Xantrex Technology Portable Generator RV2012, RV2512, RV3012 User Manual

RV2012  
2512  
3012  
Owner’s Manual  
Xantrex  
RV Series  
Inverter/Charger  
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Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger Owner’s Manual  
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................15  
AC Connections .......................................................................................................................................15  
Important Precautions ............................................................................................................................15  
Ground Fault Interrupting Outlets (GFIs)............................................................................................16  
DC WIRING ........................................................................................................16  
Safety Instructions...................................................................................................................................16  
DC Over-Current Protection..................................................................................................................16  
Connection of Grounding and Battery Systems....................................................................................17  
STACKING INVERTERS....................................................................................18  
Precautions...............................................................................................................................................18  
DC Connections for Stacked Inverters ..................................................................................................18  
AC Wiring for Stacked Inverters...........................................................................................................19  
Operation .................................................................................................................................................19  
Theory of Operation................................................................................................................................19  
Search Sense Mode Operation with Stacked Pairs...............................................................................20  
RC6 REMOTE CONTROL..................................................................................21  
Installation ...............................................................................................................................................21  
RC7 REMOTE CONTROL..................................................................................22  
Installation ...............................................................................................................................................22  
Programming the RC7 ............................................................................................................................22  
User Menu................................................................................................................................................23  
Meters Menu............................................................................................................................................24  
Setup Menu ..............................................................................................................................................24  
BATTERY CABLE CONNECTION.....................................................................26  
Battery Cable Sizing................................................................................................................................26  
Installation with External Transfer Relay (120/240 System)...............................................................27  
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Mobile Installation...................................................................................................................................28  
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE...........................................................................29  
APPLICATIONS .................................................................................................30  
Resistive Loads.........................................................................................................................................30  
Inductive Loads .......................................................................................................................................30  
Problem Loads.........................................................................................................................................30  
Typical Battery Draw of Common Appliances .....................................................................................32  
English to Metric Wire Conversion .......................................................................................................33  
RC7 Menu Map .......................................................................................................................................34  
TECHNICAL INFORMATION .............................................................................36  
RV Series Specifications..........................................................................................................................36  
LIMITED WARRANTY........................................................................................37  
Notice of Copyright  
Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger © December 2002 Xantrex International. All rights reserved.  
Disclaimer  
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”)  
(a)  
MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL OR  
OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.  
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT,  
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE  
OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.  
Date and Revision December 2002, Revision 2  
Contact Information Web: www.xantrex.com  
Part Number 445-0202-01-01  
Phone: 1-800-670-0707 (toll free) 1-604-422-2777 (direct)  
Fax: 1-604-420-2145  
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Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger Owner’s Manual  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!  
This manual contains important safety and operating instructions as prescribed by UL  
specifications for inverters used in land vehicle applications. This manual covers Xantrex RV  
Series Inverter/Chargers models RV2012, RV2512, and RV3012.  
General Precautions  
1. Before using the inverter/charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) the  
inverter/charger, (2) the batteries and (3) all appropriate sections of this instruction manual.  
2. CAUTION: To reduce risk of injury, charge only deep-cycle lead acid, lead antimony, lead  
calcium, gel cell, absorbed mat, or NiCad/NiFe type rechargeable batteries. Other types of  
batteries may burst, causing personal injury and damage.  
3. Do not expose inverter/charger to rain, snow or liquids of any type. The inverter is designed  
for indoor mounting only. Protect the inverter from splashing when used in vehicle  
applications. Do not mount the inverter in unventilated enclosures or in the engine  
compartment.  
4. Do not disassemble the inverter/charger; take it to a qualified Xantrex service center when  
service or repair is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.  
5. To reduce risk of electric shock, disconnect all wiring before attempting any maintenance or  
cleaning. Turning off the inverter will not reduce this risk. Solar modules produce power when  
exposed to light—cover them with opaque material before servicing any connected  
equipment.  
6. WARNING: WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF A LEAD ACID BATTERY IS DANGEROUS.  
BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE GASES DURING NORMAL OPERATION. Provide  
ventilation to outdoors from the battery compartment. The battery enclosure should be  
designed to prevent accumulation and concentration of hydrogen gas in “pockets” at the top  
of the compartment. Vent the battery compartment from the highest point.  
7. NEVER charge a frozen battery.  
8. No terminals or lugs are required for hook-up of the AC wiring. AC wiring must be no less than  
10 AWG (5.3 mm2) gauge copper wire and rated for 75 °C or higher. Battery cables must be  
rated for 75 °C or higher and should be no less than #2 AWG (67.4 mm2) gauge. Crimped  
and sealed copper ring terminal lugs with a 5/16 hole should be used to connect the battery  
cables to the DC terminals of the inverter/charger. Soldered cable lugs are also acceptable.  
9. Torque all AC wiring connections to 20 inch-pounds. Torque all DC cable connections to 12  
foot-pounds. Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto batteries. It  
could short-circuit the batteries or other electrical parts, resulting in sparks that could cause  
an explosion.  
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Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger Owner’s Manual  
10. Symbols used in this manual and on the inverter/charger are:  
Chassis  
Phase  
AC Output  
AC Input  
1. Tools required to make AC wiring connections: Wire strippers, 1/2" (13 mm) open-end wrench  
or socket, Phillips screwdriver #2, Slotted screwdriver 1/4" (6 mm) blade.  
2. This inverter/charger is intended to be used with a battery supply with a nominal voltage of 12  
volts DC.  
3. For instructions on shelf mounting, see ”Installation” on page 14. For battery installation and  
maintenance: read the battery manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions prior  
to operating.  
4. No AC or DC disconnects are provided as an integral part of this inverter. Both AC and DC  
disconnects must be provided as part of the system installation. See SYSTEM SAFETY  
WIRING REQUIREMENTS section of this manual.  
5. No over-current protection for the battery supply is provided as an integral part of this inverter.  
Over-current protection of the battery cables must be provided as part of the system  
installation. See “DC Over-Current Protection” on page 16.  
6. No over-current protection for the AC output wiring is provided as an integral part of this  
inverter. Over-current protection of the AC output wiring must be provided as part of the  
system installation. See SYSTEM SAFETY WIRING REQUIREMENTS section of this  
manual.  
7. DC GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS: This inverter/charger should be connected to a  
grounded, permanent wiring system. For most installations, the negative battery conductor  
should be bonded to the grounding system at one (and only one point) in the system. All  
installations should comply with all national and local codes and ordinances.  
8. AC GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS: This inverter/charger includes neutral ground switching  
for the AC electrical system. The AC system must have the neutral isolated from the  
grounding system throughout the load distribution circuits. AC generators must have the  
neutral bonded to the grounding system when used with this inverter.  
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Personal Precautions  
1. Someone should be within range of your voice to come to your aid when you work near  
batteries.  
2. Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing, or  
eyes.  
3. Wear complete eye protection and clothing protection. Avoid touching eyes while working  
near batteries. Wash your hands when done.  
4. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid enters  
eye, immediately flood eye with running cool water for at least 15 minutes and get medical  
attention immediately.  
5. Baking soda neutralizes lead acid battery electrolyte. Keep a supply on hand in the area of the  
batteries.  
6. NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of a battery or generator.  
7. Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto batteries. It could short-  
circuit the batteries or other electrical parts, resulting in a spark that could cause an explosion.  
8. Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches when  
working with a battery. A battery can produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring  
or the like to metal, causing severe burns.  
9. To prevent accidental starting during servicing, disable the automatic starting circuit and/or  
disconnect the generator from its starting battery if a remote or automatic generator start  
system is used.  
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Theory of Inverter Operation  
Waveform  
The output waveform of the inverter is referred to as a modified sine wave. This waveform is  
suitable for a wide variety of applications—induction motors (such as in refrigerators and drill  
presses), resistive loads (such as heaters and toasters), universal motors (such as in hand tools  
and vacuum cleaners) as well as microwave ovens and computers.  
Comparison of Output Waveforms  
The waveform could be more accurately described as a pulse width modulated square wave. The  
illustration above shows the relationships between square wave, sine wave and modified sine  
wave formats.  
Regulation  
The inverter is RMS voltage regulated. RMS regulation ensures that resistive loads will always  
have the same amount of power delivered to them as battery voltage changes. Regulation is  
achieved by varying the width of each pulse. Peak voltage is the product of the battery voltage  
times the turns ratio of the inverter’s power transformer and is therefore not actively regulated.  
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Search Sense Mode Using Optional RC7 Remote  
The SEARCH SENSE menu on the RC7 is used for adjusting the sensitivity of the search mode  
circuit. The RV inverter’s search sensitivity can only be set using the optional RC7 remote.  
However, once the mode is set the remote may then be removed and the inverter will retain the  
settings. The RV Series inverters feature an adjustable search mode circuit. It minimizes power  
drain by reducing the inverter’s output to small test pulses when there is no load connected.  
These pulses are used to detect the presence of a load. When a load is detected the inverter’s  
output goes to full voltage. The sensitivity of the detection threshold is adjustable.  
Example: With the SEARCH WATTS control set to detect a 40-watt load, a 50-watt load will bring  
the unit to full output voltage. However, a 30-watt load will leave the inverter in its energy-saving  
search mode state. If the sensitivity is increased by setting the control to 10, a 20-watt load will  
bring the inverter out of the search mode, while a 5-watt load will not.  
When in the search mode, the green power LED will blink and the inverter will make a ticking  
sound. At full output voltage, the green power LED will burn steadily and the inverter will make a  
steady humming sound. When the inverter is used as an “uninterruptible” power supply the search  
mode function should be defeated.  
A neon-type nightlight can also be used as a good indicator to determine if the inverter is in search  
mode. Simply plug the light into any AC outlet. When the inverter is in the search mode the light  
will blink. If the inverter is running a load, the light will be solid.  
