In a solar system, an inverter is responsible for converting the DC energy stored in batteries into AC power to supply AC consumers.
This conversion is achieved through the collaboration of multiple switches in a closed circuit to produce the AC output. The precision of these switches is crucial in determining the quality of the output waveform, which can be a square wave, sine wave, or modified sine wave.
While an inverter can produce different waveforms, a pure sine wave output is preferable because many electrical products are designed to work best with a sine wave AC power source. A high-quality and well-designed inverter ensures that the output is purely in the form of a sine wave with minimal conversion losses in the system components.
How do pure sine wave inverters work?
In order to comprehend the functionality of an inverter, we can examine its simplified block diagram. Assuming that there is a battery, four switches, and an AC consumer at the output, we can further delve into its operation.
This simplified circuit uses a DC source to power an AC consumer, represented by a lamp. By pairing switches, we can generate AC pulses and alternate the current direction through the lamp. By opening switches two and three, the current direction will be as follows:
If switches one and four are opened, the current will flow in the opposite direction through the lamp.
The lamp in this circuit is actually receiving an alternating current, which it experiences as a square wave. A high-quality inverter operates on a similar principle but includes several functions to improve output quality and conversion efficiency. Switching is performed using electrical switches like FETs and IGBTs, and control pulses are generated by a control circuit. Energy storage elements such as inductors and capacitors aid in filtering and smoothing. The smoother the wave, the higher the quality of the output will be.
Benefits of using pure sine wave inverter
Using a pure sine wave inverter offers many benefits. The quality of the waveform directly affects the efficiency and lifespan of appliances. Waveforms with harmonic distortions and sharp edges can cause electronics to overheat or become damaged. Certain devices, such as computers, are unable to function with non-sine wave energy forms.
Different types of inverters
Inverters can be classified into two types – High-Frequency and Low-Frequency inverters – based on the size and switching speed of transistors.
• High-frequency inverters:
Use multiple smaller transformers and have over twice the number of components.
They are not suitable for long-term exposure to high surge loads like pumps, motors, and some high-torque tools due to decreased capacity.
• Low-frequency inverters
On the other hand, have larger and more robust transistors that can operate cooler.
This enables them to tolerate higher amounts of surge power.
High-frequency inverters:
IPower series
The IPower series is a type of inverter that is capable of converting 12/24/48VDC to 110/120VAC or 220/230VAC and provides power ranging from 350VA to 2000VA. It is suitable for a variety of applications and can be utilized in numerous fields. The inverter’s broad input voltage range makes it particularly well-suited for solar system use.
IPOWER-PLUS Series is a high-quality, reliable, and safe pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230VAC and power AC loads. It is available in power ranges from 500W to 5000W and is designed to meet international standards. The inverter is suitable for a variety of situations where DC to AC conversion is required, including RVs, boats, residential properties, and places that require high-quality electrical power. The IPOWER-PLUS series is also compatible with lithium-ion batteries.
IPOWER-PLUS series specification:
IPOWER-PLUS SERIES
(110/120VAC) 350~4000W
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
(220/230VAC) 350~5000W
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Continuous output power
Up to 4000W
Up to 5000W
Surge power
8000W@5S
Up to 8000W@5S
Output voltage
110VAC(±3%)
120VAC(-7%~+3%)
220VAC(±3%);
230VAC(-7%~+3%)
Output frequency
50/60Hz±0.2%
50/60Hz±0.2%
Rated input voltage
12VDC;24VDC;48VDC
12VDC;24VDC;48VDC
RS485 com. port
5VDC/200mA
5VDC/200mA
Operating temperature range
-20℃~+60℃
(Refer to the derating curve)
-20℃~+60℃
(Refer to the derating curve)
IPT series
The IPT series is a high-frequency sine wave inverter that utilizes a fully digital intelligent design and voltage-current dual closed-loop control algorithm. With fast response, high conversion efficiency, low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), and reliable performance, this series is suitable for various off-grid DC-AC systems, including but not limited to vehicle systems, security monitoring systems, emergency lighting systems, household power systems, field power systems, and other systems that demand high-quality power.
