Xantrex Technology Automatic Generator manual

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Table of contents for the manual

  • Page 1

    Automatic Gener ator Start Owner’ s Guide[...]

  • Page 2

    [...]

  • Page 3

    Automatic Generator Start Owner’s Guide[...]

  • Page 4

    About Xantrex Xantrex T echnology Inc. is a worl d-leadin g supplier of advanced power electroni cs and controls with products from 50 watt mobile units to one MW utility-s cale systems for wi nd, solar , batteries, fuel cells, microturbines, and backup power applicati ons in bo th grid-connected and st and-alone systems. Xantrex products include i[...]

  • Page 5

    iii About This Guide Purpose The purpose of this Owner ’ s Guide is to provide explanations and procedures for installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Automatic Generator Start. Scope The Guide provides safety guidelin es, detai led planning and setup information, procedures for installing the Automatic Generator S tart, as we[...]

  • Page 6

    About T his Guide iv 975-0082-01-01 Organization This Guide is or ganized into five chapters and three appendixes. Chapter 1, “Introduction”, introd uces and describes features of the Automatic Generator Start. Chapter 2, “Installation”, co ntains planning information and pro cedures to install the Automatic Generator S tart. Chapter 3, “[...]

  • Page 7

    About T his Guide 975-0082-01-01 v Conventions Used The following co nventions are used in thi s guide. Abbreviations and Acronyms Related Information For more information about related products, refer to: Xanbus System Installation Guide (975-0136-0 1-01) Inverter/Char ger Installation Guide (975-0126-01-0 1) Inverter/Char ger Operation Guide (975[...]

  • Page 8

    vi[...]

  • Page 9

    vii Important Safety Instructions General Pr ecautions 1. Before installing and using the Auto Gen S tart, read all appropriate sections of this guide. 2. If the Auto Gen Start is inoperative, see “W arranty and Product Information” on page W A–1. 3. Do not dismantle the Auto Gen S t art; it contains no user serviceable parts. See “Informat[...]

  • Page 10

    Safety viii 975-0082-01-01 Explosive Gas Precautions FCC Information to the User This equipment has been tested and fo und to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is oper ated in a re siden[...]

  • Page 11

    975-0082-01-01 ix Important Safety Instructions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - vii 1 Introduction About the Automatic Generator Start - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2 Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - [...]

  • Page 12

    Contents x 975-0082-01-01 Connecting the thermostats (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23 Connecting an external shutdown (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23 Connecting an external manual on/off switch (optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23 Connecting an external on/off L[...]

  • Page 13

    Contents 975-0082-01-01 xi StartV:2hr - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–21 StartV:24hr - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–22 StopBattV - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–22 Enable [...]

  • Page 14

    Contents xii 975-0082-01-01 Safe mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–7 Hibernate mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–8 Viewing the Firmware Revision Number - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–[...]

  • Page 15

    1 Intr oduction Chapter 1 describes the main features of the Automatic Generator Start. It also describes the Xanbus System of which the Auto Gen S tart is a component.[...]

  • Page 16

    Introduction 1–2 975-0082-01-01 About the Automatic Generator Start Function and benefits The Xantrex Automatic Generator Star t (Auto Gen Start) automatically starts and stops your generator u sing dry contact relays to op erate the auto-start function of y our generator . (Dry contacts operate on ly as switches. The Auto Gen Start does not pro [...]

  • Page 17

    Fe a t u r e s 975-0082-01-01 1–3 F eatures Generator starting The Auto Gen S tart can automatically start a generator in response to: • low battery voltage • low battery capacity (“state of charge”) • high inverter load • a thermostat signal • a pre-programmed e xercise period Y ou can also use the Auto Gen S tar t to manually star[...]

  • Page 18

    Introduction 1–4 975-0082-01-01 System Requirements The Auto Gen S tart is not design ed for stan d-alon e operatio n. It does not function in a simple system containi ng only an Auto Gen Start and a generator . The Au to Gen Start requires several other compo n ents for configuration and operation. Generator The generator should have automatic s[...]

  • Page 19

    F ront and Bottom P anel 975-0082-01-01 1–5 Front and Bottom P anel Indicator lights Four lights on the front panel indicate the operatin g status and network status of the Auto Gen Start. Connectors T wo network ports on the bo ttom panel connect the Auto Gen Start to the Xanbus system. A 20-contact plugg able connector (also on the bottom panel[...]

