I bought the Cheapest Inverter on eBay part 2/2

I Bought the Cheapest 3000W Inverter on eBay - Part 2/2
I wanted an inexpensive 48V to 120V 3kw inverter and had some difficulty finding one that looked legit so I took a chance on an eBay listing. Let's see if this gamble paid off or not.
This is my first video release in half a decade and it shows - and so does the video quality of my old camera. If I get back into making videos more regularly I'll purchase newer equipment. Please let me know if you find this video valuable in terms of information or entertainment. Thanks for watching!
A link to purchase a quality 3000W pure sine inverter that I would highly recommend:
amzn.to/36vrDL0
A link to a low cost budget 3000W inverter:
amzn.to/33A3v7S
Tired of terrible battery chargers? Try this one! You'll need to put a cable and clamps onto it (cut apart a jumper cable) but after trying one of these you'll realize that ordinary consumer style battery chargers are absolute junk. This does NOT desulfate. Powermax sells similar chargers but they do not output the current advertised and are constructed cheaper.
amzn.to/3qEzk9r
FTC Disclosure Statement:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links may be affiliate links. I may get a commission if products are purchased using the links provided.
I cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information or improper use of this information. I assume no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Be sure to read and follow all safety instructions for any equipment seen or implied in this video, and use safe practices when working with potentially dangerous equipment. No information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user.

[@z1power]

knurlgnar is back... Finally something good to come out of 2020!

[@jakeharrison2128]

Now with added girth

[@JohnSmith-qd8po]

"No smoky smoke, that's a good start". Flipping the power switch on for the first time on anything new nowadays is an apprehensive experience.

[@knurlgnar24]

And at 48V input exploding FETs are more like a firecracker than the pop you get at 12V. The arc flash from 48V is starting to get into 'it will hurt you' territory! Not PPE range, but getting there.

[@garbleduser]

@@knurlgnar24 When I was doing torcher testing on an Aims 1.5kw spwm pure sine inverter using a refrigerated centrifuge as load, I encountered that popping. The cause turned out to be GATE RESISTORS! The gate resistors were under rated, frying and popping all the mosfet in the boost stage. This mainly happened when the inverter was cold, lowering the RDS of the mosfets. I wound up replacing the mosfets and gate resistors, with MUCH more powerful items. Recalibrating the load capabilities was more difficult. ..

[@MikinessAnalog]

@@knurlgnar24 Isn't 48 volts getting into the actual average "welding" voltage (yes I know it requires the amps as well)

[@MegaBaker123]

Couldn't possibly agree more

[@uxwbill]

I am both of surprised and impressed that this inverter worked as well as it did. I do hope you might come back to KZbin on a somewhat more regular basis.

[@sharik_rahat]

Wow, you still have those salvaged batteries...

[@spagamoto]

This would be a great add-on to those 48V electric ride-on mowers! Would be handy around the property.

[@knurlgnar24]

Interesting idea!

[@ChrisEdwardsRestoration]

Thank you for returning to making videos !!! your knowledge is invaluable and you inspire many please keep making these !!thank you!!!

[@nixxonnor]

Welcome back, knurlgar24. Good to see you are back. We have all missed you a lot.

[@nickush7512]

Man, you are a brute !! .... we haven't broken it yet, it is performing well above what was expected, so lets try harder !! It makes me grimmice and it makes me smile at the same time :) I am also very grateful for the high quality information that your brutality extracts..... great humour, so many of the questions arrising answered before they are even asked... Always a pleasure: many thanks and all good things your way dude.

[@rogerthat2538]

I CAN'T BELIEVE YOUR BACK!!!! i love your old content. I learned a lot about inverters from you. Thanks, you're awesome.

[@knurlgnar24]

Thanks for the comment CP and thanks for sticking around all these years!

[@pjshots]

Part 2, oh yeah. Nice one, good to see more stuff.

