VEC018
MANUFACTURING, Lt.d
POCKET GENERATOR
™
PORTABLE/CORDLESS/RECHARGEABLE
POWER SUPPLY
110-VOLT AC & 12-VOLT DC
PATENT PENDING
OWNER’S MANUAL
& WARRANTY INFORMATION
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING SAFETY, OPERATION,
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE OF THIS PRODUCT.
PLEASE READ THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE USE TO AVOID
POSSIBLE INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
®
VECTOR MANUFACTURING, Ltd.
4140 S.W. 28th Way
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312
4140 S.W. 28th Way, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312
Tel: (954) 584-4446 • Fax: (954) 584-5504
Common Audio/Visual Problems
Problem: Buzzing Sound In Audio Systems
Pocket Generator™ Portable/Cordless/Rechargeable
Power Supply
Some inexpensive stereo systems and “boom boxes” emit a buzzing sound from
their speakers when operated from the Power Force 50™ inverter, because the
power supply in the electronic device does not adequately filter the modified sine
wave produced by the inverter. The only solution to this problem is to use a sound
system that has a higher quality power supply internally.
SYSTEM FEATURES
• Take your home or office appliances and electronics with you - portable source
of 12 volt DC power or 110 volt AC power - ideal for use anywhere that
110 volt utility power is unavailable or inconvenient.
• Includes Vector™ Power Force 50™ inverter.
Problem: Television Interference
• Powers or charges portable appliances, tools, and electronic devices - cell
phones, camcorders, laptop computers, lamps, fans, radios, TV/VCRs, CD players,
worklights, etc. (12 volt DC or 110-volt AC).
• Easy recharging from vehicle, boat or RV 12 volt DC accessory outlet, or
110 volt AC household wall socket (AC and DC charging adapters included).
• Equipped with in-line 10-amp fuse to protect the unit and any devices it is
powering or recharging.
• Compact, sturdy, lightweight design.
The Vector™ Power Force 50™ is shielded to minimize interference with TV
signals. However, in some instances, some interference may still be visible,
particularly when the TV signal is weak. Try the following corrective measures:
• Position the Pocket Generator™ as far as possible from the TV set, the antennae,
and the antennae cables. Use an extension cable, if necessary.
• Adjust the orientation of the Pocket Generator™, the antennae cables, and the
TV power cord to minimize interference.
• Make sure that the antennae feeding the TV provides an adequate (“snow free”)
signal and that high quality, shielded antennae cable is used.
• Water-resistant, padded case - with belt holster and removable shoulder strap.
• Built-in 12 volt plug-in receptacle (cigarette lighter-type).
Common Power Output Problems
Problem: Lack Of Power Output
• Easy-to-use emergency power supply to boost low battery system in vehicle, RV,
boat (NOTE: will not recharge a completely dead vehicle battery).
• Use as a Memory Saver - protects pre-set electronic settings for seats, radio,
A/C, etc., if battery power is to be disconnected for repair/maintenance.
• High surge capacity: 50 watt continuous power - 80 watt peak.
• Low power consumption ensures longer battery life.
• Built-in, single 110 volt AC receptacle.
Possible Causes
Recommendations
Inverter not adequately
warmed up.
Turn power inverter switch OFF and
then ON again. Repeat if necessary.
Battery voltage
below 10 volts.
Recharge or replace Pocket Generator™ battery.
Equipment being operated
draws too much power.
Reduce load to maximum 50 watts.
• Electronic circuit protection prevents damage due to overload/insufficient ventilation.
Inverter in thermal
Allow inverter to cool down. Ensure that there is
adequate ventilation around unit, and load is no
more than 50 watts for continuous operation.
• Low-battery shutdown automatically occurs when battery discharges to 10.6 volts,
preventing battery damage.
• Includes 5 amp hour 12 volt sealed lead acid battery system.
shutdown condition.
Main fuse failed (blown).
Replace Pocket Generator™ fuse.
Problem: Low Output Voltage
CAUTIONS:
1. Completely charge the Pocket Generator™ before using it for the first time.
Using average reading voltmeter. Use true RMS reading meter.
2. The AC and DC chargers provided with this unit should never be used with any
Inverter is overloaded.
Reduce load to 50 watts max. to maintain regulation.
other device - they are designed specifically for use with the Pocket Generator™.
Input voltage below 10.5 volts. Keep input voltage above 10.5 volts to maintain regulation.
3. Never attempt to recharge the Pocket Generator™ using any recharger other
than the ones supplied.
