64-0003 H (Owners Manual, ME-RC V2.9)

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ME-RC

Standard Remote Control

Owner’s Manual
(Revision 2.9 or higher: includes AGS & BMK info)
Thank you from all of us at Sensata Technologies for purchasing this
ME-RC remote. The ME-RC is a product under the Magnum Energy brand
from Sensata. We understand there are many purchasing options in the
marketplace, and are pleased that you have decided on a Magnum product.
We are committed to providing quality products and services. We hope your
experience with us is pleasant and professional.
Disclaimer of Liability
The use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation, operation,
use, and maintenance of the ME-RC is beyond the control of Sensata
Technologies. Therefore, this company does not assume responsibility and
expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage, or expense whether direct,
indirect, consequential or incidental that may arise out of or be in any way
connected with such installation, operation, use, or maintenance.
Due to continuous improvements and product updates, the images shown in
this manual may not exactly match the unit purchased.
Restrictions on Use
The ME-RC remote may only be used in life support devices and systems with
the express written approval of Sensata Technologies. Failure of this inverter
can reasonably be expected to cause failure of that life support device or
system, or to affect the safety or effectiveness of that device or system. If
the ME-RC remote fails, it is reasonable to assume the health of the user or
other persons may be endangered.
Copyright Notice
Copyright 2020 by Sensata Technologies. All rights reserved. Permission to
copy, distribute, and/or modify this document is prohibited without written
permission from Sensata.
Document Information
Description – ME-RC Owner’s Manual
Part Number and Revision – 64-0003 Rev H
Date Published – April 2020
This entire manual is available for download—with many of the diagrams
available in color—under the Document Library section—on our website.
Contact Information
Sensata Technologies (for Magnum Energy Products):
Customer Service: [email protected]
Tech Support: [email protected]
Web: www.SensataPower.com

© 2020 Sensata Technologies i


Important Product Safety Instructions
This manual contains safety instructions that must be followed during the
installation and operation of this product. Read all instructions and safety
information contained in this manual before installing or using this product.
Safety Symbols
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire, or other safety hazard, the
following safety symbols have been placed throughout this manual to
indicate dangerous and important safety instructions.

WARNING: Indicates that failure to take a specified action could


result in physical harm to the user.

CAUTION: Indicates that failure to take a specified action could


result in damage to the equipment.

Info: Indicates information that emphasizes or supplements


important points of the main text.

Remedy: Provides possible solutions for related issues.

Product Safety Alerts


All electrical work must be performed in accordance with local, state, and
federal electrical codes.

WARNINGS:
• This product is designed for indoor/compartment installation. It
must not be exposed to rain, snow, moisture, or liquids of any
type.
• Use insulated tools to reduce the chance of electrical shock or
accidental short circuits.
• Remove all jewelry such as rings, watches, bracelets, etc., when
installing or performing maintenance on the inverter.
• Always disconnect the batteries or energy source prior to installing
or performing maintenance on the inverter. Live power may be
present at more than one point since an inverter utilizes both
batteries and AC - turning off the inverter may not reduce this risk.
As long as AC power is connected, it will pass thru the inverter
regardless of the power switch on the inverter or the ON/OFF
INVERTER button on the remote.

ii © 2020 Sensata Technologies


Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction................................................................1
2.0 Installation .................................................................2
2.1 Pre-Installation ..................................................................... 2
2.1.1 Installation Guidelines ........................................................... 2
2.1.2 Unpacking and Inspection ...................................................... 2
2.1.3 Tools Required ...................................................................... 2
2.2 Connecting the Remote Cable ................................................. 3
2.2.1 Connecting the ME-RC to a Magnum Inverter ............................ 3
2.3 ME-RC Remote Dimensions..................................................... 4
2.4 Mounting the ME-RC Remote .................................................. 4
2.4.1 Flush Mount Installation Procedure .......................................... 5
2.5 Power-up Self Test ................................................................ 6
3.0 Setup ..........................................................................7
3.1 Navigating the Remote........................................................... 7
3.2 Remote Feature to Inverter Compatibility ................................. 9
3.3 Remote Buttons and Menu Items........................................... 13
3.3.1 SHORE Button .................................................................... 13
3.3.2 AGS Menu .......................................................................... 15
3.3.3 METER Menu ...................................................................... 16
3.3.4 SETUP Menu ....................................................................... 20
3.3.5 TECH Menu ........................................................................ 37
4.0 Menu Map: ME-RC Remote Control ............................42
5.0 Operation ..................................................................45
5.1 Front Panel......................................................................... 45
5.1.1 LED Indicators .................................................................... 45
5.1.2 LCD Display ........................................................................ 45
5.1.3 ON/OFF Pushbuttons ........................................................... 46
5.1.4 Menu Buttons ..................................................................... 46
5.1.5 Rotary SELECT Knob ............................................................ 46
5.2 Operating the Inverter/Charger ............................................. 47
5.2.1 Inverter Mode ..................................................................... 47
5.2.2 Charger Mode ..................................................................... 47
5.3 System Status Messages ...................................................... 48
5.3.1 Inverter Mode Status Messages............................................. 49
5.3.2 Charger Mode Status Messages ............................................. 49
5.3.3 Fault Mode Messages ........................................................... 53
5.3.4 LED Indicator Guide ............................................................ 57
6.0 ME-RC Remote Troubleshooting ................................58
6.1 Inverter/Charger Troubleshooting Tips ................................... 59
6.1.1 Inverter Problems ............................................................... 59
6.1.2 Charger Problems ............................................................... 59
6.2 Performing an Inverter Reset ................................................ 60
6.3 Performing a Power Reset..................................................... 60

© 2020 Sensata Technologies iii


Table of Contents (Cont.)
7.0 Using an AGS ............................................................61
7.1 AGS Setup ......................................................................... 61
7.2 AGS Functional Tests ........................................................... 65
7.2.1 Remote to Generator Communication Test .............................. 65
7.3 AGS Operation/Monitoring .................................................... 65
7.3.1 Controlling the AGS using the ME-RC ..................................... 65
7.3.2 Monitoring the AGS using the ME-RC ..................................... 66
7.4 Enabling the AGS using the ME-RC ........................................ 68
7.5 Starting/Stopping the Generator using ME-RC ......................... 68
7.6 AGS Menu Map using the ME-RC ........................................... 69
7.7 AGS Remote Status Messages ............................................... 71
7.7.1 AGS Remote Operational Statuses ......................................... 71
7.7.2 AGS Remote Start Statuses .................................................. 72
7.7.3 AGS Remote Fault Statuses .................................................. 72
7.7.4 General AGS Operational Notes ............................................. 72
7.8 Troubleshooting the AGS with the ME-RC ................................ 73
7.8.1 AGS Fault Message Screens for the ME-RC Remote .................. 73
7.8.2 Resolving Operational Statuses ............................................. 74
7.8.3 Resolving Fault Statuses ...................................................... 74
7.8.4 How to Clear AGS Faults ...................................................... 75
8.0 Using a BMK ..............................................................76
8.1 Setting Up the BMK using the ME-RC ..................................... 76
8.1.1 Charge Efficiency Setting ..................................................... 76
8.1.2 Batt AmpHrs Setting ............................................................ 78
8.2 ME-RC50 Remote’s BMK METER Menu Maps ............................ 79
8.3 Operating the BMK using the ME-RC ...................................... 80
8.3.1 How the Battery Monitor (ME-BMK) Operates .......................... 80
8.4 ME-RC METER Menu Items and Settings for BMK ..................... 80
9.0 Warranty Information ...............................................83
9.1 Warranty Statement ............................................................ 83
9.2 Warranty Service ................................................................ 83

List of Tables
Table 3-1, ME-RC (Revision 2.9) Compatibility Matrix.............................. 9
Table 3-2, Battery AmpHrs Capacity to Suggested Absorb Time ............. 22
Table 3-3, Battery Size to Battery AmpHrs (estimated) ......................... 23
Table 3-4, Battery Type to Charge Voltages ......................................... 29
Table 3-5, ME-RC’s Inverter/Charger Default Settings ........................... 39
Table 5-1, LED Indicator Guide .......................................................... 57
Table 6-1, Remote Control Troubleshooting Guide ................................ 58
Table 7-1, ME-RC Autostart/Autostop Matrix ........................................ 61
Table 7-2, Battery AmpHrs Capacity to Suggested Gen Run Time ........... 62
Table 7-3, AGS Remote Operational Statuses....................................... 71
Table 7-4, AGS Remote Start Statuses................................................ 72
Table 7-5, AGS Remote Fault Statuses ................................................ 72

iv © 2020 Sensata Technologies


List of Figures
Figure 1-1, Front Panel Features .......................................................... 1
Figure 2-1, Remote Cable ................................................................... 3
Figure 2-2, Remote Control Connections ............................................... 3
Figure 2-3, ME-RC Remote Dimensions ................................................. 4
Figure 2-4, Flush Mounting the ME-RC .................................................. 5
Figure 2-5, Power-up Self Test Screens ................................................. 6
Figure 2-6, Example: ME-RC Home Screen ............................................ 6
Figure 3-1, Front Panel Setup Features ................................................. 7
Figure 3-2, SETUP Menu Navigation ..................................................... 8
Figure 3-3A, SHORE: Shore Max Selection .......................................... 13
Figure 3-3B, SHORE: Shore Max2 (Dual-source Models Only) ................ 14
Figure 3-4, AGS Menu Display ........................................................... 15
Figure 3-5, METER: 01 INV/CHG Meter Display .................................... 16
Figure 3-6, Current Flow – Inverter Mode ........................................... 18
Figure 3-7, Current Flow – Standby Mode ........................................... 19
Figure 3-8, Current Flow – Load Support Mode .................................... 19
Figure 3-9, SETUP: 01 Search Watts Selections ................................... 20
Figure 3-10, SETUP: 02 LowBattCutOut Selections (12v) ...................... 21
Figure 3-11, SETUP: 03 Absorb Time Selections................................... 22
Figure 3-12, SETUP: 04 Battery Type Selections .................................. 24
Figure 3-13, Done Time/Amps Charge Stages ..................................... 27
Figure 3-14, Hold VDC Charge Stages ................................................ 27
Figure 3-15, SETUP: 05 Charge Rate Selections ................................... 30
Figure 3-16, SETUP: 06 VAC Dropout Selections .................................. 31
Figure 3-17, SETUP: 07 Power Save Selections .................................... 32
Figure 3-18, SETUP: 08 Screen Setup Selections ................................. 32
Figure 3-19, Final Charge Stage - Multi-Stage ..................................... 33
Figure 3-20, Final Charge Stage - Float Stage ..................................... 34
Figure 3-21, Final Charge Stage - Silent Stage .................................... 35
Figure 3-22, TECH: 01 Temperatures Display....................................... 37
Figure 3-23, TECH: 02 Revisions Display............................................. 37
Figure 3-24, TECH: 03 Inv Model Display ............................................ 38
Figure 3-25, TECH: 04 Load Defaults Selection .................................... 38
Figure 3-26, TECH: 05 Ext Control Display .......................................... 40
Figure 3-27, Example: Ext Control Scrolling Screens ............................ 40
Figure 4-1, Inverter/Charger Menu Map .............................................. 42
Figure 4-2, Inverter/Charger Menu Map .............................................. 43
Figure 4-3, Inverter/Charger Menu Map .............................................. 44
Figure 5-1, ME-RC Front Panel Controls and Indicator ........................... 45
Figure 5-2, System Status Screen (Example) ...................................... 48
Figure 6-1, Performing an Inverter Reset ............................................ 60
Figure 7-1, ME-RC’s AGS Configuration Access Buttons ......................... 61
Figure 7-2, AGS Menu Maps in ME-RC Remote (Section 1) .................... 69
Figure 7-3, AGS Menu Maps in ME-RC Remote (Section 2) .................... 70
Figure 7-4, Example: AGS Fault Message on ME-RC Remote .................. 73
Figure 8-1, Accessing the BM Setup Menu ........................................... 76
Figure 8-2, Changing the Charge Efficiency Setting .............................. 77
Figure 8-3, Adjusting the AmpHour Size ............................................. 78
Figure 8-4, ME-RC50 METER Menu Map (Displays w/BMK Settings) ........ 79

© 2020 Sensata Technologies v


1.0 Information

1.0 Introduction
The ME-RC remote control allows you to monitor and customize the operating
parameters for your Magnum inverter/charger. This remote can be used on
all Magnum inverter/charger models so there is no cross-platform confusion.
The ME-RC remote (PN: ME-RC50) comes standard with a 50-foot, 4-conductor
(twisted-pair) telephone cable and includes nonvolatile memory (preserves
adjustable settings, even if power to the remote or inverter is removed).
Info: This manual is for the ME-RC with revision 2.9 or higher; see
the TECH: 02 Revisions display on page 37 for information on how
to determine your revision level.

LED Inverting
LCD
Indicators DC: 12.6V 50A
Display

ON/OFF
Pushbuttons

Menu Buttons Rotary SELECT Knob

Figure 1-1, Front Panel Features

The ME-RC is equipped with the following features:


• LED Indicators – The at-a-glance LEDs provide the inverter/charger
status in a straightforward way.
• LCD Display – The LCD display is a 16 x 2 line (32 characters total),
alphanumeric display used for setting up the inverter/charger operation, as
well as viewing current status or fault messages.
• ON/OFF Buttons (x2) – The ON/OFF buttons allow the inverter or
charger to be independently and quickly enabled or disabled.
• Menu Buttons (x5) – The menu buttons allow the inverter or charger
to be configured to your specific system preferences. These buttons also
allow simple access to menu items that can help with monitoring and
troubleshooting your inverter/charger system.
• Rotary SELECT Knob – The rotary encoder knob is similar to a car
dash radio knob and is used to quickly scroll through and select various
menu items and settings. Pushing this rotary knob allows you to select a
menu item, or to save a setting once it is displayed on the LCD.

1 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


2.0 Installation

2.0 Installation
Review this section and the Important Product Safety Instructions on page ii
before proceeding with the installation of your remote.
WARNING: Installations should be performed by qualified
personnel, such as a licensed or certified electrician. The installer
determines which safety codes apply and ensures all applicable
installation requirements are followed. Applicable installation codes
vary depending on the specific location and application.
CAUTION: When connecting battery power to the inverter, all
battery negative connections must be connected prior to the
battery positive connections. When removing battery power from
the inverter, the battery positive should be removed before any
battery negative connections are disconnected. This prevents any
communication chips/lines from becoming the DC return path to the
battery—causing permanent damage to all connected accessories.
Summation: Ensure all battery negative circuits are always
connected before connecting or disconnecting battery positive.

2.1 Pre-Installation
Before proceeding, read the entire Installation section to determine how best
to install your ME-RC remote. The more thorough you plan in the beginning,
the better your inverter needs will be met.
2.1.1 Installation Guidelines
• Before connecting any wires, determine the remote’s cable route through-
out the home or vehicle/boat, both to and from the inverter.
• Always check for existing electrical, plumbing, or other areas of potential
damage BEFORE drilling or cutting into walls to mount the remote.
• Make sure all wires have a smooth bend radius and do not become kinked.
• If installing this remote in a boat, RV, or truck ensure the conductors
passing through walls, bulkheads, or other structural members are
protected. This minimizes insulation damage (such as chafing) which can
be caused by vibration or constant rubbing.
2.1.2 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the ME-RC remote from its shipping container and inspect
all contents. Verify the following items are included:
• The ME-RC remote
• 50’ remote cable
• Four #8 x 3/4 Phillips screws
• ME-RC Owner’s Manual
If items appear to be missing or damaged, contact your authorized Magnum
Energy product dealer or Sensata Technologies. Save your proof-of-purchase
as a record of your ownership; it is needed if the unit should require in-
warranty service.
2.1.3 Tools Required
Installing the remote control is simple and requires the following tools:
• Phillips screwdriver • Level • Drill
• Cut-out tool (knife/saw) • Pencil • Drill Bit (7/64”)

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 2


2.0 Installation
2.2 Connecting the Remote Cable
The ME-RC comes with a remote cable to enable communication between
the inverter and the remote. The remote cable is a 50-foot, 4-conductor,
round twisted-pair, telephony standard with 6P4C (6-position/4-conductor)
connectors on each end. When the 6P4C connectors are held side by side with
both of the connector tabs facing the same way, the color of the conductors
in each connector is the opposite from top to bottom (see Figure 2-1).
Info: Twisted-pair cabling is a common form of wiring in which
two conductors are wound around each other for the purpose of
cancelling out electromagnetic interference (i.e., crosstalk).
Note: The remote cable can be extended up to a length of 200 feet without
data degradation.

1234
4-conductor TAB
telephone-type
opposite colors from same
same color
top to bottom color
(tabs facing you)
1234

TAB

Figure 2-1, Remote Cable

2.2.1 Connecting the ME-RC to a Magnum Inverter


One end of the remote cable plugs into the back side of the ME-RC, and the
other plugs into the REMOTE (blue) port on the Magnum inverter/charger
(see Figure 2-2).
Note: Connect the remote cable after mounting the remote as described in
Section 2.4.

Large Magnum inverters


Small Magnum inverters

ME-RC ME-RC
remote remote
(back) (back)

Figure 2-2, Remote Control Connections

3 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


2.0 Installation
2.3 ME-RC Remote Dimensions
Use the information below (Figures 2-3 and 2-4) in preparation for mounting
the ME-RC remote. Directions for mounting follow in Section 2.4.
~1⅝"
(4.1 cm)
~1" 5 ¼” (13.3 cm)
(2.5 cm)

3 ¼” (8.3 cm)
3 ⅞" (9.8 cm)
2 ¾”
(7.0 cm)

⅞"
(2.3 cm)
1 ⅛” 5 ⅞" (14.9 cm)
(2.9 cm)
1 ½”
(3.8 cm)

Figure 2-3, ME-RC Remote Dimensions

2.4 Mounting the ME-RC Remote


The ME-RC can be flush mounted through an opening in the wall. Find a
location that is clean, dry and protected. Allow room to access the remote’s
SELECT knob and to view the LEDs/display.
CAUTION: Ensure that no AC power is connected to the inverter,
and then according your inverter owner’s manual correctly connect
the inverter to the batteries.

CAUTION: Always check for hidden electrical wires, pipes and


cables BEFORE drilling, cutting, or screwing into walls or cabinets.

Info: The ME-RC can be surface mounted on a wall using the optional
ME-BZ (remote bezel).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 4


2.0 Installation

2.4.1 Flush Mount Installation Procedure


To flush mount, the wall opening must have at least a 2” (5 cm) depth to
allow room for the remote and the cable.
1. Cut an opening in the wall (Figure 2-4). Ensure there are no openings
around the display and enough material for the screws to secure the unit.
2. Drill four pilot holes for the #8 x 3/4 screws that will attach the remote to
the wall (refer to Figure 2-3 for remote hole locations and dimensions).
3. Route one end of the cable through the wall opening to the inverter/
charger, and then plug it into the RJ11 REMOTE port (blue label) on the
inverter/charger—inverter has DC power, but is OFF. See Figure 2-2.
4. Take the other end of the remote cable and while plugging it into the
back of the ME-RC, view the remote’s display to ensure the Power-up
Self Test initiates (see Section 2.5).
5. If the self test is successful, secure the ME-RC to the wall using the
four supplied Phillips screws. If the self test is unsuccessful, refer to the
Troubleshooting section.

5.0"
(12.7 cm)

3.0"
(7.6 cm)

Figure 2-4, Flush Mounting the ME-RC

5 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


2.0 Installation
2.5 Power-up Self Test
Info: All power to operate the remote control is provided by the
inverter/charger through the remote cable.

When the ME-RC is first connected to an inverter, a power-up self test is


performed. The LCD automatically displays the following screens (Figure 2-5):

PW R
FAULT
No LEDs light MAGNUM ENERGY
CHG
Self Test
INV

PW R
PWR lights green
FAULT
FAULT lights red (C)2003-2019
CHG lights green CHG
Connecting to..
INV lights green INV

PW R
FAULT
CHG lights green ME-RC V 2.9
CHG
INV lights green INV/CHG V #.#
INV

PW R
FAULT
All LEDs are off* Off
CHG
DC 25.5V - 0A
INV

* If the Power-up Always feature is enabled and DC is reconnected to the


inverter, the inverter will turn on automatically once the self test is complete.

Figure 2-5, Power-up Self Test Screens


After five minutes without a button being pressed, the remote displays the
ME-RC’s home screen (see example below).

PWR
FAULT
Inverting
CHG
DC 25.2V - 10A
INV

Top line: Current status of inverter


Bottom line: Voltage from the batteries connected to the
inverter, and the battery current used by the inverter
Figure 2-6, Example: ME-RC Home Screen

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 6


3.0 Setup

3.0 Setup
When the remote is connected to a Magnum inverter/charger, the settings in
the remote control determine the inverter/charger’s operating parameters.
The default settings in the remote control are adequate for most installations
(see Table 3-5); however, you have the option to change some of the
operating parameters. This section shows you how to navigate the remote
and gives you an understanding of the function of each adjustable setting.

3.1 Navigating the Remote


The ME-RC has menu items and adjustable settings that provide the ability
to configure your inverter/charger to your specific parameters.
Info: See Figures 4-1 through 4-3 for complete maps of the inverter/
charger’s menu items and adjustable settings.

Familiarize yourself with the display and controls on the remote’s front panel
that are used to find, adjust, and save the desired settings (see Figure 3-1).
• LCD Display – The 2-line LCD display shows status and information for
the inverter/charger and any attached accessories. All setup menus and faults
also appear on the LCD display.
Info: The LCD display returns to the remote home screen to show
DC voltage and current (see Figure 2-6) after 5 minutes—if no
buttons have been pressed.
Info: When the (left facing arrow) symbol is shown on the
display, the displayed setting has been selected and will be used.

• Menu Buttons (x5) – These five buttons allow simple access to menu
items that can help with configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting your
inverter/charger system.
• Rotary SELECT Knob – This rotary knob allows you to quickly scroll
through and select various menu items and settings. Pressing the knob selects
the menu item to change, or saves the current selection.
Info: Hold down the SELECT button for 10 seconds to refresh the
LCD display.

Inverting
DC: 12.6V 50A

LCD Display Menu Rotary


Buttons SELECT Knob

Figure 3-1, Front Panel Setup Features

7 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup

1. Press the SETUP menu button.

Bottom line shows a menu


Inverting
01 Search Watts heading.

2. Turn the SELECT knob to the


desired menu item.

When the bottom line shows the


desired menu heading:
Inverting
04 Battery Type

3. Press the SELECT knob.

Bottom line shows current setting.*


Inverting
BatType=Flooded

*[If this setting is correct, rotate


the SELECT knob to continue to the
next menu item.]

4. Press the SELECT knob to


change the desired setting.

Rotate the SELECT knob to the


desired setting.
Inverting When the bottom line shows the
BatType= AGM 1
desired setting:

5. Press the SELECT knob to save


this setting.

