9 FAQs for New Phocos PSW Series Inverters

Our new PSW Series pure sine wave inverters convert DC energy to AC power to operate standard household appliances. Let’s review some of the common questions:

1. What appliances can be operated?
It is ideal for sensitive electronics and appliances that require pure sine wave power to operate properly: TVs, computers, digital clocks, various battery chargers, audio equipment, lamps and inductive loads, e.g. brushless motors. PSW Series inverters are used in cabins, homes, RVs, boats, cars and for various industrial loads.

2. Why use pure sine wave technology?
Pure sine wave technology provides the clean power needed for sensitive electronics. Our PSW Series inverters have less than 3% total harmonic distortion – cleaner than many public utility grids and gensets. In addition, the PSW Series has 90% or higher typical efficiency and low self-consumption (less than 12W when completely on and less than 2.4W in green mode for our 1000W model). Green mode improves appliance efficiency and maximizes the life of the products being powered.

3. Does it include a USB port?
Yes. There is an integrated 2.1A USB port for charging smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices.

4. What are the status displays?
Tri-color indicators display output-load level and failure status.

5. Does it meet international voltage and frequency standards?
Yes. 110 VAC and 230 VAC versions are available. Frequency is selected by DIP switch to 50 or 60 Hz. A universal AC socket works in most regions of the world.

6. What are the rated power and DC voltage options?
PSW inverters are available in 500W, 700W, 1000W, 2000W and 3000W models. 500W and 700W models are available in 12/24VDC versions. 1000W, 2000W and 3000W models are available in 12/24/48VDC versions.

7. Are inverters dangerous high-voltage devices?
No. PSW Series inverters have fully isolated input and output for increased safety and reliability. This full galvanic isolation ensures that touching either the neutral or live wire (not both at the same time) of the inverter’s AC side is safe. This is not the case in most household electrical systems that do not have a residual current device (RCD) installed. RCDs can be used with the PSW inverters to further improve safety, even without one it is safer than most public utility grids. The battery side is inherently safe for people since voltages are below the safety extra low voltage (SELV) limit. Other safety features include input under voltage/over voltage protection and output short-circuit/overload/overtemperature protection.

8. Should inverters be avoided because of high self-consumption that increases system costs?
First, understand the inverter’s self-consumption and efficiency. Phocos PSW Series inverters offer high conversion efficiency of 90% or more. The low self-consumption and ultra-low green mode consumption mean the utility of an inverter can be experienced without sacrificing overall system efficiency. Second, understand your options for AC and DC appliances with an off-grid system. Adding a PSW Series inverter allows you to run AC appliances you already own. If purchasing is required, AC equipment might be easier to find, cheaper to buy and has more options. For equipment that runs often (lighting, fridges, etc.), DC appliances are generally preferred with a solar application because they are efficient. However, they can be more challenging to find, have less options, and cost more. The addition of a PSW inverter allows for flexibility to use either type of appliance.

9. Why use Phocos?
With our 20 years in the industry, you can depend on our expertise, German quality standards and testing. We offer strong customer support. Our friendly staff is on hand to support the proper use of our products.

Contact us or click here for more on Phocos PSW Series product information