The Differences in Sine Wave and Quasi Inverters
Power generated by a solar panel or from a battery is direct current (DC). Electricity produced by your local utility company comes in the form of alternating current (AC). Because most electrical devices run on AC power you will need a conversion device, known as an inverter, if you wish to power them with DC. An inverter converts DC into AC, allowing the operation of most electrical devices. Two types of inverters are sine wave and quasi sine wave. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wave
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Sine wave refers to the wave, or signal, made by the inverter. It is a smooth line that follows a predictable path and provides the same steady electrical current as the power company. It differs from a quasi sine wave that produces a somewhat choppy wave. Quasi sine waves cause problems with electrical devices due to the nature of their waves.
Quality
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In the United States, most manufacturers make electrical devices that operate on AC power. Because wave inverters produce the same type of current, the quality of operation remains the same, whether the device is a television, computer or light fixture. However, the same does not apply for quasi inverters. While it is true that some electrical equipment (e.g., computers and radios) work fine with a quasi inverter, problems occur with other items. For example, any device that normally makes a noise, such as a ceiling fan, will likely make more noise with a quasi. In addition, the picture from a television will not be as sharp and any device with a timer may not be accurate.
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Power
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Sine wave inverters pull a normal amount of power, while quasi inverters draw more power for certain electrical devices. This occurs in motorized devices, which run out of phase due to the quasi wave. The additional power pulled by these motors causes them to run hot and shortens their lifespan.
Cost
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The cost of purchasing a quasi sine wave inverter is considerably less than that of a sine wave inverter. However, the decision to expend the additional money depends upon the type and usage of the inverter and whether or not the problems caused by the quasi will affect your electrical devices.
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References
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