Figure 3-2, SETUP Menu Navigation

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 8


3.0 Setup
3.2 Remote Feature to Inverter Compatibility
The ME-RC has many settings and is designed to work with the standard
features in your Magnum inverter—and/or other Magnum devices (i.e., ME-
AGS-N or ME-BMK). The ME-RC communicates with your inverter to allow
the set up and enabling of these standard features. However, when the ME-
RC is released with new software, some of the features and functionality in
the remote may not be available in an inverter or networked accessory that
has an earlier software level. In this case, the setting is not recognized and
will not function. Use the steps below to help you determine which ME-RC
(Revision 2.9) menus/features are compatible with your inverter.
1. Obtain your inverter’s software revision.
Note: To view the inverter’s software revision level, go to the TECH
menu on your remote and access the Revisions menu.
2. Go to the Magnum Remote Compatibility page at www.SensataPower.com
to determine your inverter’s compatibility level (L1, L2, L3, L4, or L5).
3. Use Table 3-1 to determine which ME-RC features/settings you want to
use, and what inverter compatibility level is required (see the “Inverter
Level Required” column in Table 3-1).
4. If your inverter compatibility level is the same or greater than the level
required, your inverter can support the setting/feature you want.

Info: The ME-RC compatibility matrix below is also available at www.


SensataPower.com to download/print as a single page document.

Table 3-1, ME-RC (Revision 2.9) Compatibility Matrix


FEATURES/SETTINGS
Button

Inverter
Default
Menu Menu Selections/ Level
Setting
Heading Item Adjustments Range Required

Shore Max 5 - 60A ≥Level 1 [1] 30A**


SHORE

Dual Source
Shore Max2 5 - 60A 30A**
Inverter Models
01 AGS OFF, Enable, Test, En-
AGS= ≥Level 1 OFF**
Control able w/QT (Set Time)
02 AGS
AGS: Read only display ≥Level 1 Read Only
Status
03 Run Run
0.5 - 25.5 Hours ≥Level 1 2.0 Hrs
Time Hour Time=
04 Start Start OFF, Ext Input, 65 -
≥Level 1 OFF
Temp F Temp= 95F
AGS

05 Start Start
OFF, 10.0 - 12.2* ≥Level 1 11.0
Volts VDC=
Hour= 01:xxx-12:xxx
06 Set
Minute= xx:00x-xx:59x ≥Level 1 12:00A
Time
AM-PM= xx:xxA-xx:xxP
OFF,
07 Quiet
Quiet= 9PM- (7AM/8AM/9AM), ≥Level 1 OFF
Time
(10PM/11PM) - 8AM

9 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup

FEATURES/SETTINGS

Button
Inverter
Default
Menu Selections/ Level
Menu Item Setting
Heading Adjustments Range Required

AGS (Cont.) Gen Run: Read only display ≥Level 1 Read Only
AGS VDC: Read only display ≥Level 1 Read Only
08 AGS
Temp: Read only display ≥Level 1 Read Only
TECH
AGS Rev: Read only display ≥Level 1 Read Only
AGS Mode: =RV, Other ≥Level 1 RV
##.#V ##A
DC: ≥Level 1 Read Only
(Read only display)
###VAC
VAC Out: ≥Level 4 Read Only
(Read only display)
##.#Hz
Hz Out: ≥Level 4 Read Only
(Read only display)
##AAC
Load Amps: ≥Level 4 [3] Read Only
01 INV/ (Read only display)
CHG ##AAC
Meter Input Amp: ≥Level 4 [3] Read Only
(Read only display)
##AAC
I/C Amps: ≥Level 4 [3] Read Only
(Read only display)
###V
AC Input: MSH Models Read Only
(Read only display)
Dual Source
###V
AC2 Input: Inverter Read Only
(Read only display)
Models
METER

02 BM:
Batt SOC Read only display ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
SOC
DC Volts:
DC Amps:
03 BM:
AH I/O: Read only displays ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
Meters
rAH Out:
tAH Out:
04 BM:
BM: Read only display ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
Status
BM Charge
Chg Eff= Auto, 50-97% ≥Level 1 [5] Auto
05 BM: Eff:
Setup BM Amp Batt Amphr =
≥Level 1 [5] 400
Hours: 200 - 2500
BM Rev: Read only display ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
Read only display
06 BM: Min DC: ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
(press SELECT to reset)
TECH
Read only display
Max DC: ≥Level 1 [5] Read Only
(press SELECT to reset)

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 10


3.0 Setup

FEATURES/SETTINGS

Button
Inverter
Default
Menu Menu Selections/ Level
Setting
Heading Item Adjustments Range Required

01 Search
Search= OFF, 5 - 50W ≥Level 1 5W
Watts

02 Low Batt 9.0 - 12.2 VDC* ≥Level 1


LBCO= 10.0 VDC
CutOut 9.0 - 13.0 VDC* ≥Level 5
03 Absorb Absorb
0.1 - 25.5 Hrs ≥Level 4[4] 1.5 Hrs
Time Hrs=
Gel, Flooded, AGM1, AGM2 ≥Level 1 Flooded
Absorb =
14.4V
(12.0 - 16.0V)*
Cus-
Float =
tom ≥Level 3 13.2V
(12.0 - 16.0V)*
[2]
Equalize =
15.6V
(12.0 - 16.0V)*
Max Amps =
200A
(OFF, 20 - 990A)
Chg Volts =
13.8V
(12.0 - 16.0V)* ≥Level 3
EndChg = (Time, DC
Time
Amps, Hold VDC)
EndChg = Time
04 Battery
BatType=
SETUP

Type DoneTime =
1.5Hrs
(0.1 - 25.5 Hrs)
MaxTime = (OFF, ≥Level 4
CC/ 12.0Hrs
0.1-25.5) [4]
CV
Recharge =
12.0V
(12.0-16.0V)*
EndChg= DC Amps
DoneAmps =
20ADC
(0 - 250ADC)
MaxTime = (OFF, ≥Level 4 12.0Hrs
0.1-25.5)
Recharge =
12.0V
(12.0-16.0V)*
Hold VDC ≥Level 1 14.6V
LFP ≥Level 5

05 Charge Max 0 - 100% ≥Level 3


80%
Rate Charge= 10 - 100% ≥Level 2
US Models: 60 - 100 VAC,
≥Level 1 80 VAC
UPS Mode
Dropout=
06 VAC Export Models: 110 - 190
≥Level 1 150 VAC
Dropout VAC, UPS Mode
Drop- US Models: 60 - 100 VAC, Dual-source
80 VAC
out2= UPS Mode Models only

11 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup

FEATURES/SETTINGS

Button
Inverter
Default
Main Menu Selections/ Level
Setting
Heading Item Adjustments Range Required

07 Power
PwrSave= OFF, 1 - 60 Minutes ≥Level 1 15min
Save

08 Screen Contrast= 100%**


0 - 100% ≥Level 1
Setup
SETUP (Cont.)

Brightness= 50%**
Multi, Float, Silent Multi
09 Final
Final= Rebulk = ≥Level 4
Charge Silent 12.0V
(12.0-16.0V)*
10 Pwr Up
Pwr Up= YES, NO ≥Level 1 NO
Always
11 Bulk
Bulk Always= ON, OFF ≥Level 1 OFF
Always
BTS:

01 Tem- Tfmr: Read


Read only displays ≥Level 1
peratures FETs: Only
AGS:
Inverter:
Remote:
02 Revi- Read
AGS: Read only displays ≥Level 1
sions Only
BMK:
TECH

Router:
03 Inv- Read
Model: Read only display ≥Level 1
Model Only
04 Load Press SELECT (x5 secs) Read
Defaults in x.xs ≥Level 1
Defaults for default settings Only
VAC Dropout:
05 Ext Read only display Read
Charge Rate: ≥Level 1
Control (“INT” or “EXT”) Only
Shore Max:
06 Set Locked, Unlocked,
SETUP= ≥Level 1 Unlocked
PIN Change PIN (PIN= 0000)

* 12-volt values shown; they are different for 24v and 48v inverters.
** These settings return to factory default when power to remote is removed.
ME-RC Compatibility Matrix Notes:
[1] Not available on MM/MM-E/MM-AE/MMS/MMS-E/MMSA/MMA models.
[2] AC Couple mode can be activated using Battery Type: Custom, only with
MS-PAE Series ≥Rev 4.1 or MS/MS-PE Series ≥5.0.
[3] The AC amps displays are not shown unless connected to MS-PAE, MS-PE
or MSH Series models.
[4] Level 2 and 3 inverters can be used, but Level 2 inverters are limited
from 1.0 hour to 4.5 hours, Level 3 inverters <Rev 4.1 are limited from 1.0
to 6.5 hours; and Level 3 inverters ≥Rev. 4.1 (and MMS Rev 1.5) are limited
from 1.5 to 6.5 hours; any setting outside these limited ranges are not
recognized and reverts to the inverter’s default absorption time (2.0 hours).
[5] BM/SOC features require the ME-BMK (Battery Monitor Kit) to be installed.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 12


3.0 Setup
3.3 Remote Buttons and Menu Items
The five menu pushbuttons (SHORE, AGS, METER, SETUP, or TECH) allow the
inverter/charger system to be configured to your specific preferences. These
menus also allow you to access menu items that can help with monitoring
and troubleshooting your system.
This section covers each menu button’s function and its various configurable
settings. This helps to optimize the operation of the inverter/charger.
3.3.1 SHORE Button
This menu button enables you to quickly change your Shore Max setting to
coordinate with the circuit breaker rating from the incoming AC source.
• SHORE: Shore Max – This setting determines the level in AC amps at
which the inverter/charger begins to back off the battery charger to reduce
the load on the incoming AC power. Whenever the incoming AC is connected
and passing thru the inverter, the incoming AC current that is used to power
the AC loads and charge the batteries is monitored. If this current begins to
approach the Shore Max setting, the battery charger current is automatically
reduced. This ensures the AC loads have all the current that the incoming
AC power can provide.
If using a MSH (Hybrid) Series inverter, the Shore Max setting will also
determine when the battery current begins to operate in parallel with the
incoming AC power to support the inverter loads, known as Load Support.
The Load Support feature uses additional power from the inverter’s battery
to run loads greater than what the incoming AC power can run alone, and
prioritizes the power of any external DC source (e.g., alternator, solar, etc.,)
over the incoming AC power to run inverter loads. For more information, see
the Load Support Mode section in the Owner’s Manual of the MSH models.
Setting for all models except dual-source inverters:
◊ Shore Max
Default setting: 30 Amps
Ranges: 5-60 Amps (5 amp increments from 5 Amps to 20 Amps, and
10 amp increments from 20 Amps to 60 Amps).
Setting for dual-source inverters (i.e., MSH4024RE):
◊ Shore Max (AC1 input) and Shore Max2 (AC2 input)
Default settings: Shore Max =30 Amps, Shore Max2=30 Amps
Ranges: 5-60 Amps (5 amp increments from 5 Amps to 20 Amps, and
10 amp increments from 20 Amps to 60 Amps).

Bottom line shows If a different setting


current saved setting. is required:

SHORE
Status...
Shore Max =**A
The left facing arrow in
this display shows the Rotate to
Press
selected setting that has desired Press to save
been saved. selection:

Range: 5-60 Amps

Figure 3-3A, SHORE: Shore Max Selection

13 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup

Bottom line shows If a different setting


current saved setting. is required:

SHORE
Status...
Shore Max =**A
The left facing arrow in
this display shows the Rotate to
Press
selected setting that has desired Press to save
been saved. selection:

Range: 5-60 Amps

Bottom line shows If a different setting


current saved setting. is required:
Status...
Shore Max2=**A
The left facing arrow in
this display shows the Rotate to
selected setting that has desired Press to save
been saved. selection:

Range: 5-60 Amps

Figure 3-3B, SHORE: Shore Max2 (Dual-source Models Only)

CAUTION: Unless you have an MS Hybrid Series inverter/charger—


which has the Load Support feature—the Shore Amps setting only
limits the current to the battery; it does not limit the current to the
inverter loads. If the current from the loads on the output of the
inverter is greater than the circuit breaker rating on the incoming
AC source, you will experience nuisance tripping.
Info: The Shore Max feature is not available on the MM or MMS
Series (i.e., MM/MM-E/MM-AE/MMS/MMS-E models) inverters.

Info: If you are supplying two AC sources (utility and generator)


to the inverter’s single input through an AC transfer switch, adjust
the Shore Max setting to the smaller AC circuit breaker size of the
two AC sources.
Info: The Shore Max setting is dependent on the stability of the
AC source. If using a generator, factors such as altitude and output
voltage regulation may require a lower setting than the generator’s
circuit breaker size. For best performance, lower the Shore Max
setting to 1/3 of the generator’s rated capacity, and then while the
generator is heavily loaded, gradually increase the setting as high
as possible while ensuring the generator’s output voltage level stays
above the SETUP/06 VAC Dropout setting.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 14


3.0 Setup
Where should I set the Shore Max setting? The Shore Max setting needs
to be set to match the current rating of the utility power or the generator’s
circuit breaker that is connected to the inverter. This controls the input current
differently depending on the inverter/charger model—as described below:
ME, MS, and RD Series: These models connect to a single AC source and
have two inputs (HOT IN 1 and HOT IN 2), but the current is only monitored
on HOT IN 1. On these models—when wired as a dual-in configuration or as
a single-in configuration with only the HOT IN 1 connected—the Shore Max
setting should be set to the size of the AC circuit breaker that feeds the HOT
IN 1 input. On these models, when wired as a single-in configuration with
HOT IN 1 and HOT IN 2 jumped together, set the Shore Max setting to half
(x½) the input breaker size—as half the current passes through HOT IN 1
and the other half through HOT IN 2 simultaneously.
MS-AE and MS-PAE Series: These models connect to a single AC source
and have two inputs (HOT IN 1 & HOT IN 2), with the current monitored on
both inputs at the same time. Since the input is from a single AC source,
both of the input currents are added, then divided in half to determine the
Shore Max setting. If the input breaker is a dual-pole (120/240 VAC input),
set the Shore Max setting to the value of only one of the breaker poles (i.e.,
30A dual-pole = 30A setting). If the input breaker is a single-pole (120 VAC
input) and connected to only one input, set the Shore Max setting to one-half
the input breaker size (i.e., 30A single-pole = 15A setting).
MS-E, MS-PE, MSH-M, MSH-RV and RD-E Series: These models connect to
a single AC source and have one input. Set the Shore Max setting to match
the input AC circuit breaker size.
Dual Source Inverters (i.e., MSH4024RE): These inverters have two separate
inputs (AC1 & AC2), with the current monitored on each input separately.
The Shore Max setting is set to the size of the utility breaker feeding the
AC1 input, and the Shore Max2 setting is set to the size of the gen’s breaker
feeding the AC2 input.
MM, MM-AE and MMS Series (and any export version of these models):
These models do not monitor current on the input, therefore cannot benefit
from the Shore Max setting or feature. On these models, even though the
Shore Max setting may display and allow selection/adjustment, this setting
does not do anything to reduce the battery charger current
3.3.2 AGS Menu
The AGS button allows an optional Auto Generator Start – Network (AGS-N)
controller (if installed and networked) to be configured to your specific
system preferences, and enables you to check the status of the AGS.
Info: Refer to Section 7.0 (in this manual) and to your ME-AGS-N
Owner’s Manual (PN: 64-0039) for detailed information on the AGS.

Status...
01 AGS Control
SHORE AGS METER SETUP TECH

Press
Figure 3-4, AGS Menu Display

15 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
3.3.3 METER Menu
Pressing the METER button accesses the various meters that assist in
determining the status of the inverter/charger and the battery system.
Info: All displays revert back to the home screen (except for the
displays under the METER button) if no button has been pressed
for approximately five minutes.

Display shows Display shows


METER
menu item: DC meter:
Status... Status...
01 INV/CHG Meter DC: ##.#V #A
Press Press to select

Figure 3-5, METER: 01 INV/CHG Meter Display

• METER: 01 INV/CHG Meter – This menu item displays the DC voltage


and current while either inverting or charging.
DC: V (Volts) & A (Amps): First value displays the voltage from the
batteries connected to the inverter. This reading’s accuracy is ±1.5% with
a 0.1 VDC resolution. Second value displays (while inverting) a negative
number to show the battery current used by the inverter. If charging, the
DC: A (Amps) reading displays a positive number to show the amount of
current delivered to the batteries.
This meter converts AC amps to display DC amps, so the accuracy below one
amp AC (~10 amps DC @ 12 VDC) is not detected. When the current in or
out of the batteries is greater than one amp AC, the accuracy of this meter
is ±20%.
VAC Out: Display provides the AC voltage measurement at the inverter’s
output terminals. If inverting, this meter accurately measures the pure sine
wave inverter’s output voltage. When in Standby mode, this measures the
AC voltage that is passing through the inverter from the source (e.g., grid or
generator) to the inverter’s output terminals.
MS-PAE Series (240 VAC output): Even though these inverters provide a 240-
volt output, this meter displays the average of the two hot outputs (i.e., HOT
1 to NEUTRAL and HOT 2 to NEUTRAL) as a nominal 120-volt value.
Note: This meter is only accurate when the inverter is pure sine wave.
Hz Out: While inverting, this meter displays the output frequency of the
inverter. When in Standby mode, this meter displays the frequency of the
incoming AC source (i.e., grid or generator) that is passing through the
inverter to the inverter’s output terminals. The frequency value is shown in
Hertz (Hz).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 16


3.0 Setup
Load Amps (MS-PAE, MS-PE and MSH inverter models only): This
meter displays the total AC current delivered to the loads on the inverter’s
AC output terminals. A positive (+) Load Amps value indicates power is
being pulled from the inverter to run an AC load—either using the batteries
in Inverter mode, or from the AC input source in Standby mode.
When I look at the Loads Amps display on a remote, how is this value
calculated?
For MSH Series inverters: Load Amps is determined by subtracting the input
current value (02C Input Amps) from the current charging the battery (02D
Inv/Chg Amps).
◊ Invert mode example: 0A (input amps) minus -10A (inverter amps) =
10A (load amps), see Figure 3-6. A load amps value of 10A means 10A
x 120V = 1200W load on the inverter.
◊ Standby mode example: 20A (input amps) minus 10A (charger amps) =
10A (load amps), see Figure 3-7. A load amps of 10A means 10A x 120V
= 1200W load on the inverter.
◊ Load Support mode example: 10A (input amps) minus -10A (inverter
amps) = 20A (load amps), see Figure 3-8. A load amps of 20A means
20A x 120V = 2400W load on the inverter.
For MS-PAE and MS-PE Series inverters: The Load Amps value is shown as
120VAC current, even though there may be 240VAC loads, and is calculated
differently based on the mode.
◊ When in Inverter mode, the Load Amps value is the sum of all the 120V
currents from both HOT 1 and HOT 2 outputs.
Example: If I have a 5A @ 120V load on the HOT 1 output, a 15A @ 120V
load on the HOT 2 output, and a 2A @ 240V load on the HOT 1 and HOT
2 outputs; what would the Load Amps menu display? The display shows
24A, which is the 120V equivalent current.
Calculated:
AC1 to Neutral = 5A @ 120V
AC2 to Neutral = 15A @ 120V
AC1 to AC2 = 2A @ 240V (2A @ 120V + 2A @ 120V)
Load Amps value = add all 120V currents (5A+15A+2A+2A=24A), then,
multiply sum by 120V load (24A x 120V = 2880W).
◊ When in Standby mode, the Load Amps value is determined by subtract-
ing the input current value (02C Input Amps) from the current charging
the battery (02D Inv/Chg Amps).
Example: 20A (input amps) minus 10A (charger amps) = 10A (load
amps). A Load Amps display of 10A means 10A x 120V = 1200W load
on the inverter.
Input Amps (MS-PAE, MS-PE and MSH inverter models only): This meter
displays the total AC amps being used by the inverter for charging and for
any load connected to the output of the inverter. This meter value is always
displayed as a positive (+) number.
Example: If the charger is delivering 20A to the battery from the AC source
and the load connected to the inverter output is using another 10A, the
combined load on the incoming AC source is 30A. So the Input Amps display
would show 30A.

17 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
I/C Amps (MS-PAE, MS-PE and MSH inverter models only): This menu
displays the inverter or charger amps and is shown as an AC value. A negative
(–) amps reading indicates the inverter is powering the inverter loads, and
the batteries are discharging (inverter amps). A positive (+) amps reading
indicates the inverter is using the AC input source to charge the batteries
(charger amps).
AC Input (MSH inverter models only): This menu displays the RMS value
of the AC voltage at the inverter’s AC1 and NEUTRAL input terminals.
AC2 Input (Dual Source Inverter models only): This menu displays the
RMS value of the AC voltage at the inverter’s AC2 and NEUTRAL input terminals.

Info: If the AC2 Input menu displays voltage (~ 50v), but the
generator is off or nothing is connected to the AC2 input; this is
normally because the neutral-to-ground bond connection in the
electrical system is not correct or not connected.

• METER: 02 BM: SOC thru 06 BM: TECH – These menus allow the
optional ME-BMK (Magnum Energy’s Battery Monitor Kit)—if installed—to be
configured to your specific system preferences, and displays the status of
the battery system.
Info: Refer to Section 8.0 (in this manual) and to your ME-BMK/
BMK-NS Owner’s Manual (PN: 64-0013) for detailed information on
these menus and the Battery Monitor Kit.

INVERTER MODE

Input Amps =
0 Amps AC

DC CURRENT MAGNUM AC CURRENT


(BATTERY) INVERTER (GRID/GEN)
-120ADC A A 0AAC
.FROM BATT FROM GRID
A
I/C Amps = Load Amps =
-10 Amps AC 10 Amps AC
INVERTER
AC LOADS
10AAC Inverter
TO LOADS A = Amp meters

Current from the battery is used by the inverter


to power the inverter’s AC loads.
Example below:
 Current to inverter input (Input Amps) = 0 Amps AC
 Current from battery (I/C Amps) = -10 Amps AC
 Current to power the AC loads (Load Amps) = 10 Amps AC

[Status/Fault] [Status/Fault] [Status/Fault]


Input Amps: 0AAC I/C Amps: -10AAC Load Amps: 10AAC

Figure 3-6, Current Flow – Inverter Mode

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 18


3.0 Setup

STANDBY MODE

Input Amps =
20 Amps AC

DC CURRENT MAGNUM AC CURRENT


(BATTERY) INVERTER (GRID/GEN)
A A
120ADC -20AAC.
TO BATT FROM GRID
A
I/C Amps = Load Amps =
10 Amps AC 10 Amps AC
INVERTER
AC LOADS
10AAC. Inverter
TO LOADS. A = Amp meters

Current from the grid/generator to the inverter’s AC input is used to power the
inverter’s AC loads and to charge the battery.

Example below:
 Current to inverter input (Input Amps) = 20 Amps AC
 Current from battery (I/C Amps) = 10 Amps AC
 Current to power the AC loads (Load Amps) = 10 Amps AC

[Status/Fault] [Status/Fault] [Status/Fault]


Input Amps:20AAC I/C Amps: 10AAC Load Amps: 10AAC

Figure 3-7, Current Flow – Standby Mode

LOAD SUPPORT MODE


(MSH Series Only)

Input Amps =
10 Amps AC

DC CURRENT MSH SERIES AC CURRENT


(BATTERY) INVERTER (GRID/GEN)
-120ADC A A -10AAC.
FROM BATT FROM GRID
A
I/C Amps = Load Amps =
-10 Amps AC 20 Amps AC
INVERTER
AC LOADS
20AAC. Inverter
TO LOADS. A = Amp meters

The MSH Series uses current from the battery to assist in powering the inverter’s
AC loads and to reduce the current from the grid/generator.

Example below:
 Current to inverter input (Input Amps) = 10 Amps AC
 Current from battery (I/C Amps) = -10 Amps AC
 Current to power the AC loads (Load Amps) = 20 Amps AC

[Status/Fault] [Status/Fault] [Status/Fault]


Input Amps:10AAC I/C Amps: -10AAC Load Amps: 20AAC

Figure 3-8, Current Flow – Load Support Mode

19 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
3.3.4 SETUP Menu
Pressing the SETUP menu button provides access to menu items and settings
that allow the inverter/charger to be configured. Review each menu item to
determine if any setting requires adjustment to meet your requirements.

