Whistler PP500AC User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
PP500AC
HIGH SURGE POWER INVERTER
WHISTLER
ENHANCED DRIVING TOOLS

WHISTLER PP500AC
Welcome To WHISTLER.
For over 30 years, WHISTLER CORPORATION has been manufacturing a
wide range of products designed to make your driving experience safer,
more comfortable and more enjoyable.
Included in the WHISTLER line is a special selection of products we call
“Enhanced Driving Tools.” These products range from portable jump
start systems to high intensity flashlights to radar detectors and are
designed to keep you
IN TOUCH • IN COMFORT • IN CONTROL
A WordAbout WHISTLER Inverters.
WHISTLER manufactures a complete line of DC to AC inverters ranging
in capacity from 50 Watts to 2500 Watts. These inverters offer advanced
technology, dependable operation and will provide years of reliable
service when used in accordance with our operating instructions.
WHISTLER inverters convert low voltage, direct (DC) current to 110 volt alter -
nating (AC) household current Depending on the model and its rated capacity,
WHISTLER inverters draw power either from standard 12 volt automobile and
marine batteries or from portable high power 12 volt sources.
Certain models in the WHISTLER inverter line operate indirectly through
an adapter which plugs into the cigarette lighter socket in your car, truck
or boat. Other models, such as the WHISTLER 500, are designed to be
hard wired directly to the 12 volt power source.
Important Information About The WHISTLER 500 Watt Inverter.
This manual will provide you with directions for the safe and efficient opera -
tion of your WHISTLER 500 Watt Inverter. Read the manual carefully before
using your inverter and keep the manual on file for future reference.
Note:
• The WHISTLER 500 is designed to operate from a 12 volt power
source only. Never attempt to connect the inverter to any other
power source including any AC power source.
• Do notattempt to extend or otherwise modify the connector cables.
• 110 Volts of current can be lethal. Improper use of your inverter may
result in property damage, personal injury or loss of life.

OWNER’S MANUAL
Getting Off To A Good Start
Power equipment and appliances which operate with motors or tubes
require an initial surge of power to get them up and running. This power
surge is referred to as the “starting load” or “peak load.” (By comparison,
devices such as standard light bulbs do not require a starting load). Once
the equipment or appliance has been powered up, it settles down to a
slower pace and requires far less electrical power to operate. This lower
power requirement is referred to as the “continuous load.”
In order to ensure that the capacity of your WHISTLER 500 is sufficient to
meet the required start up load, you must first determine the power
consumption of the equipment or appliance you plan to operate.
Power consumption is rated either in wattage or in amperes and infor -
mation regarding the required “watts~~ or amps” generally is stamped
or printed on most appliances and equipment. If this information is not
indicated on the appliance or equipment, check the owner’s manual or
contact the manufacturer.
Ifthe power consumption is rated in amps, multiplythe number of amps
by 110 (AC voltage) to determine the comparable wattage rating. As a
general rule, you can determine the required start up load by multiplying
the wattage rating by 10.
For further information on the fundamental operating principles of
inverters and related data, see the section in this manual entitled “For
You Technical Types.”
Don’t Push It.
Although your WHISTLER inverter has the capacity to provide power
output (excess current) equal to approximately two times its rated
wattage capacity for a very brief period, it is designed to operate equip -
ment and appliances with start up load wattage ratings no higher than
its own maximum continuous wattage rating.
For example, the 500 model has a maximum continuous rating of 500
watts. Although this model has the capacity to briefly provide up to 800
watts of power (that is, excess current), it is designed to operate equip -
ment and appliances with start up load requirements of 500 watts or less.
Consequently, if the start up load rating of your equipment or appliance
is in the 500 watt range, the WHISTLER 500 may not have the capacity
to provide the required start up load.
To determine whether the WHISTLER 500 will operate a particular piece of

WHISTLER PP500AC
cZ
equipment or appliance, run a test. The WHISTLER 500 is designed to
automatically shut down in the event of a power overload and testing appli-
ances and equipment with ratings in the 500 watt range will not damage it.
If a piece of equipment or an appliance in the 500 watt range will not
operate properly when first connected to the inverter, turn the inverter
rocker switch ON (I), OFF (0), and ON (I) again in quick succession. If this
procedure is unsuccessful, it is likely thatthe WHISTLER 500 does not have
the required capacity to operate the equipment or appliance in question.
Note:
• Most heat generating appliances require start up loads in excess of
1000 Watts and the WHISTLER 500 will not operate such appliances
as coffee makers, irons, hair dryers or heaters.
WHISTLER PP500AC Inverter
Front View
a). ON/OFF Rocker Switch
b). LED Indicator Light. (GREEN = Power ON, RED = Overload)
c). Two Standard North American AC Outlets are provided
WHISTLER PP500AC Inverter
Rear View
d). High Speed Cooling Fan
e). 35 Amp Fuse Covers
f). Power Input Terminals (BLACK/Negative, RED/Positive)
g). Ground Terminal