IPT series specification:
IPT SERIES
(110/120VAC) 350~4000WPure Sine Wave Inverter
(220/230VAC) 350~5000WPure Sine Wave Inverter
Continuous output power
Up to 4000W
Up to 5000W
Surge power
Up to 8000W@5S
Up to 8000W@5S
Output voltage
110VAC(±3%) 120VAC(-7%~+3%)
220VAC(±3%); 230VAC(-7%~+3%)
Output frequency
50/60Hz±0.2%
50/60Hz±0.2%
Rated input voltage
12VDC;24VDC;48VDC
12VDC;24VDC;48VDC
RS485 com. port
5VDC/200mA
5VDC/200mA
Working temperature
-20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve)
-20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve)
Low-Frequency Inverters:
NPOWER series
NPower series is a low-frequency pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230V AC and power the AC loads. It has an excessive capacity to work with surge loads. Ranging from 260W to 5000W, Npower is compatible with lithium-ion batteries perfectly and suits the system which requires high reliability.
The term “Inverter/Charger” or “Combined Inverter Charger” refers to a device used in solar energy systems that integrates the functions of a solar charge controller and an inverter into a single unit. This unit is capable of both converting DC to AC and AC to DC. The combination of these functions is typically more cost-effective, efficient, and easier to install, commission, and maintain.
In situations where there is limited solar radiation or unreliable grid power, an Inverter/Charger is an excellent option because it automatically switches between available sources such as solar panels, external power generators, and battery-stored energy to provide uninterrupted power output for consumers. Furthermore, a combined charger inverter provides not only smart switching but also intelligent modes to optimize energy consumption and generation cycles and determine the energy budget balance.
Charge mode
Output mode
Battery mode
Solar (only)
Inverter Priority
Solar (only)
Utility Priority
Solar Priority
Inverter Priority
Solar Priority
Utility Priority
Utility & Solar
/
No Battery mode
/
Having the ability to work with external AC sources is a benefit of the Inverter/Charger. In situations where solar energy or stored energy is limited, the device can automatically activate an external power generator to charge the batteries or supply power to consumers. This feature helps to extend the life of the batteries and reduce gasoline expenses.
The capacity of the inverter and the charge controller determines the power rating of these devices. EPEVER manufactures Hybrid inverters chargers of up to 5KW.
IPOWER-PLUS Series is a high-quality, reliable, and safe pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230VAC and power AC loads. It is available in power ranges from 500W to 5000W and is designed to meet international standards. The inverter is suitable for a variety of situations where DC to AC conversion is required, including RVs, boats, residential properties, and places that require high-quality electrical power. The IPOWER-PLUS series is also compatible with lithium-ion batteries.
What kind of applications suit Inverter/Chargers most?
Inverter/chargers have a wide range of applications, including commercial and backup solar power systems, recreational vehicles, and boats. They are also frequently used as power backup systems, such as UPS.
Their compact design makes them an ideal choice for use in limited spaces, resulting in reduced wiring and lower costs. Inverter/chargers are designed to deliver sustainable and reliable performance and can be adapted to different energy sources, such as utility power, external power generators, and solar PV modules. If you are dealing with low solar irradiance, limited battery storage capacity, or need to connect to external power or grid connections, a hybrid inverter charger is a perfect solution to your energy needs. Trust the versatility and adaptability of inverter/chargers for your energy needs.
Ease of installation, commissioning, and monitoring
Hybrid inverter chargers are designed to offer ease of installation, commissioning, and monitoring. The built-in connections between the battery and other components within the system mean fewer bus bars, wiring, and protective elements are necessary compared to separate installations of an inverter or charge controller. This simplifies the installation process and enhances overall performance.
A solar charge controller is a device that is responsible for transferring energy from solar panels to batteries to charge them. Its primary function is to protect the batteries from excessive energy or voltage by preventing overcharging. Additionally, it regulates the rate and amount of charge for the batteries.
A charge controller in an off-grid solar system also prevents reverse current from batteries to solar panels during overnight or cloudy days. Depending on its type, it can improve system efficiency and optimize power harvest from solar panels. Furthermore, a charge controller typically includes monitoring features that allow system parameters such as current, voltage, and energy to be monitored.
Ultimately, the charge controller serves to increase battery lifespan and optimize the off-grid system.
Why do we need a solar charge controller?
The reason for requiring a solar charge controller is to safeguard and extend the life of batteries.
Overcharge protection:
One of the primary protective functions of a charge controller is preventing overcharging, which can harm batteries. The charge controller acts as an intelligent protector by stopping battery charging when the voltage level reaches a certain threshold during the charging process.