[@ekimviewmaster5010]

Great video. Facts, semi-scientific tests, real world tests, video showing the guts and the explanation of components was super to see/learn. Thank You

[@aspendell209]

Awesome! Glad your back. I learned a lot from your earlier inverter videos. In fact I would have to say you had the best obscure inverter testing and analysis channel on the web. I have missed having you as a resource the last couple years to analyze new (affordable) tech that is becoming available. One suggestion: Try your efficiency test without the charger connected. The extra 8 or 10 volts which that produces on the input DC could conceivably skew the results if they are somehow clipping everything over the rated voltage of 48v. Similar to 120v appliances which are designed to run on anything over 90 Vac, the higher you increase the voltage, the lower the appliances efficiency will be. ~Cheers

[@knurlgnar24]

Input voltage definitely could affect the efficiency. I have a really old video where I did this with a xantrex 1500W inverter.

[@davida1hiwaaynet]

Very nice inverter, especially at that price! I'm surprised it was able to start the dehumidifier compressor as those have a really stout reactive power startup demand. Also; I'm so happy to see you sharing videos again! I've thoroughly enjoyed your previous videos, and hoped that life would present you with some new video-worthy experiences to share!

[@knurlgnar24]

I've had so many video ideas over the years... Most of them boring crap but, hey, I guess that's my specialty!

[@electromechanicalstuff2602]

Basement use to be just framed. Looks like rooms now 👍

[@knurlgnar24]

And before that it was just poured concrete with no insulation! :)

[@johnbell1859]

That’s a great work shop,a little sort out and your back in business nice to see you back. 🇬🇧

[@GarryS-j8s]

i know its an old video - but thanks for taking your time to make it, that is one very impressive inverter you have there for the price point of view.. crazy

[@jamest.5001]

I'm glad you are at it again, or somewhat at it anyway, I hope you will consider doing a monthly video atleats, I have went back and watched nearly every video!

[@paherbst524]

i truly appreciate your videos. i'm happy to see new content from you.

[@thonatim5321]

knurlgnar24: Thanks for coming back. We missed you. I hope everything is okay with you and your family.

[@mindshelfpro]

Can you test the pure sine wave inverter now please? Thanks! And great to have you back on YT!

[@btrapr]

Im so glad to that your back and I look forward to watching your videos. thnx!

[@egn83b]

Thanks for the inverter review. Very impressive review. Nice to see those old batteries still working.

[@gr1f1th]

LOL the Dehumidifier is still kicking huh? Glad to see you back dude! I'd love if you could cover some over/under voltage disabling on interverts as none of these are being built to handle any other chemistry other than Lead acid or LifePo4 voltages.

[@knurlgnar24]

I did have to recharge the dehumidifier as it started freezing up, but yup, still kicking. The newer ones don't work as well for this sort of testing. The overvoltage protection is probably best to not mess with as the boost stage of the inverter runs at a fixed ratio. They usually PWM them to avoid excessive no-load consumption but still the overvoltage protection is there to protect that portion of the inverter. As far as undervoltage protection that kind of has the same problem where the fixed ratio ends up being too low to make a good waveform. Many 'true sine' inverters spit out a square wave under max load and low battery voltage already for this reason. I agree, would be nice to have other voltage ranges available!

[@gr1f1th]

@@knurlgnar24 Cool. I figured there was a pretty significant reason. You're videos have been really helpful so thank you. I know how much effort is needed to make them.

[@anthonyregina938]

You really know your sh@t didn’t realize how much you knew about all this! Awesome video. Thanks a lot. Made me feel stupid, lol. Great 2nd video

[@Joemama555]

the printed waveform on the case of the inverter is actually very accurate to the waveform recorded by the potato-vision oscilloscope you had hooked up.. truth in advertising i guess.

[@scottwillow332]

Pure sinewave inverters are MORE efficient than a modified sinewave. I purchased a Victron Energy 5kva with built in 120 amp charger. Can even use my old copper cored arc welder with no issues. Cleaner and just as strong as grid power.

[@knurlgnar24]

I have a pure sine inverter that is approx 97% efficient. That doesn't mean in general pure sine inverters are more efficient than modified square wave units. The difference between the two is that 'pure sine' inverters switch their output H bridge much faster (more losses) and filter the output through some sort of choke (more losses). All else being equal it will be less efficient. That said 'all else' is rarely equal.

[@gd2329j]

Good seeing you again & thanks for the videos . I'm thinking the long extension helped limit the serge current when starting the big inductive loads . Distractions welcome in 2020 !

