Frequently asked questions – FAQ

Sine wave inverters for the cigarette lighter socket

The SW-100, 12 V and SW-150, 12 V or SW-150, 24 V sine wave inverters do not need to be permanently installed, but can be flexibly connected via the 12 V or 24 V car plug in the vehicle. The small SW inverters are compact and lightweight and can be used for a wide range of applications, not least due to their extensive protective functions.
 

	Sinus Inverter IVT SW-100, 12 V, 100 W Real sine wave alternating voltage 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 100 W | Peak output power 200 W Flexible connection via 12 V car adapter Item no. 430012 To the product >
	Sinus Inverter IVT SW-150, 12 V, 150 W Real sine wave alternating voltage 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 150 W | Peak output power 300 W Flexible connection via 12 V car adapter Item no. 430000 To the product >
	Sinus Inverter IVT SW-150, 24 V, 150 W Real sine wave alternating voltage 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 150 W | Peak output power 300 W Flexible connection via 24 V car adapter Item no. 430001 To the product >

The portable IVT Power Stations can be used in a variety of mobile and stationary applications

The IVT Mobile Power Stations are a another option for flexibly supplying 12 V and 230 V consumers with power.

The PS-300 Mobile Power Station is suitable for small consumers up to max. 300 W. The integrated sinus inverter SW-300 generates a pure sine wave with 230 V/50 Hz at the output. The PS-300 has one 12 V DC and one 230 V AC output. Both outputs can be used simultaneously or separately. The portable Power Box can be recharged using a 230 V charger as well as in the car using a 12 V cigarette lighter socket. The charger and the 12 V car charging adapter are included in the delivery. Extensive protective functions are integrated as standard.
 

Power Station IVT PS-300 with integrated 300 W sine wave inverter Pure sine wave Continuous output power 300 W | Peak output power 600 W AGM battery 12 V, 20 Ah 230 V AC and 12 V DC load output Item no. 430100 To the product >

 

Individually customisable power stations – rechargeable with solar, in the car and at a 230 V mains voltage

For electronic devices with a higher output, we recommend the customised power stations.

The customised Power Stations are available with an output power of 600 W, 1200 W and 2000 W as a standard. The robust power boxes are ideal for commercial and private applications thanks to their well thought-out design, high-quality components, simple connection as well as flexible charging options.
 

If required, individual components of the power stations can also be replaced, omitted or added. Do not hesitate to contact us. We will find the right solution for you.

 

	Portable Power Station IVT PS-600 with integrated 600 W Digital Sine Wave Inverter True sine wave 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 600 W | Peak output power 1200 W Powerful 12.8 V/80 Ah LiFePO4 battery with app function Switchable load outputs: 230 V AC, 12 V DC, 2 x 5 V USB Customisable and much more Item no. 430089 To the product >
	Portable Power Station IVT PS-1200 with integrated 1200 W Digital Sine Wave Inverter True sine wave 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 1200 W | Peak output power 2400 W Powerful 12.8 V/100 Ah LiFePO4 battery with app function Switchable load outputs: 230 V AC, 12 V DC, 2 x 5 V USB Customisable and much more Item no. 430074 To the product >
	Portable Power Station IVT PS-2000 with integrated 2000 W Digital Sine Wave Inverter True sine wave 230 V/50 Hz Continuous output power 1200 W | Peak output power 2400 W Powerful 12.8 V/100 Ah LiFePO4 battery with app function Switchable load outputs: 230 V AC, 12 V DC, 2 x 5 V USB Customisable and much more Item no. 430090 To the product >

Socket outlet standards and mains voltages – the most important information at a glance

In Europe, plug types C (Euro plug) and F (Schuko plug^®) are widely used. The voltage range is between 220 - 240 V/50 Hz. The flat Euro plug generally also fits in other European countries, although an adapter is sometimes required for the Schuko plug^®.

Summary of the most important output sockets and plug types

 

        

 

Overview of country-specific mains voltages and plug types Download Pdf >

 

The inverter output socket can be replaced on request

If the IVT Digital Sine Wave inverters are to be used abroad, it is possible for us as manufacturer to make country-specific adaptations. For example, the standard 230 V safety socket, suitable for plug type F and C, can be replaced with a different one. We will be happy to provide you with a customised quotation.

