Isolite E3MINI Series User manual

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When using electrical equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed
including the following:
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
A. Do not use outdoors
B. Do not mount near gas or electric heaters.
C. Use caution when servicing batteries. Battery acid can cause burns to skin and
eyes. If acid is spilled on skin or in eyes, flush acid with fresh water and
contact a physician immediately.
D. Equipment should be mounted in locations and at heights where it will not
readily be subjected to tampering by unauthorized personnel.
E. The use of accessory equipment not recommended by the manufacturer may
cause an unsafe condition.
F. Do not use this equipment for other than intended use.
This unit contains lethal voltages. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Only
authorized service personnel are to be used for service.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
The installation and use of this product must comply with all national, state, municipal
or local codes that apply. Please read this manual thoroughly before installing and
operating the E3MINI Series central inverter system. For assistance please call ISOLITE
technical support at 800-967-5573 and speak to a technician during normal business
hours (EST).
E3MINI Series by
ISOLITE –THE EMERGENCY LIGHTING EXPERTS
31 Waterloo Avenue Berwyn, PA 19312 WWW.ISOLITE.COM
Installation / Operation Manual
Emergency Lighting Central Inverter System

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Mechanical Design Features
1.2 Electrical Design Features
2.0 Receiving and Storage
2.1 Inspection
2.2 Storage
3.0 Installation
3.1 Location
3.2 Operating Environment
3.3 Ventilation
3.4 Mounting Guidelines
3.4.1 Clearance
3.4.2 Wall Mounting Holes
3.4.3 Knockout Locations
4.0 AC Connections
4.1 Installing the Input Wires
4.2 Installing the Output Wires
4.3 AC Input(s) / Output(s) Diagram
5.0 Battery and DC Connections
5.1 Battery Inspection
5.2 Battery Installation
5.3 DC Voltage of System
5.4 Battery Wiring Diagram(s)
6.0 Startup and Shutdown
Procedures
6.1 Startup Procedure
6.2 Shutdown Procedure
7.0 Specifications
8.0 User Interface
8.1 LED1 –Charging Mode and Line
Status
8.2 LED2 –Inverter Mode and
Battery Level Indication
8.3 Minor Alarm
8.4 Major Alarms
8.5 Startup Faults
8.6 Charger Faults
8.7 Inverter Faults
9.0 System Operation
9.1 Startup Mode
9.2 Battery Charging Mode
9.3 Inverter (Batter Discharge)
Mode
9.4 AC Output Types
9.4.1 Normally-On Output
9.4.2 Normally-Off / Switched Output
10.0 Warranty
10.1 Technical Service and Support
10.2 Return Material Authorization
(RMA)
11.0 Maintenance and Service
11.1 Battery Maintenance
11.2 Battery Replacement
12.0 Fire Alarm/Dimming Option
12.1 Overview
12.2 Operation
12.3 User Presets
12.4 Fire Alarm / Dimming
Connections
12.5 Testing the Dimmer Option
13.0 Typical Wiring Diagrams
Diagrams 1 - 5
2| INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The E3MINI Series central emergency lighting inverter system integrates the latest
inverter and microprocessor technology to produce a pure sine-wave power output.
With typical 3% or less steady state losses, it makes it ideal for energy saving and green
initiatives. It is designed specifically for emergency lighting and meets the needs of all
lighting loads with its pure sine-wave output which is the ONLY method of power that
will ensure any lighting load type will be powered safely, efficiently and effectively. The
E3MINI Series meets the Emergency Lighting Backup requirements that demand high
efficiency, versatility, load compatibility, energy savings, high performance, and high
quality.
1.1 Mechanical Design Features
Batteries and electronics are contained in a single cabinet which makes installation
very easy. Wall mounting can be achieved with 4 mounting holes capable of accepting
¼” lag-bolts and electrical knock outs (EKO’s) are available on three surfaces. Quick
access to the interior of the cabinet for battery inspection and maintenance is
accomplished by the removal of a single screw which holds the front cover. A single
module containing all electronics can be easily removed for upgrade or replacement.
This single module makes maintenance and repair easier and more cost effective
because specialized training is not required.
1.2 Electrical Design Features
Through the use of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and the latest MOSFET
technology, E3MINI Series can produce a pure sine-wave output which is compatible
with all types of lighting loads. User selectable Input and Output voltage of either 120
VAC or 277 VAC makes for versatility with Electrical Contractors and field installations. A
high crest factor of up to 10X (125W model) is extremely beneficial for high-inrush loads
and also ideal for bringing Normally-Off lighting loads on from a cold start. This high
crest factor also improves the dynamic response so mixing Normally-On and Normally-
Off loads together causes less performance loss than traditional inverters. Since the
active PWM regulation scheme produces a very low THD waveform, the E3MINI Series
can power up even the most demanding loads driving its output with power factor
capabilities ranging from 0.5 leading to 0.5 lagging.
Adding to the versatility are the multiple output types of Normally-On and the
multipurpose Normally-Off/Switched outputs. These outputs are capable of switching
the emergency lighting loads on and off making energy savings and green initiatives
easy to accomplish and all outputs are capable of producing full output power and have
no derating. The batteries are charged by a temperature compensated charger
integrated into a bi-directional converter. A three rate charging scheme and bi-
directional converter topology ensures maximum float life and minimal ripple current on
the batteries.
E3MINI SERIES | 3