Exceptions  
Example A: If the SEARCH WATTS control is set to detect a 40-watt load and a 30-watt  
incandescent light is turned on, the inverter will detect the light. The light is a bigger load than 40  
watts when its filaments are cold. When the light gets bright the filaments heat up and the light  
becomes a 30-watt load. Since this is below the control setting of 40, the inverter will not detect it  
and the light will go out, beginning the process all over again.  
Example B: If the SEARCH WATTS control is set to detect a 30-watt load and a 40-watt  
fluorescent light is turned on, the inverter will not detect the light. The light presents a smaller load  
than 30 watts until the gas in the fluorescent tube ionizes.  
Example C: There are some appliances that draw power even though they are turned off. TVs  
with instant-on circuits, microwave ovens with digital displays and VCRs are examples. These  
loads present a dilemma. If the sensitivity is set higher than the combination of these loads, then  
an auxiliary load must be used to bring the inverter out of the search mode before the appliances  
can be turned on. If the sensitivity is set lower than this combination of loads, the loads will be left  
on and will put an additional drain on the batteries. (Three such 15-watt loads would amount to an  
additional 90 amp hours per 24 hours in a 12 VDC system.) One solution is to turn these items off  
at the wall. Use an extension cord with a rocker switch, a switch at the outlet, or the appropriate  
circuit breaker.  
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Battery Charger  
Theory of Operation  
Inverter to Charger Transition  
The internal battery charger and automatic transfer relay allows operation as either a battery  
charger or inverter (but not both at the same time). An external source of AC power (such as  
shorepower or a generator) must be supplied to the inverter AC input in order to allow it to operate  
as a battery charger. The RV series charger will always charge when there is AC power present,  
even when the inverter itself is turned off (by the on/off switch). When operating as a charger, the  
AC output is powered by the external source (such as a generator or public power).  
The inverter automatically becomes a battery charger whenever AC power is connected to its AC  
inputs. There is a minimum 20-second time delay from the time the inverter senses that AC is  
present at the input terminals to when the transfer is made. This delay is built in to provide time for  
a generator to spin-up to a stable voltage and avoid relay chattering. The inverter will not transfer  
to generator until it has locked onto the generator’s output. The inverter’s AC input is internally  
connected to the inverter’s AC output while in the battery charger mode.  
Transfer Switching Speed  
While this inverter is not designed specifically as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system,  
its transfer time is normally fast enough to hold up most computers. The transfer time is typically  
16 milliseconds.  
Several PC magazines have run tests indicating a transfer time up to 100 milliseconds will  
normally hold up the present generation of PCs.  
When switching from inverter to charger, the inverter waits a minimum of 20 seconds to ensure  
the AC source is stable (as the generator gets up to speed).  
Battery Terminology  
Describing the battery charger’s operation requires the use of terms with which you may not be  
familiar. The following terms will be referred to in the description of the battery charger operation.  
Electrolyte: Typically a mixture of water and sulfuric acid, it is commonly referred to as  
battery acid.  
Plates: Originally made of lead, they are now made of lead oxide. Plates are the part of the  
battery that collects current and are connected to the battery terminals. There are several  
plates in each cell, each insulated from the other by separators.  
Sulphating: As a battery discharges, its plates are progressively covered with lead sulfate.  
During recharging, the lead sulfate is removed from the plates and recombines with the  
electrolyte. If the lead sulfate remains on the plates for an extended period of time (over two  
months), it hardens, and recharging will not remove it. This reduces effective plate area and  
the battery capacity is diminished.  
Stratification: Over time the batteries’ electrolyte (liquid) tends to separate. The electrolyte at  
the top of the battery becomes watery while at the bottom it becomes more acidic. This effect  
is corrosive to the plates.  
Deep Cycle: A deep cycle occurs when a battery has been discharged such that less than  
20% of its capacity remains (80% discharge).  
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Temperature Compensation: The optimum voltage is temperature dependent. As  
temperature decreases the proper voltage for each charge stage needs to be increased. The  
optional temperature probe will automatically rescale charge voltage settings for ambient  
temperature. The compensation slope based on cell voltage is -2.17 mV per degree F per  
cell.  
Charger Terminology  
Bulk Voltage: This is the maximum voltage at which the batteries will be charged during a  
normal charging cycle. The normal range is 2.367 to 2.4 volts per cell. For a 12 VDC battery  
(6 cells) this is 14.1 volts for gel cell type batteries and 14.4 volts for lead acid batteries.  
Float Voltage: This is the voltage at which the batteries will be maintained after they have  
been charged. In 12-volt systems 13.4 volts for gel cell batteries and 13.5 volts for lead acid  
batteries will be maintained by the charger.  
Absorption Stage: During this part of the charge cycle, the batteries are held at the bulk  
voltage and accept whatever current is required to maintain this voltage.  
Battery Temperature Compensation: When installed this adjusts the bulk and float voltages  
depending on the battery temperature. As battery temperature increases the voltages are  
reduced, and as temperature decreases the voltages are increased. This is highly  
recommended for sealed batteries.  
Three Stage Battery Charging  
The battery charger in standby models normally charges in three stages—bulk, absorption and  
float—to provide rapid and complete charge cycles without undue battery gassing.  
Stage One: Constant Current/Bulk Charge  
This stage is initiated when AC is applied to the AC input of the inverter.  
Stage one charges the batteries at a constant current. The level of charge for this phase is set  
using the BATTERY CHARGER RATE control on the front panel. The constant current phase is  
terminated when the batteries reach the bulk charge voltage. During this stage the Charger LED  
glows orange.  
Stage Two: Constant Voltage/Absorption  
Absorption is initiated when the Bulk Voltage setting has been reached. At this point the charge  
current begins to taper off at whatever rate is required to hold the voltage constant. During this  
stage the Charger LED blinks orange. The absorption phase is terminated in one of two ways.  
1. Normally, as the charge cycle progresses, the current required to hold the battery voltage  
constant gradually reduces. When this current equals the programmed return amps setting,  
the voltage is allowed to fall to the FLOAT (float voltage) setting—stage three.  
2. If there are DC loads on the batteries, the current may never fall to a level low enough to  
initiate the float voltage stage. A timer is used to ensure that the battery voltage does not  
remain indefinitely at the bulk charge voltage. The timing circuit terminates stage two if the  
charge current does not reach the return amps value setting within 12 hours.  
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Stage Three: Float Voltage  
The purpose of stage three is to maintain the batteries at a voltage that will hold full charge but not  
gas the batteries. The charger remains in the float stage until the AC input is removed. During this  
stage the status LED will show fast flashing green (four times per second).  
Note: When DC loads are placed on the battery, the charger will deliver currents up to the  
Maximum Charge Rate setting while maintaining the float voltage.  
Battery Charger Controls and LED  
Indicator  
A three-color LED reports on the activity of the battery charger. The optional RC7 remote allows  
custom control over the charger section of the inverter, including battery type.  
Charger LED  
The LED indicates charge status as follows:  
Solid Green: this indicates that the unit is inverting  
Slow flashing Green: Search Mode  
Solid Orange: this indicates that the charger is in the bulk-charging mode.  
Blinking Orange: this indicates that the charger is in the absorption stage.  
Fast Flashing Green (four times per second): Float charge mode  
Solid Red: Over current  
Flashing Red: An error has occurred. The number of flashes before a five-second rest  
period indicates one of the error conditions listed below.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 or more  
Consult  
Xantrex  
Low battery  
voltage  
High battery  
voltage  
Inverter  
over temp  
Charger fault  
PV controller  
fault  
Generator  
start fault  
support  
Generator Requirements  
The maximum charge rate of the battery charger is dependent upon the peak AC voltage  
available. Because this type of battery charger uses only the peak part of the input sine wave,  
small variations in peak voltage result in large variations in the amount of energy available to the  
charger. The charger’s output is rated on the basis of typical public power input, which has a peak  
voltage of approximately 164 V.  
It takes a powerful AC generator set to maintain the full 164-volt peak while delivering the current  
necessary to operate the charger at its maximum rate (typically 5 kW for 2500-watt models and  
2.5 kW for 1500-watt models). Smaller generators will have the tops of their waveform clipped  
under such loads. Running at these reduced peak voltages will not harm the charger, but it will  
limit the maximum charge rate. Large auxiliary AC loads may exacerbate this problem. See the  
appendix for specific generator types and peak voltage vs. maximum charge amps information.  
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Batteries  
Batteries come in different sizes, types, chemistries, amp hours, and voltages. There are nearly  
as many descriptions of how batteries should be used as there are people willing to offer  
explanations. It is not possible here to discuss all aspects in detail. However, there are basic  
guidelines you can follow that will help in battery selection and ensure that your batteries are well  
maintained.  
Selection of Battery Type  
Starting Batteries  
Starting batteries are not recommended for your inverter/charger. They are designed for high  
cranking power, but not deep cycling. They do not hurt the inverter, but will not last long in a deep-  
cycle application. The way they are rated should give a good indication of their intended use—  
"cold cranking amps," a measure of the amperage output that can be sustained for 30 seconds.  
Starting batteries use lots of thin plates to maximize the surface area of the battery. This allows  
very high starting current but lets the plates warp when the battery is cycled.  
Deep-Cycle Batteries  
This type of battery is best suited for use with inverter/chargers. They are designed to have the  
majority of their capacity used before being recharged. They are available in many sizes and  
types. The most common type is the non-sealed, liquid electrolyte battery. Non-sealed types have  
battery caps. The caps should be removed periodically to check the level of electrolyte. When a  
cell is low, distilled water should be added. The electrolyte level should be checked monthly and  
topped up if needed after recharging.  
Group 27 Batteries  
The most common deep-cycle battery is the type used with boats and motor homes. They typically  
are called “Group 27” batteries and are similar in size to a large truck battery. They are 12-volt  
batteries rated at 80 to 100 amp hours. Often the deep cycle claim is overstated. They do work  
better than a car battery, but are not recommended for anything but the smallest systems.  