Battery charging with constant current (I-charge)

With constant current charging, the battery in question is always charged with a constant current (I_charge). This prevents damage caused by excessive charging current. With this charging method, however, there is a risk that the battery will be overcharged. A suitable switch-off mechanism is therefore required.

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Battery charging with pulse charging

This is a special form of constant current charging. The charging pauses make it possible to precisely determine the battery voltage for the rest of the charging process. Pulse charging is also ideal for regenerating sulphated batteries.

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Battery charging with constant voltage (U-charging)

With constant voltage charging, the charging voltage (U_bat) is kept constant throughout the charging process. As a result, a higher current flows at the beginning of the charging process than at the end. The decreasing current towards the end of the charging process ensures that the battery is charged gently and completely.

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Battery charging using the IU method

The IU charging method combines the two charging methods mentioned above and utilises the advantages of both techniques. This allows a quick and gentle charge to be achieved in a simple manner.
 

Multi-stage battery charging process (IUoU charging) This more complex, multi-stage charging technology also consists of a combination of the charging processes mentioned above. A microcontroller integrated into the charger ensures that the appropriate charging process is selected in order to charge the battery as quickly and efficiently as possible.

First things first – there are many arguments in favour of lithium

Lithium batteries are much lighter and have a significantly longer service life and number of charging cycles than lead batteries. In addition, lithium batteries score points with their significantly smaller volume, better charging efficiency, high energy density, low self-discharge and, last but not least, their significantly greater depth of discharge (lithium approx. 90 – 100 %, lead only approx. 50 %).
 
These significant advantages make lithium batteries a popular choice for a wide range of applications – from energy storage in portable devices to usage in vehicles and as high-performance storage for solar systems and much more.
 
However, this quality also comes at a price: if you want to buy a lithium battery, you will have to spend considerably more on the initial purchase than for a lead battery.

Is it possible to replace a lead-acid battery with a lithium battery?

As a rule, a lead-acid, lead-gel or AGM battery can be replaced with a LiFePO₄ battery. However, the existing charging profiles of the existing charging devices/chargers must be checked and adjusted if necessary. Use suitable chargers with a maximum end-of-charge voltage of 14.6 V. Even simple lead-gel, lead-acid and AGM battery chargers can damage the LiFePO4 battery when first connected. Check the charging parameters of the respective charger in advance.

 

The best way to charge a LiFePO₄ battery

1. Only use chargers suitable for LiFePO₄ cells with a maximum end-of-charge voltage of 14.6 V. Even simple lead, gel, acid and AGM battery chargers can damage the LiFePO₄ battery when first connected. Check the charging parameters of the respective charger in advance.
2. Observe the maximum charging current of your battery; this must not be exceeded at any time.
3. Stop the charging process if the battery management system (BMS) cancels the charging process and check the battery and the charging parameters.
4. Disconnect the charger if it will not be used for a longer period of time.
5. Charge your LiFePO₄ battery within 15 days of a low state of charge of approx. 20 % or after disconnection due to undervoltage to ensure maximum service life.
6. Our batteries are approx. 80 % charged on delivery. We therefore always recommend fully charging a new battery before use. Observe the specifications for parallel or serial connection of the batteries according to the instructions.

How to store and winterise a LiFePO4 battery correctly

1. Charge your LiFePO4 battery to 60 - 80 % of its capacity before storage.
2. Disconnect your LiFePO4 battery from all loads and consumers before storage.
3. Protect the pole contacts from short circuits by covering them.
4. If stored for longer periods, the LiFePO4 battery must be recharged to 60 - 80 % every 6 months.
5. Temperatures down to -20 °C do not damage the battery cell. It is therefore not necessary to remove the battery in most cases. In general, however, care should be taken to ensure that very cold batteries are slowly adjusted to the ambient temperature. Rapid heating can lead to condensation forming inside the housing and damage to the battery.
6. Never use a trickle charger for winter storage.

 

1. Always select the right charger for your battery

Batteries can only be charged gently and fully with a suitable charger. Always compare the technical data of the charger with that of the battery.
 

2. Fully charge the battery before using it for the first time

In order to utilise the full capacity of your battery, a full charge is a basic requirement.
 

3. Protect your battery from harmful deep discharge

Deep discharge occurs when more than 60 % of the battery capacity has been used up. Use loads that have deep discharge protection.