  • Page 20

    Introduction 1–6 975-0082-01-01 Bottom panel Network connectors Each network port can accept an eight-pin RJ45 plug attached to a CA T 5 cable. Depending on your installation , you may need to use on e or both the network connecto rs. For more information, see the Xanbus System Installation Guide . 20-contact connector The 20-contact connector al[...]

  • Page 21

    Xanbus System Components 975-0082-01-01 1–7 Xanbus System Components System description The Xantrex Xanbus system includes the Auto Gen Start and other Xanbus-enabled devices. Each device interacts and communicates with the other devices, creating a power system that can be precisely configured to your needs. Network diagram Figure 1-3 shows the [...]

  • Page 22

    1–8[...]

  • Page 23

    2 Installation Chapter 2 contains inform ation and procedures to install the Auto Gen S tart. This chapter will help you prepare to install the Auto Gen S tart by providing: • a summary of the tasks involved • a list of materials and tools required • recommendations for choosing an installation location This chapter then provides procedures f[...]

  • Page 24

    Installation 2–2 975-0082-01-01 Preparing an Installation Before you install the Auto Gen Star t, you must consider how and where the unit will be mounted, and plan the connection rout es between the Auto Gen Start, the generator , thermostats and the control panel. T ools and materials requir ed Before beginning an installation, you will need th[...]

  • Page 25

    Preparing an Installation 975-0082-01-01 2–3 Choosing a location The Auto Gen S tart should be inst alled in a location that meets the following requirements: Routing the connections Dry The unit is intended for use in a dry location. The Auto Gen Sta rt complies with UL458 Mari ne Supplement drip-test requirements, but the location should be as [...]

  • Page 26

    Installation 2–4 975-0082-01-01 Because the Auto Gen S tart will be part of a Xanbus system, you must consider how to route two types of connections: • connections to the generator , ther mostats, and other external devices and switches, using the 20-contact connector and wiring harness. • connections to other Xanbus-ena bled devices, using n[...]

  • Page 27

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–5 Installation overview Installing the Auto Gen S tart involves the following steps: 1. Mounting the unit. 2. Connecting the wiring harn ess to: • the generator (page 2–9) • thermostats (op tional) (page 2–23) • external shutdo wn switch (optiona l) (page 2–23) • external on/of f switch[...]

  • Page 28

    Installation 2–6 975-0082-01-01 W iring to the 20-contact connector EL V circuits EL V (Extra-Low V oltage) circuits have an open-circui t voltage of not more than 30 V rms or 42.2 VDC or peak, an d are therefore not a shock hazard. Class 2 circuits As per the US National Electrical Code (NEC) and the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), available pow[...]

  • Page 29

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–7 W iring harness Connections to the generator , thermostats, and external on/off switches are made using a wiring harness that plugs into the 20-contact connector (see Figure 2-1). The wires on the wiri ng harness can be e xtended to meet installation requirements. When extending the wire harness, e[...]

  • Page 30

    Installation 2–8 975-0082-01-01 T able 2-1 Contact numbers and functions Wir e number Function Wiring harness wire color 1 Thermostat 1 input Y ellow 2 Thermostat 1 return Gray 3 Thermostat 2 input Orange 4 Thermostat 2 return Gray 5 External shutdown input White/Black 6 External shutdown return Gray 7 External manual o n input White/Green 8 Exte[...]

  • Page 31

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–9 Connecting the genera tor T o connect the Auto Gen S tart to a generator , you must identify the start wiring configuration of the generator yo u wan t to use. Generators must be auto-start capable, and generators equipped with remote operation connections are ideal. If the generator is equipped fo[...]

  • Page 32

    Installation 2–10 975-0082-01-01 Ty p e 1 T ype 1 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration recommended for “three- wire” generators wi th glow plugs that n eed to be operated before a start is attempted. Figure 2-3 T ype 1 connection diagram T able 2-2 T ype 1 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode GlowS top Relay 3 mode No functio[...]

  • Page 33

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–11 Ty p e 2 T ype 2 is a three-wire GlowStop configuration recommended for “three- wire” generators that don’t require a dedicated preheat signal, such as Onan generators. In this configuratio n, the start signal is applied for longer because the generator does it s own preheat an d cranking wh[...]

  • Page 34

    Installation 2–12 975-0082-01-01 Ty p e 3 T ype 3 is a three-wire GlowS top with shutdown bypass configuration. The configuration shown in Figure 2-5 uses a shutdown by pa ss output to temporarily disable t he generato r ’ s low oil pressure shutdown functionality during cranking. (Generat ors with this functionality often have a manual means o[...]