Overload / Over current protection:
The solar charge controller also provides overload and overcurrent protection. When running DC loads directly from the charge controller, it monitors the current demand and stops it if it exceeds a certain limit to prevent battery damage. During charging, if the current flowing into the batteries is too high for the circuit to handle, an over-current event may occur, which can cause overheating or fires. The charge controller can adjust the current flow to the batteries and hard limit it if necessary to prevent this from happening.
Over-discharge protection
To prevent the battery from being drained completely, a charge controller provides over-discharge protection. When the battery’s state of charge (SOC) drops below a certain level, the charge controller disconnects the loads to manage the amount of discharge. This protective function safeguards the battery, limits the depth of discharge (DOD), and extends the battery’s lifespan.
Monitoring system parameters
To monitor the performance of a solar power system, a charge controller can provide information on various parameters such as the voltage of batteries, PV modules, charging current, energy consumption, and production. This data can be displayed through a variety of methods including LEDs, LCDs, remote monitoring devices, and cloud interfaces.
How to choose a solar charge controller?
When it comes to selecting a solar charge controller, it’s important to consider the different types available. The two main categories are pulse width modulation (PWM) and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) charge controllers. While PWM controllers are cheaper, they are less efficient and best suited for smaller systems where efficiency is not a top priority. In contrast, MPPT controllers are more efficient and safer, making them the recommended choice for larger and more complex systems.
MPPT charge controllers can track the maximum power point of the solar panels and obtain the maximum solar energy possible. They can generate up to 30% more power compared to PWM charge controllers and perform better in cloudy conditions with lower solar irradiance. On the other hand, PWM charge controllers act as a valve that regulates the charging current based on the voltage of the batteries.
To choose the right charge controller for your solar power system, consider the size and complexity of your system, the expected solar irradiance, and the efficiency you require. It’s recommended to opt for an MPPT charge controller for larger and more complex systems. However, if you have a smaller system and efficiency is not your top priority, then a PWM controller can be a suitable choice. For more detailed information about the differences between PWM and MPPT charge controllers, we have a comprehensive article that you can refer to.
Compatibility with Lithium batteries
It’s important to note that not all charge controllers are compatible with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries have unique charging and discharge profiles, requiring a multi-stage customized charging and discharge configuration that may not be supported by some charge controllers. It’s crucial to choose a charge controller that is specifically designed to work with lithium batteries to ensure their longevity and performance.
What features you can expect from an MPPT charge controller?
In general, a high-quality MPPT controller that has been well-designed and manufactured will offer the following characteristics
• High MPPT tracking efficiency above 99.5% • High maximum charge conversion efficiency of as high as 98% • Support for both lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries • Programmable • Multiple load work modes • Various protective functions • Temperature derating/protection • Real-time energy statistics function • Local, remote, and cloud monitoring
Types and applications
The table below categorizes charge controllers into PWM and MPPT types and identifies the types of batteries they support for various applications.
Powering Up with Epever Accessories: Essential Enhancements for Your Solar System
With Epever accessories, elevate your solar power system to new heights of performance and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to integrate additional power sources, enhance battery storage capacity, or optimize energy utilization, Epever has the perfect accessory for you. Designed to seamlessly integrate with Epever’s range of inverters, controllers, and all-in-one solutions. Our comprehensive range of accessories is designed to expand the functionality and versatility of your system, allowing you to tailor it to your specific needs.
We acknowledge the difficulties associated with monitoring, configuring, and documenting the effectiveness of solar systems, particularly those situated in remote locations. Consequently, we provide an assortment of communication accessories that facilitate constant connectivity with your solar system, allowing you to maximize its efficiency.
EPEVER offers a comprehensive range of products specifically designed for remote monitoring and control of solar charge controllers. With our connectivity solutions, you can effortlessly access and manage your solar charge controllers from any location. Our products enable you to stay connected and have full control over the charging process, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Through the utilization of remote monitoring devices, users can access comprehensive data on their off-grid solar systems’ power output, charging status, and potential system errors, all without the need for physical presence at the installation site. These devices empower you to make informed decisions and take timely action to optimize system operation. By promptly resolving any issues, users can maximize the efficiency and reliability of their solar systems.
A combined inverter charger, merges the solar charge controller and inverter. Basically, it includes both the AC to DC and DC to AC conversion. The combination is normally cheaper and efficient.
A combined charger inverter not only offers smart working modes but also switches between the available sources such as the sun, the battery and an external AC power source. This makes sure that you are getting the most of the available energy.
