A DC to AC inverter (also known as an inverter) is an electronic device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). It is widely used in various applications requiring AC power, but only DC power is available. For example, an RV or tiny home running on solar power via solar modules (solar panels) produces DC power from the sun. Still, the appliances used in the RV, like a refrigerator or computer, need AC power. This is where a DC to AC inverter, like the Victron MultiPlus-II 12/3000/120-50 2x120V (PMP122305100), would be required.
How Does a DC to AC Inverter Work?
A DC to AC inverter uses electronic components to switch the DC input voltage on and off at a high frequency, typically in tens of kilohertz to several megahertz. This creates a series of square-wave pulses filtered and shaped to produce a sine wave output.
The reason for switching the DC voltage on and off is that the output of the inverter needs to be an AC waveform. A square-wave pulse is not an accurate AC waveform, but it can be filtered and shaped to produce a waveform that is very close to a sine wave. By switching the DC voltage on and off at a high frequency, the inverter can create a waveform that is very close to a sine wave, if not more accurate.
The switching frequency of the inverter is high enough so that the output waveform can be filtered and shaped to produce a sine wave that is identical to the desired frequency. For example, if the desired output frequency is 60 Hz, then the switching frequency of the inverter might be 10 kHz or higher.
Components of a DC to AC Inverter
A DC to AC inverter consists of several stages: a DC input stage, a power switching stage, a transformer, and an output stage.
DC Input Stage
The DC input stage converts the DC voltage into a form that the power switching stage can use.Â
Power Switching Stage
The power switching stage is responsible for generating high-frequency square-wave pulses.
Transformer
Depending on the application, the transformer steps up or down the voltage.Â
Output Stage
Finally, the output stage filters and shapes the output waveform to produce a clean sine wave.
Where to Buy DC to AC Inverters?
Colorado Standby has a wide selection of Inverters for sale. We recommend Victron Energy DC to AC Inverters but also have alternatives for applications where Victron might not be the best choice. You can browse our full selection here. These units are in stock and ready to ship! We offer free shipping on orders over $500 anywhere in the continental US.
All of our Victron Products can be purchased right here on our website. Your new inverter for RV and off-grid power is only a few clicks away!
Contact Us
Colorado Standby has you covered if you want to buy a high-quality, versatile, and efficient inverter! Please contact us for more information regarding DC to AC inverter questions.
Call us at 866-888-6111 or e-mail [email protected] today!
