Copyright 2003 OutBack Power Systems, Inc. FX & VFX “E” Series Inverter/Charger System Installation & Programming Manual
19009 62
nd
Ave NE, Arlington WA 98223 USA
Tel 360 435 6030 Fax 360 435 6019 Rev 7.0 07/02/04
Page 7
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
1. Before using the FX, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) the FX, (2) the batteries and (3) all appropriate sections
of this installation and operation manual.
2. CAUTION - To reduce risk of injury, charge only deep-cycle lead acid, lead antimony, lead calcium, gel cell or absorbed glass mat
type rechargeable batteries. Other types of batteries may burst, causing personal injury and damage.
3. The FX is approved for indoor mounting only in any position.
4. Do not disassemble the FX. Refer servicing to a qualified service center when service or repair is required. Incorrect re-assembly
may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
5. To reduce risk of electric shock, disconnect all wiring before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. Turning off the FX may not
reduce this risk. Solar modules may produce hazardous voltages when exposed to light - cover them with opaque material before
servicing any connected equipment.
6. WARNING - WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF A LEAD ACID BATTERY IS DANGEROUS. BATTERIES GENERATE
EXPLOSIVE GASES DURING NORMAL OPERATION. Provide ventilation to outdoors from the battery compartment. The
battery enclosure should be designed to prevent accumulation and concentration of hydrogen gas in “pockets” at the top of the
enclosure. Vent the battery compartment from the highest point. A sloped lid can also be used to direct the flow of hydrogen to
the vent opening at the highest possible location.
7. NEVER charge a frozen battery.
8. No terminals or lugs are required for hook-up of the AC wiring. AC wiring must be copper wire and rated for 75°C or higher.
Battery cables must be rated for 75°C or higher. Crimped and sealed copper ring terminal lugs with a 5/16”-3/8” (8mm-10mm)
hole should be used to connect the battery cables to the DC terminals of this FX. Soldered cable lugs are also acceptable.
9. Torque all AC wiring connections to 30 inch-pounds (equivalent to 2.5 foot-pounds or 3.4 Nm).
10. Torque the DC connections to 60 inch-pounds (equivalent to 5 foot-pounds or 6.8 Nm).
11. Be careful with tools to reduce the risk of dropping metal objects onto batteries. It may short-circuit the batteries or other electrical
parts resulting in fire or explosion.
ADDITIONAL NOTICES
1. For instructions on mounting, see the MOUNTING section of this manual.
2. For battery installation and maintenance: read the battery manufacturer's instructions prior to installation and operation.
3. All installations must comply with local and national electrical codes and standards.
4. GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS - This FX should be connected to a grounded, permanent wiring system. For most installations,
the negative battery conductor should be bonded to the grounding system at one (and only one point) in the system. All
installations should comply with national and local codes and ordinances.
PERSONAL PRECAUTIONS WHILE WORKING WITH BATTERIES
1. Someone should be within range of your voice to come to your aid.
2. Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing, or eyes.
3. Wear complete eye protection. Avoid touching eyes while working near batteries. Wash your hands with soap and water when
done.
4. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid enters eye, immediately flood eye with
running cool water for at least 15 minutes and get medical attention immediately.
5. Baking soda neutralizes lead acid battery electrolyte. Keep a supply on hand in the area of the batteries.
6. NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in vicinity of a battery or generator.
7. Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto batteries. It could short-circuit the batteries or other electrical
parts that may result in fire or explosion.
8. Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches when working with a battery. A battery can
produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing severe burns.
9. If a remote or automatic generator start system is used, disable the automatic starting circuit and/or disconnect the generator from
its starting battery while servicing it to prevent starting while servicing.