The capability of working with external AC sources is a plus. For instance, it can automatically wake an external power generator up, to charge the batteries or provide power for consumers.
Combined inverter chargers are recommended for commercial and back-up solar power applications. They also have a wide range of applications for power back-up systems (such as UPS).
The capacity of the inverter and the charge controller determines the power rating of these devices. EPEVER manufactures Hybrid inverters chargers of up to 5KW.
EPEVER’s combined inverter chargers come with a LCD display, so that you can monitor all of the parameters of your off-grid solar system.
Using the Modbus communication, one can access live system parameters on any monitoring device. We also offer cloud monitoring, so one can log the data, and access it from anywhere, at any time.
Check the two videos (Video1 and Video2) on our YouTube channel for a clear instruction about these devices.
Solar off-grid systems are being applied in a variety of applications. Besides the small-sized solar systems, certain applications would demand higher power capacity. Consider a regional centralized solar power system, such as a village, island, or a fields monitoring project, where there is a large number of consumers on the off-grid network. Here one would need components that are reliable under heavy load conditions. EPEVER manufacturers high-power off-grid solar components in different ranges. Combined inverter chargers are a reliable source of energy where the power is limited to 5Kw. In addition, Tracer AN high current series is the charge controller which provides up to 100A charging/discharge capacity. T-Power inverters can provide up to 30KW continuous power.
In such systems it is critical to monitor all the parameters of the off-grid system to obtain the best working mode and increase the efficiency. parameters such as state of the charge of the battery, charging current, discharge current, AC/DC load, PV current/voltage and cumulative energy, inverter power and etc. are the parameters which could help to achieve better performance out of the off-grid system. Therefore EPEVER provides variety of means to monitor the system locally and via cloud. One can use the built-in LCD or use the accessories such MT50/MT75 to locally monitor the station.
In addition, most of EPEVER products provide feasibility to work with an external power generator. In cloudy days, or when you have had higher consumption, an external generator can be turned on to charge the battery and provide the power required for the consumers.
Güneş enerjili ev sistemleri genellikle evdeki fotovoltaik enerji üretim sistemlerinde, gücün olmadığı veya dengesiz güç bölgesinin elektrik talebini çözmek için kullanılır. Ayrıca güç seviyesi aralığı yüz watt ila kilowatt arasındadır.
Solar RVs/Vessels systems are typically used for reducing the RVs and the vessel’s electricity cost, by setting up the solar system to assist gasoline/diesel power generators.
One of the main challenges in providing light for any location is wiring. Long wiring distances not only increase the cost but also wastes electrical energy. Besides, the installation is complex, and severe safety risks are involved.
With the emergence of solar off-grid technology, standalone lighting systems, gradually won the market against traditional power distribution networks for lighting.
In certain regions, using a stand-alone solar system is a must. Imagine a remote area without grid power, or a place where laying cables is economically expensive/insufficient. There a high-quality reliable off-grid lighting system would be required, to decrease the installation/ maintenance costs.
EPEVER offers lighting controls systems, that combine a PWM / MPPT solar charge controlling algorithm, with LED constant current driver option. This brings the opportunity to perform multiple light control modes.
These controllers are configured based on individual users’ requirements. Almost every parameter in an off-grid stand-alone lighting system is configurable via the mobile app or the PC software. In addition, different types of batteries are supported to increase the compatibility of these units.
Applying Wireless communication and IoT technology makes it possible to remotely monitor, control, log the data and troubleshoot the system.
The high ingress protection levels applied, makes EPEVER solar light controllers an ideal choice for outdoor and harsh environments.
The term “Inverter/Charger” or “Combined Inverter Charger” refers to a device used in solar energy systems that integrates the functions of a solar charge controller and an inverter into a single unit. This unit is capable of both converting DC to AC and AC to DC. The combination of these functions is typically more cost-effective, efficient, and easier to install, commission, and maintain.
In situations where there is limited solar radiation or unreliable grid power, an Inverter/Charger is an excellent option because it automatically switches between available sources such as solar panels, external power generators, and battery-stored energy to provide uninterrupted power output for consumers. Furthermore, a combined charger inverter provides not only smart switching but also intelligent modes to optimize energy consumption and generation cycles and determine the energy budget balance.
