Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Power Control System: Description and Operation

HIGH-VOLTAGE CONVERTER/INVERTER

DC/AC Inverter and AC Power Point
The DC/AC inverter converts 12 volts DC to 110 volts AC to power a device that uses AC current with a rating of less than 150 watts. The power point will automatically shut off if the load exceeds 150 watts. This prevents damage to the inverter or load. The inverter supplies 110 volts AC power only when the key is in the ON/START position. This reduces the draw on the 12-volt system when the vehicle is not running. The DC/AC inverter outlet (AC power point) is equipped with a green light emitting diode (LED) that indicates the system integrity. The green LED illuminates continuously when the key is in the ON/START position and the system is operating normally. The green LED flashes constantly if the key is in the ON/START position 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 (e.g., short circuit or excessive load). If the inverter is overheated, it must be allowed time to cool off (without the load connected). Refer to owner literature for a list of appropriate electrical loads/devices that can be used.

DC/DC Converter
The DC/DC converter is a liquid-cooled component that converts high voltage (216-397 volts) DC power to low voltage (12 volts) DC power while maintaining electrical isolation between the 2 DC power systems. The converter steps down the high voltage to 12 volts, providing power to the vehicle low voltage battery systems. The powertrain control module (PCM) controls the operation of the DC/DC converter through an enable input from the PCM to the DC/DC converter.