RangerEZ wrote:
professor95 wrote:
Voltage regulation and available amperage of 12 VDC on the red model is probably not very useful.
* * *
Silver case version was a "special" build for Northern Tool under the Category 5 designation. Category 5 is a CPE brand name. It was identical to the red model except for the case color.
Professor, first, thanks for all the great posts here. Can you elaborate a little what you mean by the first quote above?
Cabela's also sells a yellow version that I think is the same as the Northern Tool version, in that it is rated for 1700 running watts as opposed to 1600. I picked up a red Costco version and look forward to camping soon.
Just to elaborate on Mr. Wizard's reply: Generators typically use a separate winding that produces between 10 and 12 volts AC at a specific speed - usually 3,600 RPM. The AC voltage is rectified by a single diode (half wave) and provides between 14 and 17 Volts DC. There is no regulator and voltage varies depending upon attached load. "Some" generators may use a full wave bridge rectifier rather than a half wave to provide less ripple on the DC, but there is still no regulation of voltage. Quality modern battery chargers that convert 120 VAC use a switching type power supply and regulator circuit that "occasionally" changes mode to read the battery voltage and charge current. The algorithm of the charger's processor then makes any needed changes to output voltage and current so the battery is not under or overcharged. Always much better to acquire 12 volt battery power in this manner.
Now, as for the 1600 vs 1700 watt ratings. Part of this is embedded in advertising - unfortunately out of the product engineers' hands. If the particular 2000i has a circuit breaker, which is 13.2 amps, the output will be limited to 1600 watts before the breaker trips. Since the breaker is a slow response type you can exceed 13.2 amps for several seconds (maybe 3-5) before it trips. On the models without the circuit breaker the current limiting factor is the software in the control module, which is currently 1700 watts before overload shuts it down. The 1700 watts can be obtained for longer periods of time - like 10 minutes. The 2000 watt surge is limited to no more than 1/2 of a second. ANY of the circuit breaker equipped models can be made equal to the so called 1700 watt models by removing/replacing/bypassing the circuit breaker and being sure you have the newest software for your module (see earlier post of offer by SuperGen Products). And yes, this is a safe procedure regarding overload protection since the module will disconnect the load should a "short" occur. Personally, I like having the CB there since I do not believe it is good to push any generator to the absolute max it will deliver. The max is the point where it is most likely to be damaged by high current and heat.
I hope this is enough elaboration :)