2.0 RECEIVING AND STORAGE
2.1 Inspection
The E3MINI Series central inverter and batteries are shipped together. Upon
arrival, please inspect the contents to ensure that no shipping damage has
occurred. This is especially important with the batteries –ensure that there are no
cracks or leaks. If any damage has occurred, notify the shipping carrier immediately
and submit a damage claim.
WARNING - Do not use system with a damaged battery as this may cause an unsafe
condition.
2.2 Storage
Storage before the installation is critical for the battery life expectancy and
warranty. Store the system indoors in a clean, dry and cool location. Storage at
higher temperatures will result in accelerated rates of self-discharge and possible
deterioration of battery performance and life.
Storage at high temperatures will result in accelerated rates of self-discharge and
possible deterioration of battery performance and life. Storage times exceeding the
above may result in plate sulfation, which may adversely affect electrical
performance and expected life.
Failure to install and charge the batteries as noted
VOIDS the battery’s warranty
DANGER -Batteries present a risk of electrical shock and high short circuit current.
Do not smoke, cause a flame or spark in the immediate are of the batteries. Use
proper lifting means when moving batteries and wear all appropriate safety
clothing and equipment.
4| INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL
WARNING –The maximum storage time from shipment to initial
charge is 6 months for batteries stored at ambient temperatures no
warmer than 77°F (25°C). For storage temperatures greater than 77°F
(25°C) the batteries must be recharged one (1) month sooner for every
5°F (3°C) increase above 77°F (25°C).

3.0 INSTALLATION
3.1 Location
NEC article 700 EMERGENCY CIRCUITS should be referenced for proper installation of
a central inverter system. Article 700 dictates that unit must be mounted in a
permanent location. Choose a cool dry place with normal ventilation and one which will
allow easy access for testing and maintenance. Avoid a location which could allow
vandalism and tampering with. Avoid areas that would prohibit visual contact with the
heads up LED status displays.
3.2 Operating Environment
Choose a location that is controlled between 20 and 30 °C. E3MINI Series is UL listed
between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) because of battery discharge performance results.
Do not install in a wet or damp location. Do not install in environments that will expose
the unit to excessive temperatures like boiler rooms as this will significantly depreciate
battery life.
Heat is the determining factor of battery life. Every means should be made to keep the
batteries in an environment that keeps the batteries around 25 °C for rated battery life.
3.3 Ventilation
Choose a mounting location that is clean and dust free. Do not install in areas where
there is particulate or high pollution degree from heavy industrial machinery, corrosive
chemicals or welding or plasma cutting environments etc.
3.4 Mounting Guidelines
3.4.1 Clearance
E3MINI Series is convection cooled and air ventilation is through the sides and up the
top. Leave at least 4 inches of clearance on the sides and top for proper air circulation.
WARNING - Never leave objects lying on the top of the unit which would prevent proper
air flow. This blocking of air circulation may result in an over-temperature fault during
Charging Mode or Inverter Mode with high ambient temperature conditions.
3.4.2 Wall Mounting Holes
Mounting holes are provided for Wall Mount purposes. The location of these holes
are at the back side of the cabinet and will accommodate ¼” mounting hardware. Four
holes are provided and all 4 should be used when wall mounting.
E3MINI SERIES | 5