SETUP

Rotate to
Rotate to
Press Status... desired
Press to select Press to save
01 Search Watts selection:
Range: OFF, 5-50 Watts (increments by 5 Watts)

Figure 3-9, SETUP: 01 Search Watts Selections

• SETUP: 01 Search Watts – Allows you to turn off the Search Watts
feature, or to adjust the power level to determine when the inverter leaves
Search mode. If not needed, select OFF. When search is turned off, the
inverter continuously provides full AC voltage to the loads.
Default setting: Search = 5W
Range: OFF, 5-50 Watts (5 Watt increments)

Info: When the Search Watts feature is active, “Searching” appears


on the top line of the LCD display and the green INV LED will flash.

What is the Search Watts feature? This feature helps save battery power by
reducing the inverter’s output to search pulses when there is no detectable
load. If a load greater than the wattage level setting turns on while the
inverter is searching, the inverter starts inverting to provide full voltage on
its output.
Should I use the Search Watts feature? If the inverter can spend a great
deal of time searching (to reduce the power drain on your batteries) and you
can tolerate small loads (<5 watts) being off, then the Search mode feature
should be used. However, if some small loads (i.e., digital clocks, satellite
receivers, answering machines, etc.,) are required to be on, then this feature
should be turned off (Search = OFF).
Where should I set Search Watts? This setting should be adjusted to the same
power level (or the next lower setting) of the smallest load that you plan to
run. If you don’t know the wattage of the smallest load, turn the load on and
decrease the Search Watts setting until the load comes on and stays on.
Info: Even though the Search feature is on, some connected
equipment—even if they are off—may draw enough current to keep
the inverter in the Inverting mode (i.e., not “Searching”).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 20


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 02 LowBattCutOut – This setting sets the battery voltage
level that turns the inverter off to protect the batteries from over-discharge
damage. If the battery voltage drops below the LBCO selected set-point
continuously for more than one minute, the FAULT LED comes on, the
inverter turns off, and the display shows a Low Battery status. If the battery
voltage falls below 8.5 volts (12-volt models), 17.0 (24-volt models) or 34.0
volts (48-volt models), the FAULT LED and Low Battery status display will
be immediate.
Default settings: LBCO = 10.0 VDC (12v models), 20.0 VDC (24v models),
or 40.0 VDC (48v models)
Range: 9.0-13.0 VDC (12v inverter), 18.0-25.5 VDC (24v inverter), or
36.0-51.0 VDC (48v inverter)
Info: If the inverter shuts down from a LBCO fault, this fault will
automatically be cleared when the battery voltage increases to
the LBCI (Low Battery Cut In) level. The inverter’s LBCI level is
determined by the LBCO setting. If the LBCO is >12.2V*, the unit
recovers when Vbat ≥ LBCO +0.4 V.; if the LBCO is ≤ 12.2V*, the
unit recovers when Vbat ≥12.5V*.
* These are 12V values; they are different for 24V and 48V inverters.

SETUP
Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 02 LowBattCutOut Press to select selection: Press to save

* Values for a 12v model Range: 9.0-13.0* VDC (increments by 0.1 VDC)

Figure 3-10, SETUP: 02 LowBattCutOut Selections (12v)

Where to set the LBCO setting? For Lead Acid battery types (e.g., Flooded,
GEL, and AGM); if you want to cycle the batteries slightly—but don’t want
to discharge them more than 20%*—then the LBCO setting should be from
11.5-12.2 VDC (12-volt models), 23.0-24.4 VDC (24-volt models), or 46.0-
48.8 (48-volt models). In some applications, such as an off-grid home or
when doing a lot of dry-camping in your RV, you may want to cycle down
to 50%* by setting the LBCO from 10.0-11.4 VDC (12-volt models), 20.0-
22.8 VDC (24-volt models), or 40.0-45.6 VDC (48-volt models). In extreme
circumstances, you have the ability to discharge the batteries to 80%* by
setting the LBCO to 9.0-9.5 VDC (12-volt models), 18.0-19.0 VDC (24-volt
models), or 36.0-38.0 VDC (48-volt models) before recharging.
* These voltage levels are rough estimates. For accurate battery monitoring,
a battery monitor such as the ME-BMK or ME-BMK-NS is required.

Info: The higher the LBCO setting, the less the inverter discharges
the batteries; which allows the batteries to have a longer life. The
down side to a higher LBCO setting is the need to charge more
often to prevent the inverter from shutting off from an LBCO Fault.
Info: If there is an AGS-N installed, it should be set to start ≥1.0
volts higher than the LBCO setting—this is to prevent the inverter
from shutting down before the generator comes on.

21 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 03 Absorb Time – Used to determine when the charger
completes the Absorption stage and transitions to the Float stage. Absorption
is the second stage of the battery charging process and the batteries will be
almost fully charged. Refer to Table 3-2 to correlate the battery capacity to
the absorption time.
Default setting: Absorb Hrs = 1.5
Range: 0.1-25.5 Hrs
Note: If “CV/CC Controlled” displays on this menu’s screen, you will not be
able to adjust the settings because “CC/CV” has been selected as the battery
type from the 04 Battery Type menu.
Info: If the Absorption stage is short or terminated, the batteries
may not receive a full charge. In contrast, if the Absorption stage
is too long the batteries may be overcharged. Either scenario may
cause damage to the batteries. Contact the battery manufacturer
for the best charge settings for your type of batteries.
Info: The range of the Absorb Time setting is dependent on the
inverter’s compatibility level. With a compatibility level of ≥4.0, the
available range is 0.1-25.5 hrs. However, if the compatibility level is
<4.0, even though you can adjust the setting from 0.1-25.5 hours,
this range may not be recognized by the inverter, and could cause
the charger to revert to the default setting of 2.0 hours. See Table
3-1 for the remote setting and inverter compatibility level required.

SETUP

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press Press to select Press to save
03 Absorb Time selection:

Range: 0.1-25.5 Hrs (increments by 0.1 Hrs)

Figure 3-11, SETUP: 03 Absorb Time Selections

Where do I set the Absorb Time setting? Select the setting based on the
20-hour amp-hour (AH) capacity of your battery bank.

Table 3-2, Battery AmpHrs Capacity to Suggested Absorb Time

Battery Suggested Battery Suggested


AmpHrs Absorb Time AmpHrs Absorb Time
Capacity Capacity

200-300 60 minutes 1310-1500 240 minutes


310-500 90 minutes 1510-1700 270 minutes
510-700 120 minutes 1710-1900 300 minutes
710-900 150 minutes 1910-2100 330 minutes
910-1100 180 minutes 2110-2300 360 minutes
1110-1300 210 minutes 2310-2500 390 minutes

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 22


3.0 Setup
How do I determine my Battery Amp-Hour capacity? The inverter
requires deep cycle batteries, which are specifically made for continuous
use. The batteries are rated either by AHrs or reserve capacity in minutes.
• Amp-hour (AH) capacity is a measurement of how many amps a battery
can deliver for a specified length of time (usually 20 hours) until the
voltage achieves 1.75 VDC/cell at 80° F.
• Reserve Capacity (RC) is a measure of how many minutes a battery can
deliver a certain amount of current (usually 25A) and maintain a voltage
above 1.75 VDC/cell at 80° F.
Info: If using the Reserve Capacity (25A), the 20-hour AH capacity
can be estimated by multiplying ‘minutes reserve capacity’ by 50%.

Table 3-3 provides an estimated 20-hour amp-hour capacity based on the


group/code size, physical size, and voltage of the battery. If you are not
sure of your battery’s 20-hour AH rating, consult your battery manufacturer/
dealer or use the table below to obtain an estimate.

Table 3-3, Battery Size to Battery AmpHrs (estimated)

Group/Code Physical Size Battery Battery AHrs


Size (L” x W” x H”) Voltage (20-hr rate)
GC-2 (Golf cart) 10 3/8 x7 13/16 x 10 5/8 6V 220 AHrs
L-16 11 11/16 x 7 x 16 11/16 6V 375 AHRs
Group 22 9 1/2 x6 7/8 x8 5/16 12V 55 AHRs
Group 24 10 1/4 x6 13/16 x8 7/8 12V 70 AHRs
Group 27 12 1/16 x6 13/16 x8 7/8 12V 95 AHRs
Group 31 13 x 6 13/16 x9 7/16 12V 110 AHRs
4D 20 3/4 x8 3/4 x9 7/8 12V 200 AHRs
8D 20 3/4 x 11 1/8 x9 7/8 12V 250 AHRs

Once you’ve determined the amp-hour capacity of each battery, review how
your batteries are connected (parallel or series) to determine the total amp-
hour capacity of the battery bank:
Parallel connection – batteries connected in parallel (positive to positive,
negative to negative) increase the AHr capacity of the battery bank, but
the voltage remains the same.
Series connection – batteries connected in series (positive to negative)
increase the voltage of the battery bank, but the AHr rate remains the
same.
In battery banks where you have batteries connected in series and in parallel,
the rules are the same. The batteries connected in series are referred to as a
‘series string’ and the amp-hour capacity doesn’t change. Each series string
is connected together in parallel to increase the amp-hour capacity. Add the
amp-hour capacity of each series string connected in parallel to determine
the total amp-hour capacity of the battery bank.

23 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 04 Battery Type – This setting selects the battery type, which
determines the battery charge profile and ensures the batteries are receiving
the proper charge voltage. The settings for the battery voltage charge levels
are fixed when using the GEL, Flooded, AGM1, AGM2, or LFP selections; or
adjustable if using the CC/CV or Custom selections.
Default setting: Battery Type = Flooded
Range: GEL, AGM1, AGM2, Flooded, CC/CV, Custom, LFP,
◊ Battery Type (GEL, Flooded, AGM1, or AGM2) – When the battery
type selection is GEL (for Gel batteries), Flooded (for liquid lead acid batteries),
AGM1 (for Lifeline AGM batteries), or AGM2 (for East Penn/Deka/Discover/
Trojan AGM batteries), the charge voltage level for the Absorption, Float, and
EQ charge modes are fixed and shown in Table 3-4—depending on the battery
type selected and the nominal inverter battery voltage.

SETUP

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press
04 Battery Type Press to select selection: Press to save

Selections: GEL, Flooded, AGM1, AGM2, CC/CV, Custom, LFP

Figure 3-12, SETUP: 04 Battery Type Selections


◊ Battery Type (CC/CV) – The CC/CV selection provides a Constant
Current/Constant Voltage (CC/CV) charging method with an adjustable charge
voltage and a setting that limits output current—if needed. It consolidates
all the battery charge settings that are required for a 2-stage charging cycle
(i.e., Constant Current and Constant Voltage).

Info: If 04 Battery Type is set to CC/CV, the 03 Absorb Time, 05


Charge Rate, and 09 Final Charge menus are no longer accessible and
display “CV/CC Controlled” when selected. This prevents access to
settings that may cause a charging conflict while in the CC/CV profile.
Info: When the CC/CV battery type has been selected, remove the
BTS from the inverter to prevent the BTS from changing the charge
voltage level based on temperature.
Info: The CC/CV battery type selection forces the charger to go into
the Constant Current charge mode each time AC is connected. If
AC is reconnected less than two minutes after being disconnected,
the charger will return to the previous charge mode.
 Max Amps – Sets the maximum charge amperage allowed to charge
the batteries during the CC/CV charge cycles. The range of settings are
provided to limit the charge current to the battery bank, which helps prevent
battery overheating caused by charging at too high a charge rate.
Default: 200 ADC
Range: 20 - 990 ADC
Info: If the Battery Monitor Kit is connected, the DC amps value
determined by the BMK (under METER: 03 BM: Meters/DC Amps)
will be used by the CC/CV’s Max Amps setting instead of the
inverter’s DC calculated current (shown under METER: 01A INV/
CHG Meter/ DC:)—as it is more accurate (+/- .1 ADC).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 24


3.0 Setup
 Chg Volts – Sets the voltage level at which the charger will hold the
batteries during the Constant Voltage cycle.
Default: 13.8 VDC (12v), 27.6 VDC (24v), 55.2 VDC (48v)
Range: OFF, 12.0-16.0 V (12v), 24.0-32.0 V (24v), 48.0-64.0 V (48v)
 EndChg – These selections determine when the second stage of
charging (Constant Voltage) is finished. If using the DoneTime or DoneAmps
selections, once the constant voltage charge cycle is finished, it transitions
to a Silent charge stage. After entering the Silent Charge mode, the charger
automatically stops charging, but is still actively monitoring the battery
voltage. The charger will remain “Silent” until the battery voltage drops to
the Recharge setting, at which time the charger will start another Constant
Current/Constant Voltage charge cycle (see Figure 3-13).
Default: Time
Range: Time, DC Amps, Hold VDC
* DoneTime – The DoneTime selection is used when a specific time
is selected to be the best solution for determining when the batteries are
fully charged and the Constant Voltage stage needs to end. This setting
determines how long the charger will hold the battery voltage at the Chg
Volts setting—based on a set time period. When using time, the battery
bank size will typically determine the length of the DoneTime setting.
The larger the battery bank, the longer the time needed to ensure a full
charge to the batteries. If the setting is from 0.1 to 25.5 hrs, the charger
transitions to the Silent Charge mode after the battery voltage has been
at the charge voltage setting for the selected time. Refer to Table 3-2 to
assist you in selecting the DoneTime setting based on the AHr capacity
of your battery bank.
Default: 1.5 Hrs
Range: 0.1-25.5 Hrs
* DoneAmps – The DoneAmps setting is used when the DC amperage
supplied to the batteries (i.e., return amps) determines when the
batteries are fully charged and the Constant Voltage stage needs to end.
This setting determines how long the charger holds the battery voltage
at the Chg Volts setting—based on a minimum current setting (i.e.,
return amps). During the Constant Voltage charge mode, as the battery
charges, the current from the charger slowly decreases. When this current
decreases below the DoneAmps setting, the charger transitions to the
Silent charge stage. Most battery manufacturers use a specific formula
to determine return amps (indicating a full charge for their particular
type of battery). The formula used by most manufacturers to absorb the
batteries is C/20, where C=Battery Bank’s Total Amp Hours. Basically,
they take approximately 5% of the total battery bank size, and consider
the battery totally charged when the charger’s return amps drops to this
level. Continuing to charge past this level may possibly overcharge the
batteries. Check with your battery manufacturer to find out what the
correct return amp settings are for your batteries.
Default: 20 ADC
Range: 0-250 ADC

Info: Setting the DoneAmps value to zero keeps the charger in the
Constant Voltage charge mode until the MaxTime setting (under
SETUP: 04 Battery Type/CC/CV) is reached.

25 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup

Info: It is highly suggested that you install a battery monitor if


the DoneAmps setting is used. If no battery monitor is installed,
the DoneAmps setting relies on the METER menu’s 01 INV/CHG
Meter DC: value to determine when to transfer out of the Constant
Voltage charge mode. When a ME-BMK/ME-BMK-NS is installed,
the DoneAmps setting relies on the METER menu’s 03 BM: Meters
DC Amps: value to determine when to transfer out of the Constant
Voltage charge mode. This is the most accurate DC amperage
measurement (reading from the battery monitor is accurate to
+/- .1 ADC).
Info: When using the DoneAmps setting, the charger will stay in
the Constant Voltage charge mode for a minimum of two minutes—
independent of the actual DoneAmps setting.
Info: If DC loads are connected directly to the batteries, it is not
recommended that you use the DoneAmps setting. DC loads cause
the charger to increase the amperage delivered to the battery
bank in order to charge the batteries and to run the DC loads. This
scenario could result in overcharging the batteries since the return
amps reading will be skewed by the DC loads.
□ MaxTime – This setting is a safety feature that ensures abnormal
conditions do not cause the charger to hold batteries at a high voltage
for a prolonged period of time. This menu sets a maximum time the
charger is allowed to operate in either the Constant Current or Constant
Voltage charge modes. If the charger reaches the MaxTime setting, it
will transition to the Silent charge stage.
Default: 12.0 Hrs
Range: OFF, 0.1-25.5 Hrs
□ Recharge – This setting determines the DC voltage set-point to
which the batteries are allowed to fall—while the charger is in the Silent
charge cycle—before the charger restarts and recharges to the Chg
Volts setting. This setting should be at the lowest DC volts level that
you want the batteries to fall before starting a new charge.
Default: 12.0 VDC (12v), 24.0 VDC (24v), 48.0 VDC (48v)
Range: 12.0-16.0 VDC (12v), 24.0-32.0 VDC (24v), 48.0-64.0 VDC
(48v).
* Hold VDC – This setting holds the battery voltage at the Chg Volts
setting. This is for a system that requires a constant charge voltage to
be present at all times (see Figure 3-14).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 26


3.0 Setup

Constant Constant Silent Constant


Current Voltage Current
Max Amps CV Charge
CURRENT & VOLTAGE Volts

End Charge Done


(= Time or Amps)
Recharge
Volts
(restarts
Constant
Current
charge)

Current
Voltage

TIME
Figure 3-13, Done Time/Amps Charge Stages

Constant Constant Voltage


Current
Max Amps CV Charge
Volts
CURRENT & VOLTAGE

Hold VDC

Current
Voltage

TIME

Figure 3-14, Hold VDC Charge Stages

27 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
◊ Battery Type (Custom) – This selection allows you to individually
adjust the float, absorb, and equalization charge voltage settings and to set
an equalization time for your batteries. The following Custom battery settings
display only if Custom has been selected from the 04 Battery Type menu. Use
these settings to determine the battery’s absorption, float, and equalization
voltages, and the maximum amount of time spent equalizing.

 Absorb – Sets the level at which the charging voltage is held constant
during an Absorption cycle.
Default: 14.4V (12v), 28.8V (24v), 57.6V (48v)
Range: 12.0-16.0V (12v), 24.0-32.0V (24v), 48.0-64.0V (48v)
 Float – Sets the level at which the charging voltage is held constant
during a Float cycle.
Default: 13.2V (12v), 26.4V (24v), 52.8V (48v)
Range: 12.0-16.0V (12v), 24.0-32.0V (24v), 48.0-64.0V (48v)
 Equalize – Sets the level at which the charging voltage is held constant
during an Equalization cycle.
Note: Equalize volts cannot be set lower than the Absorb setting, or more
than 2 volts (12v systems), 4 volts (24v systems), or 8 volts (48v systems)
above the Absorb setting.
Default: 15.6V (12v), 31.2V (24v), 62.4V (48v)
Range: 12.0-16.0V (12v), 24.0-34.0V, 48.0-68.0V (48v)
◊ Battery Type (LFP) – The LFP selection is provided to work specifically
with lithium iron phosphate battery types and sets the charge voltage levels
as shown in Table 3-4—depending on the nominal inverter battery voltage.
When the LFP battery type has been selected, the charger begins Bulk charging
whenever AC power is connected, and remains in the bulk charge stage until
the absorption charge voltage is achieved. The charger will remain in the
absorption charge stage until it is done, which is based on the Absorb Done:
Time, Amps or SOC setting. After the absorption charge is done, the charger
switches to the float charge mode, which allows the charge voltage to fall
to the float voltage level. While float charging, the charger will provide the
maximum rated current to the batteries in order to keep them fully charged
and ready if needed by the inverter. The charger will remain in Float as long as
the AC source is available on the input of the charger and the battery voltage
is above the LFP rebulk level. If the voltage drops below the LFP rebulk level
(>10 seconds), the charger restarts the Bulk and Absorption charge stages.
CAUTION: If the LFP battery type has been selected, remove the
BTS. Otherwise, the charge voltage level will change based on
temperature changes around the BTS.
Info: When using the LFP battery type profile, the rebulk level
≤12.8V (12-volt systems), ≤25.6V (24-volt systems), or ≤51.2V
(48-volt systems) must be met for 10 seconds to rebulk.
Info: If the LFP battery type is selected, the 09 Final Charge menu
is no longer accessible and displays “LFP Controlled”. This prevents
access to other settings that may cause a charging conflict.
Info: The LFP battery type selection forces the charger to go into the
Bulk charge mode each time AC is connected. If AC is reconnected
less than two minutes after being disconnected, the charger will
return to the previous charge mode.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 28


3.0 Setup

Table 3-4, Battery Type to Charge Voltages

Battery Inverter Absorption Float Equalization


Type Voltage Voltage Voltage Voltage
12 VDC 14.1 VDC 13.6 VDC 14.1 VDC1
GEL 24 VDC 28.2 VDC 27.2 VDC 28.2 VDC1
48 VDC 56.4 VDC 54.4 VDC 56.4 VDC1
12 VDC 14.6 VDC 13.4 VDC 15.5 VDC
Flooded 24 VDC 29.2 VDC 26.8 VDC 31.0 VDC
48 VDC 58.4 VDC 53.6 VDC 62.0 VDC
Fixed Voltage

12 VDC 14.3 VDC 13.3 VDC5 15.5 VDC


AGM12 24 VDC 28.6 VDC 26.6 VDC5 31.0 VDC
48 VDC 57.2 VDC 53.2 VDC 5
62.0 VDC
12 VDC 14.5 VDC 13.5 VDC 14.5 VDC1
AGM23 24 VDC 29.0 VDC 27.0 VDC 29.0 VDC1
48 VDC 58.0 VDC 54.0 VDC 58.0 VDC1
12 VDC 14.4 VDC 13.6 VDC 14.4 VDC1
LFP 24 VDC 28.8 VDC 27.2 VDC 28.8 VDC1
48 VDC 57.6 VDC 54.4 VDC 57.6 VDC1
12 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC
Adjustable Voltage

Custom 4
24 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC
48 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC
12 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC 12.0-16.0 VDC
CC/CV 24 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC 24.0-32.0 VDC
48 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC 48.0-64.0 VDC
Note¹: Voltage same as absorption voltage—to prevent equalization charge.
Note²: Charge voltages for Concord (Lifeline Series) AGM batteries.
Note³: Charge voltages for East Penn, Deka, Discover and Trojan AGM batteries.
Note4: When using Custom setting, the EQ (Equalization) voltage adjustment
cannot be set lower than the Absorb Voltage setting. Also, the EQ Voltage
adjustment cannot be set higher than 2 volts (12-volt systems), 4 volts (24-
volt systems), or 8 volts (48-volt systems) above the Absorb Voltage setting.
Note5: For inverter models <Level 5, the Float Voltage level is 13.1 VDC
(12-volt models); 26.2 VDC (24-volt models); or 52.4 VDC (48-volt models).
See Section 3.2 for inverter level information.
CAUTION: If using Lithium batteries and selecting the LFP battery
type profile—to prevent the charger’s output voltage level from
changing based on temperature—REMOVE the BTS from the inverter.
Info: The charge voltage levels shown in Table 3-4 are with the
Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) at a temperature of 77° F (25° C),
or not connected. If the BTS is connected, the actual charge voltage
level will increase if the temperature around the BTS is below 77° F
(25° C), and decrease if higher than 77° F (25° C). This ensures the
batteries receive the correct charge voltage regardless of temperature.