Golf Cart Batteries  
Another popular and inexpensive battery of this type is the "golf cart" battery. It is a 6-volt battery  
rated at 220 amp hours. They can be cycled repeatedly to 80% of their capacity without being  
damaged. This is the minimum quality of battery that should be used with the RV Series inverter in  
normal applications.  
L16-type Batteries  
Some systems use the L16 type of battery. These are 6-volt batteries rated at 350 amp hours and  
are available from a number of manufacturers. They are 17 inches in height and weigh up to 130  
pounds each, which may be troublesome in RV or marine installations.  
Type 8D Batteries  
Type 8D batteries are available with either cranking or deep-cycle construction. The deep-cycle  
versions are 12-volt batteries rated at about 200 amp hours. Since they are most commonly used  
to start truck engines, you should make sure you purchase the deep-cycle version. Type 4D  
batteries are very similar in construction.  
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Sealed Gel Cell  
Another type of battery construction is the sealed gel cell. They don't use battery caps. The  
electrolyte is in the form of a gel (instead of a liquid) that allows the batteries to be mounted in any  
position without spilling. The advantages are no maintenance, long life (800 cycles claimed) and  
low self-discharge. The disadvantage is high initial cost and the possibility of damage from  
overcharging.  
While there are many manufacturers of quality non-sealed batteries, there are only a few  
manufacturers of suitable gel cells. Don’t confuse sealed batteries with maintenance-free  
batteries—the latter is typically a standard liquid electrolyte-type battery without caps for adding  
water. When the electrolyte gets low you replace the battery.  
AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are similar to gel cells and may be used in inverter  
applications.  
Battery Care and Maintenance  
If you have read the battery charger mode section of this manual, you already have a good idea of  
the stages of battery charging that combine to promote fast charging and ensure long battery life.  
Basically, there are five charger-related considerations to properly care for your batteries.  
Charge Rate: The maximum safe charge rate is related to the size and type of your batteries.  
Standard vented lead acid batteries (with battery caps) can be charged at a high rate—equal  
to their capacity. Small batteries may require a lower charge rate. Check with the battery  
manufacturer. Using the optional RC7 remote control the CHARGE RATE setting may be  
adjusted to control the charging rate as a percentage of available charger output.  
Bulk Voltage: This is the maximum voltage the batteries reach during the normal charging  
process. Gel cell batteries are charged to 14.2 volts, while non-sealed batteries are charged  
to 14.4 volts. Adjust the BATTERY TYPE setting to either gel cell or liquid lead.  
Float Voltage: The batteries experience less gassing if they are maintained at a lower  
voltage than the voltage at which they are charged. The float voltage will automatically be  
adjusted when the proper battery type has been selected.  
Temperature Compensation: Temperature affects the optimum voltage values for the bulk  
and float charging stages. The temperature probe automatically fine-tunes these voltages for  
you.  
Typical BULK and FLOAT Setpoints for Common Battery Types (12 V System)  
Battery Type  
Gel Cell (sealed)  
Bulk Volts  
14.1 volts  
14.4 volts  
Float Volts  
13.5 volts  
13.4 volts  
Lead Acid (non-sealed)  
Monthly Maintenance  
At the minimum, check the level of the electrolyte in each battery cell once a month. It should be  
above the top of the plates but not completely full. Most batteries have a plastic cup that the  
electrolyte should just touch when full. Don’t overfill the batteries or the electrolyte will spill out of  
the batteries when they are being charged. Only refill the batteries with distilled water. “Spring”  
water and regular tap water may have high levels of minerals, which can poison the battery  
chemistry and reduce battery life.  
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It is also good to check the battery interconnections for tightness and corrosion. If any corrosion is  
found, disconnect the cables and carefully clean with a mild solution of baking soda and water.  
DO NOT ALLOW THE SOLUTION TO ENTER THE BATTERY. Rinse the top of the battery with  
clean water when finished.  
To reduce the amount of corrosion on the battery terminals, coat them with a thin layer of  
petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion grease available from automotive parts stores or battery  
suppliers. Do not apply any material between the terminal and the cable lugs—the connection  
should be metal to metal. Apply the protective material after the bolts have been tightened.  
Battery Installation  
WARNING: Batteries can produce extremely high currents if they are short-circuited. Be  
very careful when working around them. Read the important safety instructions at the start  
of this manual and the battery supplier’s precautions before installing the inverter and  
batteries.  
Battery Location  
Batteries should be located in an accessible location with nothing restricting the access to the  
battery caps and terminals on the tops. At least 2 feet of clearance above is recommended. They  
must be located as close as possible to the inverter, but cannot limit the access to the inverter and  
the inverter’s over-current protection device. With the RV Series inverter, the batteries are best  
located to the left of the inverter.  
The over-current protection device must be located per code within 18” of the battery installation,  
and must be covered to prevent possibility of a short circuit.  
Battery Enclosures  
The batteries must be protected inside of a ventilated enclosure. The enclosure should be  
ventilated to the outdoors from the highest point to prevent accumulation of hydrogen gasses  
released in the battery charging process. An air intake should also be provided at a low point in  
the enclosure to allow air to enter the enclosure to promote good ventilation. For most systems, a  
1-inch diameter vent pipe from the top of the enclosure is adequate to prevent accumulation of  
hydrogen.  
Battery Temperature  
The effective capacity of a battery is reduced when cold. This phenomenon is more significant  
with lead acid-type batteries compared to alkaline types. When the internal temperature of a lead  
acid battery is 32 °F (0 °C) the capacity can be reduced by as much as 50%. This effectively  
reduces the size of the system’s “gas tank,” requiring more frequent “refueling” by the backup  
source (usually a generator). This should be considered when designing the system. If extremely  
cold temperatures are expected at the location of a system, either a heated equipment room or  
alkaline batteries should be considered.  
If the system is located in an unheated space, an insulated enclosure is highly recommended for  
the batteries. During the charging process, the batteries release heat due to the internal  
resistance of the battery. If the batteries are insulated, the heat can be kept in the batteries to  
keep them warmer. This will substantially increase the performance of the system.  
Insulated battery enclosures also ensure that the temperatures of the individual battery cells are  
more consistent, preventing unequal charging that can cause battery failure (some cells will be  
overcharged while others are undercharged).  
The batteries should also be protected from high temperature as well. This can be caused by high  
ambient temperatures, solar heating of the battery enclosure, or heat released by a closely  
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located generator. High battery temperatures will result in short battery life and should be avoided  
by ventilating the enclosure and reducing the external heat sources by shading and insulation.  
Battery Cabling  
Connect the individual batteries together to make a larger battery “bank” with heavy cables. The  
actual size of the cable depends upon whether the batteries are connected in parallel or series.  
Generally, the cables should not be smaller than the inverter cables—if the main cables are 4/0  
AWG, the battery interconnects should be 4/0 AWG.  
It is usually preferable to first connect the batteries in series and then in parallel when connecting  
smaller batteries together. The best configuration is to connect the batteries both in series and  
parallel—a configuration often called “cross-tying.” This requires additional cables but reduces  
imbalances in the battery and can improve the overall performance. Consult your battery supplier  
for more information regarding the hook-up configuration required for your system.  
Battery Sizing  
Batteries are the inverter's fuel tank. The larger the batteries, the longer the inverter can operate  
before recharging is necessary. An undersized battery bank results in reduced battery life and  
disappointing system performance.  
Batteries should not be discharged more than 50% of their capacity on a regular basis. Under  
extreme conditions cycling to a discharge level of 80% is acceptable. Totally discharging a battery  
may result in permanent damage and reduced life.  
Estimating Battery Requirements  
In order to determine the proper battery bank size, it is necessary to compute the number of amp  
hours that will be used between charging cycles. When the required amp hours are known, size  
the batteries at approximately twice this amount. Doubling the expected amp-hour usage ensures  
that the batteries will not be overly discharged and extends battery life. To compute total amp-  
hours usage, the amp-hour requirements of each appliance that is to be used are determined and  
then added together.  
You can compute your battery requirements using the nameplate rating of your appliances. The  
critical formula is WATTS = VOLTS × AMPS. Divide the wattage of your load by the battery  
voltage to determine the amperage the load will draw from the batteries.  
If the AC current is known, then the battery amperage will be:  
(AC current) × (AC voltage)  
= DC amps  
(battery voltage)  
Multiply the amperage by the number of hours the load will operate and you have, reasonably  
enough, amp hours.  
Motors are normally marked with their running current rather than their starting current. Starting  
current may be 3 to 6 times running current. Manufacturer literature may provide more accurate  
information compared to the motor nameplate. If large motors will be started, increase the battery  
size to allow for the high demand startups require.  
Follow this procedure for each item you want to use with the inverter. Add the resulting amp-hour  
requirements for each load to arrive at a total requirement. The minimum properly sized battery  
bank will be approximately double this amount. This will allow the battery to be cycled only 50% on  
a regular basis.  
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Battery Hookup Configurations  
Battery banks of substantial size are generally created by connecting several smaller batteries  
together. There are three ways to do this. Batteries can be connected in parallel, series, or series-  
parallel.  
Parallel Connection  
Batteries are connected in parallel when all the positive terminals of a group of batteries are  
connected and then, separately, all the negative terminals are connected. In a parallel  
configuration, the battery bank has the same voltage as a single battery, but an amp-hour rating  
equal to the sum of the individual batteries. This is usually only done with 12-volt battery-inverter  
systems.  
EACH BATTERY  
CAPACITY:  
TOTAL BATTERY  
BANK CAPACITY:  
+
+
+
+
+
100 AMP HOURS  
@ 12 VDC  
400 AMP HOURS  
@ 12 VDC  
12 V  
12 V  
12 V  
12 V  
12 V INVERTER  
Series Connection  
When batteries are connected with the positive terminal of one to the negative terminal of the  
next, they are connected in series. In a series configuration, the battery bank has the same amp-  
hour rating of a single battery, but an overall voltage equal to the sum of the individual batteries.  