4. Recharge your battery as often as possible

This prolongs the service life and prevents harmful deep discharging. The so-called "memory effect" does not occur with lead batteries.
 

5. Never leave your battery discharged

If discharged batteries are not recharged for a longer period of time, there is a risk that the natural self-discharge will lead to a damaging deep discharge.
 

6. Avoid charging and discharging your battery at the same time

Charging a battery while the load is switched on can lead to excessive heating of the charger or battery.
 

7. Always keep your battery ready for use

By using chargers with float charging, you ensure that a loss of capacity due to self-discharge is compensated and that your storage battery can be optimally utilised even after a long period of inactivity.

Installation of a 12 V/24 V off-grid system with DC and AC loads

Solar systems ensure an individual energy supply almost everywhere. An off-grid system for independent power supply with solar energy usually consists of several components, depending on the area of application:

 

Components of a solar island system

1  One or more solar module(s)
2  A solar charge controller
3  One or more solar battery(ies)
4  Optionally: a 12 V or 24 V direct current consumer (e.g. LED lighting)
5  An inverter if alternating current (230 V) is required
6  Alternating current consumer (e.g. 230 V AC lamps, TV set, tools)

Design and dimensioning of an off-grid solar system

• The solar module (1) is connected to the solar controller (2). The two cables (±) used should be sufficiently sized to avoid line losses.
• The charge controller (2) is connected to the solar battery (3) and, if necessary, to the DC consumers (4).
• The charge controller should be dimensioned at least 10 % higher than the maximum current of the modules.
• The battery cable and the cables to the loads should always contain an appropriate fuse.
• The inverter (5) is always connected to the battery (3), never directly to the charge controller (2), as this can destroy the controller. This cable should also be fitted with a fuse.
• The 230 V AC consumers (6) can be connected to the inverter (5).
• The safety regulations for electrical installations must be observed during installation.

Please note: The solar batteries should be installed in a closed, dry room.

Solar controllers are used to supply solar energy to a suitable energy storage device in a controlled manner.

The sun's radiant energy is converted into electrical energy using a solar cell or solar module. The charge controller then ensures that this electrical energy is fed precisely and gently into a battery.



Please note: Use suitable connection and connection cables to avoid losses on the lines.

Rechargeable batteries are used to store electrical energy. There are many different technologies on the battery market for constructing such an energy storage device. However, the most characteristic features are always the nominal voltage (V) and the capacity (Ah).
 

Why does it make sense to store surplus electricity?

When the sun is shining intensively, excess energy is often generated which should be stored for later use.

Benefits:

• With solar power, you are independent of public power grids or where a reliable power supply cannot be guaranteed, e.g. when travelling in a motorhome or caravan, remote cabins and much more.
• Power storage units provide self-generated solar power exactly when it is needed, usually in the evening and at night
• Solar power is environmentally friendly due to the saving of fossil fuels

Which type of battery makes sense?

Lead-acid batteries are often used in the field of solar technology due to their favourable acquisition costs. Depending on the design, a distinction is made between classic, open lead-acid batteries, lead-gel batteries and lead-flow batteries or lead-AGM batteries. Many charge controllers are specially designed for this type of battery.

LiFePO₄ batteries are the latest generation of energy storage systems and are suitable for replacing existing lead-acid battery systems. When switching to a LiFePO₄ battery storage system, the charge controller settings must be checked and adjusted if necessary.

If you consider the costs over the entire period of use, a LiFePO₄ system is more favourable. This is why the trend is increasingly moving towards LiFePO₄ battery storage systems.

 

What is a solar module or solar cell?

A solar module consists of several interconnected solar cells and is used to convert the radiative energy of the sun into electrical energy. Direct voltage is provided on the terminals of the radiated solar module. If the module is operated in a closed circuit, direct current flows.
 

Brief description of the charging process

Current/voltage characteristic of a solar module

(1) Short-circuit point
The solar module’s terminals are shorted, this means that the electrical resistance between the terminals is extremely low. The highest possible short circuit current I_K of the solar module flows at this point.
(2) Maximum power point (MPP)
The solar module provides the highest possible power. This is the product of current I_MPP and voltage U_MPP in MPP.
(3) Idle point
At this point the solar module’s terminals are open, this means that the electrical resistance between the terminals is extremely high. The idle voltage of the solar module can be measured on the terminals.

