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OWNER’S MANUAL
Pro-800W WATT
POWER INVERTER
THE WHISTLER GROUP, INC
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
3604 N.W. Frontage Rd.
Bentonville, AR 72712
TEL (479) 273-6012 FAX (479) 273-2927
CUSTOMER RETURN CENTER
551 N. 13th St.
Rogers, AR 72756
Customer Service Tel (800) 531-0004
Email: [email protected]
P/N 401515
© 2010 The Whistler Group, Inc.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHISTLER FEATURES
A Word About WHISTLER Inverters.
Topic
Page
Features Summary......................................................................3
Important Information................................................................6
Whistler inverters convert low voltage, direct current (DC)
to 110 volt alternating household current (AC). The AC
output is called “modified sine wave”. See “Technical
Operating Principles” section for more information.
Depending on the model and its rated capacity, Whistler
inverters draw power either from standard 12 volt automobile
and marine batteries or from portable high power 12 volt
sources.
Inverter Basics ...................................................................... 7 - 9
• Getting Started
• Don’t Push It
Operation ..........................................................................10 - 15
• Making the Connection
• Tips
• Recharging Equipment
• Changing the Fuse
• Power Source
Additional & Safety Features...........................................13 - 14
• Auto Shut Down
• Thermal Cut Off
• Low Battery Protection
Care & Maintenance.........................................................18 - 19
Technical Operating Principles........................................20 - 21
Operation Summary .........................................................22 - 23
Troubleshooting................................................................24 - 26
Specifications............................................................................27
Warranty Information........................................................28 - 30
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WHISTLER FEATURES
WHISTLER FEATURES
1. Two 110 AC Outlets
4. USB Power Port
5. Cooling Fan
2. On/Off Switch
Turns the unit On/Off.
6. Power Input Terminal (Negative)
(Observe proper polarity)
3. On/Shutdown Indicator Light
7. Power Input Terminal (Positive)
(Observe proper polarity)
The LED will illuminate GREEN when the inverter is
powered in normal conditions. This light will turn RED
and the inverter will automatically shut down (except
low voltage alarm) when any of the following
problems occur:
Note:
In the event of an automatic shut down or continuous
audible alarm, turn the inverter OFF (O) until the source of
the related problem has been determined and resolved.
• Short Circuit Protection. The inverter will shut
down until the short is removed.
• Low Voltage Alarm. An alarm will sound when the
voltage from the battery discharges to 10.5+/-0.5
volts DC. This is an indication that the battery needs
to be recharged.
• Over Voltage Protection. The inverter will turn itself
off when the input exceeds 15.5+/-0.5 volts DC.
• Under Voltage Protection. The inverter will turn
itself off when the input is less than 10.0+/-0.5
volts DC.
• Overload Protection. The inverter will turn itself off
when the continuous draw or the surge draw of the
equipment being operated exceeds the maximum
power rating for the inverter.
• Thermal Protection. The inverter will turn itself off
when the internal temperature exceeds safe design
parameters.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION
INVERTER BASICS
Important Information About Your New Whistler Inverter.
This manual will provide you with directions for the safe and
efficient operation of your Whistler Inverter. Read the
manual carefully before using your new Whistler inverter
and keep the manual on file for future reference.
Getting Started
Power equipment and appliances which operate with motors
or tubes require an initial surge of power to get them up and
running. This power surge is referred to as the "starting load"
or "peak load." (By comparison, electrical devices such as
standard light bulbs do not require a large starting load).
Once the equipment or appliance has been powered up, it
settles down to a slower pace and requires far less electrical
power to operate. This lower power requirement is referred
to as the "continuous load."
Notes:
Your Whistler inverter is designed to operate from a 12 volt
power source only. Never attempt to connect your Whistler
inverter to any other power source, including any AC power
source.
In order to ensure that the capacity of your Whistler inverter
is sufficient to meet the required start up load, you must first
determine the power consumption of the equipment or
appliance you plan to operate.