SPECIFICATIONS: Power Force 50™ Inverter
4. Always use the Pocket Generator™ on a stable, flat surface and be sure that
MAX. CONTINUOUS POWER . 50 WATTS
PEAK SURGE CAPACITY . . . . . 80 WATTS
MAX.EFFICIENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . 80%
NO LOAD CURRENT DRAW . . . . <0.06A
INPUT VOLTAGE RANGE . . . 10 - 15 VDC
LOW VOLTAGE SHUTDOWN ACTIVATION .10.0 VOLTS
WAVE FORM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MAX. SINE WAVE
# OF AC RECEPTACLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ONE
FUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 AMP
there is adequate ventilation.
5. Do not use the Pocket Generator™ near flammable materials or in locations
that may accumulate flammable fumes or gases.
Continued on next page...
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6. WARNING: Do not run both AC and DC devices at the same time.
Battery Operating Time
1. Always turn power switch on the inverter to OFF position when unit is not in use. If
the switch is left in the ON position, it will drain the Pocket Generator™ battery.
7. ALWAYS turn OFF the Power Force 50™ inverter BEFORE charging the
Pocket Generator™.
2. WARNING: Never run both AC and DC devices at the same time as this can
8. The nylon case that is provided with the Pocket Generator™ is water-resistant
only to the extent that it will help protect the unit from rain or water spray; never
immerse the unit in water (fresh or salt).
damage the Pocket Generator™.
3. Always recharge unit after using.
9. Do not expose the Pocket Generator™ to extreme heat or flames.
10. Do not exceed recommended charging times.
11. Continuous run times are limited, see charts for estimated operation times.
With a full charge, the Power Force 50™ inverter will deliver a minimum
operating time of 30 minutes to one hour. In most instances, 1-3 hours of
operating time is achievable (see chart below).
RECHARGING THE Pocket Generator™
Estimated Operation Times:
CAUTION:
• IMPORTANT: Before recharging from an AC power source, verify that the source
is 110 volts only. Do not plug this unit’s 110 volt charger into a 220 volt
power source.
110-VOLT AC APPLIANCE
50 WATT LAMP
APPROX. RUNNING TIME
40 MINUTES
• IMPORTANT: Be sure that power inverter ON/OFF switch is in OFF position
LAPTOP / PRINTER
DESK FAN
1.5 HOURS
before recharging.
2.0 HOURS
Recharging From A 110-volt AC Power Source
1. Before initial use, it will take 18-20 hours to fully charge the Pocket Generator™.
Subsequent charges will only take 12-15 hours (approx.).
STEREO/CD PLAYER
2.5 HOURS
CELLULAR PHONE, POWER TOOLS
& CAMCORDER CHARGERS
5 TO 10 HOURS
2. Insert the cigarette lighter plug at the end of the AC charger cord into the
matching 12 volt receptacle on the side of the Pocket Generator™.
3. Plug the charger into any standard 110/120 volt AC electrical outlet. Never
plug a 110 volt charger into a 220 volt power source.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Recharging From A 12 volt DC Power Source
Protective Features of the Power Force 50™
The Power Force 50™ monitors the following potentially hazardous conditions:
CAUTION:
Do not connect the Pocket Generator™ DC charger to a car or boat electrical
system (12 volt DC negative-ground only) without first starting the engine. Failure to
do so could damage the vehicle’s battery.
Low Battery Voltage - this condition is not harmful to the inverter but could damage
the power source, so the inverter automatically shuts down when input voltage
drops to 10.0 volts. When this condition is corrected, the unit may be restarted.
1. Insert the cigarette lighter plug at one end of the DC charger cord into the
Over Voltage Protection - the Power Force 50™ will automatically shut down
when the input voltage exceeds 15 volts DC.
matching 12 volt receptacle on the side of the Pocket Generator™.
2. Insert the cigarette lighter plug at the other end of the cord into the vehicle’s
cigarette lighter receptacle. Rotate the plug slightly to ensure good contact. A
green L.E.D. light on the cigarette plug will indicate a proper connection.
Short Circuit Protection - Reverse polarity or a short circuit condition will usually
result in failure of the inverter’s fuse. Immediately disconnect the shorted load and
replace the fuse inside the Pocket Generator™.
3. The Pocket Generator™ should be charged initially for 4-6 hours, while driving,
before use. Subsequent charges should only require 2-4hours (approx.).
4. The DC charging system will not provide as full a charge as is obtained with a
110 volt charging system.
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NOTE: Vector™ recommends charging from a vehicle only while its engine is
running, so as not to run down the vehicle’s battery. The ideal charging
rate is 14.5-15.5 volts, which is nearly identical to the charging rate of
most vehicle batteries.