OWNER’S MANUAL
Making The Connection.
1. Make certain that the WHISTLER 500 rocker switch is in the OFF (0)
position.
2. Connect the cables to the power input terminals at the rear ofthe
inverter and tighten the screws to make a secure connection. Do not
over tighten these screws.
3. Connect the cable from the (BLACK) Negative (—) terminal on the
inverter to the Negative terminal on the 12 volt power source.
Make certain the connection is secure.
4. Confirm that the cable you have just installed is properly connected.
Specifically, make certain that the cable is connected to the Negative
terminals on both the inverter and the 12 vo/t power source.
5. Connect the cable from the (RED) Positive (+) terminal on the in -
verter to the Positive terminal on the power source. Make certain
the connection is secure.
Note:
• Loose connections can result in a severe decrease in voltage which
may cause damage to the wires and insulation.
• Failure to make a proper connection between the inverter and the
power source will result in reverse polarity. Reverse polarity will blow
the internal fuses in the inverter and may cause permanent damage
to the inverter. Damage caused by reverse polarity is not covered
under the WHISTLER warranty.
• Making the connection between the Positive terminals may cause a
spark as a result of current flowing to the charge capacitors in the
inverter. This is a normal occurrence. Due to the potential for
sparking, however, it is extremely importantthat both the inverter
and the 12 volt battery be well removed from any possible source of
flammable fumes or gases.
Failure to heed this warning could result in fire or explosion.
• If the supplied cables are too short to allow for placement of the
inverter in a desired location, the inverter may be connected to the
power source using a #4 wire. The steps outlined for making the
connection and the related safety precautions remain unchanged.
6. Turn the inverter rocker switch to the ON (I) position. The LED
Indicator Light should glow GREEN confirming that there is power
running to the inverter.

WHISTLER PP500AC
7. Turn the inverter rocker switch to the OFF (0) position. (The GREEN
LED Power Indicator light may “blink” briefly and/or the internal
audible alarm may make a momentary “chirp.” This is normal).
8. Confirm that the equipment or appliance to be operated is turned
off. Plug the equipment or appliance into one of thetwo AC recep-
tacles on thefront panel ofthe inverter.
9. Turn the inverter to the ON (I) position. Turn on the equipment or
appliance.
Note:
• As indicated in Step 7 above, the audible alarm may make a momen -
tary “chirp” when the inverter is turned OFF (0). This same alarm
may also sound when the inverter is being connected to or discon -
nected from the 12 volt power source. Again, this is normal.
• The use of an extension cord from the inverter to the appliance or
equipment being operated will not significantly decrease the power
being generated by the inverter. For best operating results, the
extension cord should be no more than 50 feet long.
• Check frequently to ensure that the input and output connections
are secure. Loose connections may damage the inverter orthe
power source or may generate excessive heat.
You’ll Get A Charge Out Of This. (Or Maybe Not).
Using the WHISTLER 500 to recharge units designed to charge such
portable equipment as power tools, flashlights, video cameras and laptop
computers may cause damage to the inverter or to the charging unit.
Although we advise against it, if you attempt to recharge a charging
unit, monitor the temperature of the charging unit for approximately 10
minutes. Ifthe charging unit becomes unusually warm, disconnect it
from the inverter immediately.
For You Television Fans & Audiophiles.
Although the WHISTLER 500 is shielded and filtered to minimize signal
interference, some interference with your television picture may be
unavoidable, especially with weak signals. However~ here are some
suggestions that may improve the reception.
1. First, make certain that the television antenna produces a clear signal
under normal operating conditions (i.e., at home plugged into a