  • Page 35

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–13 Ty p e 4 T ype 4 is a three-wire StartS top conf iguration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for Generac’ s Guardian Gas generators. Figure 2-6 T ype 4, T ype 5 and T ype 13 connection diagram T able 2-5 T ype 4 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode StartS top Relay 3[...]

  • Page 36

    Installation 2–14 975-0082-01-01 Ty p e 5 T ype 5 is a three-wire StartS top conf iguration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for Generac’ s Guardian Diesel generators. The wiring diagram for a T ype 5 configuration is the same as a T ype 4 (see Figure 2-6). T able 2-6 T ype 5 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode St[...]

  • Page 37

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–15 Ty p e 6 T ype 6 is a three-wir e GlowS to p co nf iguration that has a normally closed Run/St op contact. This generator typ e is intended for Y amaha generators. Ty p e 7 T ype 7 will work with both two-wire and three-wire run mode configurations that require a preheat signal before cranking, su[...]

  • Page 38

    Installation 2–16 975-0082-01-01 Figure 2-8 T ype 7, T ype 8, and T ype 11 connection diagram (two-wire) Figure 2-9 T ype 7 and T ype 8 connect ion diagram (three-wire) T able 2-8 T ype 7 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode Run Relay 3 mode No function Gen Run sign al hold time 0.5 s Preheat time 20 s Preheat to crank delay 1 s Cr[...]

  • Page 39

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–17 Ty p e 8 T ype 8 will work with both two-wire and three-wire run mode configurations and is inten ded for Northern Lights and Fisher Pa nda generators. T ype 8 is identical to T ype 7 except that it provides no preheat signal before cranking. See Figure 2-8 and Figure 2-9 for wiring diagrams. T ab[...]

  • Page 40

    Installation 2–18 975-0082-01-01 Ty p e 9 T ype 9 is a S tartS top mode configu r ati on wi th shutdown bypass functionality on relay 3. This config uration is intended for W esterbeke generators. Figure 2-10 T ype 9 connection diagram T able 2-10 T ype 9 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode StartS top Relay 3 mode Shutdown Bypass [...]

  • Page 41

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–19 T ype 10 T ype 10 is a S tartS top mode configuration with no preheat signal or shutdown bypass functio nality . Figure 2-11 T ype 10 connection diagram T able 2-11 T ype 10 relay and timing preset configurations Relay 1 mode StartS top Relay 3 mode No function Gen Run sign al hold time 0.5 s Preh[...]

  • Page 42

    Installation 2–20 975-0082-01-01 T ype 11 T ype 1 1 is a two-wire run mode configuration intended for Kohler generators. It requires only two wires and one relay to control the generator . Relay 1 closes momentarily once to start the generator , and closes momentarily again to stop the generator . The wiring diagram for a T ype 11 co nfiguration [...]

  • Page 43

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–21 T ype 12 T ype 12 is a three-wire GlowS top config uration recommended for “three- wire” generators that don’t require a dedicated preheat signal, such as Onan propane generators. In this config uration, the start signal is applied for longer because the generator does its own preheat and cr[...]

  • Page 44

    Installation 2–22 975-0082-01-01 T ype 13 T ype 13 is a three-wire PulseStop configuration that uses relay 3 to provide the preheat signal for PowerT ech’ s Diesel generators. W ith this generator type, there will be a delay between the generator turning of f and the Auto Gen Start recognizin g that the generator is of f. The wiring diagram for[...]

  • Page 45

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–23 Connecting the thermostats (optional) W i re s 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the wiring harness can be c onnected to two thermostats. W ires 1 (yellow) and 2 (g ray) are intended for thermostat 1 and wires 3 (orange) and 4 (gray) are intended for thermostat 2. These wires connect to 1 2 /24 V output signals f[...]

  • Page 46

    Installation 2–24 975-0082-01-01 If your generator battery does not ha ve the required voltage, any 12V or 24V power source will suit this purpose. If an alternate power source is used, the negative of the po wer so urce must be connect to the other contact of the switch. Multiple control panels or simple co ntact closures can be wired to the ext[...]

  • Page 47

    Installing the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 2–25 Connecting the wiring harnes s to the Auto Gen Start After all the external connections have been wired to the wiring harness, the connector on the wiring harness must be plugged into the 20-cont act connector on the Auto Gen Start. T o connect the wiring harness to the Auto Gen S tart: ◆ W ith [...]

  • Page 48

    Installation 2–26 975-0082-01-01 Connecting the control panel and other network-enabled devices T o connect the Auto Gen S tart to a System Control Panel or another network-enabled device, plug a Xantrex network cable or equivalent from another device into one of t he network connectors on th e bo ttom p ane l of the Auto Gen S tart. See F igu re[...]

