number  
Product Serial Number  
Sold by  
Purchase Date  
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Product Registration  
INSTALLATION INFORMATION  
System Install/Commission Date  
System Array Size  
System Array Nominal Voltage  
Type of PV Modules  
System Battery Bank Size (Amp-Hours)  
Brand and Model of Batteries  
Does this system include an auxiliary AC generator?  
If yes, please specify brand and model of generator  
INSTALLER INFORMATION  
Contractor Number  
Installer Name  
Installer Address  
Installer City, State, Postal or Zip Code, Country  
Installer Telephone/E-mail  
Please check ALL factors affecting purchase decision:  
ˆ Grid-Interactive Capability  
ˆ Product Reputation  
ˆ Back-up Capability  
ˆ Reputation of OutBack Power Technologies  
ˆ Value  
ˆ Outdoor Installation Option  
ˆ Looks  
ˆ Other  
54  
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Warranty  
5-Year Limited Warranty for GFX Products  
OutBack Power Technologies, Inc. (“OutBack”) provides a five-year (5) limited warranty (“Warranty”)  
against defects in materials and workmanship for its GFX Series inverter products (“Product”) if  
installed in fixed location applications.  
The term of this Warranty begins on the Product(s) initial purchase date, or the date of receipt of the  
Product(s) by the end user, whichever is later. This must be indicated on the invoice, bill of sale, and/or  
warranty registration submitted to OutBack. This Warranty applies to the original OutBack Product  
purchaser, and is transferable only if the Product remains installed in the original use location. The  
warranty does not apply to any Product or Product part that has been modified or damaged by  
the following:  
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
Installation or Removal;  
Alteration or Disassembly;  
Normal Wear and Tear;  
Accident or Abuse;  
Corrosion;  
Lightning;  
Repair or service provided by an unauthorized repair facility;  
Operation or installation contrary to manufacturer product instructions;  
Fire, Floods or Acts of God;  
Shipping or Transportation;  
Incidental or consequential damage caused by other components of the power system;  
Any product whose serial number has been altered, defaced or removed;  
Any other event not foreseeable by OutBack.  
OutBack’s liability for any defective Product, or any Product part, shall be limited to the repair or  
replacement of the Product, at OutBack’s discretion. OutBack does not warrant or guarantee  
workmanship performed by any person or firm installing its Products. This Warranty does not cover  
the costs of installation, removal, shipping (except as described below), or reinstallation of Products or  
parts of Products.  
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO OUTBACK PRODUCTS.  
OUTBACK EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ITS PRODUCTS,  
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A  
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. OUTBACK ALSO EXPRESSLY LIMITS ITS LIABILITY IN THE EVENT OF A PRODUCT  
DEFECT TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY  
AND EXCLUDES ALL LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING  
WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY LIABILITY FOR PRODUCTS NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR USE OR LOST  
REVENUES OR PROFITS, EVEN IF IT IS MADE AWARE OF SUCH POTENTIAL DAMAGES. IF YOU ARE A  
CONSUMER THAT PURCHASED THIS PRODUCT IN A MEMBER STATE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, YOU  
MAY HAVE ADDITIONAL STATUTORY RIGHTS UNDER DIRECTIVE 1999/44/EC. THESE RIGHTS MAY VARY  
FROM EU MEMBER STATE TO EU MEMBER STATE. SOME STATES (OR JURISDICTIONS) MAY NOT ALLOW  
THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF WARRANTIES OR DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE EXCLUSIONS OR  
LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.  
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Warranty  
How to Arrange for Warranty Service  
During the warranty period beginning on the invoice date, OutBack Power Technologies will repair or  
replace products covered under this limited warranty that are returned to OutBack Power  
Technologies’ facility or to an OutBack Power Technologies authorized repair facility, or that are  
repaired on site by an OutBack Power Technologies authorized repair person.  
IMPORTANT:  
For full Warranty description, see previous page.  
Contacting OutBack  
To request warranty service, contact OutBack Technical Support at  
or  
+1.360.618.4363 [email protected]  
or direct at  
+1.360.435.6030  
. To ensure warranty coverage, this contact must  
be within the effective warranty period. If service is required, the OutBack Technical Support  
representative will issue a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number.  