OPERATING TIPS
The Power Force 50™ should only be operated in locations that meet the
following criteria:
DRY - Do not allow water or other liquids to come into contact with the inverter.
COOL - Ambient air temperature should be between -20°C and 40°C - ideally
between 15°C and 25°C (60 - 80°F). Do not place the inverter on or near a
heating vent or any piece of equipment which is generating heat above room
temperature. Keep the inverter away from direct sunlight, if at all possible.
OPERATION
Estimated run-times.
VENTILATED - Keep the area surrounding the Power Force 50™ clear to ensure
free air circulation around the unit. Do not place items on or over the inverter
during operation. The unit will shut down if the internal temperature exceeds 90°C.
Restart the unit once it cools down sufficiently.
SAFE - Do not use the Power Force 50™ near flammable materials or in any
locations that may accumulate flammable fumes or gases.
12 VOLT DC APPLIANCE
APPROX. RUNNING TIME
CELL PHONE,
FLORESCENT LIGHT
6-12 HOURS
5 HOURS
RADIO, FAN, DEPTH FINDER
CAMCORDER, VCR, SPOTLIGHT
ELECTRIC TOOLS, BILGE PUMP
INFLATOR/RAFT
Rated Versus Actual Current Draw of Equipment
2.5 HOURS
1 HOUR
Most electrical tools, appliances, electronic devices and audio/visual equipment
have labels that indicate the power consumption in amps or watts. Be sure that the
power consumption of the item to be operated is below 50 watts. If the power
consumption is rated in amps, simply multiply by the AC volts (110) to determine
the wattage.
50 MINUTES
25 MINUTES
AIR COMPRESSOR
Resistive loads are the easiest for the Power Force 50™ to run; however, it will not
run larger resistive loads (such as electric stoves and heaters) which require far more
wattage than the Power Force 50™ can deliver on a continuous basis. Inductive
loads (such as TVs and stereos) require more current to operate than do resistive
loads of the same wattage rating. Induction motors, as well as some TVs, may
require 2 to 6 times their wattage rating to start up. The most demanding in this
category are those that start under load, such as compressors and pumps. Testing
is the only definitive way to determine whether a specific load can be started and
how long it can run. For safety reasons, the unit will simply shut down if it is
overloaded. To restart the unit after a shutdown due to overloading, momentarily
turn off the power to the unit.
110 VOLT AC APPLIANCE
50 WATT LAMP
APPROX. RUNNING TIME
40 MINUTES
LAPTOP / PRINTER
DESK FAN
1.5 HOURS
2.0 HOURS
STEREO/CD PLAYER
2.5 HOURS
Note: The Power Force 50™ will not operate appliances and equipment that
generate heat, such as hair dryers, microwave ovens, and toasters.
CELLULAR PHONE, POWER TOOLS
& CAMCORDER CHARGERS
5 TO 10 HOURS
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CAUTION:
110-volt AC Operation
DO NOT CONNECT TO AC DISTRIBUTION WIRING:
CAUTION: Rechargeable Devices
The Power Force 50™ is engineered to be connected directly to standard
electrical and electronic equipment in the manner described above. Do not
connect the Power Inverter to household or RV AC distribution wiring. Do not
connect the Power Inverter to any AC load circuit in which the neutral conductor is
connected to ground (earth) or to the negative of the DC (battery) source.
Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be recharged by plugging them
directly into an AC receptacle. These devices may damage the inverter unit of the
Pocket Generator™. When first using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature
for the initial ten minutes of use to determine whether it emits excessive heat. If
excessive heat is detected, it is a good indication that the device should not be
used with this unit. This problem does not occur with the majority of battery-operated
equipment. Most of these devices use a separate charger or transformer that is
plugged into an AC receptacle. The Pocket Generator™ is capable of running
most chargers and transformers.
CAUTION:
RECHARGEABLE APPLIANCES
Certain rechargeable devices are designed to be recharged by plugging them
directly into an AC receptacle. These devices may damage the Power Force 50™.
When first using a rechargeable device, monitor its temperature for the initial ten
minutes of use to determine whether it emits excessive heat. If excessive heat is
detected, it is a good indication that the device should not be used with this
inverter. This problem does not occur with the majority of battery-operated
equipment. Most of these devices use a separate charger or transformer that is
plugged into an AC receptacle. The Power Force 50™ is capable of running most
chargers and transformers.
1. Make sure that the ON/OFF switch on the inverter is in the OFF position.
2. Insert the 110 volt AC plug on the device to be operated into the AC outlet on
the power inverter.