3.4.3 Knockout Locations
Electrical Knock Outs are provided on three surfaces of the E3MINI Series.
Ensure all metal conduit is secured and tightened creating a good connection to
earth ground. Use an Ohm-Meter to check that continuity between conduit and
protective earth ground has been established.
WARNING –Drilling into cabinet may void warranty if metal filings causes unit
failure.
Wall-Mount Hole Locations –E3MINI Series 125W
Wall-Mount Hole Locations –E3MINI Series 250W
6| INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

Knockout Locations –E3MINI Series 250W
Knockout Locations –E3MINI Series 125W
E3MINI SERIES | 7

4.0 AC CONNECTIONS
WARNING –Only qualified personnel that are familiar with AC and DC installation
techniques and codes (such as an electrician) should perform the Installation.
WARNING –The E3MINI Series contains lethal AC Voltages. Because of these hazards of
high voltage electrocution, always shut down all sources of power before you install,
maintain, or service the unit.
WARNING –Remove all rings, watches, and other jewelry before doing any electrical
service or installation work. Always wear protective clothing and appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE) that is suitable such as eye protection when working near
batteries.
4.1 Installing the Input Wires
Once the front cover is removed,
1. Ensure that the incoming AC voltage to the E3MINI Series the same voltage
rating as the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER. Remove and re-insert to the correct
location if needed.
2. Ensure that the feed breaker from the panel has enough ampacity to allow for
the full rating of the load connected to the E3MINI Series.
Once Feed Voltage and VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER match and breaker size is correct,
1. Connect the Utilities Feed Line voltage to the Terminal Block LINE and NEU
(Neutral). Ensure that the wire connections to the terminal block are tight by
briefly tugging the wires.
2. Connect CMD 1, CMD 2 and CMD 3 if Switched Outputs are required. See
section 9.4 thru 9.4.2 for further load type details.
NOTE –AC Input and AC output wires must be run in separate conduit or raceways per
NEC ARTICLE 700. Please ensure all codes and standards are observed.
NOTE –E3MINI Series requires that the Neutral and Ground potential does not exceed 5
VAC for proper function. Anything above 5 VAC typically indicates that there may be a
grounding issue or inadequate conductor size or continuity. This should be looked at
immediately as it could cause a safety concern.
NOTE –Neutral and ground should never be tied together anywhere in the E3MINI
Series. Always keep Neutral and Ground wires separate and ensure no shorts occur.
NOTE –Neutral (NEU) in the E3MINI Series is common to both the Input and Output.
Never mix Neutrals for the building wiring (Non-Emergency) with the Emergency wiring.
Dedicated wiring is required by NEC code ARTICLE 700.
8| INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

