Alpha Technologies GMX-915 User manual

Technical Manual
GMX-915 Models
Effective: March, 2006
GMX
Standby Power Supply
Alpha Technologies

Power
Alpha Technologies
®

Contacting Alpha Technologies: www.alpha.com
or
For general product information and customer service (7 AM to 5 PM, Pacific Time), call
1-800-863-3930
For complete technical support, call
1-800-863-3364
7 AM to 5 PM, Pacific Time, or 24/7 emergency support
GMX Standby Power Supply
017-932-B0-001, Rev A
Effective Date: March, 2006
Copyright© 2006
Alpha Technologies, Inc.
Notice of FCC Compliance
Per FCC 47 CFR 15.21:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
Per FCC 47 CFR 15.105:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.
3
member of The Group
TM
Alpha shall not be held liable for any damage or injury involving its enclosures, power supplies, generators,
batteries, or other hardware if used or operated in any manner or subject to any condition not consistent with
its intended purpose, or is installed or operated in an unapproved manner, or improperly maintained.
Photographs contained in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. These photographs may not match
your installation.
NOTE:
Operator is cautioned to review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If
there are questions regarding the safe operation of this powering system, please contact Alpha Technologies
or your nearest Alpha representative.
NOTE:
NOTE:

4017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Table of Contents
Safety Notes.......................................................................................................................... 7
1.0 Introduction to the GMX Power Supply..................................................................... 13
1.1 Terminal Block Overview................................................................................ 14
1.2 Inverter Overview........................................................................................... 15
1.3 Optional Status Monitoring Modules.............................................................. 16
1.4 Optional Features .......................................................................................... 17
2.0 Theory of Operation.................................................................................................. 18
2.1 AC (Line) Operation....................................................................................... 18
2.2 Standby Operation......................................................................................... 18
2.3 Charger Operation ......................................................................................... 19
3.0 Installation................................................................................................................. 21
3.1 Installation Procedure .................................................................................... 22
3.2 Installing the Optional AC Indicator Lamp...................................................... 23
3.3 Service Power Inserter (SPI) ......................................................................... 25
4.0 Configuration ............................................................................................................ 27
4.1 Micro Board Setup ......................................................................................... 27
4.2 AC Output Voltage Reconfiguration............................................................... 28
5.0 Operation.................................................................................................................. 29
5.1 Start-up and Test............................................................................................ 29
5.2 Smart Display................................................................................................. 32
5.2.1 Operation Normal................................................................................ 34
5.2.2 Additional Information Display............................................................. 35
5.2.3 Setup Menu......................................................................................... 36
5.2.4 Alarm Indications................................................................................. 39
5.2.5 Control Panel LEDs............................................................................. 41
5.2.6 Detailed Menu Structure and Navigation ............................................ 42
5.3 Smart Display Glossary ................................................................................. 44
5.4 Automatic Performance Test.......................................................................... 46
5.5 Providing Power via External Source............................................................. 47
5.5.1 DC Powering....................................................................................... 47
5.5.2 AC Powering ....................................................................................... 47
5.5.3 Using a Truck-mounted Inverter or Generator .................................... 48
5.6 Resumption of Utility Power........................................................................... 49

5
017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Table of Contents, continued
6.0 GMX Power Supply Maintenance............................................................................. 50
6.1 Check Battery Open Circuit Voltage .............................................................. 50
6.2 System Information........................................................................................ 50
6.3 Check Battery Voltage Under Load................................................................ 51
6.4 Check Battery Charger Voltage ..................................................................... 52
6.5 Check Battery Terminals and Connecting Wires............................................ 52
6.6 Check Output Voltage.................................................................................... 52
6.7 Check Output Current.................................................................................... 52
6.8 Replacing the Metal Oxide Varistors.............................................................. 53
6.9 Maintenance Log ........................................................................................... 54
7.0 Specifications............................................................................................................ 55
7.1 Safety and EMC Compliance......................................................................... 56
8.0 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................ 57
8.1 Return/Repair Information.............................................................................. 57
8.2 Parts Ordering Instructions ............................................................................ 57
8.3 Emergency Shutdown.................................................................................... 58