[@knurlgnar24]

I hadn't thought about that angle - that long extension cords may actually help the surge capability by not tripping the overload limit... It was a combination 12AWG and 14AWG setup and about 50ft if I had to guess so it shouldn't have contributed too much vs a standard 16AWG cord I don't think.

[@fc436]

for efficiencynyou cant use inductive loads because you cant know the W but the VA. except for pure resistive load that VA and W is the same

[@matthewfish6113]

Thank you, you do excellent videos.

[@lezbriddon]

i bought a cheap and cheerful 3kw as i wanted to pull 2kw max, it didnt.. they replaced it when it let the smoke out, 2nd one lasted a day... reason for the first, fan didnt work... for the 2nd, the had been some cost cutting on the mosfets, they were the right part number, 30n50, but the part number isnt a clue to the max wattage of the mosfet... the cheaper ones they used had like half the max wattage of the other manufacture wrote on the pcb. so they refunded, i rebuilt it.....

[@knurlgnar24]

One reason I always open these products before powering on is to look for manufacturing issues. Frequently I'll find loose wires/connections, fragments of conductive material rattling around, and most commonly of all improperly heatsinked components such as overtightened fastener clamps that will result in smoke and failure under stress. I assume it worked after you rebuilt it properly?

[@scruff7559]

Welcome back.

[@southpole560]

Hell yeah! I was always wondering when you would make another video again!

[@brycejcox]

If you were actually using the air compressors tho they would kick off once pressure was built 125-150 psi. As you use up your compressed air the pressure switch closes somewhere around 95-105 psi. Starting the compressor at this point, with roughly 100 psi already in the tank requires far more of a spike of juice to get it going. With that being said, I’m truly impressed it handled even that static loads as well as it did, especially with the long extension cord.

[@knurlgnar24]

I didn't show it but they both had around 100psi in them. The larger one is a 225psi unit but it has a universal motor in it so it's a little different than a typical air compressor.

[@brycejcox]

@@knurlgnar24 that’s pretty damn impressive! Thanks for letting us know.

[@knurlgnar24]

@@brycejcox I also wasn't clear about it in the video, but when the little one failed to start that wasn't the inverter's fault. That compressor starts hard and the extension cord wasn't helping.

[@brycejcox]

@@knurlgnar24 well most folks with a basic understanding of the subject will realize compressors will draw a surge at startup regardless. I’m assuming that’s exactly why you used them for an example load. With that being said, I do think it would be worth it to show the pressure gauge in future videos as that def is a major factor in the converters surge ability. When you read the manual and it said the unit could go over 100% for 20 seconds I was thinking to myself more like 2 tenths of a second but that’s exactly why so many of us enjoy these types of videos, because you’re demonstrating exactly what can be expected of these units!

[@brycejcox]

And i doubt you are but just in case you happen to be anywhere close to Southern Indiana/Louisville KY area I actually have several electronic loads capable of up to 400 volts / 100 amps / 3000 kw. Constant voltage / current / and capacitance modes!

[@anthonyvolkman2338]

I really like that inverter now, I may get one!!

[@knurlgnar24]

It was definitely a pleasant surprise for me! With low cost inverters you just never know.

[@electromechanicalstuff2602]

Y not let the breaker charge the caps? Next time

[@gravelydon7072]

That is how I do them. The breaker can act as a switch safely as long as you don't do something stupid. Like hook the voltage up backwards to the inverter.

[@superbaron01]

Man glad your back!

[@putraadriansyah8082]

Hello knurlgnar, can you do a video about the EGS002 pure sine wave inverter module? maybe you're interested using the module :D

[@xavierneckor8918]

Thank you for a great video. Glad to see you back! I see you still have a Cotek inverter. How's it running? Big fan of your inverter videos. It would be great if you could do a video on what to look (e.g. internal design elements) for in a good reliable inverter. I would like know which inverters actually have working short circuit protection.

[@knurlgnar24]

Thanks Xavier! I may make more videos in the future but for now I have other obligations. The newer Cotek inverter I have is a decent product. I do like their old ones better and would get one of those if you can find it.

[@worskaas]

now to double up the inverter, like with the double 410W inverters

[@knurlgnar24]

That might be interesting, but in the case of this inverter the method I used in that video wouldn't be very applicable as the balance between the input and output stages are well balanced in this particular unit.