This is common with 24-volt or higher battery-inverter systems.  
EACH BATTERY  
CAPACITY:  
TOTAL BATTERY  
BANK CAPACITY:  
+
+
+
+
+
6 V  
6 V  
6 V  
6 V  
24 V INVERTER  
200 AMP HOURS  
@ 6 VDC  
200 AMP HOURS  
@ 24 VDC  
Series-Parallel Connection  
As the name implies, both of the above techniques are used in combination. The result is an  
increase in both the voltage and the capacity of the total battery bank. This is done very often to  
make a larger, higher voltage battery bank out of several smaller, lower voltage batteries. This is  
common with all battery-inverter system voltages.  
EACH BATTERY  
CAPACITY:  
TOTAL BATTERY  
BANK CAPACITY:  
+
+
+
+
+
6 V  
6 V  
6 V  
6 V  
12 V INVERTER  
200 AMP HOURS  
@ 6 VDC  
400 AMP HOURS  
@ 12 VDC  
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Installation  
Environment  
Inverters are sophisticated electronic devices and should be treated accordingly. When selecting  
the operating environment for the inverter, don’t think of it in the same terms as other equipment  
that works with it, such as batteries, diesel generators, motor generators, washing machines, and  
so on. It is a highly complex microprocessor-controlled device, similar in nature to stereo  
equipment, television sets or computers. The use of conformal-coated circuit boards, plated  
copper bus bars, powder coated metal components, and stainless steel fasteners improves  
tolerance to hostile environments. However, in a condensing environment (one in which humidity  
and/or temperature change causes water to form on components) all the ingredients for  
electrolysis are present—water, electricity and metals. In a condensing environment the life  
expectancy of the inverter is indeterminate and the warranty is voided.  
Caution: It is in your best interests to install the inverter in a dry, protected location away  
from sources of high temperature and moisture. Exposure to salt water is particularly  
destructive and potentially hazardous.  
Locate the inverter as close to the batteries as possible in order to keep the battery cables short.  
However, do not locate the inverter in the same compartment as the batteries. Batteries generate  
hydrogen sulfide gas, which is very corrosive to electronics equipment—and everything else. They  
also generate hydrogen and oxygen. If allowed to accumulate, this mixture could be ignited by an  
arc caused by the connecting of battery cables or the switching of a relay. Mounting the inverter in  
a ventilated enclosure with sealed batteries is acceptable.  
Do not mount the inverter in a closed container. To operate at high power for sustained periods of  
time, unrestricted airflow is required. Without it, the protection circuitry will activate and reduce the  
maximum power available, or cause complete shutdown of the inverter.  
UL specification 458 (land vehicle installations) requires that the inverter be mounted on a  
flat surface (on a shelf). The purpose of this requirement is to orient the inverter so that its  
bottom cover has no holes that would allow burning material to be ejected in the event of an  
internal fire.  
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AC Wiring  
Overview  
The National Electrical Code (NEC) defines the standards for AC and DC installation wiring in RV  
applications, but there are still many installation variables. Most are determined by the level of  
automatic switching desired and the amount of external AC power to be switched.  
AC Connections  
Installation should be done by a qualified electrician. Consult local code for the proper  
wire sizes, connectors and conduit.  
The AC and DC terminals are located on the same end of the chassis as the status LED and  
power switch. A six station terminal block is provided to make the AC connections. The terminal  
block is used to hardwire the AC input and AC output. All terminals are labeled on the inverter.  
Consult your local code for proper wire sizes, connectors, conduit, and so on. The table below  
gives suggestions for wire sizing. Code requires that an external disconnect switch be used in the  
AC input wiring circuit. The AC breakers in a sub panel will meet this requirement.  
Step 1 Disconnect the inverter from the battery.  
Step 2 Feed the wires through the Romex connectors on the right side of the inverter’s case.  
Romex strain reliefs can be replaced with conduit fittings. See page 27.  
Step 3 Following the wiring guide located in the AC wiring compartment and page 27, connect the  
hot (black) and neutral (white) wires to the terminal block and tighten securely. The safety  
(green) wire is connected to the external ground screw terminal.  
Step 4 Replace the cover using the two 6-32 screws and lock washers to secure it.  
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED AC WIRE SIZES  
MODEL  
RV2012  
RV2512  
RV3012  
120 VAC Input  
10 gauge  
8 gauge  
AC Output  
12 gauge  
10 gauge  
10 gauge  
8 gauge  
Important Precautions  
The output side of the inverter’s AC wiring should at no time be connected to public power or a  
generator. This condition is far worse than a short circuit. If the unit survives this condition, it will  
shut down until corrections are made.  
Installation should ensure that the inverter’s AC output is, at no time, connected to its AC input.  
Also the AC input neutral must be isolated from the AC output neutral connections.  
Review the installation diagrams included before you start making connections.  
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Ground Fault Interrupting Outlets (GFIs)  
Xantrex has tested the following GFIs and found them to work satisfactorily with our inverters:  
LEVITON  
6599  
PASS & SEYMOUR  
ACE Hardware  
1591RI 4A957  
ACE 33238  
DC Wiring  
Safety Instructions  
THIS INVERTER IS NOT REVERSE POLARITY PROTECTED. If the positive terminal of the  
battery is connected to the negative terminal of the inverter the probable result is failure of every  
power FET. To compound your misfortune, this type of failure is very obvious, and is not covered  
under the warranty. So, pay close attention and double-check when making the battery  
connections.  
The inverter’s maximum peak current requirements are high. If battery cables are too small and/or  
connections are loose, efficiency and maximum output power are degraded. Small cables or  
loose connections can also cause dangerous overheating of the wire and/or terminals.  
Make the battery cables as large and as short as possible. Tape the battery cables together. This  
reduces the inductance of the wire, resulting in a better waveform and less current in the inverter’s  
filter capacitors.  
Code your battery cables with colored tape or heat-shrink tubing.  
Cable ends must have crimped and/or soldered copper ring terminals.  
DC Over-Current Protection  
In order to comply with the UL 458 safety standard (Land Vehicle installations) a UL approved  
form of battery over-current protection is required. These installation parts are not supplied by  
Xantrex. Standard-type DC fuses or circuit breakers may be obtained from your dealer, electrical  
supply houses or:  
Xantrex offers a DC rated fuse and holder designed specifically for the RV Series inverters. This  
fuse holder is available in a 200, 300, 350 and 400-amp sizes (refer to the table on page 26 of this  
more information.  
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Connection of Grounding and Battery Systems  
The following diagram outlines proper connections for the RV Series inverter/chargers. Several  
points of caution are:  
DO NOT connect the battery negative (-) terminal to the vehicle chassis ground.  
DO NOT connect the DC load negative to the battery negative (-). Connect only to the chassis  
ground terminal on the inverter or to the vehicle chassis.  
Vehicle chassis  
ground (green)  
+
G
RV Series  
Inverter  
Internal shunt connection  
Vehicle chassis  
+
Optional  
+
Battery  
DC Load  
Distribution Panel  
Connect DC loads to Vehicle  
Chassis or optionally to the  
Inverter’s Vehicle Chassis Ground  
Terminal (Green). Do not connect  
DC loads to battery negative (-)  
Do NOT connect battery  
negative to vehicle chassis  
or vehicle chassis ground.  
Terminal connection to  
chassis ground is made  
inside the inverter.  
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Stacking Inverters  
Precautions  
Only stack the same models of the RV inverter. For example, stack an RV2012 only with an  
RV2012.  
Use only a Xantrex stacker cable, available in RV Series External Shunt Kit (part #2813). It is  
not a standard telephone cable.  
Connect AC neutrals together close to the inverters. Keep input and output neutrals isolated.  
Connect the inverter’s battery negative terminals together according to this manual.  
Make all AC and DC connections and verify that they are made in accordance with this  
manual. Make sure that all connections are tight (especially the DC side). Connect the stacker  
cable to each inverter’s stacking port.  
Each inverter must be turned on individually before AC power will be available.  
DC Connections for Stacked Inverters  
Connection with One DC Over-Current Device: When stacking two RV units with one DC  
disconnect device, connect the units and battery as follows: Connect the negative terminals of the  
inverters together, and then attach one of the negatives to the battery. Next connect the positive  
terminals of the inverters together, and attach one to the battery. Place the DC over-current  
device in the positive line between the inverter and the battery. (See the following diagram for  
proper connection)  
+
RV Series  
DC over-current  
protection  
Inverter  
+
Stacker cable  
Battery  
+
RV Series  
Inverter  
Connection with Two DC Over-Current Devices: If individual over-current devices are to be  
used between the battery positive and each inverter, connect the stacked system as follows:  
Connect the negative terminals of the inverters together and connect each negative terminal to  
the battery also. Connect each positive terminal of the inverter to the battery through a DC  
disconnect in each positive line. Do not tie the positives together between inverters. (See the  
following diagram for proper connection)  
Once the inverters are connected to the battery as described above, connect the Xantrex stacker  
cable between stacker ports.  
DC over-current  
protection  
+
RV Series  
Inverter  
+
Stacker cable  
Battery  
+
RV Series  
Inverter  
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AC Wiring for Stacked Inverters  
Due to the neutral ground switching design of the RV Series Inverter/charger, it is mandatory that  
the AC input and AC output neutrals be isolated from one another. In a stacked pair configuration,  
connect the two AC input neutrals together then the two AC output neutrals and then attach each  
pair to isolated neutral locations.  
Operation  
The power switch of one unit turns both inverters on and off—this unit becomes the “master.” The  
other unit is the “slave” and will follow the master throughout its modes of operation. Whichever  
unit is turned on first becomes the master inverter.  
For example, the inverters will both charge when AC line power is available to the master unit.  