29 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 05 Charge Rate – Sets the maximum charge rate allowed to
charge the batteries during Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalize charging.
The Max Charge = 0% setting helps minimize charging while continuing
to allow pass-thru power. The rest of the selections are provided to limit
the charge rate to the battery bank, which helps prevent battery overheating
caused by charging at too high a charge rate.
The Max Charge selections are provided as a percentage of the inverter/
charger’s maximum charging capability. Refer to the label on the side of the
inverter (or owner’s manual) to determine the inverter’s maximum charge
rate. Once you find this maximum charge rate, determine the percentage
needed to limit the charge rate to your battery bank.
Example: The maximum charge rate of your inverter/charger is 120
amps and you need to limit the charge rate to 72 amps. Choose the
Max Charge = 60% setting (72 amps = 60% of 120 amps).
Default setting: Max Charge = 80%
Range: 0-100%

Info: If “CV/CC Controlled” displays on this menu’s screen, you


will not be able to adjust the settings because “CC/CV” has been
selected as the battery type from the 04 Battery Type menu. This
prevents access to settings that may cause a charging conflict while
in the CC/CV profile.

SETUP
Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 05 Charge Rate Press to select selection: Press to save

Range: 0-100% (increments 10%)

Figure 3-15, SETUP: 05 Charge Rate Selections

Where should I set my Maximum Charge Rate? The maximum charge


rate is generally set to a C/5* rate (C = the total amp-hour capacity of the
battery bank—using the 20-hour AH rate). The C/5 rate is usually used when
the objective is to charge the batteries as quickly as possible (i.e., 400 AH ÷
5 = 80 amp maximum charge rate). A lower rate such as C/20* is used when
the batteries need to be charged as slow as possible.
CAUTION: The C/5 or C/20 charge rate settings are guidelines;
they are not requirements on how to set the charge rate. For specific
charge rate requirements, refer to your battery’s manufacturer.
Info: If multiple inverter/chargers are used on a single battery bank,
you must ensure that the total charge rate from all inverter/chargers
is limited to the maximum charge rate needed for your battery bank.
The maximum Charge Rate setting only limits the charging on each
inverter/charger individually, not on all inverter/chargers.
* C/5 or C/20 rate – charge rates are commonly expressed as a ratio of the total
amp-hour (AH) capacity of the battery bank. For example, with a 400 AH battery
bank (C = 400), the C/5 charge rate is 80 A (400/5 = 80 A).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 30


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 06 VAC Dropout – 03B VAC Dropout – Selects the minimum
AC voltage that must be present on the input before the inverter connects to
the AC input and switches from Inverter mode to Standby mode. This setting
also determines the lowest AC voltage that is allowed before the charger
disengages and the inverter (if enabled) resumes powering the AC loads
from the inverter’s battery power—to protect AC loads during utility outages.
Setting for all models except dual-source inverters:
◊ Set VAC Dropout (AC1 only) – Sets at what AC voltage—from
the HOT IN 1 to NEUT IN 1 terminals—will connect to or disengage
from the incoming AC.
Default setting: 80 VAC (150 VAC for export models)
Range: 60-100 VAC, UPS Mode
Setting for dual-source inverters (i.e., MSH4024RE):

Info: Some Magnum inverters have two AC source inputs (AC1/


GRID and AC2/GEN), with VAC Dropout settings for each input. The
Set VAC Dropout menu only displays both the VAC Dropout and VAC
Dropout2 settings if connected to a dual-source model.
◊ Set VAC Dropout (AC1 and AC2 inputs) – The VAC Dropout setting
determines at what AC voltage—from the AC1 to NEUT terminals—will
connect to or disengage from the incoming AC. The VAC Dropout2 setting
determines at what AC voltage—from the AC2 to NEUT terminals—will
connect to or disengage from the incoming AC.
Default setting: VAC Dropout=80 VAC, VAC Dropout2=80 VAC
Range: 60-100 VAC, UPS Mode

SETUP
Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 06 VAC Dropout Press to select selection: Press to save

Range: 60-100 VAC, UPS Mode (increments by 5 VAC)

Figure 3-16, SETUP: 06 VAC Dropout Selections

Where do I set my VAC Dropout? It depends on the application and what


you are using as the AC source. The settings not only look at the incoming
voltage level to determine when to transfer, but also determine how quickly
the charger disconnects and starts inverting.
Use a VAC dropout setting from 60 VAC to 100 VAC (export models—dropout
from 110 VAC to 190 VAC) when the AC source may have fluctuations in RMS
voltage. These settings attempt to prevent the charger from disengaging
unnecessarily due to poor quality voltage, and are highly recommended if
using a generator for charging. The transfer time from Standby mode to
Inverter mode is >16 milliseconds when using these settings.
Use the UPS Mode setting when the AC source is well regulated above 105
VAC (200 VAC for export inverter models) and the inverter loads are sensitive
to voltage fluctuations. This setting is intolerant of voltage fluctuations, so
the UPS Mode setting is not recommended when using a generator as your
AC source. The transfer time from Charge mode to Inverter mode is ≤16
milliseconds when using this setting.

31 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 07 Power Save – This setting allows you to turn off the
Power Save feature, or to select a time (from 1 minute to 60 minutes) that
determines how often the display goes into Power Save mode.
Default setting: PwrSave = 15min
Range: OFF, 1-60 Minutes

SETUP

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 07 Power Save Press to select selection: Press to save

Range: OFF, 1-60 Mins

Figure 3-17, SETUP: 07 Power Save Selections


What is the Power Save feature? The Power Save feature causes the LCD
backlight and LEDs on the remote display to turn off to conserve energy. The
remote goes into Power Save mode if there hasn’t been a button press or
fault message for a set period of time. Whenever the remote goes into Power
Save mode, the LCD backlight and LEDs can be reactivated by pressing any
menu button. During Power Save mode, the LCD backlight and Fault LED will
come on and stay on as long as a fault is detected.
If you want the LCD backlight and LEDs to always be on, you will need to
turn the Power Save feature off by selecting PwrSave = OFF.

• SETUP: 08 Screen Setup – Used to adjust the contrast of the LCD


screen and the backlight brightness for the best looking display based on the
current lighting conditions and viewing angle.
Default settings: Contrast = 100%; Brightness = 50%
Range: Contrast: 0-100%, Brightness: 0-100%

SETUP

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 08 Screen Setup Press to select selection: Press to save

Contrast Range: 0-100% (increments by 10%)

Status...
Brightness =50%
Rotate to
desired
Press to save
selection:

Brightness Range: 0-100% (increments by 10%)

Figure 3-18, SETUP: 08 Screen Setup Selections

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 32


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 09 Final Charge – The Final Charge stage setting is the stage
to which the charger will transition after the absorption stage has finished—
as set in the 03 Absorb Time menu.
Default setting: Final = Multi
Selections: Multi, Float, Silent (Rebulk)
Note: If “CC/CV Controlled” (or “LFP Controlled”) displays on this menu’s
screen, you will not be able to adjust the settings because either “CC/CV” (or
“LFP”) has been selected as the battery type from the 04 Battery Type menu.
This lock-out screen prevents access to settings that may cause a charging
conflict while in the CC/CV (or LFP) battery charge profile.
◊ Set Final Charge = Multi – The Multi setting (which is short for “Multi-
Stage”), transitions from the Absorption stage to Float. After being in the
Float stage for 4 hours with no DC load on the batteries, the charger enters
the Full Charge stage (i.e., Battery Saver mode). In Full Charge mode, the
charger automatically stops charging but is still on and actively monitoring the
battery voltage. The charger remains in the Full Charge stage until the battery
voltage drops below 12.7 VDC (for 12-volt batteries), 25.4 VDC (for 24-volt
batteries), or 50.8 VDC (for 48-volt batteries)—at which time it returns to the
Float stage. The charger continues to cycle between Float and Full Charge as
long as incoming AC is available. See Figure 3-19.
Why would I use Multi-Stage? Multi is the most commonly used charge
mode. It is suitable for most applications and will assure a full charge to the
batteries, without overcharging. If there is another alternate charge source
charging the batteries, such as PV, wind or hydro, then Multi mode will use
the inverter/charger to complete a full charge. When the charger transitions
to Full Charge, the alternate charge source will then maintain the battery
voltage. If the alternate source is unable to maintain the voltage, the charger
will enter Float mode for another four hour period. The Full Charge feature
helps reduce water consumption in flooded batteries when they are left in
the charge mode for extended periods, like in a backup power application.

First Stage Second Stage Final Stage


Float Full
Bulk Charge Absorb Charge
Charge Charge
Max Charge Absorb Float
Amps Volts Volts
CURRENT & VOLTAGE

Absorb Done
(= Time, Amps
or SOC) 4 Hours

ReFloat Volts
(restarts Float
Charge for 4
hours, then
back to Full
Charge)

Current
Voltage

TIME

Figure 3-19, Final Charge Stage - Multi-Stage

33 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
◊ Set Final Charge Stage = Float – The Float stage is a maintenance
charge mode that maintains a constant voltage—while delivering up to
the maximum rated current of the charger in order to power any DC loads
connected to the batteries. Most 3-stage chargers finish the charge mode in
Float and remain in Float as long as an AC source is available on the input of
the charger. The float voltage is determined by the battery type selected in
the 04 Battery Type menu. Unlike Multi mode, in Float mode there is no Full
Charge feature. See Figure 3-20.
Why would I use the Float Charge Stage? Float mode is typically used
when the charger is the only charge source connected to the batteries.
This mode will maintain the batteries at the float voltage. If using flooded
batteries and the charger is in float for an extended period, the water level
should be checked every two to three weeks for proper levels.

First Stage Second Stage Final Stage


Bulk Charging Absorb Charging Float Charging
Max Charge Absorb
Amps Volts
CURRENT & VOLTAGE

Absorb Done Float


(= Time, Amps Volts
or SOC)

Current
Voltage

TIME

Figure 3-20, Final Charge Stage - Float Stage

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 34


3.0 Setup
◊ Set Final Charge Stage = Silent – Silent mode stops charging once
it transitions from Absorb mode to ‘Silent’. Once the charger enters Silent
mode the battery voltage is continuously monitored. If the batteries fall to the
Rebulk value, the charger restarts the Bulk Charge mode and then transitions
to Absorb Charge mode. After the Absorb Charge mode, the charger again
transitions to Silent mode. This silent to rebulk to absorb and back to silent
cycle will continue as long as it is required. See Figure 3-21.
 ReBulk – When Silent is selected, you must also set the DC voltage
set-point where the charger restarts the Bulk Charge mode. This setting
should be at the lowest DC volts you want the batteries to fall before starting
a new bulk charge. Typically, the lowest DC volts the batteries are allowed
to fall is 12.0 to 12.2 VDC (12-volt systems), 24.0 to 24.4 VDC (24-volt
systems), and 48.0 to 48.8 VDC (48-volt systems) respectively.
Default setting: Rebulk = 12.0V (for 12v inverter)
Ranges: 12.0-16.0 VDC (12v), 24.0-32.0 VDC (24v), 48.0-64.0 VDC (48v)
Why would I use the Silent Stage? Silent mode is typically used when
an alternate charge source is available and able to fully charge or finish the
charge cycle after the Absorb stage. A major difference between Multi mode
and Silent mode is that the Silent mode returns to Bulk mode instead of Float
mode. In Silent mode you can also adjust the Rebulk set-point in order to
allow the alternate charge source to provide more of the battery charging.

First Stage Second Stage Final Stage


Bulk Charging Absorb Charging Silent
Max Charge Absorb
Amps Volts
CURRENT & VOLTAGE

Absorb Done
(= Time, Amps
or SOC)
Rebulk Volts
(restarts Bulk
Charging)

Current
Voltage

TIME

Figure 3-21, Final Charge Stage - Silent Stage

35 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• SETUP: 10 Pwr Up Always – Allows the inverter to power up and
provide AC power automatically once DC voltage is connected to the inverter.
Default setting: Pwr Up = NO
Range: YES, NO
What is the Power Up Always feature? Normally, when DC power is
connected to the inverter, the user is required to press the power button—on
the inverter or remote—to turn the inverter on. When the Power Up Always
feature is activated by selecting YES, the inverter is automatically turned
on and starts searching or inverting—depending on the 01 Search Watts
setting. Once the inverter has connected to DC power and is automatically
turned on, the power button—on the inverter or remote—can be used to turn
the inverter on or off.
Why use the Power Up Always feature? Some customers are familiar
with Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) that power-up automatically
when DC power is connected. The Power Up Always feature can be used by
customers that want to obtain the same automatic power-up feature with
which they are familiar.

• SETUP: 11 Bulk Always – When this setting is turned ON, the charger
automatically goes into the Bulk charge mode each time AC is connected to
the inverter’s AC input.
Default setting: Bulk Always= OFF
Range: ON, OFF

Info: The inverter has an internal two-minute timer that monitors


the AC input source. If the AC input source goes missing and returns
within two minutes, this timer forces the charger to return to the
previous charge mode. This is done to prevent battery over-charging.
If the “Bulk Always” setting is turned on, it will not override this
internal two-minute timer.
Why would I use the “Bulk Always” feature? Normally, when an
AC source is connected to the inverter’s AC input, the inverter makes a
decision on which charge mode to enter based on the battery voltage level.
If the battery voltage is at a high level (>13.0 for 12-volt inverters, >26.0
VDC for 24-volt inverters, or >52.0 VDC for 48-volt inverters), the charge
automatically goes into the Float charge mode to keep from overcharging
the batteries.
However, some battery types (i.e., Lithium) normally rest at a high voltage
level. With these battery types, the charger would always go into float charge,
which may not allow these battery types to be fully charged. Enabling the
Always Bulk setting will force the charger to automatically go into the Bulk
charge mode and go through a full charge each time AC is connected to the
inverter’s AC input.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 36


3.0 Setup
3.3.5 TECH Menu
The TECH menu button provides access to selections that are used to
assist service technicians in troubleshooting. It provides access to system
information along with a selection that allows all system settings to be
returned to the original factory default values.
• TECH: 01 Temperatures – Displays the various temperatures
measured throughout the system. Rotate the SELECT knob to scroll through
these temperature readings. The following read only temperature displays
are available:
BTS: Displays temperature of the inverter’s Battery Temp Sensor (BTS)—if
one is connected to the battery bank.
Tfmer: Displays temperature of the main power transformer (Tfmer) inside
the inverter.
FETs: Displays temperature of inverter’s Field Effect Transistors (FETs).
AGS: Displays the temperature of the AGS (Auto Generator Start) temp
sensor—if one is connected. If no AGS is connected, “No Comm” displays.

TECH

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 01 Temperatures Press to select display:

Options: BTS:, Tfmer:, FETs:, AGS:

Figure 3-22, TECH: 01 Temperatures Display


• TECH: 02 Revisions – Displays the firmware revisions of the devices
that are connected to the Magnum network. Rotate the SELECT knob to scroll
through the revisions. The following devices display revisions (if connected
to the remote): Inverter, Remote, AGS, BMK, and Router.

TECH

Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 02 Revisions Press to select display:

Options: Inverter:, Remote:, AGS:, BMK:, Router:

Figure 3-23, TECH: 02 Revisions Display


Info: The BMK, AGS, and the remote accessories may display a
“0.0” revision. If this happens, then the accessory is not installed,
there is no communication because of a bad or miswired network
cable, the device is not powered, the device is bad, or the port on
the inverter is bad.

37 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• TECH: 03 Inverter Model – This read only menu displays the model
number of the connected inverter.

TECH Display shows


connected inverter:
Rotate to
Status... Status...
Press 03 Inv Model Press Model: ####

Figure 3-24, TECH: 03 Inv Model Display


Info: When “Model: UNKNOWN” is displayed, the remote is unable
to determine the inverter model. This happens when the remote
is connected to a later/newer inverter model not recognized by an
older remote. All remote menu selections and features that are
available in the inverter will function normally.
Info: The revision may display “0.0” for several reasons. Either the
inverter is not installed, there is no communication due to a bad/
miswired network cable, or the inverter is not powered or not working.

• TECH: 04 Load Defaults – This menu restores all settings on the


inverter/charger, and any settings on accessories that are networked and
controlled by the inverter (i.e., ME-AGS-N) to the factory default settings.
To restore, press and hold the rotary SELECT knob for 5 seconds. Once
restored, the display will show DEFAULTS LOADED. The inverter/charger’s
factory defaults are listed in Table 3-5.
Note: If a password (PIN) has been previously set, this menu will be
unavailable (i.e., locked). Refer to the TECH: 06 SETUP PIN section on the
next page for information on how to unlock this menu.
Info: For information on the factory default settings for any
networked accessory, refer to the owner’s manual for that accessory.

TECH
Factory defaults
are loaded and
Rotate to display shows:
Press
Status... Press and hold Status...
04 Load Defaults for 5 seconds DEFAULTS LOADED

Figure 3-25, TECH: 04 Load Defaults Selection

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 38


3.0 Setup

Table 3-5, ME-RC’s Inverter/Charger Default Settings

Menu Items Default Settings


SHORE Pushbutton Shore Max = 30A*
01 Search Watts Search = 5W
LBCO = 10.0 VDC (12-volt models),
02 LowBattCutOut 20.0 VDC (24-volt models), or
40.0 VDC (48-volt models)
03 Absorb Time Absorb Hrs = 1.5
SETUP Pushbutton

04 Battery Type BatType = Flooded


05 Charge Rate Max Charge = 80%
Dropout = 80 VAC*
06 VAC Dropout
(150 VAC for export models)
07 Power Save PwrSave = 15min
Contrast =100%
08 Screen Setup
Brightness =50%
09 Final Charge Final = Multi
10 Power Up Always Pwr Up = NO
11 Bulk Always Bulk Always = OFF
* - If using a dual-source model inverter (which has two AC source inputs),
both the AC1 and AC2 inputs have the same default setting. The Shore
Max = 30A, and VAC Dropout = 80 VAC).

39 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


3.0 Setup
• TECH: 05 Ext Control – Some functions (VAC Dropout, Charge Rate, or
Shore Max settings) of the inverter/charger can be controlled externally—by
an external device. This display will show INT if the setting has not changed,
even if an external device is in control; and show EXT if an external device
is controlling the setting—and, the external device has changed the setting.

TECH
Rotate to Rotate to
Status... desired
Press 05 Ext Control Press to select display:

Status... Status... Status...


VAC Dropout: INT Charge Rate: INT Shore Max: EXT

Figure 3-26, TECH: 05 Ext Control Display

Example: When an external device is connected and is changing one of the


controllable functions, the text will change from “INT” to “EXT” to denote that
particular function is being changed. In the example as shown in Figure 3-27
below, the VAC Dropout and Charge Rate settings are not being changed,
but the Shore Max setting is being changed by the external device.

Status... Status... Status...


VAC Dropout: INT Charge Rate: INT Shore Max: EXT

Figure 3-27, Example: Ext Control Scrolling Screens

• TECH: 06 SETUP PIN – This menu sets the password (PIN – Personal
Identification Number) and locks/unlocks the ME-RC’s SETUP button menus
(as well as the TECH button’s 04 Load Defaults menu).
Why should I use the PIN feature? This feature is useful when the
operation of the inverter has been set up by an experienced user or installer.
Restricting access to menus with a password can avoid unauthorized changes
to your settings by inexperienced users.
Setting a PIN
If a PIN has not been set, the SETUP menus are accessible. When you first
enter (press SELECT) the SETUP PIN menu, “PIN = 0000” displays with the
first “0” blinking. “0000” is the default setting when no PIN has been set.
From the PIN = 0000 menu:
1. Rotate the SELECT knob to the desired number (0-9), and then press
SELECT.
2. Repeat Step 1 to set the remaining three digits until the desired PIN
number displays.
3. After pressing the SELECT knob for the last digit, the PIN is set. The
Unlock SETUP menu displays. Rotate the SELECT knob to view the Lock
SETUP and Change PIN menus.
Unlock Setup – Press SELECT to allow all users to access the SETUP
button menus.
Lock Setup – Press SELECT to restrict access to the SETUP button
menus to only those users with the valid PIN.
Change PIN – Press SELECT to change the existing PIN.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 40


3.0 Setup
Entering an Existing PIN
When entering a menu (or pressing the SETUP button) the “PIN = 0***”
menu displays. The correct PIN must now be entered in order to access the
menu. If the incorrect PIN number is entered, “Invalid PIN” displays. (No
limit on how many attempts can be made to enter the correct PIN number.)
From the PIN = 0*** menu:
1. Rotate the SELECT knob to the correct digit, and then press SELECT.
2. Repeat Step 1 to enter the remaining three digits of the existing PIN.
3. After pressing the SELECT knob for the last digit, access to the remote/
menu is allowed. Refer to Step 3 in the ‘Setting a PIN’ procedure to lock/
unlock the SETUP button menus.
Info: After the correct PIN has been entered you do not need to
reenter it to access another protected menu, unless five minutes
have passed without any button push.

Changing an Existing PIN


Change your PIN at any time. However, to change an existing PIN, you must
first enter that PIN in order to access the TECH: Change PIN menu item.
From the TECH menu’s PIN = 0*** setting:
1. Use the SELECT knob to enter the existing PIN (see above procedure).
2. Once the existing PIN is entered and you press SELECT for the last digit,
the Unlock SETUP menu appears.
3. Rotate the SELECT knob to the Change PIN menu option, and then press
the SELECT knob. The PIN entry menu appears with the current PIN
displayed and the first PIN digit blinking.
4. Enter the new PIN (see the Setting a PIN procedure on previous page).
Note: “0000” is not a valid PIN.
5. After pressing the SELECT knob for the last digit, the new PIN is set. You
are returned to the PIN setup options menu where you can lock/unlock
the SETUP button menus.
Resetting/Clearing a PIN
You can override a previously entered PIN. When “PIN = 0***” displays,
press and hold the SELECT knob until “PIN = 0000” displays (approximately
7 seconds). Enter a new PIN number as previously described.

41 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


4.0 Menu Map

4.0 Menu Map: ME-RC Remote Control


Figures 4-1 thru 4-3 are a complete overview of the inverter/charger settings
and information displays available in the ME-RC.

SHOR E

Stat us... 5-60A


Shor e Max = 30A R
R

Stat us...
R 5-60A Note: This menu only displays if
Shor e Max2= 30A connected to MSH4024RE inverter

AGS

Refer to Section 7.0 in this manual and to the ME-AGS-N


Owner’s Manual (PN: 64-0039) for detailed information on
this menu.

METE R Read Only displays

Stat us...
01 INV/CHG Meter
P Stat us... R Stat us... R Stat us...
DC: ##.#V ##A VAC Out: ###VAC Hz O ut: ##.#Hz
R
R Stat us... R Stat us... R Stat us...
I/C Am ps: #AAC Inpu t Amp: #AAC Load Amps: #AAC
R
Stat us... R Stat us...
AC I nput: ###V AC2 Inpu t: ###V
Note: AC Input only displayed on MSH models,
Stat us... AC2 Input only displayed on MSH4024RE.
02 BM: SOC
R
Stat us...
03 BM: Mete rs
R Refer to Section 8.0 in this manual and
Stat us... to the ME-BMK/ME-BMK-N Owner’s
04 BM: Stat us Manual (PN: 64-0013) for detailed
R information on these menu items.
Stat us...
05 BM: Setu p
R
Stat us...
06 BM: TECH

SETUP

Stat us... OFF, 5-50 Watt s


01 Sear ch Watts P Stat us...
Sear ch = 5W R
(5 watt increme nts
R
Stat us... P Stat us... R 9.0-13.0* VDC
02 LowB attCutOu t LBCO = 10.0VDC

R * LBCO settings are dependent on inverter model


(values for a 12-volt model shown)

Stat us... P Stat us... R 0.1-25.5 Hrs


R 03 Abso rb Time Abso rb Hrs= 1.5

SETUP menu continues on next page

Figure 4-1, Inverter/Charger Menu Map

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 42


4.0 Menu Map

SETUP continued…. (*Values for a 12-volt model shown)

Stat us... GEL, AGM1, A GM2,


04 B attery T ype P Stat us... R
BatT ype=Floo ded Cust om, CC/C V, LF P
P
12.0-16.0 V* R Stat us... P
Abso rb = 14 .4V
P
Stat us...
12.0-16.0 V* R Floa t = 13 .2V Stat us...
Max Amps = 200
P
R
12.0-16.0 V* Stat us...
R Equa lize= 15 .6V P
OFF, 20-990A

Stat us...
Chg Volts=13 .8V
R R
12.0-16.0 V* P

0.1-25.5 Hrs R Stat us...