4.2 Installing the Output Wires
Connect the load wires to the Normally-On output leads labeled N-ON, or the
multipurpose Normally-Off/Switched outputs OUT 1, OUT 2 or OUT 3. Ensure that the
wire connections to the terminal block are secured by briefly tugging the wires. See
section 9.4 thru 9.4.2 for further load type details.
1Ensure that the System ON/OFF switch is in the OFF position before starting.
2Connect 120 VAC or 277 VAC to the AC INPUT terminals LINE and NEU. System
ground should be connected directly to the cabinet’s green grounding screw.
3Ensure that the connected AC INPUT line voltage matches the VOLTAGE
SELECT JUMPER. Remove and re-inserting the plug to the correct position if
necessary.
4Connect the load wires to the AC OUTPUT terminals. Load types can be either
Normally-On (N-ON) which are always energized 24/7, or multipurpose
Normally-Off/Switched. OUT 1, OUT 2 and OUT 3 are controlled by CMD 1,
CMD 2, and CMD 3 respectively when used as Switched load types. If no
connections are made to the CMD 1-3, the OUT 1-3 will act as a Normally-Off
load type and will only energize during the Inverter mode of operation (Loss of
utility power or system test). See section 9.4 thru 9.4.2 for additional details
on load types.
4.3 AC Input(s) / Output(s) Diagram
AC INPUT(S)
AC OUTPUT(S)
VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER
E3MINI SERIES | 9

5.0 BATTERY AND DC CONNECTIONS
WARNING –Only qualified personnel that are familiar with AC and DC installation
techniques and codes (such as an electrician) should perform the Installation.
WARNING –Remove all rings, watches, and other jewelry before doing any electrical
service or installation work. Always wear protective clothing and appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE) that is suitable such as eye protection when working near
batteries.
WARNING - Batteries contain tremendous energy and can explode if short circuited.
Precautions should be taken to eliminate possible short circuits. Do not install batteries
until unit is completely mounted and secured in a permanent location with all conduit
and AC wiring connected.
5.1 Battery Inspection
Inspect the batteries for any physical damage such as cracks or any other sign of
leaking electrolyte. Batteries contain Sulfuric Acid which is highly corrosive. A leak from
a battery will cause an unsafe condition.
5.2 Battery Installation
The E3MINI Series batteries may come pre-installed and pre-terminated to the main
DC Battery Connector. If battery connections must be made, follow detail in section 5.4
for the appropriate model you have.
Tip - It is best to insert the jumper between both batteries before the batteries are fully
inserted into the supporting shelf. After ALL DC connections have been made, insert the
battery cable assembly’s multi-pin connector into the mating plug on the right side of
the E3MINI Series electronics module. See section 5.4 for detailed illustrations.
5.3 DC Voltage of System
The systems DC battery voltage for the E3MINI Series is 24VDC for both 125W and
250W models. This voltage is produced by connecting two 12V batteries in series for the
125W model and a series parallel connection for the 250W model.
All required cables are provided by the manufacturer and may come pre-installed on
the batteries (model dependent). All batteries connect to a wiring harness in a fail-safe
manor to accomplish the system’s DC voltage requirements.
NOTE –Battery potential does not have galvanic isolation from AC potential. Battery
Negative is tied to Neutral.
10 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

5.4 Battery Wiring Diagrams
E3MINI SERIES | 11
125W Inverter –Single string of 24VDC
Connect Jumper and wires as shown below
250W Inverter –Two strings of 24VDC
Connect Jumpers and wires as shown below

6.0 STARTUP AND SHUTDOWN PROCEDURES
6.1 Startup
After the AC input and output wires are connected and the battery connector is
properly installed, the unit is ready to be started up.
Ensure that the incoming AC voltage is reaching the unit by turning on all feed circuit
breakers. Once AC input is verified, simply turn on the System ON/OFF switch. The unit
will go through a series of diagnostics to verify proper connections and then will go into
the charge mode. The unit is now on-line and ready. Verify that all load connections are
operating within the specifications of the unit by measuring AC currents on both the line
and load and measure all neutral currents to ensure line and neutral currents are the
same.
Press the Test button on the front panel to verify that the multipurpose Normally-
Off/Switched outputs are all operational and ensure there are no overloads by
measuring the currents.
If alarms occur during start-up, see section 8.5 thru 8.7 for possible explanations. Also
see section 9.1 for Start-Up Mode explanations.
6.2 Shutdown
To shut the system completely down simply place the System ON/OFF switch to the
off position. If the unit is shut down for a long duration please see Battery Storage
Section 2.2 to ensure that the batteries are not damaged from the effects of self-
discharge and high ambient temperatures.
7.0 Specifications
The E3MINI Series system can be overloaded during normal operation when the
dimming option is used. The maximum allowable connected load for both the 125W and
250W model is 375W. The system must be tested to ensure that the connected load
power does not exceed the systems rated power (125W/250W) while in the Inverter
Mode of operation.
12 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL
Maximum Connected Load with Dimming Option
375W

