The Official unofficial CPE 2000i Generator Thread

gunterm wrote:
Hey folks! Just got my module upgraded by Supergen, so they're still doing it. They have however changed addresses so make sure you're sending it the right place.

Another question, I just bought a bigger inverter since my new RV has a 15k A/C and the 2000W won't start this one. Was wondering if the bigger ones will parallel with the 2000W model, they use different models so I'm thinking no. Also the 2800W bigger unit uses only 2 wires for paralell instead of 2 wires plus that little control plug.

Did you get the Champion 2800/3100w generator? If so, then you can sell the 2000w. The bigger generator will run the 15k AC.

Hey folks! Just got my module upgraded by Supergen, so they're still doing it. They have however changed addresses so make sure you're sending it the right place.

Another question, I just bought a bigger inverter since my new RV has a 15k A/C and the 2000W won't start this one. Was wondering if the bigger ones will parallel with the 2000W model, they use different models so I'm thinking no. Also the 2800W bigger unit uses only 2 wires for paralell instead of 2 wires plus that little control plug.

very close description
except they use 'HIGH' voltage DC , NOT low voltage DC
which means lighter wiring in the alternator and the whole system
it also means a heavy transformer is not needed to boost the voltage up

efficiency is the KEY
small cylinder engine
very efficient fuel use at low loads, topping up batteries, watching TV etc..

Rygar wrote:
Okay, now that raises another question. What's the difference between a generator and an inverter?

Sorry, but the two answers already provided to this question were both a little off.

An alternator produces alternating current.

In a "syncronous generator", the AC from the alternator is regulated at high voltage, and the frequency is controlled by governing the rpm of the coupled engine/alternator. This high voltage AC is fed directly to the generator's receptacles.

In an "inverter generator", the AC from the alternator is regulated at low voltage, then fed through a rectifier to produce low voltage DC. That low voltage DC is then fed through an inverter which produces high voltage AC.


That's the difference. Think of an inverter generator as an automotive electrical system plus an inverter, but without the battery. This is why some inverter generators also have a 12v DC receptacle - they just tap the low voktage DC before it goes into the inverter.


It's inefficient to go from AC to DC and then back to AC, but by doing it this way, the frequency of the AC is decoupled from the rpm of the engine/alternator. This allows the throttle to be be controlled by a stepper motor instead of a governor, and the rpm can be reduced when there is less load, saving fuel.

Because of the inefficiency of the AC-DC-AC conversion, syncronous generators are slightly more efficient than inverter generators at full load (and a lot cheaper to build). What makes the inverter generator even worth the bother and expense, is the fact that most portable generators almost never operate at full load.

Many times when RVers discuss inverters eventually the question that is asked is "will it run the a/c"? The answers to this question varies quite a bit depending who you talk to.

One thing to consider is what else is pulling current from the generator. A big energy hog may be the refrigerator.

To help your inverter run the a/c, you may want to consider changing the mode of power to the refrigerator from a/c, or auto (where it switches from propane to a/c if a/c is available), to propane only.

yep..high voltage DC multi-phase alternator
the inverter electronics converter the HV Dc to 120vac

this lets the engine run slower for light loads, and faster for heavy loads

Thank you, that really helps!

Rygar wrote:
Okay, now that raises another question. What's the difference between a generator and an inverter?

Basically, the difference between a "generator" and and "inverter generator" is in the way they give you the AC.
The "generator" directly creates the AC voltage and frequency. The frequency is based on the rpm's of the generator, and the voltage is produced directly from the generator. The motor runs at a constant speed. The "inverter" creates a dc voltage from the actual generator that is fed into an inverter that converts it to AC at a specified voltage. Think of it as taking a battery powered inverter and hooking it up to an automotive generator.

And yes, this is a very simplistic explanation.

Okay, now that raises another question. What's the difference between a generator and an inverter?

I am a longtime follower of this thread and a big fan of the little Champions, but finally sold mine and got the bigger 3100 inverter when I moved to a fiver.

Rygar, FYI, the 3100 inverter is currently $570 at Costco, after the $100 manufacturer rebate. That's a heck of a deal and it runs the newer 15k AC units well. I got mine from Supergen last Fall for even less than that. Looks like they're $524 at Supergen now for a refurb. Another option to consider.