•
The length of the supplied cables is matched for the
current needed by the inverter. Making this cable
longer will make the inverter less efficient and may
cause the cables to heat up.
Power consumption is rated either in wattage or amperes,
and information regarding the required "watts" or "amps"
generally is stamped or printed on most appliances and
equipment. If this information is not indicated on the
appliance or equipment, check the owner’s manual. Contact
the appliance or equipment manufacturer to determine
if the device you are using (TV’s, battery charger,
computer, etc.) is compatible with a modified sine wave.
•
•
Do not attempt to lengthen the supplied power
cables.
110 volts can be lethal. Improper use of your Whistler
inverter may result in property damage, personal injury
or loss of life.
•
Do not connect the inverter’s output to any other power
source.
If the power consumption is rated in amps, multiply the
number of amps by 110 (AC voltage) to determine the
comparable wattage rating. Induction motors, as well as
some televisions, may require 2 to 6 times their wattage rating
to start up.
•
Not recommended for use with medical equipment.
Check with the appliance manufacturer for
compatibility with modified sine wave inverters.
Some appliances may not work well, not at all or be
damaged. For more information on compatibility issues,
please visit our inverter FAQ page at
For further information on the fundamental operating
principles of Whistler inverters and related technical data,
see "Technical Operating Principles."
www.whistlergroup.com.
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INVERTER BASICS
INVERTER BASICS
Don’t Push It.
If a piece of equipment or an appliance will not operate, first
confirm that the inverter has been properly connected to
the 12 volt power source (See "Making The Connection"). If
all connections have been properly made, turn the inverter
rocker switch ON (l), OFF (O) and ON (l) again in quick
succession. If this procedure is unsuccessful, it is likely that
the inverter does not have the required start up capacity to
operate the equipment or appliance in question.
Although your Whistler inverter has the capacity to provide
power output (excess current) equal to approximately two
times its rated wattage capacity for a very brief period, it is
designed to operate equipment and appliances with start
up load wattage ratings no higher than its own maximum
continuous wattage rating.
For example, the Pro-800W model has a maximum
continuous rating of 800 watts. Although this model has the
capacity to briefly provide more than its continuous power
(that is, excess current), it is designed to operate equipment
and appliances with start up load requirements of 800 watts
or less.
Note:
•
Most heat generating appliances require start up
loads in excess of 1000 watts and the inverter will not
operate such appliances as coffee makers, irons, hair
dryers or heaters.
•
•
The inverter’s USB Port does not support data
communications.
Consequently, if the start up load rating of your equipment
or appliance slightly higher than the maximum continuous
rating of the inverter, the inverter will attempt to start loads
above the continuous rating.
USB power is always on and independent of the
inverter’s on/off switch.
To determine whether your inverter will operate a particular
piece of equipment or appliance, run a test. The inverter is
designed to shut down automatically in the event of a
power overload. Testing appliances and equipment with
start up load ratings comparable to your inverter wattage
rating will not damage the inverter.
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OPERATION
OPERATION
Making the Connection.
Note:
This inverter is designed to connect to your 12 volt battery
by the supplied #8 AWG gauge cables.
•
•
Loose connections can result in a severe decrease in
voltage which may cause damage to the wires and
insulation.
Failure to make proper connection between the
inverter and the power source will result in reverse
polarity. Reverse polarity will blow the internal fuses
in the inverter and may cause permanent damage to
the inverter. Damage caused by reverse polarity is
not covered under the Whistler warranty.
Making the connection between the Positive (+)
terminals may cause a spark as a result of current
flowing to the capacitors in the inverter. This is a
normal occurrence. Due to the potential for
1. Make certain that the inverter’s rocker switch is in the
OFF (O) position.
2. Connect the cables to the power input terminals at
the rear of the inverter and tighten the screws to make
a secure connection. Do not use tools to tighten
these screws.
