Principles of Operation

High-Voltage Converter/Inverter

Principles of Operation

DC/AC Inverter and AC Power Point

The 110 volts AC created by the inverter will measure differently than a conventional AC outlet (utility-generated) with some multi-meters. The power point will automatically shut off if the load exceeds 150 watts in order to prevent damage to the inverter or load. The inverter supplies 110 volts AC power only when the ignition is ON. If the ignition is on, but the engine is not running, the DC/AC inverter will automatically shut off after 13 minutes. The inverter can be powered back on and the timer reset by cycling the ignition from RUN to OFF and back to RUN, but only for another 13 minutes. This feature is intended to prevent the 12-volt battery from being fully discharged. If the engine is running, the inverter operation will not be time-limited.

The DC/AC inverter time-out is controlled by a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) circuit. The BCM transmits the engine running status over the network to the DC/AC inverter. Once the DC/AC inverter stops receiving information that indicates that the engine is running, it will begin counting the amount of time that the engine has not been running. If, after 13 minutes, the DC/AC inverter still has not received information that indicates that the engine is running, the DC/AC inverter will time out and stop supplying voltage to the AC power point. The LIN is also used by the electrochromatic mirror, but the mirror is receiving compass information, not engine running status.

The AC power point is equipped with a green LED that indicates the system status. The green LED is illuminated continuously when the key is ON and the system is operating normally. When the inverter shuts off after 13 minutes, the LED will flash until the key is cycled. Additionally, the green LED flashes constantly if the key is ON and a fault is detected. Short circuits, overloads or overheating of the inverter will cause the green LED to flash and the power to be cut off to the outlet. If the LED is flashing, the problem must be corrected (short circuit or excessive load). If the inverter is overheated, it must be allowed time to cool off (without the load connected). Refer to the Owner's Literature for a list of appropriate electrical loads/devices that can be used.