Cobra POWER 500W User manual

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©2020 Cobra Electronics Corporation Version A

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... 2
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 3
HOW YOUR POWER INVERTER WORKS ................................................................................... 3
PRODUCT SERVICE AND SUPPORT .......................................................................................... 3
WHAT'S IN THE BOX ............................................................................................................... 3
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES ......................................................................................................... 3
CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS .............................................................................................. 4
IMPORTANT PRODUCT/SAFETY INFORMATION ...................................................................... 6
PENTAGON PROTECTION® ...................................................................................................... 7
GETTING STARTED .................................................................................................................. 8
POWER CONSUMPTION ......................................................................................................... 8
MOUNTING THE INVERTER ..................................................................................................... 9
POWER 500W INSTALLATION ................................................................................................ 10
CONNECTING TO THE BATTERY .............................................................................................. 11
POWER 500W 12V ACCESSORY INSTALLATION ...................................................................... 12
CONNECTING TO THE 12V ACCESSORY ................................................................................... 13
TURNING YOUR INVERTER ON AND OFF ................................................................................ 15
COBRA REMOTE ON/OFF CONTROLLER WITH FAST CHARGE USB .......................................... 15
OPERATING INDICATORS ....................................................................................................... 16
OPERATING LIMITS ................................................................................................................ 16
TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................................................. 17
SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................... 18
WARRANTY & TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................ 19
MAINTENANCE & PRODUCT SERVICE ..................................................................................... 20

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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Cobra POWER 500W Power Inverter (Model CPI500W). Used
properly, this Cobra product will give you reliable power to run your appliances and devices.
Please read this manual thoroughly before you install and set up your new power inverter.
HOW YOUR POWER INVERTER WORKS
The Cobra POWER 500 Power Inverter is a power conversion device that is designed and built
to operate from low Voltage DC (Direct Current) power from your vehicle battery and converts
it to standard 115 Volt AC (Alternating Current) power like you have in your home. This
conversion process allows you to use many of your household appliances and electronic
products in automobiles, RVs, boats, trucks and virtually anywhere else with a 12 Volt battery.
PRODUCT SERVICE AND SUPPORT
For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, PLEASE CONTACT
COBRA FIRST…do not return this product to the retail store. The contact information for Cobra
will vary depending on the country in which you purchased and utilize the product. For the
latest contact information, please go to www.cobra.com/support or call 1-800-543-1608.
If your product should require factory service, please go to www.cobra.com/support and follow
the instructions.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
• Cobra CPI500W Power Inverter
• 16” #10 AWG Power Cables
• 16” 12-Volt Accessory Cable
• Quick Start Guide
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES – available at www.cobra.com
• CPIALCDG1 - Remote On/Off controller with Fast Charge USB

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CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS

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A. Negative Power Input Terminal
B. Cooling Fans – regulate the temperature of the inverter, turning on when
temperature exceeds the preset limit, and turning off when the temperature
reduces
C. Positive Power Input Terminal
D. USB-A Fast Charge port (5V/9V/15W)**
E. Power/Fault LED Indicator
F. USB-C Fast Charge port (5V/9V/15W)**
G. Port for Cobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB
(Sold Separately)*
H. (2) GFCI Protected AC Outlets
I. Power Switch
J. Power Cables
K. 12 Volt Accessory Cable (for vehicle accessory port)
LCobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB
(Sold Separately)*
** = Fast Charge works only on devices capable of supporting a charge up to 10W