•
3. Connect the cable from the (BLACK) Negative (-)
terminal on the inverter to the Negative (-) terminal on
the 12 volt power source.
connection is secure.
Make certain the
sparking, however, it is extremely important that both
the inverter and the 12 volt battery be well removed
from any possible source of flammable fumes or
4. Confirm that the cable you have just installed is
properly connected. Specifically, make certain that
the cable is connected to the Negative (-) terminals on
both the inverter and the 12 volt power source.
5. Connect the cable from the (RED) Positive (+) terminal
on the inverter to the Positive (+) terminal on the
power source.
gases.
Failure to heed this warning could result in fire or
explosion.
6. For safe and proper operation of the inverter when
not using the supplied cables, connect the inverter
to the power source with the proper gauge wire
available and in the shortest length practical. When
the inverter and the battery are set up within four feet of
each other, use a minimum of #8 gauge wire to make
the connections. Within four to six feet, use #6 gauge
wire. At distances between six feet to ten feet, use #4
gauge wires connected to the battery.
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OPERATION
OPERATION
7. Run a ground from the Ground Lug Terminal at the
rear of the inverter to a proper grounding point using
the shortest practical length of 18 AWG wire.
Selection of the grounding point will depend on
where you are using the inverter. The ground wire may
be connected to the chassis of your vehicle or to the
grounding system in your boat or to the earth* if you
are operating the inverter in a remote location. Before
connecting to the ground, make certain that the
inverter is turned off.
Note:
•
The audible alarm may make a momentary “chirp”
when the inverter is turned OFF (O). The same alarm
may also sound when the inverter is being connected
to or disconnected from the 12 volt power source.
The use of an extension cord from the inverter to the
appliance or equipment being operated will decrease
the power being delivered to the load. For best
operating results, the extension cord should be no
more than 50 feet long.
•
•
Check frequently to ensure that the input and output
connections are secure. Loose connections may damage
the inverter, the power source, or may generate
excessive heat.
Operating the inverter without properly grounding it
may result in electric shock.
* This ground can’t be the same ground as the AC
ground.
8. Confirm that the equipment or appliance to be operated
is turned off. Plug the equipment or appliance into one of
the AC receptacles on the front panel of the inverter.
9. Turn the inverter to the ON (I) position. Turn on the
equipment or appliance.
10. Plug the USB powered device into the inverter’s USB
power port.
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OPERATION
OPERATION
Important Information on Battery Chargers
The Power Source.
When the engine is off, most batteries will provide ample
power to the inverter for one to two hours. The actual
length of time is a function of several variables including
the age and condition of the battery and the power
demand being placed on it by the equipment being
operated with the inverter.
Using your inverter with battery chargers for power tools,
flashlights, video cameras and laptop computers may
cause damage to the inverter or the charging unit. Check
with the appliance manufacturer for compatibility with
modified sine wave inverters if you’re unsure.
Although we advise against it, if you attempt to use a
charging unit, monitor the temperature of the charging
unit for approximately 10 minutes. If the charging unit
becomes unusually warm, disconnect it from the inverter
immediately.
If you are using the inverter while the engine is off, we
recommend you start the engine every hour and let it run
for at least 10 minutes to recharge the battery. We also
recommend that the device plugged into the inverter be
turned off before turning over the engine.
Don’t Blow A Fuse.
Although it is not necessary to disconnect the inverter
when turning over the engine, the inverter may
momentarily cease operation as the battery voltage
decreases. When the inverter is not supplying power, and
is turned on, it draws very low (<0.80 A).
This inverter is equipped with internal spade type fuses.
With reasonable care, it should not be necessary to
replace the fuse(s) in your inverter.
Most blown fuses are the result of reverse polarity or a
short circuit within the appliance or equipment being
operated. If the fuse(s) does blow, turn off and disconnect
the appliance or equipment from the inverter immediately,
repair the related problem and replace the fuse(s). The
internal fuses are replaceable, however only electronic
knowledgeable people should attempt fuse replacement.