OWNER’S MANUAL
standard 110 AC wall outlet). Also, ensure that the antenna cable is
properly shielded and of good quality.
2. Change the relative positions of the inverter, antenna cables and
television power cord.
3. Isolate the television, its power cord and antenna cables from the 12
volt power source by running an extension cord from the inverter to
the television set.
4. Coil the television power cord and the input cables running from the
12 volt power source to the inverter.
5. Attach a “Ferrite Data Line Filter” to the television power cord.
More than one filter may be required. (These filters are available at
most electronic supply stores including Radio Shack. See Radio
Shack Part # 273-105).
6. Ground the WHISTLER 500 using an 8 AWG grounding wire in as
short a length as possible.
Note:
• Before connecting the ground, make certain that the inverter rocker
switch is OFF (0).
• Run the ground wire from the Grounding Terminal on the rear panel
of the inverter. (See “Rear View” Illustration, Page 3).
• The selection of a proper grounding point will depend on where you
are using the inverter. The grounding terminal may be connected to
the chassis of your vehicle orto the grounding system in your boat or
to the earth if you are operating the inverter in a remote location.
• Inexpensive sound systems may emit a “buzzing” sound when oper -
ated with the WHISTLER 500. This is due to inadequate filters in the
sound system. There is no solution to this problem short of purchas -
ing a sound system with a higher quality power supply.
Don’t Blow A Fuse.
Your WHISTLER 500 is equipped with two 35 amp, spade type fuses.
With reasonable care, it should not be necessary to replace these fuses.
Most blown fuses are the result of reverse polarity or a short circuit
within the appliance or equipment being operated. Ifthe fuses do blow,
disconnect the appliance or equipment immediately, repair the related
problem and install the new fuses which have been supplied with your
WHISTLER 500.

WHISTLER PP500AC
cz~
The fuse compartments are easily accessed at the back ofthe unit
underneath the “lift up” covers. (See “Rear View” Illustration, Page 3).
Note:
• Do not install a fuse with a rating higher than 35 amps. Doing so
may damage the inverter.
• Make certain to correct the source ofthe overload which caused the
blown fuse before turning the WHISTLER 500 back ON (I).
The Power Source.
When the engine is off, most automobile and marine batteries will
provide an ample power supply to the inverter for 30 to 60 minutes.
The actual length oftime is a function of several variables including the
age and condition ofthe battery and the power demand being placed
on it by the equipment being operated with the inverter.
If you are using the inverter while the engine is off, we recommend you
start the engine every hour and let it run for approximately 10 minutes
to recharge the battery. We also recommend that the device plugged
into the inverter be turned off before turning over the engine.
Although it is not necessary to disconnect the WHISTLER 500 when
turning over the engine, the inverter may momentarily cease operation
as the battery voltage decreases. When the WHISTLER 500 is not
supplying power, it draws very low amperage (< 0.6 A) from the battery
and may be left connected to the battery for up to three hours. How -
ever, we recommend the inverter always be disconnected when not in
use.
Automatic Shut Down Safety Features.
The LED Indicator light (See “Front View” Illustration, Page 3) will turn
from GREEN to RED and the WHISTLER 500 will turn itself off automati -
cally when:
1. The power input from the battery drops to 10.5 volts. (When the power
input drops to 11 volts, an alarm will sound for an extended period);
2. The power output from the battery exceeds 15 volts;
3. The continuous draw of the equipment or appliance being operated
exceeds 500 watts.
4. The circuit temperature exceeds standard design parameters for safe
operation.

OWNER’S MANUAL
Note:
• The WHISTLER 500 is equipped with a cooling fan which is designed
to run continuously while the inverter is operating. Automatic shut
down caused by excess circuit temperatures occurs when the cooling
fan is unable to maintain the design parameters for safe operation of
the inverter.
• In the event of automatic shut down or continuous audible alarm,
turn the inverter rocker switch to the OFF (0) position until the
source of the related problem has been determined and resolved.
Some Powerful Advice.
Your WHISTLER 500 will work best when placed on a reasonably flat
surface. The floor or your car or truck is a good location as long as the
area is dry and well ventilated.
(When driving with the WHISTLER 500 in operation, make certain that
neither the inverter nor the power cables will impede safe operation of
your vehicle. Keep the inverter and all cables and cords clear of the
steering wheel, gear shift and gas, brake and clutch pedals).
To maintain your WHISTLER 500 in proper working condition, note the
followingimportant safety precautions:
• MOISTURE. Keep the WHISTLER 500 dry. Do not expose it to moisture.
Do not operate the WHISTLER 500 if you, the inverter the device
being operated or any other surfaces that may come in contact with
any power source are wet. Water and many other liquids can ~con-
duct electricity which may lead to serious injury or death.
• HEAT. The ambient air temperature should be between 500 and 800
F. Avoid placing the inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or
other sources of heat. Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight.
VENTILATION. In order to properly disperse heat generated while
the inverter is in operation, keep it well ventilated. While in use,
maintain several inches of clearance around the top and sides of the
inverter.
• FUMES & GASES. Avoid using the inverter near flammable materi -
als. Do not place the inverter in areas such as battery compartments
where fumes or gases may accumulate.