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IMPORTANT PRODUCT /SAFETY INFORMATION
Before installing and using your Cobra power inverter, please read these general precautions and
warnings.
Caution and Warning Statements
Special attention must be paid to the CAUTION and WARNING statements in the manual.
CAUTION: Statements specify conditions which could cause damage to the unit or other equipment.
WARNING: Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.
General Precautions
1. Never install the inverter in a boat’s engine compartment where gas and battery fumes are
present.
2. Do not operate the inverter if it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
3. Do not open the inverter; it contains no user-serviceable parts. Attempting to service unit could
cause electrical shock.
NOTE: Internal components remain charged after all power is disconnected.
3. Do not expose the inverter to rain, snow, bilge water or spray.
4. Do not obstruct the ventilation openings.
5. Do not install the inverter in zero-clearance compartment.
6. Do not allow water or liquids in contact with the power inverter
7. Do not use appliances with damaged or wet cords.
CAUTION: This inverter should be used in negative ground applications only.
CAUTION: The inverter must only be connected to batteries with a nominal output voltage of 12
volts. Do not connect the power inverter to a 6 Volt battery and will be damaged if connected to a
24 Volt battery.
WARNING: Power inverters contain components that tend to produce arcs or sparks. To prevent fire
or explosion, do not install the inverter in areas or compartments containing batteries or flammable
materials or in locations that require ignition-protected equipment.
WARNING: To avoid fire, do not cover or obstruct the ventilation openings. Do not install the power
inverter in a tight space or closed compartment where airflow may be restricted.
Proposition 65: Warning: Wash Hands After Handling Power Cord
The power cord on this product contains lead, a chemical known in the state of California to cause
birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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Caution: Rechargeable Appliances
Certain chargers for small nickel cadmium batteries can be damaged if
connected to a Cobra POWER 500W inverter. Two particular types of equipment
are prone to this problem:
1. Small battery-operated appliances such as flashlights, razors, and night lights
that can be plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge.
2. Certain battery chargers for battery packs used in hand power tools. These
chargers have a WARNING label stating that dangerous voltages are present at
the battery terminals.
This problem does not occur with the vast majority of battery operated equipment. Most use a
separate charger or transformer that is plugged into the AC receptacle and produces a low voltage
output. If the label on the AC adapter or charger states that it produces a low voltage AC or DC output
(less than 30 volts), the inverter will have no problem powering the adapter safely.
Cobra 500W Output Waveform
Some very sensitive electronic equipment may not operate satisfactory on the output waveform referred
to as "modified sine wave" which this inverter is designed. It is a stepped waveform designed to have
characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. A waveform of this nature is suitable for
most AC loads (including linear and switching power suppliers used in electronic equipment, transformers
and motors).
PENTAGON PROTECTION®
Cobra power inverters provide five levels of protection:
1. Over-Temperature: Auto-shut off will occur when the safe operating temperature has
been exceeded.
2. Reverse Polarity: The inverter will not operate if connected incorrectly to the power source.
3. Over-Voltage: Auto-shutdown will occur if the DC input exceeds safe operating levels.
4. Low Voltage Alarm: The inverter will sound an alarm to indicate a low battery voltage condition.
5. Low Voltage Cutoff: The inverter will automatically shut off to prevent a dead battery condition.
For detailed specifications go to Specifications section of this manual, starting on page 18.

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GETTING STARTED
This section provides you with the basic information about the inverter and a few tips before installation.
To get started, you will need:
1. A 12 Volt DC battery (i.e. vehicle battery. In order to understand how much current your battery must
deliver, divide the number of Watts from your AC appliance or device by 10.
2. Cables to connect your inverter to the vehicle battery. These come with your POWER 500W Inverter
and provide a length of 16".
DETERMINING THE POWER REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR PRO INVERTER
Before you turn on your power inverter and plug in an appliance or device, you will want to understand
its power requirements.
To determine the requirements, you will need to know the Watts of your device. This can be calculated by
multiplying the Amps by 110 Volts (See Below).
POWER CONSUMPTION
For each piece of equipment you will be operating from the power inverter, you must determine the
battery’s reserve capacity (how long the battery can deliver a specific amount of current – in
automotive batteries, usually 25 ampere) or ampere-hour capacity (a measure of how many amperes
a battery can deliver for a specified length of time).
Example – Ampere-hour capacity: a battery with an ampere-hour capacity of 100 ampere-hours can
deliver 5 ampere for 20 hours before it is completely discharged.
To determine the battery Ampere-hour capacity you require:
1. Determine how many Watts each piece of equipment consumes. This can normally be found on the
product label. If only the Amperage is provided, then multiply the Amps by 115 to determine the
power in Watts.
2. Estimate how long you need your appliance to run.
3. Now calculate the Amp-hour rating for the battery. You can do this by multiplying the total AC
load (in Watts) by the length of time (in Hours) needed to run your appliance. This will give you
the Watt-Hours needed.
4. Divide the watt-hours by 10 to determine how many battery (12 volt) ampere-hours will be
consumed.