The working point moves between point 1 and 3, depending on which electrical consumer is connected to the solar module.

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Charging with constant voltage (U-charging)

With constant voltage charging, the charging/cut-off voltage U_end is kept constant throughout the entire charging process. As a result, a higher current I_max flows at the beginning of the charging process than at the end.

Due to the decreasing current towards the end of the charging process, the battery is charged gently.

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Charging by pulse-width-modulation (PWM)

When charging according to the pulse-width-modulation principle at the beginning of the charging process the battery is charged with maximum current I_max. As soon as the cut-off voltage U_end is reached, the current flow is stopped in order to avoid overcharging.

After this first charging step the battery is not fully charge most of the time. A decrease of the battery voltage is to be expected. For this reason, the charging current restarts if the voltage U_start falls short of a certain value. This process is repeated until the battery is completely full. The charging current phases become shorter as the battery fills up.

LED light sources are characterised by the following main advantages compared to conventional light sources:

 

• Lower power consumption (6 times lower than with conventional bulbs)
• Long duty cycle of the LED lamps (up to 50,000 hours)
• They don’t contain any harmful substances
• High luminous efficiency
• No start-up delay (as know from energy saving lamps)
• Flexible application (for example, LED strips)
• Compact and small design possible (for example, SMD LEDs)

Luminous flux (Lumen)

Is the value of the total radiation emitted by a light source as visible light. At this, the brightness sensitivity of the human eye regarding the various wave lengths is of significant importance. Two light sources of different color therefore have the same lumen value, if they are perceived as equally bright.

Luminosity (Lux)

The luminous flux directed to a certain area is indicated as luminosity. At this, 1 lumen per square meter equals 1 lux.

Luminous efficiency (Lumen/Watt)

This value defined the efficiency grade of a light source. The higher the value, the better the conversion of the consumed power into visible light. This value is perfectly suitable for any comparison of different light source regarding their efficiency.

Color temperature (Kelvin)

This value measured in Kelvin defines the optical color impression of a light source. The higher the value, the bluer the light appears. In the range of 5000 K for example, the temperature color is defined as daylight white.


 

Light colors according to DIN 5035

Light color	Color temperature in Kelvin
Warm white	Below 3300 K
Neutral white	3300 K to 5000 K
Daylight white/cold white	Above 5000 K

Color rendering index (Ra)

The so called CRI (Color Rendering Index) describes the ability of a light source to reproduce colors.
At this, the natural solar light has the best color rendering index (CRI = 100) and is used as reference. The higher the CRI value, the better the color rendering ability. A CRI index of 95 is regarded as excellent.

IVT and Staudte Hirsch quality lamps have a wide range of features, functionalities and possible applications. An overview of the symbols used with brief explanations can be found in the following table.

 

	Light source Maximum power consumption (e.g. 3 W) as well as the manufacturer (Luxeon) and/or type of the used light source | Maximum luminous flux in lumen (e.g. 300 lm)
	Beam angle and lighting range The opening angle in which the light is radiated. (e.g. 80°) | Maximum lighting distance in the strongest lighting mode (e.g. 70 m)
	Runtime Maximum runtime (e.g. 4 h) in the selected performance level (e.g. 100 %)
	Flashing function Maximum runtime in the selected flashing function (e.g. 35 h)
	Battery type Details about the used energy source (e.g. Li-Ion) with notice regarding the ability to be recharged.
	Focusable light max. light range (e.g. 200 m)
	Emergency light function In the case of power outage the lamp turns on automatically, turning into a safe emergency light.
	Magnetic The light is attached using magnets
	Clip Version The light is attached using clips
	Light with earthing contact plug Cable length 5 m
	Connection cable with open ends 1 m connection cable with open ends
	Operating temperature Suitable for operation at temperatures (e.g. +70 °C to -20 °C)
	IP protection type Defines the suitability of electrical equipment for the various environmental conditions (e.g. housing protected against dust, rain and water jets)
	Explosion protection This product is suitable for use in environment with risk of explosion
	Touch switch The lamp is switched on /off by touching
	Wall mounted The lamp is suitable for wall installation
	Ceiling mounted The lamp is suitable for ceiling installation
	CE symbol This symbol confirms the fulfilment of elementary requirements regarding the applying EU regulations
	Mobile application Suitable for use in the most various vehicles (e.g. private car)
	Stationary application Suitable for us in buildings with autarchic 12 V/24 V power supply (e.g. solar or wind power)

What is meant by the term protection class?