[@KIRBZVIDS]

If you connect the ground last it wont spark as much

[@knurlgnar24]

It is the same current sure and same voltage potential so you'll get the same severity spark. The polarity that ablates more may be different - is that what you mean?

[@R.T_Go_Your_Own_Way]

And on this day, the internet got a little bit better.

[@ajw6715]

How does these modified sine wave inverters work with motors?

[@ytSuns26]

Oh it will work, will it be around six months from now!

[@knurlgnar24]

Hard to say without doing a LOT of in depth work with a scope and reverse engineering. Inverters like this in my experience tend to fail without warning at the strangest times - likely some corner case that wasn't considered in its design phase. My subjective opinion is that you'd have at least as good of luck with this one as most any other similar unit out there.

[@ctlprogrammer]

You have to leave those loads connected for 10 min to see if the inverter can handle the generated heat.

[@knurlgnar24]

I did. And for more than 10 minutes.

[@ctlprogrammer]

@@knurlgnar24 Than i must admit....impressive inverter.

[@brynnond.6952]

13:27 Good thing I had one of those power meters because my little 500 btu air conditioner would short cycle and the compressor wouldn’t have enough torque to restart and would pull 18 amps at 1900 watts which is crazy

[@mwilliamshs]

1900 watts/18 amps=105 volts There's your problem

[@dcm12388]

Why did you hide the inverter before all the tests

[@knurlgnar24]

Not sure what you mean. Did you watch part1?

[@jean-baptistemackenson5630]

Can you please share the model of current meter you are using ?

[@knurlgnar24]

The current clamp meter is an Extech MS2108A. When I purchased it it was one of the least expensive meters that had the features I wanted in a non no-name brand. I wouldn't recommend it today based on my experience with it because there are likely better options out there a decade later.

[@charlesaec442]

very educational to see this video 👍👍👍👐👐🖐️👋

[@wscottald]

I think your videos are great. Just down to earth evaluations simple testing, but also great explanations. I have a question if you don't mind. This is all theoretical but let's say I have a 48v battery bank connected to a 3kw inverter for use when grid power goes out. I also have a 1kw 12v solar array connected to 2 1kw grid tie inverters for assisting grid power. The grid tie inverters are disabled when grid power goes off, but will the grid tie inverters come back online when the 3kw inverter is connected to house wiring to power the house? I know there's a lot of detail I didn't include, but just wondering if grid tie inverters would supplement the 3kw inverter to create a 5kw solution with the additional 2 1kw inverters.

[@knurlgnar24]

That's a really good question and one that I haven't though of previously. That could be a major problem as an inverter attempting to backfeed into another inverter will result in major problems - potentially damaging the 3kw inverter since it cannot accept power, only provide it. The short answer is that I would make sure those grid tie inverters don't power up on inverter power, but that's a very interesting question and I don't know exactly what would happen.

[@jdnd3]

do they still sell these 2 years later? i don't see any the same make model on ebay or the like?

[@knurlgnar24]

I see a few for sale on eBay right now but I'm otherwise seeing the same thing you are - they seem to be out of production.

[@jdnd3]

@knurlgnar24 thanks, I purchased a CJ6000Q in the hope it will charge my 2.3kw Nissan Leaf EV, guess time will tell

[@fc436]

is not loud?? its like a jet

[@49mellen]

I have a Schumacher 410 out of the box the fan does not run should it..thanks is that normal

[@knurlgnar24]

Depends on the inverter. Some only run at certain loads, some only run when hot, others run continuously. It's probably normal.

[@Raymonkey77]

I need some batteries like that.

[@knurlgnar24]

If I had to choose I'd pick the Northstar Blue+ batteries as my top choice for a home battery bank. For someone paying retail and not caring about some outgassing simple BCI27 batteries from WalMart (maxx) are not a bad choice. They're 1/4 the price so you're getting a good value assuming you can tolerate them only lasting a few hundred cycles.

[@silvia_fuku0ka845]

Hes alive !!!

[@LainShotCS]

Anyone know what meter that is that has a built in scope?