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Multiply: AC AMPS X 110 (AC Voltage) = WATTS. This formula yields a close approximation of the
continuous load of your appliance.
Multiply: WATTS X 2 = Starting load for most appliances, tools and devices. This formula yields a close
approximation of the starting load for most appliances. Exceptions are motorized appliances such as
pumps, freezers, and air conditioners. These appliances can have startup loads of up to eight times the
rated Watts.
For electrically sensitive equipment, contact the manufacturer to determine if the device you are using is
compatible with modified sine wave AC. If not, then a Pure Sine Wave Inverter is recommended.
Determining the DC Power Requirements
Your power inverter requires the input of a 12-Volt battery. To calculate the approximate power in Amps
as 12-Volt battery bank you need to know the current, or Amps required for powering the continuous AC
load. A shortcut method is to divide the continuous AC load Wattage by 10. For example, the continuous
AC load is 500 Watts. The current (Amps) is: 500/10 or 50 Amps at 12VDC. Add to the load any DC
appliances that may be powered by the battery bank.
MOUNTING THE INVERTER
Do not mount the power inverter under the hood of any vehicle. Choose a cool, dry, and well-ventilated
area inside the vehicle as close to the battery as possible. Place the power inverter on a flat, secure
surface. Make sure there are no wires, fuel lines or fluid tanks directly behind the wall or surface being
drilled. When mounting, secure the power inverter in place using corrosion-resistant mounting hardware
(not included).
What you will need:
• Assess your mounting needs depending
on the inverter and type of surface you
are mounting (i.e. wood or fiber glass)
• Gather the necessary tools depending
on the surface (i.e. drill or screwdriver)
• Determine size of mounting hardware.
Use only corrosive resistant screws (not included)
Mounting Instructions:
1. Make sure the inverter is OFF.
2. Check for wires, fuel lines or fluid tanks behind the wall or surface you plan to drill.
3. Position the power inverter horizontally when choosing the mounting location. If mounted on a wall
be sure the front of the inverter is facing out. Do not mount vertically to prevent debris or dust from
falling into the power inverter.
4. Mark the locations of the mounting screws before drilling.
5. Remove the inverter and drill the (4) mounting holes.
6. Fasten the inverter to the mounting surface using corrosion-resistant screws (not included).

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POWER 500W INSTALLATION

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CONNECTING TO THE BATTERY
1. Mount the inverter inside the vehicle in a well ventilated location close
to the battery.
2. Disconnect the NEGATIVE (-) or black battery terminal of the vehicle.
3. Route cables close to the battery.
4. Install the insulated terminal boots on the inverter end of the power
cables (RED = positive, BLACK = negative).
5. Connect the BLACK Cable to the Negative (-) terminal on the
inverter.
6. Connect the RED Cable to the Positive (+) terminal on the inverter.
7. Connect the other end of the RED cable to the (+) terminal on the
vehicle battery.
8. Visually inspect and make sure the red wire or its connectors are not
touching any metal parts of the vehicle or the black wire connectors.
9. Connect the other end of the BLACK cable to the (-) terminal on the
vehicle battery. Caution: There is normally a spark at the point of
contact at the negative terminal.
10. Check all connections making sure the RED cable is connected to
the POSITIVE (+) terminals and the BLACK cable is connected to
the NEGATIVE (-) terminals.
11. Press the POWER button to turn on your inverter.
12. If you purchased the Cobra Remote On/Off Remote Controller
with Fast Charge USB (Model CPIALCDG1) accessory, plug the
controller into the RJ45 jack labeled “REMOTE”.

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POWER 500W 12V ACCESSORY INSTALLATION

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CONNECTING TO THE 12V ACCESSORY
1. Mount your inverter in a well-ventilated area of vehicle.
2. Remove the thumb cap on the inverter for each terminal.
3. Connect the RED (+) 12V Accessory Cable ring to the RED (+)
inverter terminal.
4. Screw the thumb cap back on the RED (+) inverter terminal.
5. Connect the BLACK (-) 12V Accessory Cable ring to the BLACK (-)
inverter terminal.
6. Screw the thumb cap back on the BLACK (-) inverter terminal.
7. Make sure the inverter is in the OFF position "O".
8. Plug the 12V Accessory Cable into vehicle accessory port*.
9. When turning your inverter ON, place the power switch into the ON or "-"
position by pressing the left side of the switch. When turning your inverter
OFF, place the power switch into the OFF or "O" position by pressing the
right side of the Power Switch.