The protection type designation normally consists of the letters IP and two key figures. These indicate which degree of protection of a housing offers regarding touching or foreign objects, respectively (first key figure) and humidity or water, respectively (second key figure).

Example: IP 68 absolutely dust and waterproof housingely (second key figure)

 

Key figure 1: Protection against dust	Key figure 2: Protection against humidity and water
0  No protection	0  No protection
1  Protection against solid foreign objects with diameter > 50 mm	1  Protection against vertically falling drops of water
2  Protection against solid foreign objects with diameter > 12.5 mm	2  Protection against inclined (up to 15°) falling drops of water
3  Protection against solid foreign objects with diameter > 2.5 mm	3  Protection against falling sprays of water
4  Protection against solid foreign objects with diameter > 1 mm	4  Protection against splash water
5  Dust-protected	5  Protection against jets of water (nozzle)
6  Dustproof	6  Protection against strong jets of water
	7  Protection against the effect of temporary immersion under water
	8  Protection against permanent immersion under water

ATEX directive applies to devices used in potentially explosive atmospheres

ATEX is an abbreviation for the French term Atmosphères Explosiblesandaims to protect humans, the environment and machinery from explosions. ATEX directives apply to all devices, machines and protective systems that are used in potentially explosive atmospheres.

 

For which businesses are explosion-proof luminaires relevant?

The use of explosion-protected luminaires is particularly important in sectors and branches of industry in which highly flammable or explosive substances are used.

For example, the chemical industry, which works with gases or flammable liquids, the metal industry and the construction industry, as well as refineries that work with crude oil or biogases.

In agriculture and the wood industry, highly flammable dust mixtures are produced that could potentially lead to explosions. Only lamps with ATEX approval may be used in this environment.
 

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For which applications is the Ex-certified LED Work Lamp ATEXBEAM PL-AT800 approved?

Ex-protected LED work lamp ATEXBEAM PL-AT800, 3 W, Li-Ion battery
Ex certification for gas (Zone 1, 2) and dust (Zone 21, 22)
EX II 2G Ex ib IIC T4 Gb
EX II 2D Ex ib IIIC T150°C Db

 

EX	Meaning of the labelling according to the ATEX directive
II	ATEX device group The ATEX explosion groups define the authorised place of use. I =  Use in mining and underground workings II = Use in all other areas, e.g. chemical plants, pharmaceuticals, oil rigs, refineries, etc.
2	ATEX device category (application in respective Ex-zone) The devices are classified according to the conformity assessment procedure into device categories 1 to 3. 1 = No ignition sources are present in the event of rare and unexpected malfunctions 2 = No ignition sources are present in the event of malfunctions to be expected during normal operation 3 = No ignition sources are present during normal operation
G/D/M	Explosive atmosphere The device groups and categories are supplemented by a letter for the potentially explosive atmosphere: G = gas, vapour, mist, D = dust, M = methane, coal dust 1G |   Risk: constant, frequent or long-term 1G, 2G |   Risk: occasional 1G, 2G, 3G |   Risk: rare or short-term 1D |   Risk: constant, frequent or long-term 1D, 2D |   Risk: occasional 1D, 2D, 3D |   Risk: rare or short-term M1, M2 |   Risk: mining
Ex	Explosion protected operation material
ib	Ignition protection type
II C	Explosion group for gases and vapours The classification in explosion groups considers the probability of the presence of an explosive atmosphere and the simultaneous occurrence of a defect on the device which could lead to ignition. The hazard increases from A to C. A: very high level of safety B: high level of safety C: normal level of safety
T4	Temperature class The classification into temperature classed considers the ignition points of the gases/dusts and indicates the maximum allowed surface temperature of the device. The hazard increases from T1 to T6. T1: 450 °C T2: 300 °C T3: 200 °C T4: 135 °C  T5: 100 °C T6:   85 °C

What are Ex zones?

Potentially explosive zones are areas which require specific measures regarding the construction, installation and use of electrical and non-electrical devices.
 

device category	1	2	3
G (Gas, vapour, mist)	0	1	2
D (Dust)	20	21	22
Frequency	constantly, long-term, frequently	occasionally	rarely or only for a short period