[@knurlgnar24]

It is a Craftsman model# 82289. I purchased it 20 years ago so it is long out of production but you may be able to find one on eBay. Today there are quite a few more modern scope meters from Asian suppliers that are available. I doubt the quality is as good but their scope performance will be superior.

[@Bordberti]

Das Hauptproblem ist das Pfeifen von einigen Geräten und Lampen.

[@Geardos1]

very informative

[@tonymcclendon-hobbytime7727]

impressive

[@BrownsSelfStorage]

You mede a very helpful video

[@knurlgnar24]

Thanks!

[@kizomanizo]

Thanks but also but a decent microphone

[@purplepenguinproductions2552]

I know you probably won't see this but I got a lot of questions and I have a real hard time reading and writing so if there is a way that you could get back with me please

[@MichaelBartonMTS]

What!

[@ambersmith6517]

Go to Genetry solar he has new and used low frequency inverters and parts for them he just started a new line of inverters with wifi you can also parallel them you can hook three together for 3 phase And so much more the bar has been raised high!!!! You can buy a small cheap one with or without a Transformer and I will wind you a big Transformer for testing FREE just do a video The Genetry solar inverter has raised the bar very high and it is alot cheaper than aims and the others It would make for a good youtube video! Just your honest opinion and I will wind you a free toroidal Transformer for free A free Transformer will make your inverter even cheaper Sean will most likely give you a good discount if you do a video

[@knurlgnar24]

I normally remove comments advertising products, but I've noticed Genetry Solar in the past and have wondered about the company as they appear to offer real support for PowerJack products. I may have interest depending on the terms. Do you have a way I can contact you privately?

[@regularjoe2994]

Those are NOT the cheapest one at all !!!

[@knurlgnar24]

It was when this video was made. Any 'cheaper' inverter was obviously a scam. Sure, you could buy a 6000W inverter on eBay for $20 but it obviously wasn't a real product. I have no interest in such endeavors nor should you.

[@eddielee7437]

Hello, I like your videos very much. Could you test my 2000W pure sine wave inverter? Look forward to receive your email soon.

[@knurlgnar24]

I haven't been making a lot of videos recently, but I am curious what model your inverter is?

[@lanceguilin]

OMG! Knurlgnar! You're still alive! I was so afraid you'd passed onto the next dimension! Glad to see you're alive and kicking!!!! Hope you're doing well buddy! Stay safe!

[@rolliebca]

Wonderful to see part 2 appear so quickly. I found it entertaining and informative. Pleasant surprise to have it perform so well. Looking forward to your next videos. Cheers.

[@tekdragon]

Wow, seeing a new video from you is an awesome blast from the past!! Your channel, in large part, was the inspiration for me to dive into my 12 volt DC hobby and eventually led to me building a small homebrew off-grid solar system and everything. I learned so much from you and your vids are always entertaining. You had the most badass battery bank/box I ever saw LOL. Anyways, thank you and welcome back man.

[@knurlgnar24]

It sounds like you made it further than me! I have long wanted to do an off-grid solar system in my house but the laws are such that it's almost impossible to do it nowadays. Technically this stuff is easy, legally it's a nightmare. So long as I am just doing projects things are OK but if I do something that can be considered a 'permanent install' then I'm in trouble!

[@tekdragon]

@@knurlgnar24 I really appreciate you replying! well my system wasn't running the house or anything, just mostly my tech stuff like radios, laptop, some network gear, tablets/phones, etc. it WAS off-grid in the sense that it was completely independent from the grid though lol. had about 300 watts in solar panels on a stand in the backyard and about 200Ah of battery capacity. i'm guessing you'd need permits and stuff to do a homebrew whole home system. that would make for some epic content for you though, just saying :D

[@pierremaltais6465]

@@knurlgnar24 do you know a good charger to charge nicd pocket plate battery i ve search everywhere and found nothing (something affordable if possible)

[@MStrickkk]

@@knurlgnar24 Laws prohibit me from doing a DIY home solar project too. However... Laws don't prevent me from installing a solar system onto a box trailer with all the electronics and batteries inside, and running a shore power cord into a generator input on my house. :)

[@LastExile1989]

Same

[@volvo09]

I'm impressed with that thing, I really didn't think it would power that dehumidifier!! Not bad for a MSW on the cheap.