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CAUTION: Do not connect the inverter and another AC source (such as a generator or utility power) to
the AC wiring at the same time. The inverter will be damaged if its output is connected to AC voltage
from another source. Damage can even occur if the inverter is switched off.
CAUTION: Do not connect the inverter to an AC branch circuit that has high-power consumption loads.
It will not operate electric heaters, air conditioners, stoves, and other electrical appliances that
consume more than 500 watts.
CAUTION: Loose connectors result in excessive voltage drop and may cause over heated wires and
melted insulation.
CAUTION: Reverse polarity connections (positive to negative) will blow internal fuses in the inverter and
may permanently damage the unit. Such damage is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: We recommend a main fuse in the battery’s positive cable to protect against DC wiring short
circuits (external to the inverter). The fuse should be as close to the battery as possible. We recommend a
60 Amp ANL fuse or equivalent. The specific fuse ampere rating should be sized to allow operation
of all your DC powered equipment.
CAUTION: Remove any jewelry (watch, ring, etc.). Be careful not to short circuit the battery with any
metallic object (wrench, etc.).
CAUTION: Electrical installations must meet local and national wiring codes, and should be performed
by a qualified electrician.
WARNING: If you are making a permanent AC connection to the inverter, make sure that the AC wiring
steps are performed before any DC wiring is done. (DC hook-up energizes internal components,
regardless of the position of the On/Off Switch). Working on AC connections in such a circumstance
may result in an electric shock.
WARNING: 115 volt AC power is potentially lethal. Do not work on AC wiring when it is connected to the
inverter (even if it is switched off) unless the DC power source is physically disconnected from the
inverter. Also, do not work on AC wiring if it is connected to another AC power source such as a
generator or the utility line.
WARNING: You may observe a spark when making the connection because current can flow to charge
the capacitors in the inverter. Do not make this connection in the presence of flammable fumes.
Explosion or fire may result. Thoroughly ventilate the battery compartment before making this
connection.

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TURNING YOUR POWER INVERTER ON AND OFF
Be sure to have your power inverter properly installed before attempting to turn the unit on
(see installation beginning on page 10)
To turn the power inverter on:
1. If a DC power supply is being used as the power source, switch it on.
2. On the Output End, press the Power Button to on.
The power inverter is now ready to deliver AC power to your loads. If
several loads are to be operated by the inverter, turn them on
separately, after the inverter has been turned on. This will ensure that
the inverter does not have to deliver the starting currents required for all
the loads at once.
NOTE: The Power Button turns the control circuit in the inverter on and off. It does not disconnect
power from the inverter.
When the button is in the off position, the inverter draws no current from the battery. When it’s in
the on position, but no power is being supplied to a load, the inverter draws less than 600
milliamperes from the battery. This is low current draw. It would take more than a week to discharge
a 100 ampere-hour battery at this rate depending on the age of the battery.
COBRA REMOTE ON/OFF CONTROLLER WITH
FAST CHARGE USB
Your Cobra POWER inverter is equipped with an RJ-45 jack labeled "REMOTE" for compatibility with the
Cobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB* to allow you to conveniently turn the inverter
ON and OFF from anywhere inside your vehicle as well fast charge your devices at the same time. Perfect
for use while driving, traveling, camping or tailgating when your inverter is out of reach. (4) mounting
options allow you to install it permanently, use it while driving in a cup holder or clip it to the back of a
seat or a place inside your vehicle.
*Sold Separately. Can be purchased on www.Cobra.com