Charge mode
Output mode
Battery mode
Solar (only)
Inverter Priority
Solar (only)
Utility Priority
Solar Priority
Inverter Priority
Solar Priority
Utility Priority
Utility & Solar
/
No Battery mode
/
Having the ability to work with external AC sources is a benefit of the Inverter/Charger. In situations where solar energy or stored energy is limited, the device can automatically activate an external power generator to charge the batteries or supply power to consumers. This feature helps to extend the life of the batteries and reduce gasoline expenses.
The capacity of the inverter and the charge controller determines the power rating of these devices. EPEVER manufactures Hybrid inverters chargers of up to 5KW.
IPOWER-PLUS Series is a high-quality, reliable, and safe pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230VAC and power AC loads. It is available in power ranges from 500W to 5000W and is designed to meet international standards. The inverter is suitable for a variety of situations where DC to AC conversion is required, including RVs, boats, residential properties, and places that require high-quality electrical power. The IPOWER-PLUS series is also compatible with lithium-ion batteries.
What kind of applications suit Inverter/Chargers most?
Inverter/chargers have a wide range of applications, including commercial and backup solar power systems, recreational vehicles, and boats. They are also frequently used as power backup systems, such as UPS.
Their compact design makes them an ideal choice for use in limited spaces, resulting in reduced wiring and lower costs. Inverter/chargers are designed to deliver sustainable and reliable performance and can be adapted to different energy sources, such as utility power, external power generators, and solar PV modules. If you are dealing with low solar irradiance, limited battery storage capacity, or need to connect to external power or grid connections, a hybrid inverter charger is a perfect solution to your energy needs. Trust the versatility and adaptability of inverter/chargers for your energy needs.
Ease of installation, commissioning, and monitoring
Hybrid inverter chargers are designed to offer ease of installation, commissioning, and monitoring. The built-in connections between the battery and other components within the system mean fewer bus bars, wiring, and protective elements are necessary compared to separate installations of an inverter or charge controller. This simplifies the installation process and enhances overall performance.
The hybrid inverter charger is a unique solution that provides a comprehensive display of both the inverter and the charge controller parameters through an LCD screen. This feature enables users to access all necessary information in a condensed format. Additionally, the system offers real-time status updates through multiple LED indicators. The user-friendly interface of the device allows for customization of the system’s settings to meet the specific requirements of any project through mobile and PC applications. With the availability of parameters and configurations through Modbus protocol, the hybrid inverter charger can easily integrate with any local monitoring station or SCADA system.
EPEVER also offers cloud monitoring, providing remote data logging and access from anywhere, at any time. These innovative features make the hybrid inverter charger an efficient and customizable solution for solar power systems, unlocking the full potential of solar energy.
Types of EPEVER Inverter/Charger?
UPower Series:
EPEVER offers a range of unique inverter/charger solutions, including the UPower Series. This device is designed for fast response and high efficiency, combining solar and utility charging with AC output in a single unit. The UPower Series utilizes a multi-core processor design and advanced MPPT control algorithm to achieve intelligent management, ensuring optimal performance. With its innovative features, the UPower Series inverter/charger is a reliable and efficient solution for unlocking the full potential of solar energy.
UPOWER Series specification:
(1000~5000W) Inverter/Charger
Nominal battery voltage
12VDC;24VDC
Battery input voltage range
10.8～16VDC;
21.6～32VDC
Inverter output
Continuous output power
800W; 1200W;
1600W;2400W
Output voltage range
220V(-6%~+5%) 230V(-10%~+5%）
220V±5%
Output frequency
50/60±0.1Hz
Utility charging
Utility input voltage range
160VAC～280VAC(Working voltage range); 170VAC～270VAC(Utility starting voltage range
EPEVER’s UPower-Hi Series is an upgraded version of the UPower series, offering advanced features and improved performance. With its battery-free mod, the UPower-Hi Series can operate as a sole inverter, eliminating the need for a battery to start the system up. This innovative feature makes the UPower-Hi Series a flexible solution for solar power systems. The series also accepts an additional amount of PV power, making it suitable for highly demanding projects. With an improved design and higher efficiency, the UPower-Hi Series delivers high-quality, stable, and reliable electric energy. Upgrade to efficient and reliable solar energy with the UPower-Hi Series inverter charger by EPEVER.
Looking for clear instructions on using EPEVER devices? Check out our YouTube channel for expert guidance. We offer two informative videos, Video1 and Video2, that provide concise and easy-to-follow instructions on how to use these devices. Our YouTube channel is the go-to resource for unlocking the full potential of EPEVER devices.
• Low-frequency inverters