[@franchisefred4066]

I bet it would’ve not lasted 15 minutes until it overloaded 😂

[@simpletennesseelife5895]

More more more

[@jonathandooling702]

Awesome are you back? Long time since your last video.

[@electromechanicalstuff2602]

His last video was 3 days ago

[@jonathandooling702]

@@electromechanicalstuff2602 go look 5 years now👀

[@electromechanicalstuff2602]

@@jonathandooling702 then it was a few months then 5 yrs. I was being mostly sarcastic tho

[@jiexilaoshi]

Thanks for making another inverter review! Got any repair videos coming? I always enjoy your diagnosis of broken inverters. Btw, I always recommend your video to friends who want to learn about battery banks and inverters, you have so much experience. Glad you are making more videos.

[@terrylawrence6772]

Really happy to see you back on you tube. Thanks for coming back !!!

[@jamesscott1932]

Sounds like me, “I just popped my breaker!”

[@chadhauze1683]

Welcome back! Great videos as usual. I’ve been trying to find one of those meters with the scope since I first saw yours years ago. So far no luck....

[@knurlgnar24]

Yes, they are hard to find even 20 years after I purchased this one. Crazy isn't it that they aren't widely available? It'd be so easy with today's technology. They should be $50 a pop and with higher BW than mine.

[@rpbajb]

Enjoyable video, as always.

[@imark7777777]

It's been awhile not much has changed, I think this was one of the first channels I've subscribed to nice to see something new.

[@nomadeenvr2233]

Great to see you comeback on KZbin! Thank a lot.

[@OverlandCO]

Welcome BACK!!!!!!!!! My favor inverter porn channel. Thought something happened to you. Or you completely gave up on the channel.

[@JT-lq4yd]

Sweet! Was waiting for part 2. Since this review is done, how about that Cotek unit there?

[@knurlgnar24]

You're right, I should make a video on it. I actually have that 4kw model and a 2kw (I think?) model of 48V Cotek so I can compare them to the older style Coteks (which are better unfortunately). Thanks for the suggestion.

[@battery_solar_ev]

welcome back dude

[@ChatGPT1111]

Since you already had a circuit breaker in line, why not hook it up with the breaker open and then close the breaker AFTER you hook up the battery?

[@knurlgnar24]

You're the second one to mention it. I didn't do that because... 'cause shut up! :)

[@josephjohnson6626]

Welcome back, you were missed!

[@howardescoffery4950]

All I was thinking the power of a 48v inverter be interesting to match it up with the 12v and 24v models and see how they do, I went 48v a few month ago and will never go back to a 12v system again you see the difference right away even with less batteries I am getting longer work time off the system.

[@knurlgnar24]

Hmm, that's not a bad idea. e.g. for this inverter I could purchase the exact same unit but the 12V model and see how it compares... Maybe if I ever get two otherwise identical units where only the input voltage is different!

[@brendanwood1540]

Resistor is like slowly opening, or closing, a water valve to avoid water hammer AKA volts. Or electric force.

[@forthrightnight]

Breaking news: knurlgnar gives rave review on cheapest inverter on eBay. "It isn't all that unrespectable." Nice surprise getting the new videos buddy. Cheers from B.C.

[@ambersmith6517]

I forgot to tell you you can upgrade the new Genetry solar inverter from 12 volts all the way up to 48 volts without buying anything just change a few connections on the Transformer No more having to buy a new inverter when you upgrade!!!! I told you the bar has been raised very high with the Genetry solar inverters

[@gravelydon7072]

And he must have tested some of the older PJ inverters as the newer ones of them ( 10.3 version ) are doing a lot better efficiency wise. They are now in the 90% range. The new GS line will also be in the 90% range but do a heck of a lot more. Rated in American Watts and not Chinese Wats. ;-) So when it says 6000 Watts, it will do that all day long and still have a surge capacity.

[@MrClipper500]

He`s Back!!!. Great video. And I use to think all inverters out of China were junk. Keep the videos coming.

[@DennisWintjes2]

Welcome back. I missed your videos!! Woot! Woot! Would love your opinion on some current pure sine inverters

[@CHARLES12STRING]

welcome back , I was so glad to see the new content , I let the videos play in the side screen with low volume to let the add revenue add up after watching the video :)

[@johnmcgiv1]

Very thorough video very well done thank you very much for your time.