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OPERATING INDICATORS
Indicators on the power inverter show the unit’s power status and alarms for conditions that could cause it to
shut down. The power and protection indicator includes a dual color green and red light, and an alarm.
Green Light
Power on – The green light should remain on steady.
Red Light and/or Alarm
Current overload – The red light will blink continuously, then the inverter will shutdown. The inverter will
continue to check for appropriate current levels while trying to restart the load.
DC input voltage overload – The red light will turn on and the inverter will shutdown. The inverter will
continue to check for appropriate voltage levels while trying to restart the load.
DC input voltage shortage – As a warning that the voltage is getting low, the internal alarm will sound. When
the voltage is too low, the inverter will shutdown and the light will turn red. The inverter will continue to
check for appropriate voltage levels while trying to restart the load.
Temperature overload – The red light will blink, then the inverter will shutdown. The inverter will continue to
check for appropriate temperature levels while trying to restart the load.
NOTE: A momentary sound of the internal alarm and/or flash of the red light is normal at start up.
OPERATING LIMITS
Power Output
The inverter can deliver 500 watts for about 60 minutes. The inverter must cool for 15 minutes before it can
resume operation at 500 watts. Note: The wattage rating applies to resistive loads.
The inverter will operate most AC loads within its power rating. Some induction motors used in freezers,
pumps, and other motor-operated equipment require very high surge currents to start. The inverter may not
be able to start some of these motors even though their rated current draw is within the inverter’s limits. The
inverter will normally start single phase induction motors rated at one-half HP or less.
Input Voltage
The inverter will operate from input voltage ranging from 10 volts to 15 volts. Optimum performance will
occur when the voltage is between 12 volts and 14 volts. If the voltage drops below 10.5V+/-0.3V, an audible
low battery warning will sound. The inverter will shut down if the input voltage drops below 9.5V+/-0.3V. This
protects the battery from being over-discharged. It will restart when the input voltage exceeds 12V+/-0.3V.
The inverter will also shut down if the input voltage exceeds change to 15.5V+/-0.5V. This protects the
inverter against excessive input voltage. Although the inverter has protection against over-voltage, it may still
be damaged if the input voltage were to exceed 16 volts.

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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem/Symptom Possible Causes on
Low output voltage Overload Reduce the load.
No output voltage Low input voltage Recharge ba!ery. Check
connec"ons and cable.
No output voltage
a#er prolonged use
Thermal shutdown Allow inverter to
cool off.
Reduce load, con"nuous
opera"on input current
required.
Improve ven"la"on;
make sure ven"la"on
openings in the inverter
are not obstructed.
Reduce ambient
temperature.
No output voltage,
“Protect” indicator
lighted
High input voltage Make sure the inverter
is connected to 12V
ba!ery.
Check regula"on or
charging system.
No output voltage Short circuit Check load for proper
opera"on.
No output voltage Inverter switched off
No power to inverter
Reverse DC polarity
Turn inverter on.
Check wiring to inverter.
Observe correct
polarity.
Low ba!ery alarm on
all the "me
Poor DC wiring
Poor ba!ery
condi"on
Check connec"ons.
Make sure ba!ery is
fully charged.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications:
POWER 500W
Model
CPI500W
Input
13.0V DC
Output
115V AC, 60Hz, 4.3A, 500W
Output Waveform
Modified Sine Wave (MSW)
Continuous Power
500 Watt
Peak Power
1000 Watt
Efficiency
90%
No Load Draw
< .6A
Low Battery Alarm
10.5V DC
Low Battery Shutdown
9.5V DC
USB-A Output Port
5V/3.0A, 9V/1.67A Fast Charge
USB-C Output Port
5V/3.0A, 9V/1.67A Fast Charge
AC Output Socket
2 GFCI Protected AC Outputs
Protection
Overload, Over Temperature, Short Circuit,
Reverse Polarity, Over/Under Voltage and GFCI
Operating Temperature
-10°C/14°F - 40°C/104°F
Storage Temperature
-40°C/-40°F - 65°C/149°F
Power Cable Length:
16" #10 AWG (1) Red, (1) Black
CLA Cable Length:
16"
Compatible with Cobra Remote LCD
(SKU CPIALCDG1)
Yes
Dimensions
7.01"x5.39"x2.83"
Net Weight
1.41 lbs
Specifications subject to change without notice.

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WARRANTY & TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Limited Two-Year Warranty
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra power inverter, and the component parts thereof,
will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of two years from the date of first
consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the
product is utilized within the U.S.A.
Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective power inverters, products or
component parts upon delivery to the Cobra Factory Service department, accompanied by proof of the
date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt.
You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the return
charges will be at Cobra’s expense, if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:
1. To any product damaged by accident.
2. In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs.
3. If the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed.
4. If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are
limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental,
consequential or other damages; including, without limitation, to damages resulting from loss of use or
cost of installation.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to
you.
For Products Purchased outside the U.S.A.
Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.
Trademark Acknowledgement
Cobra®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Pentagon Protection® and the snake design are registered
trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of
Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

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MAINTENANCE & PRODUCT SERVICE
Maintenance
Very little maintenance is required to keep the inverter operating properly. The exterior of the unit should
be cleaned periodically with a damp cloth to prevent accumulation of dust and dirt. At the same time,
tighten the screws on the DC input terminals. Be sure vents and fans are free of dust or debris.
Product Service
For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, please go to www.cobra.com