Troubleshooting  
In the event of a Product failure, the customer will need to work with an OutBack Technical Support  
representative to perform the necessary troubleshooting. This is a required step before a return can  
be performed. Troubleshooting requires a qualified technician to be present at the site of the Product,  
with a quality voltmeter that measures both DC and AC. The OutBack representative will request  
voltmeter readings, Product error messages, and other information. Many, many problems can be  
resolved on-site. If the customer is not willing or able to provide these readings (or is not willing or  
able to visit the site), and the Product is found to have no problems upon return, OutBack may choose  
to charge additional labor and handling fees up to $180.00 U.S.  
Return Material Authorization (RMA)  
A request for an RMA number requires all of the following information:  
1. Product model and serial number;  
2. Proof-of-purchase in the form of a copy of the original Product purchase invoice or receipt confirming  
the Product model number and serial number;  
3. Description of the problem; and  
4. Shipping address for the repaired or replacement equipment.  
Upon receiving this information, the OutBack representative can issue an RMA number.  
56  
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Warranty  
Returning Product to OutBack  
After receiving the RMA number, the customer must pack the Product(s) authorized for return, along  
with a copy of the original purchase invoice and product registration, in the original Product shipping  
container(s) or packaging providing equivalent or reasonable protection. The RMA number must be  
written on the outside of the packaging where it is clearly visible.  
If Product is within the warranty period, OutBack will cover prepaid shipping with prior arrangement.  
The Product(s) must be shipped back to OutBack Power Technologies in their original or equivalent  
packaging, to the following address:  
OutBack Power Technologies  
RMA # ____________________  
6115 192nd Street NE  
Arlington, WA 98223 USA  
The customer must insure the shipment, or accept the risk of loss or damage during shipment. If a  
shipping box is needed for return of a Product, OutBack will, upon request, send a shipping box.  
IMPORTANT:  
OutBack is not responsible for shipping damage caused by improperly packaged  
Products, the repairs this damage might require, or the costs of these repairs.  
If, upon receipt of the Product, OutBack determines the Product or Product part is defective and that  
the defect is covered under the terms of this Warranty, OutBack will then and only then ship a repaired  
or replacement Product or Product part to the purchaser freight prepaid, non-expedited, using a  
carrier of OutBack’s choice, where applicable.  
If Product fails in ninety (90) or fewer days from original purchase date, OutBack will replace with a  
new Product. If Product fails after ninety (90) days and up to expiration of warranty, OutBack will, at its  
discretion, either repair and return a Product, or ship a replacement Product. OutBack will determine  
whether a Product is to be repaired or replaced in accordance with Product age and model. OutBack  
will authorize advance shipment of a replacement based on Product age and model.  
In cases where an OutBack dealer or distributor replaces a Product more than ninety (90) days old with  
a new Product, OutBack will NOT compensate that dealer or distributor with new stock unless the  
exchange was authorized in advance by OutBack.  
Out of Warranty  
If Product is out of warranty, OutBack will repair and return Product for a fee. Alternately, if applicable,  
OutBack will advance-ship replacement parts for a fee upon request.  
If a shipping box is needed for return of out-of-warranty Product, OutBack will send a shipping box  
upon request. The customer is responsible for paying shipping to OutBack.  
The warranty period of any repaired or replacement Product or Product part is ninety (90) days from  
the date of shipment from OutBack, or the remainder of the initial warranty term, whichever is greater.  
This Warranty is void for any Product that has been modified by the customer without authorization  
by OutBack. A Product with a voided warranty will be treated the same as one with an expired  
warranty.  