7.0 Specifications (cont.)
Input
Voltage 120 or 277 VAC –User Selectable
Current 2.7A (120V), 1.2A (277V) for 250 Watt Model
1.4A (120V), 0.6A (277V) for 125 Watt Model
Frequency 60Hz +/- 2 Hz
Protection Easy access 8A fast acting 5x20 mm fuse.
Power Factor 0.5 lead to 0.5 lag
Output
Voltage 120 or 277 VAC –User Selectable
Current 2.08A (120V), 0.9A (277V) for 250 Watt Model
1.04A (120V), 0.45A (277V) for 125 Watt Model
Frequency 60Hz +/- 0.02 Hz crystal controlled during emergency mode
Overload 110 percent will generate overload fault
Transfer Time 50mS standard (Optional 1 Second)
Output Distortion Less than 3% THD
Crest Factor 10X for 125W and 5X for 250W model
Load Power Factor 0.5 lead to 0.5 lag
Output Types 1x Normally-On, 3x Multipurpose Normally-Off/Switched
Battery
Type Premium Long Life Valve-Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA)
Charger 3 rate with Temperature Compensation
Recharge Time 24 Hour recharge standard
Protection Automatic Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) set at 1.67 VPC
Automatic restart upon utility return
Runtime 90 Minutes at 25 °C
DC Voltage 24 VDC Nominal, 2.27 VPC float, temperature compensated
DC Current 6.2/12.4 ADC Nominal for 125W/250 Watt model respectively
Environmental
Operating Temp 20 to 30 °C
Storage Temp -20 to 70 °C (Electronics)
0 to 40 °C (Batteries)
Relative Humidity <95 % (non-condensing)
Physical
Cabinet NEMA Type 1 enclosure, 16 AWG powder painted CRS
Cooling Natural Convection –No fans
Size/Weight 15.4W-12H-4.25D / 33lbs. (125W Model)
15.4W-17.3H-4.25D / 57 lbs. (250W Model)
E3MINI SERIES | 13

8.0 USER INTERFACE
There are two heads-up LEDs to indicate system status and a recessed test button to
initiate the inverter to run in Inverter Mode. Both LED1 and LED2 are bi-color LED’s and
will illuminate either solid, blinking, or change between colors for different modes of
operation or faults. There are two distinct fault levels –Minor and Major. A Minor alarm
will not cause the system to suspend output and will operate although the fault exists. A
Major alarm will cause the system to cease all outputs and will need to be reset. If a
Major alarm exists, it must be identified and fixed before the system can be operated.
To reset the Major Alarm, simply press the System Test button and the system will start
its self-testing diagnostics to verify the fault has been cleared.
8.1 LED1 –Charging Mode and Line Input Status
When the LED1 is illuminated green, the system is charging the batteries and the AC
is present. If LED1 is solid green, the batteries are fully charged or near fully charged. If
the LED1 is blinking green, the batteries are being charged at a high capacity and they
are not at the float voltage level yet. When the LED1 is red, it is an alarm/fault condition.
8.2 LED2 –Inverter Mode and Battery Level Indication
When the LED2 is illuminated yellow, the system is running on Inverter Mode. If the
LED2 is solid Yellow, the voltage of the battery is above 11.4 and 22.8 for 12 and 24 VDC
systems respectively. If the LED2 is blinking Yellow, the battery voltage is getting low
and has less than 30 minutes of run time left. When LED2 is red, it is in an alarm/fault
condition.
8.3 Minor Alarm
The systems minor alarm occurs while in Inverter Mode if a load change has been
detected. The system will automatically store the operating output current when it
transfers to Inverter Mode after five seconds. It will then actively compare the stored
value against the current value. If the current value of the load current deviates by more
than 10 percent high or low, it will generate a load change alarm –which is a Minor
Alarm. If this alarm is present, the LED2 will blink between a Yellow and Red color.
8.4 Major Alarms
The system Major alarm can occur on three distinct modes –System Start-Up Mode,
Charge Mode and Inverter Mode. Major Alarms are latching faults which must be
addressed and the system must be reset by either pressing the System Test button or by
a power cycle reset –turning the System ON/OFF switch off and then back on.
14 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