This will take place after the generator spin-up delay of 20 seconds (minimum) has passed and  
the inverter has synchronized to the generator’s output. Accordingly, both units will transfer back  
to inverter mode when the master unit senses a loss of AC input power.  
The only situation in which the slave may shut down the master inverter is during fault conditions  
such as high/low battery, over-current, or over-temperature conditions. Both inverters will auto  
reset after a fault condition has been cleared. The exception is that an over-current condition will  
generate a shutdown for both inverters that will require a manual restart of the system.  
NOTE: The RV series inverters, unlike the “U series,” are series stacking, meaning the outputs  
are connected in series providing 120/240 VAC output with twice the power at 240 VAC. The RV  
inverters cannot be paralleled for twice the power at 120 VAC.  
Theory of Operation  
The inverter is designed to accept power input from single-phase, 3-wire 120/240 VAC system,  
120 volts to each inverter. The HOT IN terminal of each inverter accepts one leg of 120 volts each  
and the NEUTRAL IN terminals of both inverters are tied together and connected to the power  
source neutral leg.  
Any AC loads being powered while AC input is present to the inverters will be in addition to the  
power being drawn for battery charging. Each unit of the pair can provide full pass-through current  
of 50 amps for 120-volt systems.  
When AC input power is lost, the units switch from charger to inverter mode. Once this switch is  
made 120 VAC is available from each individual inverter, or 240 VAC is available across the HOT  
OUT terminals of the stacked pair.  
Stacked inverters will typically support about twice the surge power of one stand-alone unit. For  
example, an RV3012 stacked pair will surge about 9000 watts of incandescent lights at 240 VAC.  
Keep in mind that typical incandescent light bulbs require about five times normal run current at  
startup.  
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Search Sense Mode Operation with Stacked Pairs  
When two RV inverters are stacked the search control on the master unit will determine how  
much load must be present to “wake-up” both inverters. As a result, loads that will be used to  
bring the inverters out of search mode must be wired to the master unit’s 120 VAC output or  
across both units’ 240 VAC output. See “Search Sense Mode Using Optional RC7 Remote” on  
page 5 for operation of the search sense mode control.  
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RC6 Remote Control  
The optional RC6 remote control unit duplicates the Power On/Off Switch on the RV Series  
Inverter/charger. It connects directly to the port labeled REMOTE CONTROL on the front of the  
inverter using a standard phone jack. You are recommended to use the included Xantrex remote  
cable because of its high quality cable and connectors.  
RC6 Front Panel  
The front panel of the RC6 monitors the inverter’s output and shows the status of several different  
modes of the inverter. The bar graph on the far left shows battery voltage from 10.5–15 volts. The  
bar graph in the middle of the panel indicates DC amps in either the inverter or charger modes  
and will automatically switch between them as the RV Series Inverter changes modes. The four  
error lights on the lower right of this graph use the bottom four LEDs to indicate four different error  
conditions: High Battery, Low Battery, Over Temp, and Over Load. One of these four lights will  
blink when an error condition occurs. The Bulk Charge and Float Charge lights will blink slowly to  
indicate the inverter is in either the bulk or float stage of the charging process.  
In order for the inverter to recognize the RC6, the unit must be turned off and then on with the  
RC6 connected.  
Installation  
Using the faceplate as a template, drill 1/16-inch holes for the mounting screws. The cutout for the  
RC6 should be 4-1/8” wide by 4-3/16” high by at least 15/16” deep. Next route the cable through  
the faceplate, then to the inverter. The last step is to attach the switch to the faceplate by pressing  
it into place. Plug the RC6’s cable into the port labeled REMOTE CONTROL on the inverter, turn  
the inverter off and then on and the pair will be ready for service.  
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RC7 Remote Control  
The optional RC7 remote control has the ability to communicate and adjust settings in the RV  
Series Inverter/Chargers.  
Installation  
To hook up the RC7 Remote Control:  
1. Connect the included phone cable between the port labeled REMOTE CONTROL on the  
front panel of the inverter and the RC7 before DC and AC power are applied to the inverter. It  
is recommended that the supplied cable be used instead of standard phone cable due to its  
higher quality cable and connectors.  
2. Connect DC power to the inverter.  
3. Do not connect AC power or turn the inverter power switch on until the RC7 display reads  
“Waiting for AC.” Once the display reads “Waiting for AC,” the RC7 power ON/OFF switch  
may be pressed or user settings changed.  
If the remote must be connected after DC power is connected to the inverter, turn the inverter  
power switch to OFF and disconnect AC shorepower. The inverter will recognize that the remote  
is connected only if it is not inverting, charging, or in search mode.  
The RC7 displays its information on an LCD screen and has multiple modes. A menu tree is  
provided in this manual to help navigate the RC7’s many features. The RC7 is the only way to  
change the set points of the inverter. Once the desired changes have been made, the RC7 may  
be unplugged and these changes will be retained, even if the inverter is completely powered  
down. When the RC7 is connected to the inverter the inverter’s status LED still operates normally.  
Programming the RC7  
During programming, the inverter may be in the power-off mode, inverting, charging, or in search  
mode. The only requirements are that the power switch position must not change during  
programming (if off, leave it off, or if on, leave it on.) and the mode must not change for 20  
seconds after programming is complete. If the unit is charging, inverting, in sleep mode, (“Waiting  
for AC”) or in search mode, it must remain in these modes for the 20-second period in order to  
“remember” the user settings. Note: an inverter in search mode will automatically go into inverter  
mode when the Settings button is pressed so that it can save the user settings. After the settings  
have been saved the inverter will return to the search mode if the search sensitivity threshold is  
adjusted to cause the unit to remain in search mode.  
To program the RC7, the Setup buttons must be depressed simultaneously for five seconds. The  
RC7 will then beep, and be ready to accept any setting changes. The setup values are stored in a  
nonvolatile memory chip in the inverter itself. The values are stored whenever the Settings button  
is pressed to change them. If the remote is programmed from search mode, the inverter will  
switch into inverter mode for about 20 seconds, long enough to save the current setup values  
after which it will switch back into search mode.  
Once programming is complete, depress and hold the Setup switches simultaneously for five  
seconds to exit the programming mode. At this point the remote control has programmed the  
inverter, and all new values will be completely saved 20 seconds after the last press of the  
Settings button.  
The new settings will now be saved in the nonvolatile memory in the inverter and will be available  
upon the next power up either with or without the RC7 remote control connected.  
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User Menu  
The ON/OFF switch on the RC7 operates the same as the inverter’s ON/OFF switch. In order for  
the RC7 to remotely power up the inverter, the inverter must be started up with the RC7  
connected so the inverter knows it is present. Once this has been done the inverter’s power  
switch should be left in the on position and the RC7 used to turn it on and off. When pressed to  
turn on, the RC7 will beep and go through a power-up routine, after which it will go to the User  
Menu. In this mode the display will show the inverter’s status and monitor batteries. Pressing the  
Menu Item buttons will scroll the display vertically, and the Settings button will cycle the display  
left to the next item in the menu tree.  
Inverter LED:  
Flashing= Search Mode  
Solid= Inverting  
Charge LED:  
Solid when charging  
System Status:  
Waiting for AC  
Battery Full LED:  
Begins flashing at 90%  
full, and stays on longer  
as charge increases. At  
100% charge LED is on  
steady  
Error LED:  
Solid= Error condition.  
See display for  
explanation of the error  
RC7 Remote Control Faceplate  
The system status mode is the first mode you will see. It monitors and displays all of the inverter’s  
activities—it shows what the inverter is “thinking.” The following indications will be shown under  
the System Status heading.  
Waiting for AC: This shows that the inverter is waiting for an AC input. Once AC is present the  
inverter will switch to charger mode and begin charging the batteries.  
Searching: The inverter is in search sense mode and is “looking” for loads to run. Inverter LED  
will flash.  
Inverting: Shows that the inverter is taking power from the batteries and inverting it to 120 VAC,  
60 Hz power. This will also be shown on the LED labeled inverter as a solid green light  
Bulk Charging/Absorption Chg/Float Charging: These indicators show the charger section is  
working and define which of the three stages of charge the charger is in. See “Three Stage  
Battery Charging” on page 7 for details. The charge LED to the left of the LCD display will be on  
solid when the inverter is in the charger mode.  
Hibat/Stop Chrg: The batteries’ voltage is too high and the charger has shut down. The Batt.  
Full LED will begin to flash when the batteries reach 90% of their maximum charge capacity. As  
the batteries continue to charge toward 100% the LED will stay on longer and longer until, at  
100% charge, it will remain on steadily. Once the batteries reach 100% charge the charger will go  
into the float mode.  
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Lobat/Start Chrg: The batteries have reached their minimum allowable charge and the charger  
will now take over and begin recharging them if AC power is present to the inverter. If no AC  
power is present then the automatic Low Battery Cut-Off (auto LBCO) will take over to protect the  
batteries from over discharge and to protect the AC loads from unregulated power (brown-out  
conditions).  
Otemp/Less Load: The inverter’s internal temperatures are too high and the loads need to be  
reduced. The inverter will automatically reset after the internal temperature has dropped to a safe  
level. If the loads are still too great the inverter may heat up and fault again. This will go on  
indefinitely until the problem is remedied. This may be caused by installation in a poorly ventilated  
area, but usually it is the result of trying to power too many loads at one time.  
Oload/Less Load: The loads that are being driven by the inverter are more than it can handle.  
The loads must be reduced and then the inverter will automatically attempt a reset.  
Bat State of Chg: This menu shows the state of charge of the storage batteries as either a  
percentage of full or in an “E------F” gas gauge format.  
Time Left To Run: Displays the calculated approximate time in hours and tenths of hours that are  
left in the storage batteries. This time is based on the usage of the system during the past “X”  
minutes, and is updated constantly.  
Time Left To Charge: Displays the calculated approximate time in hours and tenths of hours that  
are remaining in the charging process.  