3. Turn the power inverter’s ON/OFF switch to ON.
4. Switch on the device, and operate as usual. Run-time depends upon the amperage
draw of the device (see charts).
5. Green power/ON light next to switch will be lit.
FUSE REPLACEMENT
12 volt DC Operation
If the Power Force 50™ is overloaded, replace the main fuse as follows:
WARNINGS
1. Open the top flap of the Pocket Generator™, carrying case. The main fuse
• When using the Pocket Generator™ Rechargeable Power Supply to run
12 volt devices, always check the polarity of the device to verify that it is negative
ground. The Pocket Generator’s™ DC receptacle has an output limit of
10 amps; do not use it to power devices that require more than 10 amps.
NOTE: The unit has an in-line 10 amp fuse that is designed to fail in the event
the unit is used with any device requiring more than 10 amps.
holder’s screw-on/off cap will immediately be visible.
2. Unscrew the fuse holder cap and remove the fuse.
3. Replace with a new 10-amp fuse, if needed.
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4. Screw fuse holder cap back on.
5. Close case securely.
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• Always turn the power inverter switch to OFF position while running any 12 volt
device, boosting vehicle battery system, using as Memory Saver, or recharging
the Pocket Generator™ from either 110 volt AC or 12 volt DC power source.
Failure to do so will void manufacturer’s warranty.
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1. Simply insert the device’s 12 volt plug into the DC receptacle on the side of the
Pocket Generator™.
2. Switch on the device, and operate as usual. Run-time depends upon the amperage
draw of the device.
3. When necessary, recharge the Pocket Generator™, as directed in this manual.
Fig. 3.
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Power Force 50™ Output Waveform
To Use The Pocket Generator™ To Boost Vehicle’s
The AC output waveform of the Power Force 50™ is known as a “quasi-sine wave”
or a “modified sine wave”. It is a stepped waveform that is designed to have
characteristics similar to the sine wave shape of utility power. This type of
waveform is suitable for most AC loads, including linear and switching power
supplies used in electronic equipment, transformers, and motors.
Low Battery System
WARNING: Be sure that the ON/OFF switch on the inverter is in the OFF
position, before using unit as Battery Booster. Failure to do so may cause damage
to the inverter, and will void manufacturer’s warranty. NOTE: The Pocket Generator™
will not fully charge a completely dead battery, but it can be used to boost a
vehicle’s weak battery system, or to provide auxiliary power for the onboard
electrical systems and selected memory settings for electronics (A/C, seats, radio,
etc.). Using the adapter cord with two cigarette lighter-type plugs, insert one end
of the cord into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter receptacle, and the other end into the
corresponding receptacle on the Pocket Generator™. When power assist is
completed, disconnect the adapter cord’s plugs from the vehicle’s cigarette lighter
receptacle and the Pocket Generator™.
The modified sine wave produced by the Power Force 50™ inverter is designed
to have an RMS (root mean square) voltage of 110 volts, which is the same as
standard household power. Most AC voltmeters (both digital and analog) are
sensitive to the average value of the waveform rather than the RMS value. They are
calibrated for RMS voltage under the assumption that the waveform measured will
be a pure sine wave. These meters will not read the RMS voltage of a modified
sine wave correctly. They will read about 20 to 30 volts low when measuring the
output of the Power Force 50™. For accurate measurement of the output voltage
of this unit, use a true RMS reading voltmeter such as a Fluke 87, Fluke 8080A,
Beckman 4410, or Triplett 4200.
To Use The Pocket Generator™ As A Memory Saver For
Onboard Systems And Pre-Sets
WARNING: Be sure that the ON/OFF switch on the inverter is in the OFF
position, before using unit as Memory Saver. Failure to do so may cause damage
to the inverter, and will void manufacturer’s warranty. When the vehicle’s battery
system is to be disconnected for repair or maintenance, the Pocket Generator™
will provide auxiliary power to maintain the selected memory settings and other
onboard electrical systems, until power is restored. BEFORE the vehicle’s battery
system is disconnected: using the adapter cord with two cigarette lighter-type plugs,
insert one end of the cord into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter receptacle, and the
other end into the corresponding receptacle on the Pocket Generator™. Onboard
power will be maintained. AFTER the vehicle’s battery system is reconnected,
disconnect the adapter cord’s plugs from the vehicle’s cigarette lighter receptacle
and the Pocket Generator™.
™
Figure 2: Power Force 50 - Modified Sine Wave
POWER SOURCE REQUIREMENTS
The Pocket Generator™ battery must provide between 10.5 and 14.5 volts DC
and must be able to supply the necessary current to operate the load. To obtain a
rough estimate of the current (in amperes) the power source must deliver, simply
divide the power consumption of the load (in watts) by 10.