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Warranty  
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58  
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Index  
A
E
Absorption Stage...............................................................19  
AC Current Settings ..........................................................15  
AC Input................................................................................14  
AC Source Acceptance.....................................................15  
Adding New Devices........................................................10  
AGS.................................................................................... 2, 30  
Audience ................................................................................1  
Automatic Generator Start.............................................30  
AUX Control.........................................................................28  
AUX Functions  
Cool Fan ..........................................................................28  
DivertAC..........................................................................28  
Fault..................................................................................29  
GenAlert...................................................................29, 30  
LoadShed........................................................................29  
Remote............................................................................29  
Auxiliary Terminals............................................................28  
Equalization.........................................................................22  
F
Factory Default Settings...........................................47, 50  
Features ..................................................................................7  
Float Stage...........................................................................20  
Functional Test.....................................................................9  
Functions  
AC Input Limit...............................................................14  
AC Transfer.....................................................................16  
Battery Charging..........................................................18  
Inverting..........................................................................13  
LBCO.................................................................................13  
Search ..............................................................................14  
Selling.......................................................................19, 24  
Support ...........................................................................17  
Functions, Description of................................................13  
B
G
Battery Charging................................................................18  
Battery Charging Graph ...........................................18, 20  
Battery LEDs ........................................................................11  
Bulk Stage ............................................................................18  
GenAlert.........................................................................29, 30  
Generators ................... 15, 16, 17, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 39  
Grid Use Programming....................................................30  
Grid-Interactive ...................................................... 2, 24, 46  
C
H
Charging  
Absorption Stage.........................................................19  
Bulk Stage.......................................................................18  
Float Stage .....................................................................20  
Float Timer .....................................................................20  
New Bulk.........................................................................21  
None.................................................................................18  
Sell.....................................................................................19  
Silent ................................................................................20  
Cool Fan................................................................................28  
HBX...........................................................................................2  
High Battery Transfer (HBX) ...........................................30  
HUB ........................................................................................25  
I
Input  
AC Current Settings.....................................................15  
AC Source Acceptance...............................................15  
Input Support .....................................................................17  
Inverting ...............................................................................13  
D
Definitions..............................................................................2  
Diversion Control...............................................................28  
DVM......................................................................................2, 9  
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Index  
L
Stacking................................................................................25  
Parallel.............................................................................26  
Three-Phase...................................................................26  
Status LEDs...............................................................9, 10, 12  
Support, Input....................................................................17  
Symbols Used....................................................................... 1  
System Display..........2, 8, 25, 27, 30, 31, 37, 38, 39, 40  
System Display Functions  
LBCO..................................................................................2, 13  
LED Indicators .................................................... 2, 9, 10, 11  
Battery LEDs ..................................................................11  
Status LEDs ....................................................................12  
Levels, Power Save............................................................27  
LoadShed.............................................................................29  
AGS...................................................................................30  
Grid Use Programming..............................................30  
HBX...................................................................................30  
M
MATE .............................................. 8, 25, 27, 31, 37, 38, 47  
MATE2..................................................................................... 8  
MATE3...................................................8, 27, 31, 37, 38, 50  
T
Temperature Compensation.........................................22  
Terms and Definitions ....................................................... 2  
Test........................................................................................... 9  
Three-Phase Stacking ......................................................26  
Three-Stage Charging .....................................................18  
Timers  
P
Parallel Stacking ................................................................26  
Power Save..........................................................................27  
Powering Down.................................................................10  
Absorption..............................................................19, 21  
Equalize ..........................................................................22  
Float .................................................................................20  
Transfer Relay.....................................................................16  
Troubleshooting.........................................................31, 56  
Charging Stopped.......................................................40  
Disconnect Messages.................................................39  
Error Messages .............................................................37  
Selling Stopped............................................................40  
Symptoms and Remedies.........................................31  
Warning Messages......................................................38  
R
Registration.........................................................................53  
Regulatory ...........................................................................46  
Remote System Display ..............................................8, 25  
Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS).........................2, 22  
S
Safety....................................................................................... 1  
General.............................................................................. 1  
Search ...................................................................................14  
Selling ..................................................................... 19, 24, 40  
Silent......................................................................................20  
Specifications  
U
Utility Grid....................... 2, 15, 17, 24, 30, 32, 34, 39, 46  
Electrical ........................................................... 43, 44, 45  
Environmental..............................................................46  
Grid-Interactive............................................................46  
Mechanical ...................................................... 43, 44, 45  
Regulatory .....................................................................46  
W
Warranty...............................................................................55  
How to Arrange for Service......................................56  
RMA..................................................................................56  
60  
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Index  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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North America:  
5917 – 195th Street N.E., #7  
Arlington, WA 98223 USA  
+1.360.435.6030  
900-0112-01-00 Rev B  
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