Meters Menu  
Six meters are available on the RC7. These meters may be accessed from any point in the  
display by pressing and holding the right Menu Item button for five seconds. The Menu Item  
buttons are then used to scroll through the different meters. Solar Panel DC Amps, Battery  
Voltage DC, DC current, AC Input Volts AC and Volts Peak, AC Output, and Pass-thru Amps  
are all available to accurately monitor both AC and DC sides of the system.  
To exit the Meters menu, press and hold the right Menu Item button for five seconds, and the  
RC7 will return to the User Menu.  
Setup Menu  
The Setup menu allows the different settings in the inverter to be altered. The RC7 is the only way  
that the inverter’s set points may be changed. The Setup menu is accessed by pressing and  
holding both Menu Item buttons for five seconds. Once in the Setup menu use the Menu Item  
buttons to move about vertically and use the Settings button to move left in the menu tree. The  
Setup menu has the following categories:  
Search Sense: The search sense is the sensitivity or the minimum load needed to “wake up” the  
inverter. See “Search Sense Mode Using Optional RC7 Remote” on page 5. This setting is given  
in increments starting at Defeat up to the >40 W setting. Defeat will disable the search sense  
mode and the inverter will always sit at full voltage ready to power a load.  
Auto LBCO: Or automatic low battery cut-off mode. This mode is set either on or off. In the on  
position the inverter will automatically disconnect from the battery if battery voltage drops below a  
set point of 10.5 volts. The inverter status LED and user menu display will show the error  
condition. This protects the batteries from over-discharge and the AC loads from unregulated  
power (brown out). In order to restart the system the batteries will need recharging from an  
outside source. The Auto LBCO defeat (off position) is meant only as a means of emergency  
24  
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operation with the remaining power in the battery. In the off position the battery voltage will drop to  
roughly 8–8.5 volts DC before the inverter will shut down.  
Bat Capacity: This mode allows the user to input the battery bank size in amp hours. This custom  
tailors the charger’s decision-making as to what charge rate to use. See the section on batteries  
for more information. See the RC7 Menu Map on page 34 for all available settings. An “Auto”  
setting is provided which automatically determines the optimum charge rate for the battery bank  
capacity. The RC7 will require several charge/discharge cycles to optimize this parameter. The  
“Auto” setting is the default.  
Battery Type: Sets the type of batteries being used in the system. Either gel cell or liquid lead  
acid may be selected. See the section on batteries for more information on battery types and  
charging methods. If you have questions about a specific battery type or don’t know what type of  
batteries you have consult the battery manufacturer or a dealer.  
Charge Rate: Menu allows the user to set the charger’s output as a percentage of its maximum  
capability. This limits the amount of current that the charger may draw, leaving that current  
available to power loads. This setting is available so that small battery banks will not be charged  
at too high a charge rate.  
VAC Dropout: Sets the minimum voltage that may be present before the unit switches from  
charger to inverter mode. It is adjustable from 40 to 105 VAC. For example: The VAC dropout  
default is set at 40 volts AC. When the AC input voltage drops to 40 volts, the inverter will switch  
from charge mode to inverter mode. This protects AC loads from utility outages.  
Shore Pwr Amps: This mode adjusts the maximum power that may be drawn through the  
shorepower cord. This is a safety feature since the inverter may be capable of drawing more  
power through the shore cord than the cord is rated for. Care should be taken when choosing this  
setting since a shorepower setting that is too low will cause a shutdown if the loads exceed the  
shorepower limit. The RV series is not designed to add power from the batteries to make up for  
the low shorepower capacity. The unit can either invert or pass AC power but cannot mix the  
inverted power with the shorepower.  
RC7 Setup: Allows adjustment of the RC7’s display. Three modes are available. The Last Key  
mode leaves the screen on the RC7 where it was when last used. Power Saver mode turns the  
RC7 off after five minutes with no key press, conserving energy. Selecting the Rolling Display  
mode causes the display to cycle through the user menu one item at a time for an indefinite period  
until a key is pressed.  
LCD Contrast: This menu allows adjustment of the LCD display’s contrast.  
Two Fuel Gauges: This menu allows selection of two fuel gauges when two RV series units are  
working together. The selections in the menu also allow the user to select which RC7 remote  
control will be the master fuel gauge display if two RC7s are being used. The default is one fuel  
gauge only.  
Fuel Gauge Cutout: Selects the voltage scale on which the RC7 will base the empty and full  
reading of the fuel gauge. For example: the default setting of 9.5 VDC = 0% SOC (State of  
Charge) will cause the RC7 to register an empty indication when the battery voltage drops to 9.5  
VDC.  
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Battery Cable Connection  
Observe Battery Polarity! Place the ring terminal over the bolt and directly against the inverter’s  
battery terminal, place a lock washer over the terminal and tighten the 5/16” nut to 10–15 ft./lbs.  
Do not place the lock washer under the cable terminal.  
Note: Connecting the battery cables to the inverter battery terminals will cause an arc, usually  
accompanied by a “snap”. This is normal—don’t let it scare you.  
Never disconnect the battery cables while the inverter is delivering power or the battery charger is  
operating. Keep in mind that the on/off switch on the RV does not turn off the charger section, it  
only turns of the inverter. To disconnect the batteries for service, follow these steps: (1) Turn the  
power switch OFF, (2) disconnect all AC inputs, and (3) disconnect the battery cables.  
Battery Cable Sizing  
The bigger the battery cables, the better. Undersized cables result in additional stress on the  
inverter, lower efficiency, reduced surge power, and lower peak output voltage. Don’t use cables  
that are too small in diameter and degrade the RV Series Inverter/Charger’s efficiency. The  
following table gives recommended cable sizes for various cable run lengths and inverter  
voltages.  
Minimum Recommended Battery Cable Size (In Free Air)  
Cable length  
Model  
Typical  
Amps  
200 amps  
250 amps  
300 amps  
Minimum  
Fuse Size  
250 A  
Under 5 ft 5 to 10 ft 10 to 20 ft  
RV2012  
RV2512  
RV3012  
00  
0000  
0000  
0000  
0000  
----  
300 A  
400 A  
0000  
0000  
----  
The National Electric Code requires that the cables be protected by a fuse or breaker rated to  
match the cables’ ampacity at 75 °C.  
Cable Size  
Rating in Conduit  
Rating in Free Air  
2 AWG cable 115 amps maximum 170 amps maximum  
00 AWG  
0000 AWG  
175 amps maximum 265 amps maximum  
250 amps maximum 360 amps maximum  
The National Electrical Code (NEC) allows rounding up to the next fuse size from the cable rating.  
For example, a 150-amp cable size rounds up to a 175-amp fuse size.  
WARNING! Battery cables that are very small will melt and burn the first time the inverter is  
asked to produce high power.  
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Installation with External Transfer Relay (120/240  
System)  
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Mobile Installation  
IN  
RV  
Inverter  
OUT  
BAT  
+
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Troubleshooting Guide  
Symptoms  
No power output and no  
warning LEDs  
Problem  
Battery voltage at the inverter’s  
terminals is too high or low  
Remedy  
Check the battery voltage, fuses  
or breakers and cable  
connections  
No power output and  
LED indicator is flashing  
No power output and  
warning LEDs “ON”  
Load too small for Search Mode  
circuit to detect  
Reduce search threshold setting  
or defeat search mode  
High or Low battery LED “ON”  
Check the battery voltage at  
the inverter’s terminals  
Remove loads from the  
inverter and restart  
Remove loads and let  
inverter cool down before  
restarting  
Overload LED is “ON”  
High temp LED is “ON”  
Power output is low and  
inverter turns loads on  
and off  
Low battery  
Check condition of batteries  
and recharge if possible  
Loose or corroded battery  
connections  
Loose AC output connections  
Check and clean all  
connections  
Check all AC output  
connections  
Inverter clicks every 20  
seconds  
Output of inverter wired back to its  
own input  
Check for proper AC input and  
output wiring  
Charger is inoperative or  
Overload LED is “ON”  
AC input voltage does not  
match inverter spec  
Check AC input for proper  
voltage and frequency of  
your model  
Charger controls improperly  
set  
Refer to owner’s manual for  
proper setting  
Overload LED “ON”  
while charging  
Charger circuit may be damaged  
Have inverter serviced  
Low charge rate  
Low peak AC input  
voltage(164 volts peak  
required for full charger output)  
Use larger generator, speed  
up generator, check AC  
input wiring size, adjust  
charge rate, cable too small  
or too long  
AC current output of generator  
too small to handle load  
Reduce charge amps  
setting or reduce pass-  
through loads  
Low AC output voltage  
Low surge power  
Measuring with the wrong type  
voltmeter (displays 80–100 VAC)  
Weak batteries, battery cables too  
small or too long  
Voltmeter must be a true RMS  
reading meter (most are not)  
Refer to cable and battery  
recommendations in owner’s  
manual  
AC Lights flicker while  
charging  
Generator is unstable—charger is  
losing synchronization  
Turn battery charger rate down  
until problem is gone  
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Applications  
Resistive Loads  
These are the loads that the inverter finds the simplest and most efficient to drive. Voltage and  
current are in phase, or, in this case, in step with one another. Resistive loads usually generate  
heat in order to accomplish their tasks. Toasters, coffee pots and incandescent lights are typical  
resistive loads. Larger resistive loads—such as electric stoves and water heaters—are usually  
impractical to run off an inverter. Even if the inverter could accommodate the load, the size of  
battery bank required would be impractical.  
Inductive Loads  
Any device that has a coil of wire in it probably has an inductive load characteristic. Most  
electronics have transformers (TVs and stereos, for example) and are therefore inductive.  