WHISTLER PP500AC
For You Technical Types.
I. Basic Operating Principles.
The WHISTLER 500 works in two stages. During the first stage, the
DC to DC converter increases the DC input voltage from the power
source (e.g a 12 volt battery) to 145 volts DC. In the second stage,
the high voltage DC is converted to 110 volts (60 Hz AC) using
advanced power MOSFET transistors in a full bridge configuration.
The result is excellent overload capability and the capacity to oper -
ate difficult reactive loads. The output waveform resulting from these
conversions is a “quasi-sine wave” or a “modified sine wave” as
shown below.
This stepped waveform is similar to the power generated by utilities
and has a broad range of applications.
145 vOlts pesk
115 volts AMS
WHISTLER PP500AC Inverter Modified Sine Wave
The modified sine wave produced by the WHISTLER 500 has a root
mean square (RMS) voltage of 110 volts. The majority of AC voltme -
ters are calibrated for RMS voltage and assume that the measured
waveform will be a pure sine wave.
Consequently, these meters will not read the RMS modified sine
wave voltage correctly and, when measuring the WHISTLER 500
output, the meters will read about 20 to 30 volts too low. To accu-
rately measure the output voltage of the WHISTLER 500, use a true
RMS reading voltmeter such as a Fluke 87, Fluke 8060A, Beckman
4410, Triplett 4200 or any multimeter identified as “True RMS.”

OWNER’S MANUAL
In Review.
• Never attempt to operate the WHISTLER 500 from any power source
other than a 12 volt battery.
• The WHISTLER 500 is designed to be connected to the power source
with the supplied cables or with #4 wire. When utilizing the cables,
do not attempt to modify them.
• Always make certain that the power cable terminal connections run
Negative (—) to Negative and (—) Positive (+) to Positive (+). Check
these connections frequently to ensure that they are secure.
• While connecting the WHISTLER 500 to the power source, make
certain the inverter is well removed from any potential source of
flammable fumes or gases.
• Make certain the power consumption of the appliance or equipment
you wish to operate is compatible with the capacity of the inverter.
• Ifthe rated power consumption of the equipment is in the 500 Watt
range, testthe inverter to ensure that it will operate properly.
• The WHISTLER 500 is not designed to operate heat generating appli -
ances such as coffee makers, irons, hair dryers, toaster and heaters.
• When attempting to recharge battery chargers, monitor the tempera -
ture ofthe charger for approximately 10 minutes. If the charger be -
comes abnormally warm, disconnect it from the inverter immediately.
• Use only 35 amp, spade type fuses with the WHISTLER 500.
• When operating the inverter with the engine off, start the engine
every 30 to 60 minutes and let it run for approximately 10 minutes to
recharge the battery.
• In the event a continuous audible alarm or automatic shut off (Green
LED Indicator light turns Red), turn the inverter OFF (0) immediately.
Do not restart the inverter until the source of the problem has been
identified and corrected.
• Always disconnect the inverter when not in use.
• Do not expose the inverter to moisture.
• Avoid placing the inverter near sources of heat or in direct sunlight.
• When in use, make certain that the inverter is properly ventilated.
• Do not use the inverter near flammable materials, fumes or gases.
• Always operate the WHISTLER 500 in accordance with the instruc-
tions in this manual. Failure to do so may result in property damage,
personal injury or loss of life.

WHISTLER PP500AC
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM: Low or No Output Voltage
Problem Solution
Poor contact With battery
terminals.
Clean terminals thoroughly.
Battery voltage below
10.5 volts.
Recharge or replace battery.
Equipmentbeing operated
draws too much power.
Use a higher capacityinverter
or do not use this equipment.
Inverter is too hot (thermal
shutdown mode.)
Allow inverter to cool.
Check for adequate ventilation.
Reduce the load on the inverter
to rated continuous power
output.
Using incorrecttype of
voltmeter.
Use true RMS reading meter.
See “For You Technical Types”
Section of this manual.