Done Time= 1. 5Hr
Stat us...
P EndC hg= T ime
R
P DC A mps, Ho ld VDC
P

Stat us...
ReCh arge= 1 2.0V
P Stat us...
MaxT ime= 12. 0Hr P Stat us...
Done Amps= 20 ADC
R R R
12.0-16.0 V* OFF, 0.1-25.5 Hrs 0-250 ADC

Stat us... P Stat us... R 0-100%


05 C harge Ra te Max Charge= 80%
R
Stat us... P Stat us... R 60-100 VAC, UPS Mode
06 V AC Dropo ut Drop out= 80 VAC
Note: Export models – 110-190 VAC, UPS mode
R

Stat us... P Stat us... R OFF, 1-60 M inutes


07 P ower Sav e PwrS ave = 15 min
R
Stat us... P Stat us... P Stat us...
08 S creen Se tup Cont rast =1 00% Brig htness= 50%
R R
R 0-100% 0-100%

Stat us... P Stat us... R Floa t, Sile nt


09 F inal Cha rge Fina l = Mu lti
P
12.0-16.0 V* R Stat us...
Rebu lk = 12 .0V*
R

Stat us... P Stat us... R NO, YES


10 P wr Up Al ways Pwr Up = NO

Stat us... P Stat us... R ON, OFF


11 B ulk Alwa ys Bulk Always= OFF

Figure 4-2, Inverter/Charger Menu Map

43 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


4.0 Menu Map

TECH

Stat us... Read Only displays


01 Temp eratures
P
Stat us... R Stat us... Stat us...
BTS: ##C/ ##F Tfmr: ##C/ ##F R
FETs: ##C/ ##F
R R
Stat us...
AGS: ##C/ ##F**
** If no AGS connected,
Stat us... “No Comm” displays
Read Only displays
02 Revi sions
P
Stat us... R Stat us... Stat us...
Inverter: #.# Remote: 2.9 R AGS: #.#
R
R Stat us... Stat us...
R
Router: #.# BMK: #.#

Stat us... Read Only display


03 Inv Model
P
Stat us...
Model:########
R

Stat us... P Status... Displays after 5 second


04 Load Default s DEFAULTS LOADED countdown.

Press and hold SELECT button


R for 5 seconds. Seconds will
count down.

Stat us... Read Only displays .


05 Ext Control INT= internal control , EX T= external control
P
Stat us... R Stat us... R Stat us...
R VAC Dropout: ### Charge Rate: ### Shore Max : ###

Stat us...
06 Set PIN
P
Stat us... If “PIN = 0***” displays, a PIN has already been set.
PIN = 0000 If “PIN = 0000” displays, a PIN has not yet been set.
P
Stat us... R Stat us... R Stat us...
Unlock SETUP Lock SETUP Change PIN

LEGEND

SETUP Menu Button


Press button
Stat us... Inverter/Charger Status
01 Sear ch Watts Menu Items
Press SELECT P
Stat us... Inverter/Charger Status
Sear ch = 5W Menu Selections Setting
Notes:
= default setting = setting range
R = Rotate SELECT knob ## = read only data

Figure 4-3, Inverter/Charger Menu Map

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 44


5.0 Operation

5.0 Operation
This section explains how to operate the inverter/charger using the ME-
RC remote. It also provides information on the LED indicators and the LCD
display that are used to show the operational status of the inverter/charger.

5.1 Front Panel


The ME-RC’s front panel contains LED indicators and a LCD display for
viewing system status, buttons to control system operation, and a rotary
knob that enables you to locate and select system information and settings.

LED Indicators LCD Display

Inverting
DC: 12.6V 50A

ON / OFF Menu Rotary


Buttons Buttons SELECT Knob

Figure 5-1, ME-RC Front Panel Controls and Indicator

5.1.1 LED Indicators


There are four LED indicators on the front panel that light solid or blink to
indicate the inverter/charger’s status. When the remote is first powered-up,
all the LEDs come on as it goes through a self-test (see Section 2.5). Once
the self-test is complete, the LEDs along with the LCD provide the operating
status of the inverter/charger. See Section 5.3.4 for info on LED indicators.
5.1.2 LCD Display
The LCD display is used for setting up the system operation, as well as
viewing the current operating status and fault conditions. This display has
two lines of alphanumeric characters and features a backlight that can
be set to turn off to conserve power. The top line provides the inverter/
charger status, which is detailed in this section. The bottom line displays
battery information while using the METER menu, system troubleshooting
information while in the TECH menu, and displays menu items that can be
configured for your specific system operation when using the SETUP menu.
This display automatically powers-up with the current system status on the
top line and the home screen (detailing the inverter’s DC voltage and current
as shown in Figure 5-1) on the bottom line.

45 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
5.1.3 ON/OFF Pushbuttons
• ON/OFF INVERTER – This button toggles the inverter function on and
off. The green INV LED turns on and off with the button.
• ON/OFF CHARGER – This button toggles the charger function on and
off whenever the charger is actively charging. The green CHG LED turns
on and off with the button. This button is also used to initiate an Equalize
charge. For more information on using the Equalize charge feature, see
Section 5.2.2 and the Equalizing information on page 51.
5.1.4 Menu Buttons
These five buttons provide quick access to menu items that can help with
configuring, monitoring and troubleshooting your inverter/charger system.
• SHORE – This button allows you to set the appropriate breaker size for
the incoming utility/shore power and is used to control the amount of AC
amps the battery charger uses from the HOT 1 IN input. See Section 3.3.1
for more detailed information.
• AGS – This button allows the networked Auto Generator Start (ME-
AGS-N) controller to be configured to specific system preferences and
enables you to check the AGS’s status (when connected). Refer to Section
7.0 for detailed information on this menu.
• METER – This button provides meter information on the inverter/
charger system. See Section 3.3.3 for more detailed information.
• SETUP – This button allows the inverter/charger to be configured
to your specific system preferences. See Section 3.3.4 for more detailed
information.
• TECH – This button allows you to access menu selections that can help
service personnel with troubleshooting and also allows the factory default
setting to be restored. See Section 3.3.5 for more detailed information.
5.1.5 Rotary SELECT Knob
The rotary SELECT knob is similar to a car dash radio knob, and is used to
view and select various menu items and settings displayed on the LCD screen.
Turn the rotary knob clockwise and counterclockwise to view the different
menu items and available settings. Press the SELECT knob to select/enter a
menu item or to save a setting once it is displayed on the LCD screen. Press
and hold the SELECT knob for 10 seconds to refresh the LCD display.
CAUTION: An accessory that is networked to the inverter may
have adjustable settings that revert back to default if all power to
the inverter is lost. Refer to the owner’s manual for the networked
accessory to determine if any setting is affected.
Info: All adjustable inverter/charger settings in the ME-RC (except
for the SHORE menu’s Shore Max, the 01 AGS Control setting under
the AGS menu, and SETUP menu’s 08 Screen Setup settings (which
all revert back to default) are saved in non-volatile memory and are
preserved until changed—even if an inverter reset is performed, or
if all power to the remote or inverter is removed.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 46


5.0 Operation
5.2 Operating the Inverter/Charger
5.2.1 Inverter Mode
Turning the inverter on: Press the ON/OFF INVERTER button to activate
the inverter function. The inverter will either be actively “inverting” by
using power from the batteries to power the AC loads; or, the inverter will
be “searching” for a load by using very little power from the batteries, if
in Search mode. The green INV LED is on when the inverter is actively
inverting, and flashes while searching.
Turning the inverter off: While the inverter is actively inverting or
searching, press the ON/OFF INVERTER button to switch the inverter function
off. This will turn the green INV LED off.
Inverter Standby – The inverter is a slave unit in a parallel stacked system.
Inverter Standby occurs when the inverter is enabled (green INV LED is on),
but not actively providing power from the batteries to the inverter loads.
During Inverter Standby mode, the loads connected to the inverter are
powered by the other inverters in the parallel stacked system. The standby
inverter will come on automatically if the AC loads increase and require more
inverter power.
5.2.2 Charger Mode
Turning the charger on: The Charge mode is automatically activated and
begins when acceptable AC power (utility or generator) is connected to the
input of the inverter. When in Charge mode, the display may show: Absorb
Charging, Bulk Charging, Charger Standby, Charging, Equalizing, Float
Charging, Full Charge, Load Support AAC, Load Support VDC, and Silent.
Charger Standby – While the charger is actively charging, press the ON/
OFF CHARGER button to switch the charger to Charger Standby. While in
Charger Standby, the incoming AC is still available on the inverter’s output,
but the charger is not allowed to charge. The LCD displays “Charger Standby”
and the CHG LED flashes.
Info: To resume charging, press the ON/OFF CHARGER button or
disconnect/reconnect AC power to the inverter’s input.

Equalize charging: Equalizing is a “controlled overcharge” performed after


the batteries have been fully charged. It helps to mix the battery electrolyte
(to reverse the buildup of stratification) and to remove sulfates that may
have built up on the plates. These conditions if left unchecked, will reduce
the overall capacity of the battery. To enable the Equalization charge, see the
information on page 51.
WARNING: Do not perform an Equalize charge without reading and
following all safety precautions pertaining to charging/equalization
as noted in this manual and provided by the battery manufacturer,
and any equalization information in the inverter owner’s manual.
CAUTION: Ensure your batteries can be equalized—only equalize
your batteries if permitted by your battery manufacturer. Performing
an Equalize Charge on batteries other than liquid lead acid or certain
AGM types could permanently damage them. Refer to your battery
manufacturer on how to properly equalize your batteries.
Info: Equalization charging is not available if GEL, AGM2, or LFP is
selected under the SETUP menu’s 04 Battery Type menu.

47 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
5.3 System Status Messages
A status message may be an operational or fault message indicating the
inverter/charger’s current operating status. This section will cover the
inverter/charger’s operating and fault modes, and the available status
messages under each mode.
Use the displayed status message and the status LEDs on your ME-RC remote
(see Figure 5-2) to determine the inverter/charger’s current operating
status, and to help troubleshoot the system if a fault occurs.

FAULT LED on:


See Section 5.3.3 PW R
FAULT See the appropriate
CHG LED on: Status Message section to determine
See Section 5.3.2 CHG
Settings/Info... the meaning of the
INV status message.
Only INV LED on:
See Section 5.3.1

Figure 5-2, System Status Screen (Example)

There are three modes of operation for the inverter/charger:

Inverter modes: Charger modes: Fault modes:


• Inverting • Absorb Charging • AC Backfeed
• Inverter Standby • AC Coupling • AC Overload
• No Inverter Comm • Bulk Charging • Breaker Tripped
• Off • Charger Standby • Dead Batt Charge
• Searching • Charging • FET Overload
• Unknown Mode ## • Constant Current • High Batt Temp
• Constant Voltage • High Battery
• Equalizing • High Volts AC
• Float Charging • Internal Bridge
• Full Charge • Internal Charger
• Load Support AAC • Internal NTC
• Load Support VDC • Internal Relay
• Silent • Low Battery
• Overcurrent
• Overtemp
• StackClock Fault
• Stack Mode Fault
• StackPhase Fault
• Stuck Relay
• Tfmr Overtemp
• Unknown Fault ##

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5.0 Operation
5.3.1 Inverter Mode Status Messages
There are several Inverter mode messages. View the top line of the LCD
display and the corresponding message in this section to determine and
understand the particular Inverter mode.
• Inverting – The inverter is providing AC voltage on its output by
inverting power from the batteries.
• Inverter Standby – The inverter is on but not actively providing power.
However, the inverter remains active and an external AC power (utility or
generator) is passing through the inverter to power the AC loads.
• No Inverter Comm – The remote is not receiving any communication
data via the Magnum Network.
Remedy: Disconnect the remote communications cable from the
inverter for five seconds, and then reconnect to reset the remote
(see Figure 2-2). If the fault continues, examine the remote cable
for damage, and replace if needed (4-wire telephone cable).
What if the cable is not the issue?
• Try another remote display
• Move the remote cable from the Remote port to the
Network port
• The inverter may need servicing
• Off – This message tells you that there is no AC available on the
inverter’s AC output. The inverter function is OFF, and there is no utility or
generator AC power sensed on its input.
• Searching – The inverter is in Search mode. This means the AC loads
on the inverter output are less than the SETUP: 01 Search Watts setting. The
Search mode function is used to reduce the inverter draw from the battery
when the inverter loads are off. Turn the Search mode off if you want full
inverter output voltage available at all times (see the Search Watts section).
• Unknown Mode ## – This status displays when the inverter/charger
has sent an operational status code that the RC remote does not identify.
Remedy: Call Technical Support at Sensata Technologies for
assistance in identifying and understanding the actual status.

5.3.2 Charger Mode Status Messages


When AC power (utility or generator) is connected to the inverter/charger, it
begins to monitor the AC input for acceptable voltage. Once the AC input is
accepted, the AC transfer relay (inside the inverter) closes and charge mode
begins. There are ten Charger mode status messages. View the top line of
the LCD display and the corresponding message in this section to identify
and understand the particular Charger mode.
Info: The AC input becomes acceptable after a minimum 12-second
input qualifying delay and the voltage is greater than the SETUP:
06 VAC Dropout setting.
• Absorb Charging – The Absorb charge state is the constant voltage
stage and begins when the absorb voltage is reached (determined by the
SETUP: 04 Battery Type setting) while Bulk charging. During this stage, the
DC charging current decreases in order to maintain the absorb voltage setting.
This charge stage continues until the absorb charging time (determined by
the SETUP menu’s 03 Absorb Time setting) is finished.

49 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
• AC Coupling – The inverter is in the AC Coupling mode because AC
current is being pushed back into the inverters output. Note: This status
only shows when the inverter is a MSH Series inverter/charger.
• Bulk Charging – The battery charger is delivering maximum current
(determined by the SETUP menu’s 05 Charge Rate setting) to the batteries.
The charger will remain in Bulk Charge until the absorb voltage (determined
by the SETUP menu’s 04 Battery Type setting) is achieved.
• Charger Standby – This indicates the charger has been disabled to
prevent further charging, but the AC power (from utility or generator) to the
AC input is still available on the AC output. This display is shown when the
ON/OFF CHARGER button is pressed while the AC power is passing through
the inverter/charger.
Info: Press the ON/OFF CHARGER button to enable charging again.
When enabled, the charger continues in the previous charge mode
and the CHG (green) LED will come on solid (not flashing).

• Charging – Once Charger mode has been enabled, the unit waits and
displays “Charging” to determine the charge routine. If the DC voltage is
low (≤12.8 VDC/12v models, ≤25.6 VDC/24v models, or ≤51.2 VDC/48v
models), the charger initiates bulk charging. If the DC voltage is high (≥12.9
VDC/12v models, ≥25.7/24v models, or ≥51.3/48v models), the charger
skips the Bulk and Absorb charging stages and go directly to the final charge
stage (Float or Silent).

Info: If battery type is CC/CV, the charger enters the Constant


Current mode after “charging”.

Info: If the LFP battery type has been selected, the charger will go
into the Bulk charge mode each time AC is connected—regardless
of the battery voltage. However, if AC is reconnected less than two
minutes after being disconnected, the charger will return to the
previous charge mode.

• Constant Current – The battery charger is delivering maximum current


to the batteries (determined by the Max Charge Amps setting under the
SETUP button’s 04 Battery Type: CC/CV menu). The charger will remain in
Constant Current charge until the CV Charge Volts or Max CC/CV Charge
Time is reached (determined by the settings under the SETUP button’s 04
Battery Type: CC/CV menu).
Note: This status only displays if “CC/CV” has been selected from the SETUP
button’s 04 Battery Type menu.
• Constant Voltage – This mode begins when the CV Ch Volts is reached
(determined by the settings under the SETUP button’s 04 Battery Type: CC/
CV menu) while in the Constant Current charge mode. During this stage,
the DC charging current decreases in order to maintain the absorb voltage
setting. This charge stage continues until the EngChg setting (Time, Amps,
or Hold) or MaxTime settings under the SETUP button’s 04 Battery Type: CC/
CV menu) is reached.
Note: This status only displays if “CC/CV” has been selected from the SETUP
button’s 04 Battery Type menu.

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5.0 Operation
• Equalizing – This display indicates that the battery charger is delivering
the equalize voltage to the batteries. See Table 3-4 to determine the equalize
voltage for your battery type.
Equalize charging can be enabled by the ON/OFF CHARGER button if the
SETUP: 04 Battery Type setting allows. Equalization charging can only be
enabled while the charger is in Float Charge or Full Charge mode. To turn
on Equalize charging, ensure the LCD display reads “Float Charging” or “Full
Charge”, then press and hold down the ON/OFF CHARGER button (about five
seconds) until the LCD screen displays “Equalizing”.
The Equalize charge will continue for four hours and then automatically stop
and return to float charging. The Equalize charge can be manually stopped
by pressing and holding down the ON/OFF CHARGER button (about five
seconds) until the LCD screen displays “Float Charging”.During the Equalize
Charge stage the batteries will begin gassing and bubbling vigorously, which
consumes water. Ensure each cell has adequate distilled water levels prior to
equalizing, and add water as needed after equalizing.
Why would I equalize? Equalizing helps to mix the battery electrolyte and
attempts to reverse the build-up of stratification by removing sulfates that
may have built up on the plates. These conditions if left unchecked, reduce
the overall capacity of the battery bank.
How often should I equalize? Some experts recommend that heavily
used batteries should be equalized periodically, ranging anywhere from once
a month to once or twice per year. Other experts only recommend equalizing
when the cells have a low specific gravity, or when the difference between
any individual cell has a specific gravity reading greater than .015 after
being fully charged.
How long should I equalize? While the batteries are gassing, monitor the
specific gravity readings every hour. When the specific gravity readings no
longer increase, the Equalization charge is complete and should be stopped.
WARNING: Equalizing produces excessive hydrogen and oxygen
gas. This condition is not only corrosive, but can also be dangerous.
Ensure the battery compartment can divert these gases away from
the inverter to prevent corrosion; and has adequate ventilation to
dissipate these gases in order to avoid explosions.
CAUTION: During the Equalize Charge stage the batteries will begin
gassing and bubbling vigorously, which consumes water. Ensure each
cell has adequate distilled water levels prior to equalizing, and add
water as needed after equalizing.
CAUTION: If there are DC loads connected to you batteries, ensure
they will not be damaged by the higher voltage applied during the
Equalize Charge. If in doubt, disconnect the DC loads.
Info: Equalization charging is not available if GEL, AGM2, or LFP is
selected under the SETUP menu’s 04 Battery Type menu.

• Float Charging – At the end of the absorb charge time, the charger
reduces the charge voltage and tries to maintain the batteries at the
Float Charge voltage setting. This is determined by the SETUP menu’s
04 Battery Type setting as shown in Table 3-4.
Info: Unless the Silent mode is enabled, when the battery voltage
falls ≤12.1 VDC (12-volt models), ≤24.2 VDC (24-volt models),
or ≤48.4 VDC (48-volt models) the unit will initiate bulk charging.

51 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
• Full Charge – This status indicates that you have entered the Battery
Saver™ mode. This mode maintains the batteries without overcharging,
and prevents excessive loss of water in flooded batteries or drying out of
GEL/AGM batteries. After four hours of float charging, the charger turns off
and “Full Charge” displays (charger is now in Battery Saver™ mode). If the
battery voltage drops to ≤12.6 (12-volt models), ≤25.2 (24-volt models)
or ≤50.4 (48-volt models), the charger automatically initiates another
four hours of float charging. This cycle helps to ensure the batteries are
maintained and continues as long as AC power is continuously connected to
the AC input. “Full Charge” only displays if Multi is selected from the 09 Final
Charge menu.
• Load Support AAC – The inverter is in the Load Support (Amps AC)
mode because the inverter load is requiring more power than the incoming
AC source can provide on its own. The inverter pulls the additional current—
that is needed for the loads—from the inverter batteries to keep the incoming
AC current from exceeding the SHORE: Shore Max setting.
Info: The Load Support AAC feature operates in parallel with the
AC input to support the inverter loads and is only available on
MSH Series inverter/chargers. It is only active when the inverter is
enabled (INV LED is on).
Info: When in Inverter Standby mode (charging and pass-thru), the
current is normally a positive value. However, in Load Support AAC
mode, the inverter amps reading is a negative number to indicate
how much current is being provided/removed from the inverter’s
batteries. The inverter batteries will continue to provide current to
assist the AC input current as long as the battery voltage stays 0.5
volts above the SETUP: 02 LowBattCutOut setting.
• Load Support VDC – The inverter/charger is in the Load Support
(Volts DC) mode because an external DC source (solar, alternator, etc.,)
is providing more current than needed—which causes the battery voltage
to rise. The inverter/charger reduces the incoming AC current in an effort
to keep the battery voltage from rising above the temp-compensated 04
Battery Type setting.
Info: The Load Support VDC feature operates in parallel with the
AC input to support the inverter loads and is only available on MSH
Series inverter/chargers. This feature is only active in the Absorb
or Float charge modes and when the inverter is enabled (INV LED
is on); it is deactivated if the charger is in Charger Standby.
• Silent – This displays at the end of the Absorption stage if Silent is
selected from the 09 Final Charge menu. In Silent mode, the charger is not
actively charging but does monitor the battery voltage. When the battery
voltage reaches the ReBulk voltage setting (from 09 Final Charge Stage
menu) the charger will restart a Bulk and Absorb charge cycle, and then
transition back into Silent mode at the end of the Absorb cycle.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 52


5.0 Operation
5.3.3 Fault Mode Messages
The FAULT LED comes on and a fault status is displayed when an abnormal
condition is detected. View the LCD display and use the information in this
section to determine and correct the issue.
Info: Many of the faults will automatically restart when the fault is
cleared. Some faults will require a manual restart (ON/OFF INVERTER
button on remote is pressed and released). Finally, if the fault does
not clear, an inverter reset (Section 6.2) may be required.
5.3.3.1 System Fault Messages
These faults are usually caused by an external issue that directly affects the
inverter/charger system.
• AC Backfeed – This fault causes the inverter to shut down because AC
voltage from an external AC source has been detected on the inverter’s AC
output. When the unit shuts down because of this condition, an inverter reset
or power reset will be required to resume operation (see Sections 6.2 & 6.3).
Remedy: This fault usually occurs because the AC output wiring is
connected to (or able to be connected to) the incoming AC source.
When this fault happens, all system wiring should be re-checked
to ensure the incoming hot and/or neutral wires are unable to be
connected to the AC output.
• AC Overload – This fault message displays when the AC load on the
inverter/charger’s output has exceeded the inverter’s AC current protection
limits. If the overload lasts for less than 10 seconds, the unit will automatically
restart and resume operation. However, if the overload occurs for more than
10 seconds, the unit will shut down and will require a manual restart.
Remedy: This fault usually occurs because the connected AC loads
are larger than inverter’s output capacity, there is a wiring short
on the output, or the output wires are incorrectly wired. Once the
AC loads are reduced or the output wiring is corrected, the inverter
can be restarted after a manual restart has been accomplished.
• Breaker Tripped – The AC input breaker on the inverter/charger has
opened due to excess current flow through the inverter to the AC loads.
Remedy: After reducing the AC loads, push in the inverter’s AC
input circuit breaker to reset and resume operation. Ensure the
current to the inverter loads do not exceed the input breaker rating.