Typically, the most inductive loads are motors. The most difficult load for the inverter to drive will  
be the largest motor you manage to start. With inductive loads, the rise in voltage applied to the  
load is not accompanied by a simultaneous rise in current. The current is delayed. The length of  
the delay is a measure of inductance. The current makes up for its slow start by continuing to flow  
after the inverter stops delivering a voltage signal. How the inverter handles current that is  
delivered to it while it is essentially “turned off” affects its efficiency and “friendliness” with  
inductive loads. The best place for this out-of-phase current is in the load, and the RV Series  
Inverter/charger’s “impulse phase correction” circuitry routes it there.  
Inductive loads, by their nature, require more current to operate than a resistive load of the same  
wattage rating, regardless of whether power is being supplied by an inverter, a generator or grid.  
Induction motors (motors without brushes) require two to six times their running current on  
startup. The most demanding are those that start under load, such as compressors and pumps.  
Of the capacitor start motors, typical in drill presses and band saws, the largest you may expect to  
run is ½ to 1 hp. Universal motors are generally easier to start. Since motor characteristics vary,  
only testing will determine if a specific load can be started and how long it can be run.  
If a motor fails to start within a few seconds, or it begins to lose power after running for a time, it  
should be turned off. When the inverter attempts to start a load that is greater than it can handle, it  
will turn itself off after about 10 seconds.  
Problem Loads  
Xantrex inverters can drive nearly every type of load. However, there are special situations in  
which inverters may behave differently than public power.  
Very small loads: If the power consumed by a device is less than the threshold of the search  
mode circuitry, it will not run. See “Search Sense Mode Using Optional RC7 Remote“ on page 5  
for ways to solve this problem.  
Fluorescent lights & power supplies: Some devices when scanned by the load sensor cannot  
be detected. Small fluorescent lights are the most common example. (Try altering the plug  
polarity—turn the plug over). Some computers and sophisticated electronics have power supplies  
that do not present a load until line voltage is available. When this occurs, each unit waits for the  
other to begin. To drive these loads either a small companion load must be used to bring the  
inverter out of its search mode, or the inverter may be programmed to remain at full output  
voltage. See the sections on Search Sense Mode on pages 5 and 20.  
Microwave ovens: Microwave ovens are sensitive to peak output voltage. The higher the  
voltage, the faster they cook. Inverter peak output voltage is dependent on battery voltage and  
load size. The high power demanded by a full-sized microwave will drop the peak voltage several  
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volts due to internal losses. Therefore, the time needed to cook food will be increased if battery  
voltage is low.  
Clocks: The inverter’s crystal-controlled oscillator keeps the frequency accurate to within a few  
seconds a day. However, external loads in the system may alter the inverter’s output waveform,  
causing clocks to run at different speeds. This may result in periods during which clocks keep  
time and then mysteriously do not. Most clocks do not draw enough power to trigger the load-  
sensing circuit. In order to operate without other loads present, the load sensing will have to be  
defeated. (See the sections on Search Sense Mode on pages 5 and 20.) Clock accuracy is also  
affected by the accuracy of the generator.  
Searching: If the amount of power a load draws decreases after it turns on, and if this “on” load is  
less than the load sensing threshold, it will be turned alternately on and off by the inverter.  
Dimmer Switches: Most dimmer switches lose their ability to dim the lights and operate either  
fully on or off.  
Rechargeable Devices: Sears “First Alert” flashlights fail when charged by the inverter. Skil  
rechargeable products are questionable. Makita products work well. When first using a  
rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for 10 minutes to ensure that it does not become  
abnormally hot. That will be your indicator that it should not be used with the inverter.  
Laser Printers: While many laser products are presently operating from Xantrex inverters, and  
we have personally run a Texas Instruments Microlaser and HP IIP, we have had reports of an HP  
III and a Macintosh Laser Writer failing under inverter power. We, therefore, do not recommend  
the use of laser printers.  
Electronics: AM radios will pick up noise, especially on the lower half of their band. Inexpensive  
tape recorders are likely to pick up a buzz. Large loads should not be started while a computer is  
operating off the inverter. If a load is large enough to require “soft starting” it will “crash” the  
computer, causing it to reboot.  
Low Battery Dropout: The inverter will turn off to protect itself if your battery bank cannot deliver  
the necessary amperage to drive a particular load without falling below the low voltage protection  
point for three seconds. With the inverter off, the battery voltage will rise and then it will resume  
operation.  
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Typical Battery Draw of Common Appliances  
TIME IN MINUTES  
APPLIANCE  
WATTS  
5
15  
30  
60  
120 240  
Single PL Light  
B & W TV  
Computer  
Color TV  
Blender  
10  
50  
.1  
.4  
1
.3  
1
.7  
2
1.3  
4
2.7  
8
5.3  
17  
100  
200  
400  
800  
1000  
1200  
1800  
2
4
8
17  
34  
67  
34  
2
4
8
17  
34  
67  
93  
114  
176  
67  
3
8
17  
34  
46  
57  
88  
133  
Skil Saw  
6
17  
23  
28  
44  
133 266  
185 370  
227 455  
353 706  
Toaster  
8
Microwave  
Hot Plate  
10  
15  
AMP HOURS  
If the current draw at 120 VAC is known, then the battery amperage at 12 VDC will be 10 times  
the AC amperage divided by the efficiency (90% in this table).  
Motors are normally marked with their running rather than their starting current. Starting current  
can be five times running current.  
Refrigerators and ice makers typically run about one-third of the time. Therefore, their average  
battery current draw is 1/3 of what their amp rating would indicate.  
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English to Metric Wire Conversion  
AGW  
DIAMETER  
(mm)  
AREA (mm²)  
DC  
Resistance /  
1000 ft  
1.628  
2.052  
2.588  
3.264  
4.115  
5.189  
6.543  
7.348  
8.525  
9.266  
10.404  
11.684  
2.082  
3.308  
3.14  
14  
12  
10  
8
1.98  
1.24  
5.261  
8.367  
0.778  
0.491  
0.308  
0.194  
0.154  
0.122  
0.0967  
0.0766  
0.0608  
13.299  
21.147  
33.624  
42.406  
53.482  
67.433  
85.014  
107.219  
6
4
2
1
0
00  
000  
0000  
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RC7 Menu Map  
Setup Menu  
To ENTER and EXIT the Setup menu press both the Menu Item buttons for five seconds.  
Search Sense:  
..40 W  
Search Sense:  
Defeat  
Search Sense:  
About..5 W load  
Search Sense:  
..10 W  
Search Sense:  
..20 W  
Search Sense:  
..30 W  
Search Sense:  
..>40 W  
Auto LBCO:  
Off  
Auto LBCO:  
On  
Bat Capacity:  
Auto  
Bat Capacity:  
125 Ah  
Bat Capacity:  
250 Ah  
Bat Capacity:  
375 Ah  
Bat Capacity:  
500 Ah  
Bat Capacity:  
1000 Ah  
Battery Type:  
Gel Cell  
Battery Type:  
Liquid Lead  
Charge Rate:  
100%  
Charge Rate:  
70%  
Charge Rate:  
40%  
Charge Rate:  
30%  
Charge Rate:  
20%  
Charge Rate:  
10%  
Charge Rate:  
90%  
Charge Rate:  
80%  
Charge Rate:  
60%  
Charge Rate:  
50%  
VAC Dropout:  
40 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
85 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
105 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
80 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
90 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
95 VAC  
VAC Dropout:  
100 VAC  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
25 a  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
15 a  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
10 a  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
5 a  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
30 a  
Shore Pwr Amps:  
20 a  
RC7 Setup:  
Last Key  
RC7 Setup:  
Power Saver  
RC7 Setup:  
Rolling Display  
LCD Contrast:  
Min Contrast  
LCD Contrast:  
Max Contrast  
LCD Contrast:  
87%  
LCD Contrast:  
62%  
LCD Contrast:  
50%  
LCD Contrast:  
37%  
LCD Contrast:  
25%  
LCD Contrast:  
12%  
External Shunt:  
None  
External Shunt:  
This Inverter  
External Shunt:  
Other Inverter  
Fuel Gauge Cutout:  
9.5 VDC=0% SOC  
Fuel Gauge Cutout:  
11.8 VDC=0% SOC  
Fuel Gauge Cutout: Fuel Gauge Cutout: Fuel Gauge Cutout: Fuel Gauge Cutout: Fuel Gauge Cutout: Fuel Gauge Cutout:  
10.3 VDC=0% SOC 10.8 VDC=0% SOC 11.1 VDC=0% SOC 11.4 VDC=0% SOC 11.6 VDC=0% SOC 11.7 VDC=0% SOC  
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User Menu  
The following is the information normally available to the system users.  