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OWNER’S MANUAL
PROBLEM: Low Battery Alarm On All The Time
Problem Solution
Input voltage below 10.5 volts. Keep input voltage above 10.5
volts to maintain regulation.
Poor or weak battery condition. Replace battery.
Inadequate power being Use lower gauge wire.
delivered to the inverter or See “Wire Cable Gauges”
excessive voltage drop. Section of this manual. Keep
wire length as short as possible.
PROBLEM: TV Interference
Problem Solution
Electrical interference from Add a Ferrite data line filter on
inverter. to the TV power cord.
See the “For You Television
Fans and Audiophiles” Section
of this manual.

Consumer Warranty
Your Whistler product is warranted to the original purchaser for a period of one year
from the date of original purchase against all defects in materials and workmanship.
This limited warranty is void if the unit is abused, modified, installed improperly, if the
housing has been removed, or if the serial number is missing. There are no express
warranties covering this product other than those setforth in this warranty. All express
or implied warranties for this product are limited to one year. Whistler is not liable for
damages of any type arising from the use, misuse, or operation of this product.
Service under Warranty
During the warranty period, defective units will be repaired or replaced (withthe same
or a comparable model), at Whistler’s option, without charge to the purchaser when
returned prepaid, with dated proof of purchase to the address below. Units returned
without dated proof of purchase will be handled as described in section “Service Out
Of Warranty.” There are no authorized service stations for Whistler brand products
other than the factory.
When returning a unit for service under warranty, please follow these instructions:
1. Ship the unit in the original carton or in a suitable sturdy equivalent, fully insured,
with return receipt requested, and shipping charges prepaid to:
Whistler CTS
16 Elizabeth Drive
Chelmsford, MA 01824
IMPORTANT: Whistler will not assume responsibility for loss or damage incurred
in shipping. Therefore, please ship your unit insured with return receipt requested.
2. Include with your unit the following information, clearly printed:
• Your name and street address (for shipping via UPS), and a daytime telephone
number. (No RO. Box please.)
• A detailed description of the problem (e.g., “Unit powers upwithout any warning
lightsbut does not power anything. “).
• A copy ofyour dated proof of purchase or bill of sale.
3. Be certain yourunit is returned with its serial number. For reference, please write
your unit’s serial number in the following space: s/n ___________________
Units without serial numbers are not covered under warranty.
IMPORTANT: To validate thatyour unit is within the warranty period, make sure you
keep a copy of your dated proof of purchase.
Service Out Of Warranty
Units will be repaired at “out of warranty” service rates when:
• The unit’s original warranty has expired.
• Dated proof of purchase is not supplied.
• The unit has been returned without its serial number.
• The unit has been abused, modified, installed improperly, or had its housing removed.
The minimum out of warranty service fee for yourWhistler product is $55.00 (U.S.). If
you requireout of warranty service, please return your unit as outlined in the section
“Service Under Warranty” along with a certified check or money order for $55.00.
Payment may also be made by MasterCard orVISA; personal checks are not accepted.
In the event repairs cannot be covered bythe minimum $55.00 service fee, you will be
contacted by a Whistler technical service specialist, (by mail or telephone), who will
outlineoptions available to you. If you elect not to have yourunit repaired/replaced, it
will be returned to you along with your certified check or money order.
IMPORTANT: When returning your unit for service, be certain to include a daytime
telephone number.
Customer Service
If you have questions concerning the operation of your Whistler product, or require
service during or after the warranty period, please call Customer Technical Service at
1-800-531-0004. Representatives are available to answer your questions Monday -
Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (EST).

WHISTLER 500 WATT INVERTER SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Continuous Power 500 Watts
Maximum Surge Capability (Peak Power) 800 Watts
No Load Current Draw <0.6 A
Waveform Modified Sine Wave
Operating Input Voltage Range 11 - 15 Volts DC
AC Receptacle Dual 3 Prong Grounded
Fuse Dual 35 Amp (Spade Type)
Approximate Dimensions 2.75” H x 7.5’ W x 10.25” L
Approximate Weight 4.25 lbs
If you have questions conCerning the
operationof this Whistler product please
Caft Customer technical service:
1-800-531-0004
Hours:
Monday - Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm EST

WHISTLER CORPORATION
16 ELIZABETH DRIVE, CHELMSFORD, MA 01824
CUSTOMER TECHNICAL SERVICE TEL. [phone]
WHISTLER 1997 REV.2