Fuse Replacement
Main Fuse
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1. Open the top flap of the Pocket Generator™,
carrying case. The main fuse holder’s
screw-on/off cap will immediately be visible.
Example: If a load is rated at 50 watts, the power source must be able to deliver:
50 ÷ 10 = 5 amperes
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2. Unscrew the fuse holder cap and remove the fuse.
3. Replace with a new 10 amp fuse, if needed.
4. Screw fuse holder cap back on.
Connection To Load
Connect the Pocket Generator™ to the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket using the
cigarette lighter plug provided. The Power Force 50™ is equipped with a standard
AC household-type receptacle. Plug the cord from the equipment to be operated
into the AC receptacle. The green LED indicator will illuminate to indicate that the
unit is functioning. Make sure the load requirements of your equipment are within
the parameters of the Power Force 50™ output. If so, turn on the equipment.
5. Close case securely.
Fig. B.
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INTRODUCTION
Storage
The Power Force 50™ supplies 50-watts of continuous power, with an 80 watt
peak, via a household-type outlet that is ready to deliver 110 volt AC power
whenever and wherever it is needed. Simply, fully charge before use and turn ON
the power switch to operate small electronic devices such as laptop computers,
portable radio/cassette/CD players, color TVs (up to 50 watts), cellular phone
and camcorder battery chargers, and more.
• Ideal storage temperature range is 50-68°F (10-20°C).
• Store the Pocket Generator™ in a cool, dry place with adequate ventilation for
all-around air circulation.
• Avoid locations that are exposed to heating units, radiators, direct sunlight, or
excessive humidity or dampness.
• To maximize useful life, fully charge the unit before storing.
• If storing at less than 50°F, recharge every six months; at 50-80°F, recharge
every three months; at 80-104°F, recharge every 45 days.
The Power Force 50™ is equipped with an ON/OFF switch and power/charging
indicator light. The AC receptacle is fully marinized, weather-proof and fused.
Added safety features include:
• Always make sure the unit is disconnected from charger before storing.
• electronic circuit protection that prevents damage due overloading or insufficient
ventilation;
• automatic shutdown to prevent damage to vehicle’s battery.
SPECIFICATIONS: Pocket Generator™
Please read the following information carefully before use, to ensure reliable service
and complete safety. Pay particular attention to the CAUTION and WARNING
statements that are provided.
AC Output
DC Output
Fuse
110 volts
12 volts
10 amps
Battery
12 volt 5 amp hour sealed lead acid, maintenance-free
50 watts continuous/80 amps peak surge capacity
4.60 lbs.
6.25”
4.00”
HOW THE Power Force 50™ INVERTER WORKS
Inverter
Weight:
Height:
Depth:
The Power Force 50™ inverter is an electronic device that converts low voltage
DC (direct current) electricity from a battery to standard 110-volt AC (alternating
current) household power. In designing the Power Force 50™, Vector™ has
incorporated design techniques previously employed in computer power supplies.
The result of these design innovations is a smaller, lighter and easier-to-use
power inverter.
Width:
7.50”
Power Force 50™ Inverter
Principle Of Operation
The Power Force 50™ inverter converts power in two stages. The first stage is a
DC-to-DC conversion process that raises the low voltage DC at the inverter input to
14.5 volts DC. The second stage is the actual inverter stage that converts the high
voltage DC into 110-volts, 60 Hz AC.
WARNING: Do not attempt to remove the inverter from the unit for any
reason - it is hard-wired into the unit, and you may cause unnecessary damage to
the unit and void the manufacturer’s warranty. In the event of any failure, refer to
the warranty information at the back of this manual and return the complete unit for
repair or replacement, or call the customer service department at Vector
Manufacturing, Ltd. (954) 923-1155.
The DC-to-DC converter stage uses modern high frequency power conversion
techniques that have replaced the bulky transformers found in less technologically
advanced models. The inverter stage uses advanced power MOSFET transistors in
a full bridge configuration. This ensures excellent overload capability and the
ability to operate reactive loads like lamp ballasts and small induction motors.
The Vector™ Power Force 50™ inverter supplied with the Pocket Generator™ is
one in a series of the most advanced DC to AC inverters available today. With
proper care and maintenance, it will deliver years of dependable service. For easy
reference, see sections titled:
Figure 1.
Introduction
How the Power Force 50™ Inverter Works
Power Source Requirements
Fuse Replacement
™
Vector™ Power Force 50
Inverter - Principle of
Operation
Operating Tips
Troubleshooting
Specifications
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