6017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
List of Figures and Tables
Fig. 1-1, GMX Power Supply............................................................................................... 13
Fig. 1-2, GMX Terminal Block Overview.............................................................................. 14
Fig. 1-3, Inverter Overview .................................................................................................. 15
Fig. 2-1, Charger Modes...................................................................................................... 19
Fig. 2-2, GMX Block Diagram.............................................................................................. 20
Fig. 3-1, AC Indicator........................................................................................................... 23
Fig. 3-2, Wire/Connector Assembly..................................................................................... 23
Fig. 3-3, ACI Connection ..................................................................................................... 24
Fig. 3-4, SPI Cover Removal............................................................................................... 25
Fig. 3-5, Coaxial Cable Insertion and Securing................................................................... 25
Fig. 3-6, Cover Replaced, SPI Switched On ....................................................................... 26
Fig. 3-7, SPI Grounding Lug................................................................................................ 26
Fig. 3-8, Enclosure Ground Bar........................................................................................... 26
Fig. 4-1, Micro Board Settings............................................................................................. 27
Fig. 4-2, Transformer Output Tap Connector....................................................................... 28
Fig. 5-1, Configuration Screen............................................................................................. 29
Fig. 5-2, Smart Display........................................................................................................ 33
Fig. 5-3, Normal Operation Display ..................................................................................... 34
Fig. 5-4, Additional Info Display........................................................................................... 35
Fig. 5-5, Setup Menu Display .............................................................................................. 38
Fig. 5-6, Smart Display LEDs .............................................................................................. 41
Fig. 6-1, MOV Removal....................................................................................................... 53
Fig. 6-2, MOV Replacement................................................................................................ 53
Fig. 8-1, Emergency Shutdown ........................................................................................... 58
Table 5-1, Setup Menu Parameters..................................................................................... 39
Table 5-2, Major Alarms....................................................................................................... 40
Table 5-3, Minor Alarms....................................................................................................... 40

7
017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Safety Notes
Review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there are any questions
regarding the safe installation or operation of this product, contact Alpha Technologies or the nearest Alpha
representative. Save this document for future reference.
To reduce the risk of injury or death, and to ensure the continued safe operation of this product, the following
symbols have been placed throughout this manual. Where these symbols appear, use extra care and
attention.
Safety Precautions
• Only qualified personnel may service the GMX Power Supply.
• Verify the voltage requirements of the equipment to be protected (load), the AC input voltage to the power
supply (line), and the output voltage of the system prior to installation.
• Equip the utility service panel with a properly rated circuit breaker for use with this power supply.
• When connecting the load, DO NOT exceed the output rating of the power supply.
• Always use proper lifting techniques whenever handling the power supply or batteries.
• The GMX Power Supply contains more than one live circuit! Even though AC voltage is not present at the
input, voltage may still be present at the output.
• If batteries are being stored prior to installation, charge at least once every three months to ensure
optimum performance and maximum battery service life.
• To reduce the chance of spark, and wear on the connectors, always switch the inverter’s battery circuit
breaker off before connecting or disconnecting the battery pack.
• The battery pack, which provides backup power, contains dangerous voltages. Only qualified personnel
should inspect or replace batteries.
• In the event of a short circuit, batteries present a risk of electrical shock and burns from high current.
Observe proper safety precautions.
• Always wear protective clothing, insulated gloves and eye protection (safety glasses or face shield)
whenever working with batteries.
• Always carry a supply of water, such as a water jug, to wash the eyes or skin in the event of exposure to
battery electrolyte.
The use of ATTENTION indicates specific regulatory/code requirements that may affect the placement of
equipment and /or installation procedures.
ATTENTION:
A NOTE provide additional information to help complete a specific task or procedure.
NOTE:
The use of CAUTION indicates safety information intended to PREVENT DAMAGE to material or
equipment.
CAUTION!
WARNING presents safety information to PREVENT INJURY OR DEATH to the technician
or user.
WARNING!

8017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Safety Precautions, continued
• Do not allow live battery wires to contact the enclosure chassis. Shorting battery wires can result in a fire
or possible explosion.
• Always replace batteries with those of an identical type and rating. Never install old or untested batteries.
• Avoid using uninsulated tools or other conductive materials when handling batteries or working inside the
enclosure.
• Remove all rings, watches and other jewelry before servicing batteries.
• Spent or damaged batteries are environmentally unsafe. Always recycle used batteries. Refer to local
codes for proper disposal of batteries
Battery Safety Notes
• Always refer to the battery manufacturer’s recommendation for selecting correct “FLOAT” and “ACCEPT”
charge voltages. Failure to do so can damage the batteries.
• Verify the GMX battery charger's “FLOAT” and “ACCEPT” voltage settings. See Section 5.2.3, Setup
Menu.
• Batteries are temperature sensitive. During extremely cold conditions, a battery’s charge acceptance
is reduced and requires a higher charge voltage. During extremely hot conditions, a battery’s charge
acceptance is increased and requires a lower charge voltage. To compensate for changes in temperature,
the battery charger is temperature compensating.
• If the batteries appear to be overcharged or undercharged, first check for defective batteries and then
verify the correct charger voltage settings.
• To ensure optimum performance, inspect batteries every three to six months for signs of cracking,
leaking, or unusual swelling (note that some swelling is normal).
• Check battery terminals and connecting wires. Clean battery terminal connectors periodically and
retighten to approximately 50 inch-pounds. Spray the terminals with an approved battery terminal coating
such as NCP-2.
• Check battery voltages UNDER LOAD. Use a load tester if available. Differences between any battery in
the set should not be greater than 0.3VDC.
• Refer to the battery manufacturer’s recommendation for correct charger voltages.
• Number the batteries (1, 2, 3, etc.) inside the enclosure for easy identification (refer to the appropriate
enclosure installation guide).
• Establish and maintain a battery maintenance log (see Section 6.9).
If installed, disconnect the AlphaGuard (AG-CMT) prior to measuring battery voltage.
NOTE:
Even with a AG-CMT present in the system, any battery which fails the 0.3V load test must be replaced with
an identical type of battery.
NOTE:
Always verify proper polarity of cables before connecting the batteries to the power module. The batteries are
clearly marked for polarity. If the cables become interchanged at the batteries the battery breaker will trip.
NOTE:

9
017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Utility Power Connection Notes
Connecting to the utility should be performed only by qualified service personnel and in compliance with local
electrical codes. Connection to utility power must be approved by the local utility before installing the power
supply.
ATTENTION:
UL and NEC require that a service disconnect switch (UL listed) be provided by the installer and be connected
between the power source and the GMX Power Supply. Connection to the power supply must include an
appropriate service entrance weather head.
ATTENTION:
In order to accommodate the high-inrush currents normally associated with the start-up of ferroresonant
transformers (400A, no-trip, first-half cycle), either a “high-magnetic” or HACR (Heating, Air Conditioning,
Refrigeration) trip breaker must be used. Do not replace these breakers with a conventional service entrance
breaker. Alpha recommends ONLY Square D breakers because of increased reliability in this powering
application. High-magnetic Square D circuit breakers and BBX option (UL Listed service entrance) are
available from Alpha Technologies.
NOTE:
GMX Line Cord Options Alpha P/N
Line Cord, 3-conductor, 12AWG, NEMA 6-20P (US) 875-254-11
Line Cord, IEC 320 to NEMA 5/20P, SJT 12AWG (US) 875-254-10
Line Cord,3C, #14, SCHUKO/320 C19 RECT, 1M (EU) 875-432-10
Line Cord, 3C, #14, SCHUKO/IEC 320 C19 REPT, 2.5M (EU) 875-433-10
Line Cord,3C, #14, BS546/IEC 320 C19 RCPT, 1M (India) 875-434-10
Line Cord,3C, #14, BS1363/IEC 320 C19 RCPT, 2M (UK) 875-435-10
Line Cord,3C, CHN/IEC 320 C19 RCPT, 1M (China) 875-436-10
Line Cord, 3-conductor, 12AWG, NEMA 6-15P (US) 875-471-10
Description Alpha P/N Square D Part Number
240V Installation — HACR (15A) 470-224-10 QO215
120V Installation — High-magnetic (20A) 470-017-10 QO120HM
120V Installation — High-magnetic (15A) 470-013-10 QO115HM
BBX — External Service Disconnect 020-085-10 QO2-4L70RB
BBX — External Service Disconnect 020-141-10 QO8-16L100RB

10 017-932-B0-001, Rev. A
Utility Power Connection Notes
In most cases, the following configurations qualify for service entrance use when wiring a duplex receptacle
to a service disconnect. Other codes may also apply. Always contact your local utility to verify that the wiring
conforms to applicable codes.
120VAC 20A Service, GMX 115V, U.S. Domestic Models
These configurations are equipped with a 120VAC duplex receptacle which provides power to the power
supply and peripheral equipment. The receptacle, NEMA 5-20R, is protected by a single-pole, 20A High
Magnetic (HM) circuit breaker located inside the service entrance. Wiring is typical 12AWG per NEC code,
and a grounding clamp, located on the enclosure, facilitates dedicated grounding.
To bond the box to a neutral plate, use the long green bonding screw provided (Alpha P/N 523-011-10).
Typical 120 VAC 15A Receptacle Wiring, 5-15R Typical 120 VAC 20A Receptacle Wiring, 5-20R
(P/N 531-006-10)
(P/N 531-003-10)
Neutral
(White) Ground
(Green)
LI
(Black)
Neutral
(White)
LI
(Black)
Ground
(Green)
ATTENTION:
NOTE:
L1 Black
Typical 120VAC Service Entrance Wiring
To Utility
Neutral (White)
Neutral Bus
To Enclosure Receptacle
L1 Black
Grounding Point
(made to enclosure wall)
Copper Ground Wire
#8AWG (minimum)
Breaker