8.5 Start-Up Faults
During power on and initialization, the system goes through a series of checks to
prevent hardware failures which can occur from common wiring or installation errors. If
Faults are discovered during the start-up sequence, LED1 (Charger) and LED2 (Inverter)
will both illuminate red and will blink a specific quantity which correlates to the fault
type. Listed below are the fault types and the blink quantities associated with each of
the fault types. To clear the fault, press the system test button after problem was
diagnosed/repaired which initiates a new system start-up.
8.6 Charger Faults:
While the batteries are being charged, the system will continuously check for faults
as part of its diagnostic capabilities. LED1 (Charger LED) will illuminate red and will blink
a specific quantity which correlates to the fault type. Listed below are the fault types
and the blink quantities associated with each of the fault types. To clear the fault, press
the system test button after problem was diagnosed/repaired which initiates a new
system start-up.
E3MINI SERIES | 15
INCORRECT AC (LED1/LED2 –1 Blink)
Indicates that the incoming AC voltage does not match the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER position.
Simply remove the jumper and connect to the correct location.
VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER (LED1/LED2 –2 Blinks)
Indicates that the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER is not inserted. Insert jumper to the correct location so
that the Incoming AC voltage matches the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER location.
TRANSFORMER WIRING (LED1/LED2 –3 Blinks)
Indicates that the blue and yellow wires for the main transformer are reversed.
LOW BATTERY (LED1/LED2 –4 Blinks)
Indicates that the battery voltage is incorrect or too low to start the system. Check the connectors
and wiring of the batteries and measure the DC voltages to ensure they are above 12V.
OVERLOAD (LED1/LED2 –5 Blinks)
Indicates that there is too much load connected or there is a short circuit. Check the connected
load wiring and/or reduce the connected load to the power of the inverter’s rating.
INVERTER (LED1/LED2 –6 Blinks)
Indicates that there is fault with the Inverter module.
BACKFEED (LED1/LED2 –7 Blinks)
Indicates that there is an AC voltage back-feeding the output terminals. This fault means that the
E3MINI Series was wired incorrectly between the output terminal and the load(s).
VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER (LED1 –2 Blinks)
Indicates that the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER is not inserted. Insert jumper to the correct location so
that the Incoming AC voltage matches the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER.
OVER TEMPERATURE (LED1 –1 Blink)
Indicates that the MOSFET’s Heatsink temperature has exceeded its limits. This fault will clear itself
after it cools down so no reset is required.

8.7 Inverter Faults:
While the batteries are being discharged in the Inverter Mode, the system will
continuously check for faults as part of its diagnostic capabilities. LED2 (Inverter LED)
will illuminate red and will blink a specific quantity which correlates to the fault type.
Listed below are the fault types and the blink quantities associated with each of the
fault types. To clear the fault, press the system test button after problem was
diagnosed/repaired which initiates a new system start-up.
OVER TEMPERATURE (LED2 –1 Blink)
Indicates that the MOSFET’s Heatsink temperature has exceeded its limits. This fault will clear itself
after it cools down so no reset is required.
16 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL
AC FUSE (LED1 –3 Blinks)
Indicates the AC fuse has blown. Check for overloads and wiring errors and replace fuse.
CHARGER/INVERTER (LED1 –4 Blinks)
Indicates that there is a fault with the Charger/Inverter module.
VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER (LED2 –2 Blinks)
Indicates that the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER is not inserted. Insert jumper to the correct location so
that the Incoming AC voltage matches the VOLTAGE SELECT JUMPER location.
BACKFEED (LED2 –3 Blinks)
Indicates that there is AC voltage already at the output terminals back-feeding into it. This fault
means that the E3MINI Series was wired incorrectly between the output terminal and the load.
Since this fault was already checked at power up, it is possible that there is a remote transfer
device which is back-feeding during Inverter operation.
OVERLOAD (LED2 –4 Blinks)
Indicates that there is too much load connected or there is a short circuit. Check the connected
load wiring and/or reduce the connected load to the power of the inverter’s rating.
INVERTER (LED2 –5 Blinks)
Indicates that there is fault with the Inverter module.
LVD (LED2 –6 Blinks)
Indicates that the inverter ran on battery until the Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) point. This fault
will only be present for 1 minute and then the system will turn itself off.