• Dead Battery Charge – This fault has detected a very discharged


battery bank, or a battery bank not connected to the inverter. The unit is
attempting to enter the Charge mode, but has detected that the battery
bank is less than 9 volts (12-volt), 18 volts (24-volt) or 36 volts (48-volt).
Remedy: Check the DC voltage on the inverter’s DC terminals
and ensure it is the same as the battery bank—these two voltages
should be very close (<0.5 VDC difference). If not, check to ensure
all connections are tight and the fuse/circuit breaker between the
inverter and battery bank is good.
This fault automatically clears if the AC input power is removed or
when the voltage is greater than 12.6 volts (12-volt models), 25.2
volts (for 24-volt models), or 50.4 volts (for 48-volt models) as
detected by the inverter.

53 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
• FET Overload – This fault message indicates the inverter/charger
has shut down because the temperature of the internal FETs (Field Effect
Transistors) started rising abnormally fast. When the FETs have cooled, the
unit will require a manual restart to resume operation.
Remedy: Allow the inverter to cool down, then press the remote’s
INVERTER ON/OFF pushbutton (manual restart) to resume operation.
If the fault returns, perform an inverter reset (see Section 6.2). If
the fault continues to occur, disconnect all the inverter’s AC output
wires and perform a power reset (Section 6.3). If this fault does not
clear after doing the power reset, the inverter will require service.
• High Batt Temp – This fault message indicates the inverter/charger
has shut down because the Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) has reached
a temperature greater than 54°C/129°F.
Remedy: Once the BTS cools down (≤49°C/120°F) it automatically
restarts and continues operation. Ensure the BTS hasn’t been placed
in a hot area or near a hot device. If this is not the issue, then
monitor the BTS display under the TECH/01 Temperatures menu—
this reading should be above 54°C/129°F. Now remove the BTS from
the inverter BTS port. If the BTS reading goes to 25°C/77°F, replace
the BTS. If the reading does not go to 25°C/77°F, then inspect the
BTS port for cleanliness and/or have the inverter/charger serviced.
• High Battery – The inverter has turned off because the battery voltage
is at a very high level. The fault occurs when the battery voltage is above the
High Battery Cut-Out (HBCO) value. The inverter will automatically restart
and resume operation when the battery voltage drops 0.3 VDC (12-volt
models), 0.6 VDC (24-volt models), or 1.2 VDC (48-volt models) below the
HBCO value.

Info: The HBCO value is dependent on your inverter revision and


model. Normally, the HBCO value for ME/MM/RD Series inverters is
preset to 16 VDC (12-volt models) or 32 VDC (24-volt models). The
HBCO value for MS/MMS Series inverters is preset to 17 VDC (12-
volt models), 34 VDC (24-volt models), or 68 VDC (48-volt models).
Remedy: This fault usually occurs when an external DC source is
charging the inverter’s battery bank. Turn off any other additional
charging source to allow the DC voltage level to drop.
• High Volts AC – This fault causes the charger to be disabled because
a very high AC voltage (>150 VAC, or >300 volts for export inverters) has
been detected on the AC input.
Remedy: Remove all AC power from the inverter’s AC input for
at least 15 minutes to automatically reset this fault. Ensure only
120VAC power is connected to each of the inverter’s AC inputs.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 54


5.0 Operation
• Internal Bridge1 – This fault message displays when the FET bridge
shuts down after the inverter has been inverting—the inverter output circuit
can no longer detect any AC output voltage or current.
• Internal Charger1 – This fault message displays when the FET bridge
shuts down because the charger circuit is trying to provide maximum current,
but is not detecting a current or voltage rise to the battery bank.
• Internal NTC1 – This fault message displays when the internal NTC
(Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor suddenly detected a very large
but unexpected temperature change.
• Internal Relay1 – This fault message displays when the internal AC
transfer relay is not closed while charging.
Note 1: The inverter continually monitors several internal components and
will shut down to help protect itself if an “internal” faults occurs.
Remedy: If an “internal” fault occurs, perform an inverter or power
reset to clear it (see Sections 6.2 & 6.3). After the reset, press the
ON/OFF INVERTER pushbutton on the remote to turn the inverter
on. If the internal fault remains or returns, the inverter will require
repair at an authorized service facility.

• Low Battery – The inverter turned off to prevent the batteries from
being over-discharged. The fault message occurs when the battery voltage
drops below the SETUP menu’s 02 LowBattCutOut (LBCO) setting for more
than one minute.
Remedy: This fault clears and the inverter automatically will restart
and resume operation after one of the following conditions: 1. If the
battery voltage rises to the inverters LBCI level; or, 2. If AC power
is connected to the inverter’s input and battery charging begins.
• Overcurrent – This fault shuts down the inverter to protect internal
power components. It may be caused by an excessive load connected to the
inverter’s AC output. If the overload condition lasts for less than 10 seconds,
the unit will automatically restart and resume operation. However, if the
overcurrent condition occurs for more than 10 seconds, the unit will shut
down and will require a manual restart.
Remedy: This fault usually occurs because the connected AC loads
are larger than the inverter’s output capacity, there is a wiring short
on the AC output, or the wires are incorrectly installed. Once the
AC loads are reduced or the output wiring is corrected, manually
restart the inverter to resume operation. If this fault condition
continues after all these recommendations, perform a inverter reset
(see Section 6.2).
• Overtemp – This fault message indicates the inverter/charger has shut
down because the internal power components (FET’s and/or transformer)
have exceeded their safe temperature operating range. Once the unit has
cooled down, the fault automatically clears and the unit will automatically
restart and continue operation.
Remedy: If this fault occurs while inverting, reduce the inverter
loads. If it occurs when charging, lower the charge rate. If this fault
happens often, ensure the inverter is not in a hot area, has proper
ventilation, and the cooling fans inside the inverter are working.

55 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


5.0 Operation
• StackClock Fault – There is a stacker cable problem; or, one inverter
is losing synchronization with the other inverter.
Remedy: Ensure you are using a Magnum Stacking Cable (this is
not a telephone/data cable, this is a custom made cable). Inspect
the stacker cable and reconnect at both ends (listen and make sure
you hear an audible “click” from the connectors at both inverters).
Info: This fault has been known to occur when a Magnum Energy
accessory is plugged into the inverter’s Stack port, but the
installation is not using multiple inverters in a stacked configuration.
If this occurs, perform an inverter reset (see Section 6.2).

• Stack Mode Fault – This unit has detected a problem with the “other”
stacked inverter. Check that unit for a fault condition.
Remedy: This fault will automatically clear when the fault with the
other inverter is corrected.

• StackPhase Fault – 1. The AC input wiring is incorrect; 2. One phase


was lost from the AC input source; 3. One of the inverter’s internal transfer
relays is bad; or, 4. The inverter’s AC input circuit breaker may be open.
Remedy: If this fault doesn’t clear after checking these four
recommendations, perform an inverter reset (see Section 6.2).

• Stuck Relay – This fault message displays when the inverter is


“inverting”, but the internal AC pass-thru relay that should be open while
inverting, is closed.
Remedy: The AC pass-thru relay is most likely stuck. A relay usually
sticks because of damage to the contacts from trying to handle
currents greater than they are rated. This is usually caused by not
protecting the relay or by switching high current inductive loads. The
internal relay contacts are rated to handle 30 amps AC continuously
and should be protected with an input breaker sized no larger than
30 amps. If you are connected to an AC source (grid or generator)
and running large inductive loads (i.e., pumps, motors, etc.,) on
the inverter output, turn those particular loads off prior to removing
the AC input source. This fault requires an inverter or power reset
(Sections 6.2 and 6.3) to clear.
• Tfmr Overtemp – This fault message is displayed when the TCO
(Temperature Cut-Out) opens and causes the inverter to shut down to
protect the internal power transformer from damage. When the TCO has
cooled down, the inverter will automatically restart and resume operation.
Remedy: If the fault continues to occur, disconnect all the inverter’s
AC output wires and reset the inverter (see Section 6.2). If this fault
does not clear after doing a reset, the inverter may require service.
• Unknown Fault ##– This fault message displays when the inverter/
charger has sent a fault code that cannot be determined by the remote.
Remedy: Contact the Magnum Technical Support team to assist you.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 56


5.0 Operation
5.3.4 LED Indicator Guide
Use the LEDs along with the LCD display to determine the operating status.
Table 5-1, LED Indicator Guide
LED Status Meaning
1. Inverter is disabled; 2. Remote is in Power
Saver mode – press any button to activate LEDs;
OFF 3. No power to remote (check remote cable or
PWR power to inverter); or, 4. No AC power at the
(green) inverter’s AC output terminals.
AC power is available from inverter, shore, or
ON
generator at the inverter’s AC output terminals.
OFF Normal operation.
FAULT
(red) A fault condition has been detected. Check the
ON
LCD display to find and correct the cause.
1. Remote is in Power Saver mode – press any
OFF button to activate LEDs; or, 2. Charger off – no
utility or AC generator present.
Bulk, Absorb, Float, or Equalize Charge mode (see
ON
LCD display to determine charge status).
BLINKING,
The charger is in Charger Standby mode. This
display says
occurs when the ON/OFF CHARGER button is
“Charger
pressed to disable the charger.
Standby”
The charger is in Battery Saver mode. This mode
BLINKING,
monitors battery voltage level and only charges if
display says
CHG the battery voltage decreases to a low level. Silent
“Full Charge”
(green) mode will automatically start charging when the
or “Silent”
Rebulk setting is reached.
The charger current is automatically decreased
BLINKING,
because: 1. Charger Back-off – the inverter’s
display shows
internal temperature is getting hot, current is
a charging
decreased to reduce/maintain temperature; or, 2.
status (i.e.,
Low AC Input Voltage – the input AC voltage is
Bulk, Absorb,
low, charger is disabled to help stabilize incoming
Float)
AC voltage to prevent AC disconnect.
BLINKING,
The inverter is detecting AC voltage (from utility
display does
or an AC generator) on the inverter’s AC input
not show any
terminals.
charge status
1. Inverter disabled; or, 2. Remote in Power Saver
OFF
mode – press any button to activate LEDs.
Inverter is enabled – 1. Supplying AC power on the
output; or, 2. In Inverter Standby (if both INV and
INV
ON CHG LEDs are on); the inverter will automatically
(green)
supply AC power to the loads if shore or generator
power is lost.
Inverter is in Search mode (the AC load is below
BLINKING
the SETUP menu’s 01 Search Watts setting).

57 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


6.0 Troubleshooting

6.0 ME-RC Remote Troubleshooting


The remote may not be functioning correctly, use the following table to help
find a solution.
Table 6-1, Remote Control Troubleshooting Guide
Possible
Symptom Solution
Cause
Display shows Static electricity Refresh display: Press and hold the
unrecognizable may have been SELECT button for 10 seconds.
letters or discharged into
symbols the LCD display.
Display shows The remote’s Reset remote: Disconnect remote
“fatal error” internal data communications cable from inverter
or “illegal addressing was for 5 seconds and reconnect (see
address” unrecognizable. Figure 2-2).
LCD text RJ11 Reset remote: 1) Disconnect remote
display is connections on cable from inverter for 5 seconds
locked-up, communication and reconnect; 2) Check RJ11 cable
pressing any cable are not connection on back of remote (see
button has making a good Fig. 2-2).
no response connection. Important: Ensure the RJ11 connector
– may show is pushed into the correct port. You
“revision” or should feel/hear “click” when the
“connecting” connection is made.
Remote Ensure inverter batteries are
not getting connected and inverter is operating
sufficient power correctly. Inverter should be able
from inverter. to invert and power AC loads from
batteries (ensure no AC power is
connected to the inverter AC inputs).
LEDs and Remote may Press any button to reactivate the
backlight are be in the Power remote (or turn Power Saver mode
off Saver mode. OFF).
Remote is Communication Check communications cable from
nonfunctional cable bad or inverter to remote; ensure: 1) it is
(no lights, no not correctly connected to the REMOTE port, 2) the
text on LCD connected to correct communications cable is used
display, and no REMOTE port on (a 4-conductor telephone cable may
response when inverter. be substituted to determine if cable
pressing any is good).
button)
Inverter is not Ensure inverter batteries are
connected to connected and the inverter is
batteries. operating correctly without any AC
power connected (can invert and
power AC loads from batteries).

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 58


6.0 Troubleshooting
6.1 Inverter/Charger Troubleshooting Tips
6.1.1 Inverter Problems
• Inverter turned on, green INV LED on inverter blinking, no
output: Inverter is in Search mode. Either turn off Search mode—if not
needed—or turn on loads greater than the Search Watts setting.
6.1.2 Charger Problems
• Unit won’t transfer to Charge mode with AC applied: Is charge
(CHG) LED on remote blinking? If not, then the charger does not recognize
the incoming AC being within acceptable limits. Measure the input AC voltage
at the inverter input terminals—should be 120VAC +/ 20 VAC (230 VAC +/-
40 VAC for export models). Also, check that the VAC Dropout setting on the
remote is 80 VAC or less (160 VAC or less for export models). If the CHG LED
is blinking, the transfer relay should close within 20 seconds and the unit
should then begin charging. If the LED is on solid, the transfer relay should
be closed and the charger should be charging.
• Transfer relay closes, then opens and continues to cycle: AC
voltage is too low, or has transients that drop the AC voltage momentarily.
Change the VAC Dropout setting to 60 VAC (110 VAC for export models) and
check for improvements. If the cycling continues, back off the Charge Rate
from 100% to 10% (or OFF, if available).
This cycling may also occur if the AC output of the inverter is connected to
the inverter’s AC input. Check for proper input and output AC wiring.
• Charger not charging even though CHG LED is on steady and the
unit says “Charging”: Full charge rates are not obtained in Charging mode,
only obtained after this mode changes to Bulk Charging, Absorb Charging, or
Float Charging modes.
• Charger not charging even though CHG LED is on steady and the
unit says “Bulk Charging” (or “Absorb Charging”): Check the DC Amps
and the DC Volts meters on the ME-RC display, it should be 80% or more of
rated charge current if the battery voltage is under 14.0 VDC (28.0 VDC on
24-volt models or 48.0 VDC for 48-volt models). If not, check the 05 Charge
Rate setting and verify the setting is 80% or greater. Still low charge rate?
Check the Shore Max setting to verify. If no AC loads are being ‘passed thru’
the inverter, the Shore Max setting must be 15 amps (25 amps for 3kW unit)
or greater, to receive full charge rate.
• Charger says “Float Charging” not “Bulk Charging” when the AC
is first plugged in: Check the DC Volts meter on the ME-RC display. If
the battery is over 13.0 VDC (26.0 VDC for 24-volt models or 52.0 VDC
for 48-volt models) then the battery was already charged, and the charger
automatically goes to Float Charging to keep from overcharging the batteries.
• Charge amps are lower than expected, or is 0 amps DC: Measure
input AC voltage and increase if the input voltage is under 90 VAC. The
charge rate is reduced to keep the input voltage above 90 VAC. Also, check
the Shore Max and 05 Charge Rate settings to determine if the current is
being limited.
• Charger output voltage is higher than expected: Check the Battery
Temperature Sensor (BTS) temperature. If the BTS is installed, the charge
voltage settings will increase if the temperature around the BTS is below 77°
F (25° C), and will decrease if the temperature around the BTS is higher than
77° F (25° C).

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6.0 Troubleshooting
6.2 Performing an Inverter Reset
To perform an inverter reset (i.e., “soft reset”):
1. Remove all AC power (utility or generator power) to the inverter.
2. Press and hold the inverter’s Power ON/OFF pushbutton (see Figure 6-1)
for approximately fifteen (15) seconds—until the inverter’s Charging/
Inverting Status LED comes on and flashes rapidly.
3. Once the rapid flashing has begun, release the Power ON/OFF
pushbutton. The Status LED will go off after the button is released.
4. After the inverter reset is completed, press the inverter’s Power ON/OFF
pushbutton to turn on the inverter.
Some older inverter models do not allow an inverter reset. If the inverter
reset fails, you will need to perform a power reset using the procedure below.
In either case, if an internal fault does not clear the inverter will require
repair at a Magnum Authorized Service Center (ASC).

Info: The Power ON/OFF pushbutton is a small momentary type


switch which operates by lightly pressing and releasing.

Info: All adjustable inverter/charger settings in the ME-RC (except


for SHORE menu’s Shore Max and SETUP menu’s 08 Screen Setup
settings (which revert back to default) are saved in non-volatile
memory and are preserved until changed—even if an inverter reset
is performed, or if all power to the remote or inverter is removed.

1. Ensure all AC power (i.e.,


shorepower or generator) is
removed from the inverter’s input.
2. Press and hold the Power ON/
OFF pushbutton for 15 seconds.
3. Watch the Charging/Inverting
Status LED, after approximately 15
seconds it should come on and flash
rapidly to indicate the inverter has
reset. The Status LED will go off
after the pushbutton is released.

Figure 6-1, Performing an Inverter Reset


6.3 Performing a Power Reset
To perform a power reset (i.e., “hard reset”):
1. Remove all AC power (utility or generator power) to the inverter.
2. Open all the inverter DC disconnects (or disconnect the positive battery
cable to the inverter).
3. Ensure the inverter and the remote are disconnected from all AC and DC
power (the remote display will be blank).
4. After the inverter has been disconnected from all power for 30 seconds,
reconnect the inverter DC disconnects (or reconnect the positive battery
cable) and resume operation.
Info: If DC disconnects are not used, there may be a momentary
spark when the positive battery cable is connected to the inverter’s
terminal. This is normal and indicates that the inverter’s internal
capacitors are being charged.

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7.0 Using an AGS

7.0 Using an AGS


The ME-RC remote’s AGS menus under the AGS and TECH buttons allow
you to customize and monitor the operating parameters of the ME-AGS-N
(Automatic Generator Start - Network) controller. To help configure and
operate the AGS with your ME-RC, refer to the mini index below to direct
you to the appropriate section.
7.1 AGS Setup page 61
7.2 AGS Functional Tests page 65
7.3 AGS Operation/Monitoring page 65
7.4 Enabling the AGS page 68
7.5 Starting and Stopping the Generator page 68
7.6 AGS Menu Map page 69

Inverting
DC 12.6V 5A

SHORE AGS METER SETUP TECH

AGS and TECH Buttons

Figure 7-1, ME-RC’s AGS Configuration Access Buttons

7.1 AGS Setup


Press the AGS button on ME-RC remote (Figure 7-1), and then rotate
the SELECT knob to navigate to the AGS menus. These menus allow the
generator to be automatically started and stopped based on different
parameters. Using Table 7-1, determine the specific autostart and autostop
condition with which you want the generator to be automatically controlled,
and then use that specific menu setting to configure the AGS.
Note: For information on using the AGS: 01 AGS Control, AGS: 02 AGS
Status, and AGS: 08 AGS TECH menus, refer to Section 7.3 “AGS Operation/
Monitoring”.

Table 7-1, ME-RC Autostart/Autostop Matrix


Autostart See AGS Menu Autostop See AGS Menu
Condition Condition
Gen starts on high 04 Start Temp F Gen stops after a 03 Run Time Hour
temperature, or (page 62) set time period, or (page 62)

Gen starts on low 05 Start Volts Gen stops at Quiet 07 Quiet Time
inverter battery (page 63) Time (page 64)
voltage

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7.0 Using an AGS
AGS: 03 Run Time Hour Menu
This menu provides the settings that determine the length of time the
generator will run once it has been autostarted by the AGS.
Default setting: Run Time = 2.0 Hrs
Range: 0.5 - 25.5 Hrs (0.5 hr increments)
How long should I set the generator run time? This depends on whether
you are using the high temperature or low battery voltage autostart feature.
• Using high temperature to autostart: When using the high
temperature autostart feature, the generator autostarts and runs until the
AGS: 04 Start Temp F setting is reached. This means you could set the time
to the lowest time setting (0.5 Hrs), knowing the generator will run until the
temperature setting is satisfied.
• Using low battery voltage to autostart: When using the low battery
voltage autostart feature, the generator run time is normally set to help re-
charge the batteries. Use Table 7-2 below to help determine the generator
run time setting based on the 20-hour AH capacity of your inverter’s battery
bank.
Table 7-2, Battery AmpHrs Capacity to Suggested Gen Run Time

Battery Battery
AmpHrs Suggested AmpHrs Suggested
Capacity Gen Run Time Capacity Gen Run Time

200 to 300 1 hour 1310 to 1500 4 hours


310 to 500 1.5 hours 1510 to 1700 4.5 hours
510 to 700 2 hours 1710 to 1900 5 hours
710 to 900 2.5 hours 1910 to 2100 5.5 hours
910 to 1100 3 hours 2110 to 2300 6 hours
1110 to 1300 3.5 hours 2310 to 2500 6.5 hours

AGS: 04 Start Temp F Menu


This menu allows you to set and enable a temperature value that will cause
the generator to automatically start—to power an air conditioner (A/C)
unit for cooling—based on an increase in temperature, or by using an air
conditioning thermostat control.
Info: Optional ME-PT1 or ME-PT2 pigtail adapters can be used to
connect an AC control circuit or a relay control circuit. For more
info, refer to the instruction sheet for each pigtail adapter—part #
64-0025 (ME-PT1 instructions), or #64-0026 (ME-PT2 instructions).
This temperature autostart feature requires that the AGS’s remote
temperature sensor cable or an optional ME-PT1 or ME-PT2 pigtail adapter
be connected to the REMOTE port on the AGS. The location of the remote
temperature sensor determines the area being monitored for temperature.
When the temperature around the remote temperature sensor (based on
the AGS: 08 AGS TECH menu’s Temp display) increases to the AGS: 04
Start Temp F setting, the generator automatically starts and runs based on
the AGS: 03 Run Time Hour setting. When this run time period is finished,
the temperature sensor reading is checked. If the temperature sensor (or
thermostat control—if using the optional pigtail adapter) reading is below the
AGS: 04 Start Temp F setting, the generator will autostop. If the temperature

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7.0 Using an AGS
sensor (or thermostat control) reading is above the AGS: 04 Start Temp F
setting, the generator will continue to run for a second run time period. At
the end of this second run time period, the temperature sensor reading (or
thermostat control) is checked again. This cycle continues as long as the
AGS: 01 AGS Control menu is set to Enable (or Enable w/QT).
If the temperature autostart feature is not needed, set to the OFF position.
• 65F - 95F – This setting determines the rising temperature value that
will trigger a generator autostart.
• Ext Input – This setting is used when an optional AGS adapter (PT1 or
PT2) is used. When an AGS adapter is connected to the AGS’s REMOTE port,
an external command from a thermostat connection on an A/C control unit
causes the generator to start. See the ME-PT1 or ME-PT2 instruction sheets
for info on pigtail adapters. (See 08 AGS TECH: Temp)
Default setting: StartTemp = OFF
Range: OFF, Ext Input, 65F - 95F (5 deg. increments)
Why should I use Start Temp? Typically, in a mobile application (RV or
boat) where the A/C unit is too much power for the inverter to run from the
batteries, this feature is used to start the generator to run an A/C unit. Many
RV and marine customers travel with pets and do not want them to be at risk
from dangerous inside temperatures if they are away from the coach/boat.
With this feature, you can set the A/C to turn on and then leave. If the inside
temperature rises to the start setting, the generator automatically starts to
provide power to the A/C unit. This keeps the area cool and comfortable—
plus, while the generator is on, the inverter batteries are being charged.
Where should I set Start Temp? If you are using this feature to power
an air conditioning unit, the AGS: 04 Start Temp F setting should be slightly
above the A/C unit’s thermostat “cool” temperature (usually around 70-72F).
Once the temperature setting is reached, the generator will start providing
power to the A/C unit. The reason the temperature is set above the A/C
unit’s thermostat is to ensure the A/C unit will run when the generator starts.
If the AGS’s temperature setting is below that of the air conditioning unit’s
thermostat setting, the generator will run, but the A/C unit is not calling for
a run period or cooling; your generator is running, but the power is not being
used by the A/C unit—resulting in wasted fuel and run time.
Info: If using temperature to autostart a generator that is powering
two A/C units, it is suggested that the second A/C unit’s thermostat
be set 2° to 5° higher than the first A/C unit. This staggered setting
will allow the first A/C unit to start and run in an effort to keep the
coach cool. If the temperature continues to rise inside the coach,
the second A/C unit will turn on to further cool the coach.
AGS: 05 Start Volts Menu
This menu allows you to set and enable a battery voltage value that causes
the generator to automatically start. Starting the generator on voltage is the
most common method of autostarting the generator—it is considered the
simplest and easiest to understand. When the battery voltage (on Terminals
#3 & #4) decreases to or below this setting for two continuous minutes,
the generator will automatically start and run based on the AGS: 03 Run
Time Hour setting. If the DC voltage start feature is not needed, ensure this
setting is set to the OFF position.
Default setting: Start VDC = 11.0 VDC (12v), 22.0 VDC (24v), 44.0 VDC
(48v)
Range: 10.0-12.2 VDC (12v), 20.0-24.4 VDC (24v), 40.0-48.8 VDC (48v)

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7.0 Using an AGS

Info: The default settings and range are automatically determined


based on the connected inverter and the measured VDC.

