Charger/Inverter

[Freespool]

Hello all,
I am looking for recommendations for a charger inverter for my newly purchased (used 2006) 2530. I want a 3 bank at least 40 amp charger and at least 1800 watt inverter.
I was leaning toward purchasing a Zantrax inverter charger combo but the reviews on West Marine's site were very poor. I would like to keep the price around 500 dollars.
Also, can someone please explain the sine technology?

 

[tmjewett]

At the risk of having my ears pinned back by someone who knows more than I do......

Sine wave current as opposed to square wave. Square wave is less expensive to create but the resulting current in "choppy" as the current stops flowing for a micro second while the direction of flow is reversed. Sine wave generators produce a smooth transition of cycles in which the current gradually changes from plus to minus.

Many devices do not get on along very well with square wave current. This is information I gathered during my life as a computer guy. Given the number of computers we all have on our boats these days I'd be very careful about introducing a square wave generator.

The short version is, if you are looking at a more expensive device that produces sine wave current I'd go for it without even pausing.

 

[sparky]

Sine-wave inverters produce true 120VAC. Square wave inverters produce a chopped AC that can play havoc on sensitive electronics.

Xantrex inverters are good. We've got a 2kW and a 600w inverter, both ProWatt models. I bought them through Amazon. The ProSine is a much better unit, and is marine-rated.

I've got no experience with Inverter-Chargers, but we've had good luck with Xantrex.

What are you planning on running for electronics?