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Just as there are types of engines (gas,
diesel, etc.), there are types of inverters (or different technologies).
Cost plays a part. You can still find low-tech, square-wave inverters
for sale. They're grossly inefficient, using most of the electricity
they consume just to run themselves. Their simple electronics
lead to other problems also -- such as square TV pictures. But
they're CHEAP! If you're just going to run a simple item for
a few minutes, you might get by with one of these for $75 (for
about 200 watts) and up. A few of the "rotary" inverters
are still available (an electric motor turns an alternator).
Also very inefficient and noisy, they're also cheap. Except for
special cases, like a huge power tool operated for a few minutes,
this type can be ignored.
Technological advances have led to very sophisticated, solid-state
inverters. From 100 to over 5,000 watts, ultra-efficient, with
all sorts of advantages. Some of these use less than 10% of the
energy consumed when fully loaded and way less than 1% at lesser
inputs to run their own components. Phenomenal! At first glance,
these are not cheap. But in terms of efficiency and the $ per
watt cost compared to what you get out of them, they're cheaper
than the el-cheapos. Some can be held in your palm and simply
plugged into a 12VDC receptacle. Other, larger output models,
require elaborate installation. Some have features and options
well worth an added cost.
phred Tinseth © 1998-2000 Reproduction Permitted
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