[@knurlgnar24]

Thanks for watching! Glad it was useful to you.

[@ScottDLR]

I appreciate the vid. For a cheapo, I'm impressed with its performance. I wouldn't use a MSW for anything with a motor though. Their motors tend to run hot and fail early if you do it very much.

[@PuchMaxi]

Thanks for sharing Knurlgnar and welcome back!

[@gor4988]

That was (not surprisingly) a very thorough test Great value for $200, Chinese stuff has come a long way Look forward to more of your great vids

[@johnk1325]

Great to see you back after so long. Always loved your videos 👍

[@knurlgnar24]

Thank you so much 😀

[@ernstkliveman8476]

And here I thought I just wasn't getting your posts...good to see ya.

[@RichardsWorld]

You aren't going to show us the inside?

[@jeffescortlx]

Impressive inverter for $200!

[@MiamiWebDesign]

Great to see you back and great review. That’s a very nice inverter for the money. Thanks.

[@StringerNews1]

Using axial lead resistors to reduce spark is inconvenient, and that's why people don't use them. You'd think that someone would make a battery (or something that could easily be added to one's terminals) that has an ablative pad, perhaps made of carbon, that would provide some resistance in a better package, and sacrifice itself if a spark should happen. Of course that waveform isn't a modified _sine_ wave, it's a modified _square_ wave with a duty cycle

[@knurlgnar24]

They make batteries with ablative surfaces for this purpose. Lead terminals. :) Makes a nice lead vapor that is good for your vitality too! You're definitely right about the harmonics and waste heat not doing useful work when powering things like motors from a 'modified square wave' inverter. Even when powering something that doesn't care, like an electric heater, the heater will buzz on modified sine so there's still some benefit to a sine inverter. These simple ones do have their benefits though with lower switching speeds, less stress on the output FET bridge, fewer components and lower cost and size, higher efficiency all else being equal, etc.

[@knurlgnar24]

BTW one primary reason to not use high voltage DC is that arc extinguishing becomes very difficult. I wouldn't want to work with 120V DC as 120V AC contactors, component spacings, etc are not safe at 120V DC. All appliances would need to be redesigned. The rule of thumb is that you only get 1/10th the voltage rating for contactors at DC vs AC due to arcing issues when breaking contact.

[@StringerNews1]

@@knurlgnar24 oh yes, lead is the granddaddy of ablative terminals. I used to have great fun with automotive batteries and dead shorts. 😁 They just need to have something similar (and not lead) for cells with steel terminals. Sure, heating is easy because you have 100% efficiency when everything turns into heat. But what if you needed cooling? A small refrigerator-freezer or A/C unit with a pump motor immersed in the coolant might not bun up the motor like an air-cooled power tool if run continuously, but with say 25% of your AC power going into heating, your net cooling power is only 75% of what it would be with pure (

[@knurlgnar24]

@@StringerNews1 I understand what you're saying, but in reality few things require a sine inverter or significantly benefit from it. Basically all power tools use universal motors which don't care what the waveform is (actually they prefer DC), same with kitchen appliances. Split phase electric motors are really the only item that should run on pure sine such as ACs and refrigerators. Some things like box fans use shaded pole motors which are horribly inefficient no matter what you do with them. Transformers and magnetics have a little more loss with modified sine but due to winding inductance it's fairly small. I've used many inexpensive pure sine inverters and believe me, there is a trade-off above and beyond that $100. Many cheap pure sine inverters output clipped sine waves under load anyway. I agree that I wouldn't run a refrigerator or AC unit permanently on modified sine, but for short times it isn't going to make much of a difference in terms of useful life of the compressor. As an aside I purchased the inverter to run resistive heating loads.

[@gravelydon7072]

@@knurlgnar24 Back in the days when the railroads ran their own passenger trains, 120VDC was a common voltage in a car that had A/C. The standards were: 32VDC, 64-72VDC and 120VDC. When the switch came to Amtrak, the battery stuff went away except for the emergency lighting circuits. Now things run on the Head End Power which is 480VAC 3 Phase with transformers for lower voltage usages.