Note:
•
Make certain to correct the source of the overload
which caused the blown fuse before turning your
inverter back ON (l).
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ADDITIONAL FEATURES
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Automatic Shut Down & Related Safety Features.
In the event of automatic shut down or continuous
audible alarm, turn the inverter rocker switch to the OFF
(O) position until the source of the related problem has
been identified and resolved.
Each Whistler inverter model has an unique LED Indicator
warning light system which operates in conjunction with
the automatic shut down feature. These indicator lights
operate as follows:
Wall Mounting:
GREEN LED:
RED LED:
System ready.
The Pro-800W has provisions for wall mounting;
slotted holes allow for easy wall mounting of the unit.
System overload/automatic shut down.
Your inverter will shut down automatically when any of the
following problems occur:
For You Television Fans and Audiophiles.
Although the inverter is shielded and filtered to minimize
signal interference, some interference with your television
picture may be unavoidable, especially with weak signals.
However, here are some suggestions that may improve
the reception.
1. First, make certain that the television antenna pro
duces a clear signal under normal operation
conditions (i.e., at home plugged into a standard
110AC wall outlet). Also, ensure that the antenna
cable is properly shielded and of good quality
2. Change the relative positions of the inverter, antenna
cables and television power cord.
1. The power input from the battery drops below
10 volts.
2. The power input from the battery exceeds 15.5+/-0.5
volts.
3. The continuous draw of the appliance or equipment
being operated exceeds the design parameters of the
inverter.
The inverter is equipped with the following additional safety
features:
1. Thermal Cut Off
Automatic shut down if internal temperature exceeds safe
design parameters.
3. Isolate the television, its power cord and antenna
cables and television power cord.
4. Coil the television power cord and the input cables
running from the 12 volt power source to the inverter.
2. Low Battery Voltage Alarm/Shutdown Protection
a) When the input voltage from the 12 volt power
source drops below 10.5 volts, an audible tone will
be heard. This is the low battery voltage alarm.
b) The inverter will automatically shut down when the
input voltage drops below 10 volts. This protects the
battery from completely draining.
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CARE AND MAINTENANCE
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
•
•
VENTILATION. In order to disperse the heat generated
while the inverter is in operation, keep it well
ventilated. While in use, maintain several inches of
clearance around the top and sides of the inverter.
Note: Inexpensive sound systems may emit a
“buzzing” sound when operated with the inverter.
This is due to inadequate filters in the sound system.
There is no solution to this problem short of purchasing a
sound system with a higher quality power supply.
FUMES & GASES. Avoid using the inverter near
flammable materials. Do not place the inverter in
areas such as battery compartments, where fumes or
gases may accumulate.
Some Powerful Advice.
When driving with the inverter in operation, make certain that
neither the inverter nor the power cords will impede safe
operation of your vehicle. Keep the unit and all cords clear of
the steering wheel, gas, brake and clutch pedals and gear
shift.
To maintain your inverter in proper working condition, note
the following important safety precautions:
•
MOISTURE. Keep the inverter dry. Do not expose it to
moisture. Do not operate the inverter if you, the inverter,
the device being operated or any other surfaces that
may come in contact with any power sources are wet.
Water and many other liquids can conduct electricity
which may lead to serious injury or death.
•
HEAT. For peak efficiency, the ambient air temperature
should be between 50° and 80° F. Avoid placing the
inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or other
sources of heat. Do not place the inverter in direct
sunlight.
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OPERATING PRINCIPLES
OPERATING PRINCIPLES
For You Technical Types.
Consequently, these meters will not read the RMS modified
sine wave voltage correctly and, when measuring your
Whistler inverter output, the meters will read about 20 to 30
volts too low. To accurately measure the output voltage of
your inverter, use a true RMS reading voltmeter such as a
Fluke 87, Fluke 8060A, Beckman 4410, Triplett 4200 or any
multimeter identified as "True RMS."