9.0 SYSTEM OPERATION
9.1 Startup Mode
When the E3MINI Series is first turned on using the System ON/OFF switch, it goes
through a sequence of self-tests which ensures proper connections are made and it also
checks for faults that may be present. The inverter must qualify several things before
advancing to the Battery Charging mode. There will be two distinct clicks of relays as it
goes through the self-check sequence. After all the Start-Up diagnostics are performed,
the E3MINI Series is OK to proceed to the Battery Charging mode.
9.2 Battery Charging Mode
The Battery Charging mode is where the system will remain for most of the products
life. In this mode, AC power is being passed from the INPUT AC through to the OUTPUT
AC and subsequently its loads are being powered and the internal battery charger is
maintaining a float charge. The charger is regulating or floating the batteries at 2.27
Volts per Cell (VPC) and is temperature compensated to 4mV per deg. C (per cell),
centered at 25 °C. For higher temperatures, float voltages go down. For lower
temperatures, float voltages go up.
The E3MINI Series nominal DC battery voltage is 24 VDC for the 125 and 250W
model. The system float voltage is set to 2.27 VPC which corresponds to 27.24 VDC for
both 125W and 250W models.
Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) is set to 1.67 VPC or 20.1 VDC for the 125W and 250W
models. Float voltage varies with temperature, LVD voltage is fixed.
Typical voltages that the E3MINI Series charger would float the batteries are:
10 Deg. C 27.60 VDC
15 Deg. C 27.48 VDC
20 Deg. C 27.36 VDC
25 Deg. C 27.24 VDC
30 Deg. C 27.12 VDC
35 Deg. C 27.00 VDC
40 Deg. C 26.88 VDC
Above 40 °C no additional compensation is performed.
E3MINI SERIES | 17

9.3 Inverter Mode
Inverter Mode can have several other names such as Emergency Power and Battery
Power Mode. This terminology may be used throughout this document.
During Inverter Mode, the inverter is producing a pure sine wave for the output loads
and the batteries are being discharged. The output current is limited by an active pulse
by pulse current limit technique and prevents the inverter from failure.
In the event of an overload there are several ways that the inverter will protect itself.
First is the pulse by pulse limit and second is by average sensing. The pulse by pulse is a
transient protection and occurs in the micro-second time scale, the average sensing
looks at a heavily filtered signal and occurs in the seconds time scale.
Since the crest factor is very high on the E3MINI Series, loads that have high inrush
currents are quickly up and running. This is very beneficial with Switched or Normally-
Off loads. The Normally-On and multipurpose Normally-Off/Switched outputs all
produce voltage during Inverter Power mode.
9.4 AC Output(s) Types
9.4.1 Normally-On Output
There is one Normally-On Output located on the terminal block and is labeled N-ON.
The Normally-On Output is energized 24/7 as long as the system is powered on.
9.4.2 Normally-Off/ Switched Output
There are three multipurpose Normally-Off/Switched outputs (OUT 1, OUT 2 and OUT
3) which can be energized on and off during the charging mode of operation. These
outputs are controlled by applying an AC voltage to the Switched Command Input CMD
1, CMD 2 and CMD 3 respectively. These output types function as an interface to energy
saving controls such as time clocks, daylight harvesting, photo-sensors or any building
occupation sensing.
NOTE - When the E3MINI Series changes mode of operation from Charge Mode to the
Inverter Mode, ALL output types will automatically energize regardless of the state of
the Switched Command Input.
18 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL

10.0 WARRANTY
There are two separate warranty periods for the E3MINI Series Central Inverter
System. The Electronics/Cabinet warranty period is for 3 years from the date of
shipment. It is warranted against defects in workmanship and materials under normal
and proper use.
The batteries are covered under a separate warranty and these durations may change
dependent on battery type.
10.1 Technical Service and Support
Our technical support staff is available before, during, and after the installation for
help on any detail of this product. Should you need help, please contact our service
center at:
Service Center 1-800-967-5573
We are available during normal business hours Eastern Standard Time Zone.
10.2 Return Material Authorization (RMA)
At no time will material be accepted as returned goods without a RMA number issued
from the factory. If parts are deemed defective by our Technical Service group and are
troubleshot at the site to be defective they can be exchanged at no cost during the
warranty period with an RMA.
When returning defective parts back to the factory, the RMA number must be written
on the packaging, bill of lading, or shipping labels so it can be properly identified.
Technical Service will make every effort to troubleshoot the problem over the phone
before an RMA will be issued. Phone troubleshooting may save both the customer and
manufacturer added time and expense. Cooperation is greatly appreciated.
E3MINI SERIES | 19
BATTERY TYPE WARRANTY DURATION
Standard VRLA 1 year full, 9 years pro-rata

11.0 MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Routine Maintenance
Routine Maintenance should be considered any maintenance that does not require
removing the Inverters’ front cover panel. This maintenance includes periodic cleaning
of dust from the cover and cabinet base to ensure proper convection air flow. Since no
fans are required on this system, air flow moves by convection. Convection air
circulation is from bottom to top as heat naturally rises.
Keep all foreign objects off the top and away from the sides of the unit as these may
impede convection air flow.
E3MINI Series automatically performs monthly tests (every 28 days). E3MINI Series
has a self-clearing 28 day counter and resets any time the unit transferred to the
Inverter Mode. If on day 14 the unit had a brief power outage, the counter gets reset
and 28 days later (pending no other transfers) a monthly test would be performed.
A quick test by manually pressing the test button will transfer the system to the
Inverter Mode and will turn on all the connected loads such as the multipurpose
Normally-Off/Switched load.
Ensure there are no faults present. If there are faults, please refer to the User
Interface section for a complete detail of what this fault may indicate.
A yearly test of 90 minutes can be initiated by holding in the TEST button for 5
seconds. An alternate method of performing the 90 minute yearly test would be to turn
off the input feed breaker for the 90 minutes and then re-apply when the 90 minute
duration is complete.
11.1 Battery Maintenance
The batteries used in the E3MINI Series are sealed lead calcium and are termed
“Maintenance Free”. This term may be misleading because ALL batteries require
periodic maintenance even if it only consists of a visual inspection. We recommend the
following maintenance plan:
•Once every 6 months the batteries should be visually inspected for cracks,
leaks, bulging or deformities and corrosion buildup on terminals.
20 | INSTALLATION / OPERATION MANUAL
Monthly Test - By pressing the TEST button on the front panel, the unit will transfer to
the Inverter Mode. This test will run for at least 15 seconds and will exit back to Battery
Charging upon synchronizing to utility power.
CAUTION –Whenever maintenance and service is to be performed, it may be desirable
to shut unit down. Please refer to Start up and Shut Down procedures for details.
CAUTION –Always assume AC and DC Voltages are present at the E3MINI Series
terminals because the inverter is capable of providing output voltage from the batteries
when there is no AC input. The unit can pass through AC voltages from input to output
with no batteries connected if the installation switch is on.
Yearly Test - The NFPA code requires that a yearly test of 90 minutes be performed and
the system must be able to run the full 90 minutes without going into a LVD fault.