Where should I set Start Volts? When setting the VDC start voltage, it
must be high enough to not over-discharge the battery, but also low enough
to keep from nuisance starting the generator. Typically, start volts is set based
on what is determined to be approximately 50% of the battery capacity.
Since this is an inverter/battery system, and the battery is normally loaded,
the VDC used to determine 50% battery capacity should be set lower than
what is shown on typical battery voltage SOC charts (approximately 11-11.5
in a 12-volt system), which show the battery at rest (not loaded).
Info: The DC voltage the AGS uses to determine when to autostart is
displayed in the AGS: 08 AGS TECH menu under the AGS VDC meter.

AGS: 06 Set Time Menu


This menu is used to set the ME-RC remote’s internal clock. The ME-RC
contains a real time clock that must be set for proper operation of the AGS
button’s 07 Quiet Time feature. If the Quiet Time feature is not used, the
time does not need to be set.
Info: The clock obtains power from the inverter and resets if the ME-
RC is disconnected from the inverter, or the inverter is powered down.

To set the current time:


(From the 06 Set Time menu)
• Hour – Rotate the SELECT knob to the correct hour of day, and then
press SELECT.
• Minute – Rotate the SELECT knob to the correct minute setting, and
then press SELECT.
• AM-PM – Rotate the SELECT knob to the appropriate AM or PM setting,
and then press SELECT.
AGS: 07 Quiet Time Menu
This setting is used to prevent the generator from autostarting during a
specific designated time period each day.
Info: If the generator is running when the Quiet Time start time
setting is reached, it automatically stops and does not allow the
generator` to autostart until after the Quiet Time stop time setting
has passed.
To enable, access the Quiet Time menu and select a time period.
Default setting: Quiet = OFF
Range: OFF, 9PM-7AM, 9PM-8AM, 9PM-9AM, 10PM-8AM, 11PM-8AM
Why should I use Quiet Time? Quiet Time is used when there are park
rules or local noise regulations that prevent generators from running during
a certain time. It is usually set in consideration of when people may be
sleeping. If there are no local rules or regulations, you may not want to use
Quiet Time—which would allow the generator to run at any time in a 24-hour
period.
Where should I set Quiet Time? Select the time period that coincides with
any local noise requirements, or any time period that you do not want the
generator to automatically run.

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7.0 Using an AGS
7.2 AGS Functional Tests
Once you establish all the autostart/autostop settings you need, perform the
following tests to verify that the AGS system is functioning correctly and the
communication from the remote/inverter to the ME-AGS-N is correct.
7.2.1 Remote to Generator Communication Test
This section describes how to determine the current AGS status and how to
use the ME-RC remote to start the generator.
7.2.1.1 Determining AGS Status
Use your ME-RC to determine the AGS’s status by pressing the AGS button,
rotating the SELECT knob to the 02 AGS Status menu, and then pressing the
SELECT knob.
The AGS’s status should be Off or Ready. If it displays either status, then
the remote/inverter is correctly communicating with the AGS. If the AGS
status displayed is not Off or Ready, then refer to Section 7.8.2 “Resolving
Operational Statuses” or Section 7.8.3 “Resolving Fault Statuses” for
assistance before continuing.
7.2.1.2 Starting the Generator from the Remote
To confirm that the generator will turn on and run from the remote:
1. Press the AGS button, the bottom line of the remote should display the
01 AGS Control menu.
2. Press the SELECT knob and rotate it to AGS = Test.
3. Press the SELECT knob to activate the generator test.
Once the generator starts, it should run for approximately 30-60 seconds
before automatically turning off. View the AGS module’s STATUS LED and
ensure it turns solid green (solid green STATUS LED means the generator
has started successfully and is providing the gen run sense signal to the AGS
module).
Note: If the generator attempted to start but did not run, continue to wait,
the AGS will attempt to start the generator 3 more times.
If your AGS/generator system passes all three steps (may attempt an
autostart 4 times), then the wiring from the AGS to the generator is correct.
You are now ready to activate the AGS using your remote control panel.
Info: The AGS attempts to start the generator 4 times. If after 4
attempts the generator fails to start, the STATUS LED turns red—
indicating a fault.
If the remote control displays an AGS fault (under 02 AGS Status) or the
AGS module’s STATUS LED shows a fault condition (solid red LED indication),
refer to Section 7.8.3 for assistance.

7.3 AGS Operation/Monitoring


This section covers the AGS menus in the ME-RC remote that determine how
to control and operate the generator. The section also includes menus that
are used to monitor starting and running conditions for the AGS and the
generator.
7.3.1 Controlling the AGS using the ME-RC
Press the AGS button, and then rotate and press the SELECT knob to access
the following menus:

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7.0 Using an AGS
AGS: 01 AGS Control Menu
This menu is used to enable the AGS (selecting Enable or Enable
w/QT). A “Test” setting is also available to ensure the start/stop wiring from
the generator to the ME-AGS-N is correct. The available settings are:
• OFF – This option disables the AGS’s generator start/stop functions.
It also turns the generator off if it is running from an autostart command.
When OFF is selected, the generator will not start automatically. This is the
default setting. If you have an AGS fault, select OFF to clear it.
Info: If DC power is lost to the remote or to the system, this menu
resets to the default OFF position for safety.
• Enable – Select this option to have the AGS monitor temperature
(04 Start Temp F) and/or the inverter’s battery voltage (05 Start Volts) to
determine when to automatically start the generator.
• Test – Select this option to test the generator. This option starts the
generator, runs it for approximately 30-60 seconds, and then stops the
generator. Use this setting for testing generator wiring and operation. After
a successful start/stop sequence test, this selection returns to OFF.
• Enable w/QT – Select this option to have the AGS monitor temperature
(04 Start Temp F) and/or the inverter’s battery voltage (05 Start Volts) to
determine when to automatically start the generator—with the Quiet Time
parameters enabled.
WARNING: Never allow the generator to start/run in an enclosed
garage or any other type of enclosed structure without proper
ventilation. Carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless, deadly gas
may accumulate and cause serious injury or death.

7.3.2 Monitoring the AGS using the ME-RC


The following menus are helpful for the proper operation and monitoring
of your AGS/generator system. Press the AGS button, and then rotate and
press the SELECT knob to access the following menus:
AGS: 02 AGS Status Menu
This menu allows you to view the AGS’s current status. There are 14 different
status messages to identify the AGS’s current state, but only one is displayed
at any one time (refer to Figure 7-2).
Available statuses are (refer to Tables 7-3 thru 7-5 for detailed descriptions
of each):
• AC In • Off • Start Temp • Fault Temp
• Manual Run • Quiet Time • Start Test • Fault Test
• No Comm • Ready • Start VDC • Fault VDC
• Fault Gen Run • Lockout

Info: This menu is important when determining if the AGS is work-


ing correctly, or for troubleshooting an AGS installation.

Info: For any fault mode displayed in the status menu, please
refer to Section 7.8.3 “Resolving Fault Statuses” in this manual.

Note: AGS menus 03-07 were covered in Section 7.1.

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7.0 Using an AGS
AGS: 08 AGS TECH Menu
This menu displays meter data on the operating condition of the generator
and AGS, and has an AGS mode setting.
• Gen Run – Displays the number of hours the generator has been
currently running from an autostart condition. This menu does not determine
run time when the generator has been manually started.
• AGS VDC – Displays battery voltage currently connected to the AGS
(Terminals #3 & #4). This voltage is used to power the AGS and is the
voltage reading the AGS: 05 Start Volts setting is monitoring.
• Temp – Displays the current temp reading (##C/##F) of the AGS
temp sensor, and is the temperature the AGS: 04 Start Temp F setting is
monitoring to determine when to start. The following may also display:
TS Open: indicates the temperature sensor is not connected.
TS Hot: indicates a very hot temperature—usually appears because of a
short (wires crossed, touching) in the temperature sensor wires.
TS Cold: indicates a very cold temperature—usually appears because there is
an opening (not connected, cut) in the temperature sensor wires.
No Comm: there is no AGS connected.
Ext ON/Ext OFF: if an optional ME-PT1 (or ME-PT2) pigtail adapter is
connected to the AGS, and the AGS button’s 04 Start Temp F is set to Ext
Input, this display shows “Ext ON” when the ME-PT1 has +12 volts present
on its input (or the ME-PT2 is closed); and, shows Ext OFF when the ME-PT1
does not have +12 volts on its input (or the ME-PT2 is open).
• AGS Rev – Displays the software revision of the connected AGS.
Info: The AGS accessory may display a “0.0” revision for several
reasons. Either the AGS is not installed, there is no communication
because of a bad or miswired network cable, the AGS is not
powered, or the AGS is bad.
• AGS Mode – Allows you to configure the AGS to comply with RVIA
standards¹. When the AGS is set to “RV”, it is automatically disabled any
time the generator is manually turned on or off. Select Other if your system
is not for a RV, or your requirements do not need the AGS to be disabled
should the generator be manually started/stopped.
Default setting: AGS Mode = RV
Settings: RV, Other

Info: When the RV mode is used and the AGS system feature is
required, the user will need to re-enable the AGS system each time
the generator is manually turned on or off.

Info: If the AGS is automatically disabled when using RV mode,


the AGS status displays “Lockout”.

Note¹ - RV manufacturers use the NFPA 1192 Standard on Recreational


Vehicles for installing an AGS system. This standard has a requirement that
states when the generator is manually turned on or off, the AGS system
must also be turned off. Selecting the “RV” setting satisfies this requirement
by automatically disabling the AGS system when it senses that the generator
has been manually turned on or off. In installations where the requirement
to automatically disable the AGS system is not needed, the “Other” setting
can be chosen. When the AGS is in the “Other” mode, manually turning the
generator off or on will not automatically disable the AGS system.

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7.0 Using an AGS
Press the ME-RC’s TECH button, and then rotate and press the SELECT knob
to access the following menus:
TECH: 01 Temperatures Menu (AGS)
This read-only menu displays the ambient temperature reading of the AGS’s
temperature sensor (if installed).
Note: This AGS temperature meter displays the same info as the AGS: 08
AGS TECH menu’s Temp meter (see info for this meter on previous page).

TECH: 02 Revisions Menu (AGS)


This read-only menu displays the firmware revision level of the AGS module
that is installed and networked.

7.4 Enabling the AGS using the ME-RC


Before the AGS can begin operating/monitoring for an autostart condition
(using the active AGS settings in the ME-RC remote), it must be enabled.
To enable the AGS:
1. Press the AGS button. The 01 AGS Control menu displays.
2. Press the SELECT knob. The current gen control setting displays with an
arrow to the right.
3. Turn the SELECT knob to the AGS = Enable setting (or to Enable w/QT).
4. Press the SELECT knob again to select this setting. The selection arrow
appears to the right of the screen.
The AGS is now ready to automatically start/stop the generator once an
autostart condition is satisfied.
Note: If power is lost to the remote, the AGS control setting returns to the
default OFF setting. Once power is restored, you must enable the AGS again.
Note: Despite enabling the AGS, you must check the AGS’s current status
and ensure the status displays as “Ready”.

7.5 Starting/Stopping the Generator using ME-RC


The generator can be manually stopped, as well as autostarted/autostopped
using the available settings from your ME-RC.
To autostart/autostop the generator:
In order for the generator to autostart/autostop, one or more of the following
autostart/autostop conditions must be pre-set:
Autostart Conditions Autostop Conditions
• 04 Start Temp F (pages 62-63) • 03 Run Time Hour (page 62)
• 05 Start Volts (pages 63-64) • 07 Quiet Time (page 64)

To manually stop the generator (only if autostarted by AGS):


1. Press the AGS button. The 01 AGS Control menu displays.
2. Press the SELECT knob. The current gen control setting displays with an
arrow to the right.
3. Turn the SELECT knob to the AGS = OFF setting.
4. Press the SELECT knob again to select this setting. The selection arrow
appears to the right of the screen and the display returns to the 01 AGS
Control menu. The generator should stop at this time.
If the generator does not stop as expected, refer to your AGS Owner’s
Manual.

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7.0 Using an AGS
7.6 AGS Menu Map using the ME-RC

AGS

Status...
01 AGS Control
P
Status... R
Status... R Status...
AGS= OFF AGS= Enable AGS= Test
R
R Status...
AGS=Enable w/QT
Status...
02 AGS Status Read Only display
P
Status... Available Statuses:
AGS: Status
AC In Start Test
Manual Run Start VDC
R No Comm Fault Gen Run
Off Fault Temp
Quiet Time Fault Test
Ready Fault VDC
Status... Start Temp Lockout
03 Run Time Hour
P
Status... Status... Status...
R Run Time= 0.5Hr
… Run Time= 2.0Hr … Run Time=25.5Hr

Status...
04 Start Temp F
P
Status... R Status... R Status...
StartTemp = OFF Start=Ext Input StartTemp = 65F
R
Status...
R StartTemp = 95F …
Start VDC Range: 12-volt = 10.0-12.2 VDC;
Status... 24-volt = 20.0-24.4 VDC;
05 Start Volts
48-volt = 40.0-48.8 VDC
P
Status... Status... Status...
Start VDC= OFF R
Start VDC= 10.0 … Start VDC= 11.0
R
R Status...
Settings shown are

Status...
for a 12v battery Start VDC= 12.2 …
06 Set Time
P
Status... Status...
Hour = 1:00
P
… Hour = 12:00
Status... Status...
R Minute = 00:00
P
… Minute = 00:59
Status... R
Status...
AM-PM = 00:00 A AM-PM = 00:00 P

Status...
07 Quiet Time
P
Status... Status...
Quiet= OFF R Status... R
Quiet= 9PM-7AM Quiet= 9PM-8AM
R R
Status... R Status... R Status...
Quiet= 11PM-8AM Quiet= 10PM-8AM Quiet= 9PM-9AM

AGS Menu continues on next page

Figure 7-2, AGS Menu Maps in ME-RC Remote (Section 1)

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7.0 Using an AGS

AGS Cont.
Status...
08 AGS TECH Read Only displays (except AGS Mode)
P
Status... R Status... R
Status...
Gen Run: #.#Hr AGS VDC: #.# Temp: ##C/##F
R
Status... Status...
R AGS Rev:
AGS Mode:RV #.#
P
Status... Status...
R AGS Mode=Other
AGS Mode=RV
TECH

Status...
01 Temperatures Read Only displays
P
Status...
R ... AGS: ##C/##F

Status...
02 Revisions Read Only displays
P
Status...
… AGS: #.#

LEGEND

AGS Menu Button


Press button
Status... Inverter/Chrgr Status
03 Run Time Hour Menu Items

Press SELECT P
Status... Inverter/Chrgr Status
Run Time= 0.5 Hr Menu Selections
Notes: Setting
= default setting … = screens excluded due to lack of space
R = Rotate SELECT knob ## = read only data

Figure 7-3, AGS Menu Maps in ME-RC Remote (Section 2)

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7.0 Using an AGS
7.7 AGS Remote Status Messages
A status message may be an operational or a fault message. Access the AGS
status menu (AGS button’s 02 AGS Status menu) to view the AGS’s current
operating status. This menu is important when determining if the AGS is
working correctly, or for troubleshooting an AGS installation.
7.7.1 AGS Remote Operational Statuses
Refer to Table 7-3 for a brief description of the possible AGS operational
statuses that may display.

Table 7-3, AGS Remote Operational Statuses


STATUS DESCRIPTION
AC In The inverter/charger is connected to another source such as
a grid or an alternate generator, and is not controlled by the
AGS. When AC In displays, the AGS is prevented or locked out
from all autostarting conditions, except for when the generator
needs to exercise—if enabled.
Lock- Lockout occurs when the AGS system is automatically disabled
out because the generator has been started or stopped for any
condition outside the control of the AGS.
Note: When a Lockout status occurs, the AGS: 01 AGS Control menu
automatically changes from Enable (or Enable w/QT) to OFF. For
assistance in clearing or disabling this status, refer to Section 7.8.2.
Note: This lockout is a requirement for RV installations—per RVIA. For
installations where the requirement to automatically disable the AGS
system is not needed, the AGS mode can be changed to “Other”. For
information, refer to Section 7.8.2 and on the AGS Mode under the AGS:
08 AGS TECH menu on page 74.
Manual Generator was started manually from a switch directly
Run connected to the generator, and the AGS Mode = Other (if the
AGS Mode=RV, a Lockout fault displays instead).
Note: The AGS determines that the gen has been manually turned on
if the gen run sense voltage is detected on Terminal #2 of the AGS’s
8-port terminal. However, if the Gen Type DIP switch is set to “2-Wire
Standby”—which does not require the gen run sense voltage—manually
turning the gen on displays “AC In” rather than “Manual Run”.
No The AGS is not communicating with the inverter/remote. This is
Comm a normal status if there is no AGS (Network version) connected
in the system. If an AGS is installed, then refer to Section 7.8.2
“Resolving Operational Statuses”.
Off The AGS: 01 AGS Control menu is set to OFF. This setting will
not allow the AGS to autostart the generator.
Quiet The ME-AGS-N has entered Quiet Time per the AGS: 07 Quiet
Time Time setting.
Note: The generator will not autostart during Quiet Time.
Ready The AGS: 01 AGS Control menu is set to Enable or Enable w/
QT, and the AGS is ready to automatically start the generator
based on the AGS button’s active autostart settings.

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7.0 Using an AGS
7.7.2 AGS Remote Start Statuses
The following “Start” statuses identify the condition that autostarted the
generator. If you determine that the autostart condition occurred sooner
than expected (or didn’t want this autostart condition), refer to the Setup
section for that condition to change (or defeat) the autostart setting.
Table 7-4, AGS Remote Start Statuses

STATUS DESCRIPTION
Start Temp The generator has started based on the AGS: 04 Start
Temp F setting.
Start Test The AGS is in Test mode. Test mode may be started from
the red TEST button located on the AGS or by selecting
“Test” from the AGS: 01 AGS Control menu (refer to
your AGS Owner’s Manual for further information).
Start VDC The generator has started based on the AGS: 05 Start
Volts setting.

7.7.3 AGS Remote Fault Statuses


The following “Fault” statuses indicate that the generator wasn’t able to start
based on an expected autostart condition. Refer to Section 7.8.3 “Resolving
Fault Statuses” for help in diagnosing the problem.

Table 7-5, AGS Remote Fault Statuses

STATUS DESCRIPTION
Fault Gen Run The generator stopped before the autostop condition
was satisfied.
Fault Temp The generator failed the autostart cycle in Start Temp
mode.
Fault Test The generator failed the autostart cycle in Test mode.
Fault VDC The generator failed the autostart cycle in Start VDC
mode.

7.7.4 General AGS Operational Notes


• If a fault condition occurs, select the OFF setting from the 01 AGS
Control menu, and then select Enable or Test. If the problem persists, refer
to your AGS Owner’s Manual.
• When AGS control is set to Enabled and an autostart condition occurs,
it attempts an automatic generator start. This is done by closing its internal
relays (based on the Gen Type selection) to control the starter—much like
a person does when manually starting the generator. The starter is turned
on for short periods of time and then turned off. If the AGS determines that
the engine has started while cranking (STATUS indicator lights solid green),
the starter is turned off after a short delay. If the engine does not start,
another attempt is made to turn on the starter after a long delay period.
This is repeated until the generator starts or until all its start attempts are
reached, which causes the AGS to go into a fault condition (indicated by a
blinking FAULT indication on the remote and a solid red STATUS indicator on
the AGS Module).

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7.0 Using an AGS
• When the gen control setting in the remote is in the OFF position, all
generator autostart functions are disabled and the AGS module’s STATUS
indicator will also be off.
• If using the temperature autostart feature in an RV coach, set the air
conditioner thermostat slightly less than the setting (04 Start Temp F menu).
If using two air conditioners, set the second air conditioner thermostat 2° to
5° higher than the first air conditioner. This staggered setting will allow the
first air conditioner to start and run in an effort to keep the coach cool. If the
temperature continues to rise inside the coach, the second air conditioner
will turn on to further cool the coach.
• When the generator starts successfully, the STATUS indicator on the
AGS module will turn solid green. The generator will run until an autostop
condition is reached or until it is manually turned off; at which time a stop
signal will be sent to the generator.
• If the generator is running when the AGS module’s TEST button is
pressed (or the Test setting is selected from the 01 AGS Control menu),
the generator will stop and then start again. The generator will then run for
approximately 30-60 seconds before shutting off.
• When using a ME-RC remote, there is a two-minute delay before the
AGS attempts to start the generator if the voltage to the AGS module falls to
the 05 Start Volts setting. There is no delay if the AGS attempts to start the
generator when the temperature around the remote AGS temp sensor rises
to the 04 Start Temp F setting.
• Several autostart/autostop settings can be active at once. However,
once an autostart condition becomes active, all other autostart conditions
are ignored until the specific condition that caused the generator to start is
satisfied by its autostop condition. Once the generator has completed this
autostart/autostop cycle, the AGS immediately begins to monitor for any
active autostart/autostop settings again.

7.8 Troubleshooting the AGS with the ME-RC


This section assists you in using your ME-RC to identify a fault, and to resolve
an abnormal operational condition detected within your AGS system.
7.8.1 AGS Fault Message Screens for the ME-RC Remote
When an AGS fault is detected, the remote’s FAULT LED comes on (blinks),
and the AGS fault status is displayed on the top line of the LCD screen
(alternates with the inverter/charger status). Figure 7-4 is an example of
how fault messages appear on the ME-RC remote. Use the remote’s LCD
screen and the information in this section to identify and correct the issue.