1. Basic Operating Principles:
Whistler inverters work in two stages. During the first stage,
the DC to DC converter increases the DC input voltage from
the power source (e.g. a 12 volt battery) to 145 volts DC. In
the second stage, the high voltage DC is converted to 110
volts (60 Hz AC) using advanced power MOSFET transistors in
a full bridge configuration. The result is excellent overload
capability and the capacity to operate difficult reactive loads.
The output waveform resulting from these conversions is a
"quasi-sine wave" or a "modified sine wave" as shown below
For more information on inverters see our Inverter FAQ
This stepped waveform is similar to the power generated by
utilities and has a broad range of applications.
A true sine wave typical of home AC outlet.
The modified sine wave produced by the inverter
The modified sine wave produced by your Whistler inverter
has a root mean square (RMS) voltage of 110 volts. The
majority of AC voltmeters measure RMS voltage and assume
that the measured waveform will be a pure sine wave.
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OPERATION SUMMARY
OPERATION SUMMARY
•
•
Before attempting to use medical equipment see page 6.
In Review.
When operating the inverter with the engine off, start the
engine every hour and let it run for at least 10 minutes to
recharge the battery.
•
Never attempt to operate your Whistler inverter from
any power source other than a 12 volt battery or series
of batteries that total 12 volts.
•
•
In the event of automatic shut down, turn the inverter OFF
(O) immediately. Do not restart the inverter until the
source of the problem has been identified and corrected.
•
This inverter is designed to be connected to the power
source with the supplied cables or larger cables that
properly match the distance from the battery. When
utilizing the supplied cables, do not attempt to modify
or lengthen them.
To avoid battery drain, always disconnect the inverter
when not in use.
•
Always make certain that the power cable terminal
connections Negative (-) to Negative (-) and Positive (+)
to Positive (+). Check these connections frequently to
ensure that they are secure.
•
•
Do not expose the inverter to moisture.
Avoid placing the inverter near sources of heat or in
direct sunlight.
•
•
•
When in use, make certain that the inverter is properly
ventilated.
•
•
Make certain the rated power consumption of the
appliance or equipment you wish to operate is
compatible with the capacity of your inverter.
Do not use the inverter near flammable materials,
fumes, or gases.
If the rated power consumption of the equipment is in the
range of the maximum specified wattage of your
converter, test the inverter to ensure that it will operate
properly.
Always operate the inverter in accordance with the
instructions in this manual. Failure to do so may result
in property damage, personal injury, or loss of life.
•
•
This inverter is not designed to operate heat generating
appliances such as coffee makers, irons, hair dryers,
toasters and heaters.
Before attempting to use a battery charger see page 14.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM: TV Interference
Solution
PROBLEM: Low Battery Alarm On All The Time
Problem
Solution
Problem
Input voltage below
10.5 volts.
Keep input voltage above
10.5 volts to maintain
regulation.
Electrical interference from
inverter.
Add a Ferrite data line filter
on to the TV power cord.
This filter is available at
electronic part stores.
Poor or weak battery
condition.
Replace battery.
Inadequate power being
delivered to the inverter
or excessive voltage drop.
Use lower gauge wire.
PROBLEM: Low or No Output Voltage
Problem
Solution
Red LED On
Problem
Equipment has a high
start up surge.
Solution
Using incorrect type of
voltmeter to test output
voltage.
Use true RMS reading
meter.
See "For You Technical
Types" Section of this
manual.
Turn inverter power switch
OFF (O) and then ON (l)
again until the inverter
powers your appliance.
Repeat as necessary
to get your appliance
"started".
Battery voltage below
10 volts.
Recharge or replace
battery.
Equipment being operated Use a higher capacity
draws too much power.
inverter.
Inverter is too hot (thermal
shutdown mode).
Allow inverter to cool.