System Status:  
Waiting for AC  
System Status:  
Searching  
System Status:  
Inverting  
System Status:  
Bulk Charging  
System Status:  
Absorption Chg  
System Status:  
Float Charging  
System Status:  
System Status:  
System Status:  
System Status:  
Hibat/Stop Chrg Lobat/Start Chrg Otemp/Less Load Oload/Less Load  
Bat State of Chg: Bat State of Chg:  
0 % of Full  
E
F
Time Left to Run  
0.0 Hours  
Time Left to Chg:  
0.0 Hours  
Use the Menu Item buttons to move up and down vertically  
Use the SET POINT buttons to move left horizontally  
Values in left-most column are the DEFAULT values at startup  
Meters Menu To ENTER and EXIT the METERS MENU press the right Menu Item button for five seconds  
Solar Panel:  
0 amps DC  
Battery:  
12.6 volts DC  
DC Current:  
0 amps DC  
AC Input:  
0 VAC 0 Vpk  
AC Output:  
0 VAC  
Pass-thru Amps:  
0 amps AC  
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Technical Information  
RV Series Specifications  
Models  
RV2012  
RV2512  
RV3012  
Continuous Power @ 25°C  
Max AC Current  
2000 watts  
16.6 amps  
2500 watts  
20.8 amps  
3000 watts  
25 amps  
Efficiency  
94% Maximum  
94% Maximum  
94% Maximum  
Input Current  
Search Mode  
Full Voltage  
At Rated Power  
0.055 amps  
0.550 amps  
200 amps  
0.070 amps  
0.600 amps  
250 amps  
0.080 amps  
0.650 amps  
300 amps  
Short Circuit  
600 amps  
800 amps  
900 amps  
Nominal Input Voltage  
Input Voltage Range  
Auto Low Battery Protection  
Voltage Regulation—  
Maximum  
12 VDC  
12 VDC  
12 VDC  
10.2–15.5 VDC  
11 V or defeated  
±5%  
10.2–15.5 VDC  
11 V or defeated  
±5%  
10.2–15.5 VDC  
11 V or defeated  
±5%  
Voltage Regulation—Typical  
Output Waveform  
Power Factor allowed  
Frequency Regulation  
Standard Output Voltage  
Adjustable Load Sensing  
±2.5%  
Modified sine  
-1 to +1  
60Hz ± .04%  
120 VAC  
5 to 40 watts  
±2.5%  
Modified sine  
-1 to +1  
60Hz ± .04%  
120 VAC  
5 to 40 watts  
yes  
±2.5%  
Modified sine  
-1 to +1  
60Hz ± .04%  
120 VAC  
5 to 40 watts  
Yes  
Series Operation for 240 VAC yes  
Forced Air Cooling  
Variable Speed  
Variable Speed  
Variable Speed  
Automatic Transfer Relay  
Adjustable Charge Rate  
Number of Charging Profiles  
Three-Stage Charging  
Temperature Comp Probe  
Remote Control  
30 amps at 240 VAC or 50 amps at 120 VAC (field configurable)  
10–100 amps  
2 (lead acid, sealed)  
Yes  
10–120 amps  
2 (lead acid, sealed)  
Yes  
10–140 amps  
2 (lead acid, sealed)  
Yes  
Optional  
Optional  
Optional  
Optional: RC6, RC7,  
RC7GS  
Optional: RC6, RC7,  
RC7GS  
Optional: RC6, RC7,  
RC7GS  
Environmental Characteristics  
Operating Ambient Temp  
Non-operating Temp  
Unit Weight (lbs./kg)  
Dimensions (L × W × H)  
Mounting  
0°C to +50°C  
-55°C to +75°C  
45/20.5  
15.5” ×13.12” × 7.25”  
Shelf mount only  
0°C to +50°C  
-55°C to +75°C  
50/22.7  
15.5” ×13.12” × 7.25”  
Shelf mount only  
0°C to +50°C  
-55°C to +75°C  
60/27.2  
15.5” ×13.12” × 7.25”  
Shelf mount only  
Approvals  
UL and cUL Listed to UL458 and CSA107.1  
36  
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Limited Warranty  
What does this warranty cover? This Limited Warranty is provided by Xantrex Technology, Inc. ("Xantrex") and covers  
defects in workmanship and materials in your Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger. This warranty lasts for a Warranty  
Period of 30 months from the date of purchase at point of sale to you, the original end user customer.  
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners but only for the unexpired portion of the Warranty Period.  
What will Xantrex do? Xantrex will, at its option, repair or replace the defective product free of charge, provided that you  
notify Xantrex of the product defect within the Warranty Period, and provided that Xantrex through inspection establishes  
the existence of such a defect and that it is covered by this Limited Warranty.  
Xantrex will, at its option, use new and/or reconditioned parts in performing warranty repair and building replacement  
products. Xantrex reserves the right to use parts or products of original or improved design in the repair or replacement. If  
Xantrex repairs or replaces a product, its warranty continues for the remaining portion of the original Warranty Period or  
90 days from the date of the return shipment to the customer, whichever is greater. All replaced products and all parts  
removed from repaired products become the property of Xantrex.  
Xantrex covers both parts and labor necessary to repair the product, and return shipment to the customer via a Xantrex-  
selected non-expedited surface freight within the contiguous United States and Canada. Alaska and Hawaii are excluded.  
Contact Xantrex Customer Service for details on freight policy for return shipments outside of the contiguous United  
States and Canada.  
How do you get service? If your product requires troubleshooting or warranty service, contact your merchant. If you are  
unable to contact your merchant, or the merchant is unable to provide service, contact Xantrex directly at:  
Phone: 1-800-670-0707 (toll free) 1-604-422-2777 (direct)  
Fax: 1-604-420-2145  
Direct returns may be performed according to the Xantrex Return Material Authorization Policy described in your product  
manual. For some products, Xantrex maintains a network of regional Authorized Service Centers. Call Xantrex or check  
our Web site to see if your product can be repaired at one of these facilities.  
In any warranty claim, dated proof of purchase must accompany the product and the product must not have been  
disassembled or modified without prior written authorization by Xantrex.  
Proof of purchase may be in any one of the following forms:  
The dated purchase receipt from the original purchase of the product at point of sale to the end user, or  
The dated dealer invoice or purchase receipt showing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) status, or  
The dated invoice or purchase receipt showing the product exchanged under warranty  
What does this warranty not cover? This Limited Warranty does not cover normal wear and tear of the product or costs  
related to the removal, installation, or troubleshooting of the customer's electrical systems. This warranty does not apply  
to and Xantrex will not be responsible for any defect in or damage to:  
a) the product if it has been misused, neglected, improperly installed, physically damaged or altered, either  
internally or externally, or damaged from improper use or use in an unsuitable environment;  
b) the product if it has been subjected to fire, water, generalized corrosion, biological infestations, or input voltage  
that creates operating conditions beyond the maximum or minimum limits listed in the Xantrex product  
specifications including high input voltage from generators and lightning strikes;  
c) the product if repairs have been done to it other than by Xantrex or its authorized service centers (hereafter  
"ASCs");  
d) the product if it is used as a component part of a product expressly warranted by another manufacturer;  
e) the product if its original identification (trademark, serial number) markings have been defaced, altered, or  
removed.  
Disclaimer  
Product  
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY XANTREX IN CONNECTION  
WITH YOUR XANTREX PRODUCT AND IS, WHERE PERMITTED BY LAW, IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,  
CONDITIONS, GUARANTEES, REPRESENTATIONS, OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,  
STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PRODUCT, HOWEVER ARISING (WHETHER BY  
CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, PRINCIPLES OF MANUFACTURER'S LIABILITY, OPERATION OF LAW,  
CONDUCT, STATEMENT OR OTHERWISE), INCLUDING WITHOUT RESTRICTION ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR  
37  
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Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger Owner’s Manual  
CONDITION OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ANY IMPLIED  
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED  
UNDER APPLICABLE LAW TO APPLY TO THE PRODUCT SHALL BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE PERIOD  
STIPULATED UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.  
IN NO EVENT WILL XANTREX BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR  
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSSES, COSTS OR EXPENSES HOWEVER ARISING WHETHER IN CONTRACT  
OR TORT INCLUDING WITHOUT RESTRICTION ANY ECONOMIC LOSSES OF ANY KIND, ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE  
TO PROPERTY, ANY PERSONAL INJURY, ANY DAMAGE OR INJURY ARISING FROM OR AS A RESULT OF  
MISUSE OR ABUSE, OR THE INCORRECT INSTALLATION, INTEGRATION OR OPERATION OF THE PRODUCT.  
Exclusions  
If this product is a consumer product, federal law does not allow an exclusion of implied warranties. To the extent you are  
entitled to implied warranties under federal law, to the extent permitted by applicable law they are limited to the duration  
of this Limited Warranty. Some states and provinces do not allow limitations or exclusions on implied warranties or on the  
duration of an implied warranty or on the limitation or exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above  
limitation(s) or exclusion(s) may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have  
other rights that may vary from state to state or province to province.  
Warning: Limitations On Use  
Please refer to your product user manual for limitations on uses of the product. Specifically, please note that the Xantrex  
RV Series Inverter/Charger is not intended for use in connection with life support systems and Xantrex makes no  
warranty or representation in connection with any use of the product for such purposes.  
Please note that the Xantrex RV Series Inverter/Charger is not intended for use as an uninterruptible power supply and  
Xantrex makes no warranty or representation in connection with any use of the product for such purposes.  
Return Material Authorization Policy  
Before returning a product directly to Xantrex you must obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and the  
correct factory "Ship To" address. Products must also be shipped prepaid. Product shipments will be refused and  
returned at your expense if they are unauthorized, returned without an RMA number clearly marked on the outside of the  
shipping box, if they are shipped collect, or if they are shipped to the wrong location.  
When you contact Xantrex to obtain service, please have your instruction manual ready for reference and be prepared to  
supply:  
The serial number of your product  
Information about the installation and use of the unit  
Information about the failure and/or reason for the return  
A copy of your dated proof of purchase  
Return Procedure  
1. Package the unit safely, preferably using the original box and packing materials. Please ensure that your product is  
shipped fully insured in the original packaging or equivalent. This warranty will not apply where the product is  
damaged due to improper packaging.  
2. Include the following:  
The RMA number supplied by Xantrex Technology Inc clearly marked on the outside of the box.  
A return address where the unit can be shipped. Post office boxes are not acceptable.  
A contact telephone number where you can be reached during work hours  
A brief description of the problem  
3. Ship the unit prepaid to the address provided by your Xantrex customer service representative.  
If you are returning a product from outside of the USA or Canada  
In addition to the above, you MUST include return freight funds and are fully responsible for all documents, duties, tariffs,  
and deposits.  
If you are returning a product to a Xantrex Authorized Service Center (ASC)  
A Xantrex return material authorization (RMA) number is not required. However, you must contact the ASC prior to  
returning the product or presenting the unit to verify any return procedures that may apply to that particular facility.  
38  
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Xantrex Technology Inc.  
Toll free 1 800 670 0707  
Direct 1 604 422 2777  
Fax 1 604 420 2145  
445-0202-01-01 Rev. 2  
Printed in the U.S.A.  
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