Blinking (red)
AGS Status**
FAULT LED
PWR
FAULT
** AGS fault status
Fault Temp alternates with inverter/
CHG Settings/Info..
INV
charger status (scrolling).

Inverter/Charger Setting/Info

Figure 7-4, Example: AGS Fault Message on ME-RC Remote

73 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


7.0 Using an AGS
7.8.2 Resolving Operational Statuses
The following operational statuses can display on your remote control, and
some may indicate an abnormal condition. Use the info below to resolve.
• No Comm – This is a normal status if there is no AGS installed. If an
AGS is installed, use the information below to determine the remedy.
Remedy: If an AGS is installed, then follow these steps:
1. Ensure the green READY indicator on the AGS module is on
(blinking or solid) to indicate the AGS is getting power.
2. Ensure the communications cable is connected from the inverter’s
Network port to the AGS’s NETWORK port.
3. Ensure you have the correct communications cable.
• AC In – A normal status when the input to the inverter/charger is
connected to an AC source such as utility/grid power, or to an alternate
generator that may not be controlled by the AGS.
Remedy: The AC In status prevents the AGS from autostarting. To
enable the AGS to autostart the generator, remove any AC power
connected to the input of the inverter/charger.
• Lockout – This status indicates the AGS has been configured to comply
with RVIA requirements (for use in an RV). Lockout displays whenever the
generator is started/stopped for any condition outside the control of the
AGS. To clear or disable this status, refer to the remedies below.
Remedy: To clear a Lockout status: Go to the AGS: 01 AGS Control
menu (the current setting should be AGS = OFF), then press the
SELECT knob to re-enter the “OFF” selection. Once you re-select
the OFF setting, the Lockout status clears (now should read “OFF”).
You must re-enable the AGS for autostart operation by changing the
AGS control from AGS = OFF to AGS = Enable, or AGS = Enable w/
QT (under the AGS: 01 AGS Control menu).
Remedy: To disable the Lockout feature: If the AGS is not used
in an RV installation (or you do not need to comply with RVIA
requirements), you can disable the Lockout feature. Under the AGS:
08 AGS TECH menu, access the AGS Mode setting and change it
from RV to Other (AGS Mode = Other).
7.8.3 Resolving Fault Statuses
For these faults, refer to the remedy that follows.
• Fault Temp – The generator failed to autostart and run per the 04 Start
Temp F menu’s start parameters.
• Fault Test – The generator failed to start and run after pressing the red
TEST pushbutton on the AGS module.
• Fault VDC – The generator failed to autostart and run per the 05 Start
Volts menu’s start parameters.

Remedy: Fault message may display on the remote control if:


A. The AGS attempts to start the generator four times, but the gen
failed to start and run per the specific autostart parameters; or,
B. The generator started, but did not provide the correct gen run
sense signal to the AGS module. For either scenario, refer to the
AGS Owner’s Manual to troubleshoot.

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7.0 Using an AGS
• Fault Gen Run – The generator successfully started and ran for more
than two minutes, but the generator unexpectedly stopped by itself before
the active AGS autostop condition was finished.
Info: The AGS module determines the generator is running by
monitoring the gen run sense voltage/signal. When this gen run
sense voltage/signal is no longer available, the AGS thinks the gen
is off or has stopped.
Info: Gen run fault detection is not active if the generator is
manually started.

Remedy:
A. If the generator is still running: Confirm you are getting the
correct gen run sense signal to the AGS module. For further
assistance, refer to your AGS Owner’s Manual.
B. If the generator is not running: Check the generator for
fault codes and adequate fuel. If neither is an issue, check the
generator’s owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips to determine
why it may have shut down on its own.

7.8.4 How to Clear AGS Faults


Go to the AGS: 01 AGS Control menu and select AGS= OFF.
Note: After the fault clears and the reason for the fault is determined, be
sure to re-enable the AGS to autostart. Go to the AGS: 01 AGS Control menu
and select AGS= Enable or AGS= Enable w/QT.
Once the fault is cleared and the reason for the fault is determined, you
should re-enable the AGS to see if the fault returns, or test the AGS/
generator system by performing the AGS Functional Test for your remote
(see your AGS Owner’s Manual).

75 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


8.0 Using a BMK

8.0 Using a BMK


This section discusses how to set up and monitor Magnum’s BMK (Battery
Monitor Kit) using the menu options in the ME-RC remote.
8.1 Setting Up the BMK using the ME-RC
Use the BMK SETUP menus to establish your battery’s charge efficiency and
to set the capacity of the battery bank (AH size). Use the ME-RC remote’s
METER button to access the Charge Efficiency menu (see Figure 8-1 below).

METER
view

Status... rotate
press 01 INV/CHG Meter to
Status... press to
05 BM: Setup select

Figure 8-1, Accessing the BM Setup Menu

8.1.1 Charge Efficiency Setting


What is charge efficiency? When a certain amount of energy is removed or
discharged from the battery, this removed energy will need to be returned to
keep the batteries at a 100% state of charge. As batteries are being charged,
they lose energy; either in the form of heat, or while gassing. This loss of
energy while charging means the battery will not be fully charged if you
only return the current that was removed. To compensate for the battery’s
inefficiencies while charging, a charge efficiency setting is provided. The
charge efficiency setting compensates the AH I/O (Amp-Hrs In/Out) reading
by ensuring the AH returned to the battery are greater than the AH removed.
Example: The AH I/O display reads “000” and you begin powering a 25-amp
load for two hours—the display will show -050. This indicates that you have
discharged 50 AH (2 x 25) from the battery. If the charge efficiency setting is
set to 95%, then as you begin charging and return 50 AH, the AH I/O reading
will be less than zero, indicating that the AH removed have not been fully
returned. The 95% charge efficiency setting requires 52.5 AH (50/95) to be
returned before the AH I/O returns to 0.
8.1.1.1 Accessing the Charge Efficiency Setting
Normally, the ME-BMK battery monitor automatically calculates the battery’s
efficiency. To change from the Auto default setting, press the ME-RC remote’s
METER button. After pressing the METER button, the 01 INV/CHG Meter
menu should appear; from this menu, rotate the SELECT knob to the 05 BM:
Setup menu to access and adjust the Charge Eff menu (see Figures 8-1 and
8-2).
• Charge Eff – This setting allows the battery monitor to calculate
the battery’s charge efficiency. The charge efficiency can be calculated
automatically using the Auto setting, or can be calculated based on a fixed
efficiency value that either you have determined, or were recommended to use.
Default setting: Auto
Range: Auto, 50%-99%

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8.0 Using a BMK

From the From the


following menu: following menu:
Status... Status...
05 BM: Setup BM Charge Eff rotate to
desired
press the press the selection: press to
SELECT knob SELECT knob save

Stat us... Stat us... Stat us... Stat us...


Chg Eff=Auto Chg Eff= 50% Chg Eff= 60% ....... Chg Eff= 97%

Figure 8-2, Changing the Charge Efficiency Setting

8.1.1.2 Changing the Charge Efficiency Setting


The factory default charge efficiency setting is Auto. This setting allows the
battery monitor to automatically calculate variables that affect the charging
efficiency, such as battery type, battery age, and how the batteries are
maintained—which is not always constant. With the Auto setting, the efficiency
is automatically recalculated each time the batteries reach a 100% state of
charge (SOC).
The charge efficiency setting can also be set to a fixed value from 50% to 99%
if the battery’s charge efficiency is known. With a setting other than Auto,
the battery monitor uses the fixed setting to calculate the AH I/O display,
under the 03 BM: Meters menu. For example, if you set the charge efficiency
to 90% and 100 AH are removed from the battery, the AH I/O display would
read 000 only after 111 AH have been returned to the battery.

CAUTION: The factory default charge efficiency setting is Auto,


which allows the charging efficiency to be automatically calculated.
In most circumstances, this setting determines the best charge
efficiency. If you do not know your battery’s charging efficiency,
leave it at the factory default setting (Auto). If the setting is
adjusted to a fixed value, but this value is not correct, the state-of-
charge information will become more inaccurate with every charge.
To access the AH I/O display: Press the METER button, then turn the
SELECT knob until the 03 BM: Meters menu appears, press the SELECT knob
again, and then turn the SELECT knob to the AH I/O display.
After several charge/discharge cycles (below 80% SOC), the AH I/O reading
should be slightly positive when the 02 BM: SOC Batt SOC display reads 99%.
To view the Batt SOC display: Press the METER button, then turn the
SELECT knob until the 02 BM: SOC menu appears. If the AH I/O reading
is below 000 (negative#) when the Batt SOC display reads 99%, then
increase the charge efficiency setting. If you find that the AH I/O reading
is substantially above zero when Batt SOC reads 99%, then decrease the
charge efficiency setting.

77 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


8.0 Using a BMK
8.1.2 Batt AmpHrs Setting
8.1.2.1 Accessing and Setting the Batt AmpHrs Setting
Press the METER button on the ME-RC, and then rotate the SELECT knob
until the display shows the 05 BM: Setup menu. When the 05 BM: Setup
menu appears, press the SELECT knob to display the BM Charge Eff menu
item. Turn the SELECT knob until the BM Amp Hours menu appears. Press
the SELECT knob to display the current Batt Amphr setting. Turn the SELECT
knob to adjust the Batt AmpHr setting. Press the SELECT knob to select and
save the new setting (see Figure 8-3 below).
CAUTION: It is important that the METER button’s 05 BM: Setup
menu’s Batt Amphrs setting is correct or else the calculations used
to determine the 02 BM: SOC display will be inaccurate.
• AmpHour Size – This setting is used by the battery monitor to calculate
the battery’s SOC. The AH size represents the amount of energy the battery
can deliver.
Default setting: 400 AH
Range: 200-2500 AH
Rotate SELECT
From the
knob to the
following menu:
following menu:
Status... Status...
05 BM: Setup rotate to
BM Amp Hours desired
press the press
press the selection:
SELECT knob to save
SELECT knob
Stat us... Stat us... Stat us...
Batt Amphr= 200 ....... Batt Amphr= 400 ....... Batt Amphr=2500
Figure 8-3, Adjusting the AmpHour Size

Where do I set the AmpHour Size setting? Select a setting based on the
20-hr AmpHour capacity of the battery bank.
How do I determine my Battery Amp-Hour capacity? Refer to the
battery manufacturer to obtain the 20-hr amp-hour capacity of your particular
batteries. Use this capacity and the total amount of batteries to determine
the AmpHour capacity of the inverter battery bank.
Info: For batteries in parallel strings – add the AHr capacity of
each string (Ex.: three 250 AH batteries in parallel = 750 AH).
For batteries in a series string – use the amp-hour capacity of one
battery (Ex.: three 250 AH batteries in series = 250 AH).
Info: The batteries should be a deep-cycle type and rated either
by AH or reserve capacity in minutes.
• Amp-hour (AH) capacity is a measurement of how many amps a
battery can deliver for a specified length of time (usually 20 hours)
until the voltage achieves 1.75 VDC/cell at 80°F/27°C.
• Reserve Capacity (RC) is a measure of how many minutes a
battery can deliver a certain amount of current (usually 25A) and
maintain a voltage above 1.75 VDC/cell at 80°F/27°C. If using the
Reserve Capacity (25A), the 20-hour AH capacity can be estimated
by multiplying ‘minutes reserve capacity’ by 50%.

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8.0 Using a BMK
8.2 ME-RC50 Remote’s BMK METER Menu Maps
The diagram below is a complete overview of the battery monitor settings
and information displays available from the ME-RC50 remote’s METER menu.

METER METER
R
Status...
02 BM: SOC
P
Status...
Batt SOC: ##%
R
Status...
03 BM: Meters
P
Status... Status... Status...
DC Volts: #.## R DC Amps: + #.# R AH I/O: + #
R
Status... R Status...
R tAH Out: #.#k rAH Out: #.#
Status...
04 BM: Status
Factory Fault
P
Status... No Comm
BM: Status... Pwr-up Fault
R Ready
Status...
05 BM: Setup
P
Status...
BM Charge Eff
P
Status... Status... Status...
Chg Eff= Auto R Chg Eff= 50% R Chg Eff= 60%
R R
Status... Status...
BM Amp Hours Chg Eff= 97% .....
P
Status... Status... Status...
R Batt Amphr= 200 ... Batt Amphr=400 ... BattAmphr=2500

Status...
06 BM: TECH
P
Status... Status... Status...
BM Rev: #.# R Min DC: #.## R Max DC: #.##

ME – RC50 LEGEND
METER Menu Button
Status... Inverter/Charger Status
01 Search Watts Menu Items
P Status... Inverter/Charger Status
Search= 5W Menu Selections
= default setting ## = read only data
P = press SELECT knob R = rotate SELECT knob
… = screens excluded due to lack of space
= Resettable Menu Selections
(press & hold SELECT knob for 5 secs to reset values)

Figure 8-4, ME-RC50 METER Menu Map (Displays w/BMK Settings)

79 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


8.0 Using a BMK
8.3 Operating the BMK using the ME-RC
This section explains how the BMK battery monitor works, and how to use
the ME-RC50 remote control to obtain battery bank information. It also
covers the various LCD displays that are related to the battery monitor and
the status of the Sense Module’s LED indicator.
8.3.1 How the Battery Monitor (ME-BMK) Operates
The ME-BMK battery monitor uses a precision resistor known as a shunt
to measure current flow into and out of the battery. The shunt provides a
small voltage to the Sense Module that is proportional to the current flow.
When current starts flowing into or out of the battery, the Sense Module
measures the current flow and determines the amount of current removed
from and returned to the battery. The amount of current (or AHrs) removed
or returned is displayed on the remote control as the AH I/O (AHrs In/
Out). The AH I/O number is compensated by a charging efficiency value that
accounts for energy loses while charging, and is one of the factors used to
determine the battery’s State Of Charge (SOC).
The battery’s state of charge—which is the best indicator of the condition of
the batteries—is indicated on the Batt SOC display. This display will show that
the batteries are fully charged (i.e., Batt SOC = 100%) once the following
three conditions have been met:
1. The charging voltage has stabilized over a period of time.
2. The charging current has decreased to a low percentage of the amp-hour
capacity—normally less than 2%.
3. The AHrs that were removed from the battery are within 1% of fully being
returned.
After the batteries have reached 100% SOC and have discharged ≥0.5% of
the battery capacity setting, the charge efficiency value will be recalculated
and the AH I/O read-out will reset to the recalculated value.
Info: Charging from a generator (non-inverter topology) adds some
concern about the cost of fuel. A balance should be considered
between the use of fuel and the need to charge your batteries to
100% SOC—to maintain the full service life of a battery. Batteries
discharged to 50% SOC and then normally recharged to 85-90% SOC
would be an efficient compromise between fuel cost and battery life.
Trying to restore the last 10-15% of a full battery charge requires
a long time—typically several hours.

8.4 ME-RC METER Menu Items and Settings for BMK


Press the METER button on the ME-RC to access the different meters that
determine the status of the inverter/charger and battery system.
01 INV/CHG Meter – This menu provides the DC voltage and current of the
inverter/charger when inverting or charging. These are not BMK readings.
02 BM: SOC – This display is the best way to monitor the actual state of
the battery. The read only display shows the State Of Charge (SOC) for the
connected battery bank. The SOC represents the condition of the battery as
a percentage of the available capacity left in the battery. The range is 0% to
100%, where 100% represents a fully charged battery and 0% means the
battery is completely discharged.

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8.0 Using a BMK
When the Sense Module is first connected, the batteries will need to be fully
charged (i.e., Batt SOC = 100%) at least once to establish a SOC reference
point. While this reference point is being calculated, the display will show
“Think’n”, to indicate that the SOC reference point is being calculated. After
the batteries are fully charged, the display will change from Think’n to 100%
and begin to provide accurate SOC percentage values.
Info: Think’n can take up to several days depending on the charge
source and its ability to completely recharge the batteries (e.g., a
small PV array may not be large enough to replace all the AHrs in
a reasonable amount of time).
If the Sense Module is disconnected from power, this display resets to Think’n
and the batteries will require another full charge before this display begins
providing SOC percentage information.
Info: If using lead-acid type batteries, try to limit battery discharging
to 50% of capacity (keep battery above 50% SOC). If batteries are
allowed to be continually discharged below 50% SOC, their effective
service life will be considerably shorter. This 50% rule has been
determined to be the best compromise between available energy
and the maximum number of discharge cycles a battery can provide.
03 BM: Meters – This menu shows the battery bank’s DC voltage, DC
current, and AH information that has been provided by the battery meter.
The values for these meter displays are updated each second.
• DC Volts – Displays the real-time battery voltage from 7.00 to 70.00
volts (± 0.02 volts).
• DC Amps – Displays the real-time charge current (amps into the
battery) or discharge current (amps out of the battery). Charging is shown
as a positive (+) number and discharging is shown as a negative (-) number.
The range is from ±0.1 to 999 amps, with a 1.0% accuracy.
• AH I/O (Amp-Hours In/Out) – Displays the AHrs returned to/
removed from the battery. When the value is positive, it represents AHrs
returned to the battery during any subsequent charging. A negative value
represents AHrs removed from a full battery. The range is ±32,768 AH.
When using the charge efficiency’s Auto setting, the AH I/O value is
recalculated after the battery has been fully charged (i.e., 100% SOC) and
≥0.5% of the battery capacity has been discharged. If the Sense Module is
disconnected from power, the AH I/O value resets to zero.
Info: The AH I/O display correlates with the battery’s Batt Amphr
setting to help determine the 02 BM: SOC display.

Info: AH I/O example: if you run a 10-amp load for three hours,
the display will show -30 AH. When you begin charging, the display
will count from -30 AH back toward 0 AH.
• rAH Out (Resettable AHrs Removed) – This meter displays
the total AHrs removed from the battery since it was last reset. This
display can be used as a battery load indicator to help identify and
monitor the battery load consumption. The range is 0 to 65,535.0
AHrs (0.1 amp-hour resolution).
To reset the AHrs value to zero, press and hold the rotary SELECT knob for
>5 seconds when this display is shown. After this display has been reset,
it will begin calculating and displaying new rAH Out values. This display
automatically resets to zero if the Sense Module is disconnected from power.

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8.0 Using a BMK
• tAH Out (Total AHrs Removed) – This meter displays the total AHrs
removed from the battery since the Sense Module was first connected. This
display can be used as a battery service life indicator. The value is displayed
in 0.1k [or 100 AHrs (“k” equals 1000)] resolution up to a maximum of
6,553.5k AHrs (6,553,500 AHrs). The displayed number resets to 0.0k when
the Sense Module is disconnected from power.
04 BM: Status – This menu selection offers read only displays that give the
current operating status of the battery monitor. This selection also provides
information to determine if there is a power-up fault condition.
• BM: Factory Fault – The BMK has lost its calibration setpoints that
were established at the factory.
• BM: No Comm – The battery monitor is not communicating with the
remote. This typically means a ME-BMK is not installed in the system. If
installed, view the Sense Module LED and refer to your BMK owner’s manual
to help determine the issue.
• BM: Pwr-up Fault – The battery monitor faulted when it was powered-
up. The fault occurred because the power-up self-test failed. Refer to your
BMK owner’s manual.
• BM: Ready – The battery monitor is connected and actively monitoring
the battery system.
05 BM: Setup – This menu allows the battery’s charging efficiency to be
automatically calculated or manually selected, and the battery’s amp-hours to
be set. Refer to Section 8.1.1 for more information on the Charge Efficiency
setting, and to Section 8.1.2 for the Batt AmpHr setting.
06 BM: TECH – These menu selections allow you to access the system
information used to assist service technicians in troubleshooting the battery
monitor or the charging system.
• BM Rev – This read only menu displays the firmware revision level of
the connected battery monitor. If the battery monitor is not connected or not
communicating, the display will show “0.0”.
Min DC – This menu displays the lowest battery voltage since the
last reset. The voltage shown on the display is averaged each second,
and is helpful when troubleshooting or detecting an over-discharge
condition.
To reset this display, press and hold the rotary SELECT knob (~45-60
seconds) while the Min DC display is shown. After this value has been reset,
the display will begin monitoring and showing new minimum DC input values.
If the battery monitor is not connected or not communicating, the display
will show “0.0”.
Max DC – This menu displays the highest battery voltage since the last reset.
The voltage shown on the display is averaged each second, and this allows
you to check your charging system (battery charger, charge controller, etc.,)
to ensure the charging voltage has been attained. This display is also helpful
when troubleshooting or detecting if an over-charge condition has occurred.
To reset this display, press and hold the rotary SELECT knob (~45-60 seconds)
while the Max DC display is shown. After this value has been reset, the
display will begin monitoring and showing new maximum DC input values. If
the battery monitor is not connected or not communicating, the display will
show “0.0”.

© 2020 Sensata Technologies 82


9.0 Warranty Information

9.0 Warranty Information


9.1 Warranty Statement
Sensata Technologies (hereafter “Sensata”) warrants the ME-RC remote to be
free from defects in material and workmanship that result in product failure
during normal usage, according to the following terms and conditions:
1. The limited warranty for this product extends for a maximum of 12 months
from the product’s original date of purchase.
2. The limited warranty extends to the original purchaser of the product and
is not assignable or transferable to any subsequent purchaser.
3. During the limited warranty period, Sensata will repair or replace at our
option any defective parts—or any parts that will not properly operate
for their intended use—with factory new or remanufactured replacement
items if such repair or replacement is needed because of product
malfunction or failure during normal usage. The limited warranty does
not cover defects in appearance, or cosmetic, decorative, structural or
non-operative parts. Sensata’s limit of liability under this warranty shall
be the actual cash value of the product at the time the original purchaser
returns the product for repair, determined by the price paid by the original
purchaser. Sensata shall not be liable for any other losses or damages.
4. Upon request from Sensata, the original purchaser must prove the
product’s original date of purchase by a dated bill of sale, itemized receipt.
5. The original purchaser shall return the product prepaid to Sensata. After
the completion of service under this limited warranty, Sensata will return
the product prepaid to the original purchaser via a Sensata selected
non-expedited surface freight within the contiguous United States and
Canada; this excludes Alaska and Hawaii.
6. If Sensata repairs or replaces a product, its warranty continues for
the remaining portion of the original warranty period or 90 days from
the date of the return shipment to the original purchaser, whichever is
greater. All replaced products and parts removed from repaired products
become the property of Sensata.
7. This limited warranty is voided if:
• the product has been modified without authorization.
• the serial number has been altered or removed.
• the product has been damaged from abuse, neglect, accident, high
voltage or corrosion.
• the product was not installed and operated according to the owner’s
manual.
9.2 Warranty Service
If your product requires warranty service, contact Sensata Technologies at
[email protected].
When returning your product directly to Sensata, you must:
1. Return the unit in the original, or equivalent, shipping container.
2. Receive a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number from Sensata
prior to the return of the product for service.
3. Place RMA number clearly on the shipping container or the packing slip.
When sending your product for service, please ensure it is properly packaged.
Damage due to inadequate packaging is not covered under warranty.
We recommend sending the product by traceable and insured service.
BEFORE RETURNING ANY UNIT, A RETURN MATERIAL
AUTHORIZATION (RMA) NUMBER IS REQUIRED

83 © 2020 Sensata Technologies


Magnum Energy Products

Manufactured by:

Sensata Technologies

www.SensataPower.com

ME-RC Owner’s Manual (PN: 64-0003 Rev H)

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