Check for adequate
ventilation. Reduce the
load on the inverter to
rated continuous power
output.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
SPECIFICATIONS
PROBLEM: TV Does Not Work
Pro-800W WATT INVERTER SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Continuous Power .....................800 Watts
Maximum Surge Capability (Peak Power)1600 Watts*
No Load Current Draw......................................<0.9 A
Waveform ....................................Modified Sine Wave
Operating Input Voltage Range11 – 15.5+/-0.5 Volts
AC Receptacle........... Dual North American 3 Prong
Fuses ......................(3) 35 Amp (Spade Type-Internal)
USB..................................................5 Volt 500mA Max
Approximate Dimensions.........10" L x 5.75" W x 3" H
Approximate Weight .......................................2.42 lbs
Problem
TV does not turn on.
Solution
Try rocking the ON/OFF
switch of the inverter while
leaving the TV ON
(see page 9).
Contact TV manufacturer
for start-up surge and/or to
find out if TV is compatible
with a modified sine wave.
A larger inverter may be
required.
*Under certain conditions your inverter may provide up to
2 times the continuous rating for a brief period.
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WARRANTY
WARRANTY
Consumer Warranty
IMPORTANT: Whistler will not assume responsibility for loss
or damage incurred in shipping. Therefore, please ship your
inverter insured with return receipt requested.
This Whistler inverter is warranted to the original purchaser
for a period of two years from the date of original purchase
against all defects in materials and workmanship. This
limited warranty is void if the unit is abused, modified,
installed improperly, had its housing removed, or has a
missing serial number. There are no express warranties
covering this product other than those set forth in this
warranty. All express or implied warranties for this product
are limited to two years. Whistler is not liable for damages
arising from the use, misuse, or operation of this product.
2. Include the following clearly printed information:
• Your name and street address (for shipping via UPS),
a daytime telephone number, (No P.O. Box please) and an
email address (if applicable).
• A detailed description of the problem, i.e. Unit powers up but
no AC output.
• A copy of your dated store receipt or bill of sale.
Service Under Warranty
During the warranty period, defective units will be repaired
or replaced (with the same or a comparable model), at
Whistler’s option, without charge to the purchaser when
returned with a dated store receipt to the address below.
Inverters returned without a dated store receipt will be
handled as described in section “Service Out Of Warranty.”
3. Be certain your inverter is returned with its serial number. For
reference, please write your unit’s serial number in the following
space: s/n __________________.
Inverters without serial numbers are not covered under warranty.
IMPORTANT: To validate that your inverter is within the
warranty period, make sure you keep a copy of your
dated store receipt! You may register your warranty
warranty verification purposes, a copy of your dated
store receipt must accompany any unit sent in for
warranty work.
When returning a unit for service, please follow these
instructions:
1. Ship the inverter in the original carton or in a suitable
sturdy equivalent, fully insured, with return receipt
requested, and shipping charges prepaid to:
Whistler Repair Dept.
551 N. 13th St.
Rogers, AR. 72756
Please allow 3 weeks for return.
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WARRANTY
Service Out Of Warranty
Inverters will be repaired at “out of warranty” service rates
when:
• The unit’s original warranty has expired.
• A dated store receipt is not supplied.
• The unit has been returned without its serial number.
• The unit has been abused, modified, installed
improperly, or had its housing removed.
The out of warranty service fee for your 800 watt Whistler
inverter is $45.00 (U.S.). If you require out of warranty
service, please return your inverter as outlined in the
section “Service Under Warranty” along with a certified
check or money order for the correct amount. Payment
may also be made by MasterCard, VISA or American
Express; personal checks are not accepted. In the event
repairs cannot be covered by the service fee, you will be
contacted by a Whistler technical service specialist who
will outline options available to you. If you elect not to
have your inverter repaired/replaced, it will be returned to
you along with your certified check or money order.
IMPORTANT: When returning your inverter for service, be
certain to include a daytime telephone number and email
address (if applicable).
Customer Service
If you have questions concerning the operation of your
Whistler inverter, or require service during or after the
warranty period, please call Customer Service at
1-800-531-0004. Representatives are available to answer your
questions Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CT).
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