  • Page 49

    3 Configur ation Chapter 3 contains inform ation and procedures for configuring the Automatic Gene rator S tart. It describes how you can view the Auto Gen S tart menu on the System Control Panel , and how you can change Auto Gen S tart settings using the System Control Panel . Chapter 3 also discusses each Auto Gen S tart setting by: • Defining [...]

  • Page 50

    Configuration 3–2 975-0082-01-01 Configuring the Auto Gen Start The Auto Gen Start has a number of se ttings that you must configure to ensure that the generator automatica lly starts and stops under the right conditions and at the right time. If your Auto Gen Start was pre-insta lled in your Xanbus system, it may already be configured to work wi[...]

  • Page 51

    Configuring the Auto Gen Start 975-0082-01-01 3–3 Changing Auto Gen Start settings using the System Control P a nel If you need to change an Auto Gen St art setting, use the buttons on the System Control Panel to perform three basic steps: 1. V iew the Select Device menu. 2. Select the Auto Gen Start from the Select Device menu. 3. Select and adj[...]

  • Page 52

    Configuration 3–4 975-0082-01-01 Viewing the Auto Gen Start menu On the Select Device menu, select the Auto Gen S tart to view and change its settings. T o select the Auto Gen S tart from the Select Device menu: 1. On the Select Device menu, use the down arrow button to highlight Auto Gen Start. 2. Press Enter . The Auto Gen Start menu appears. S[...]

  • Page 53

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–5 T o select and adjust a cha ngeable setting: 1. On the Auto Gen S tart menu, u se the up arrow or down arrow button to highlight the setting you want to change. 2. Press Enter to highlight the current value of that changeable setting. Some values appear with an asterisk (*) to identify them as the value[...]

  • Page 54

    Configuration 3–6 975-0082-01-01 Figure 3-5 Auto Gen Start menu contents[...]

  • Page 55

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–7 The Auto Gen Start basic menu The Auto Gen S tart basic menu lists settings you may have to adjust routinely . The System Control Panel displays the Auto Gen S tart basic menu by default. If you would like additional control over automatic generator starting, you can find more sett ings on the Auto Gen [...]

  • Page 56

    Configuration 3–8 975-0082-01-01 Gen Status Full name Generator Operating Status Purpose “Gen Status” reports the current operating state of the generato r . Y ou cannot adjust any “Gen Status” values. Gen T rigger Purpose “Gen T rigger” reports the so urce of the active generator start trigger . Start triggers can include battery vol[...]

  • Page 57

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–9 A GS Mode Purpose “AGS Mode” is a chan geable setting that contro ls the current oper ating mode of the Auto Gen Start. When to use Y ou should change “AGS Mod e” when you want to switch between automatic generator control an d manual generator control. When the Xanbus sy stem powers up all netw[...]

  • Page 58

    Configuration 3–10 975-0082-01-01 • External Shutdown—Whe n the Auto Gen Start is connected to a sensor or meter (a moisture detector , for example) wired to contacts 5 and 6 of the 20-contact connector , it stops the generator when the device is activa ted. See “Conne cting an external shutdown (optional)” on page 2–23. • External On[...]

  • Page 59

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–11 Q T Enable Full name Quiet T ime Enable Purpose “QT Enable” enables or disables the Quiet T ime functionality of the Auto Gen Start. “QT Enable” applies only when the Au to Gen Start is in Automatic mode. When to use When you need to use the Auto Gen Start Quiet T ime feature, set “QT Enable?[...]

  • Page 60

    Configuration 3–12 975-0082-01-01 Use the Quiet T ime feature to ensure that the generator will not run during the night, or to comply with “Qui et T ime” guidelines at R V parks and campgrounds. T o use the Auto Gen S tart Quiet T ime feature, first set “QT Enable” to On, then set two times of the day or night (a Quiet T ime Begin time a[...]

  • Page 61

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–13 Q T End Full name Quiet T ime End Purpose “QT End” is a changeable settin g that defines the end of quiet time. This setting also requires you to set “QT Begin”. When to use “QT End” functions onl y if th e Auto Gen S tart is in Automatic mode. For more information about when to use “QT E[...]

  • Page 62

    Configuration 3–14 975-0082-01-01 State of char ge information When a DC Monitor is in stalled, you can monitor the batteries’ state of charge on the System screen or inverter/char ger menu. Outcomes If you set “S tart SOC” too high, the generator will start more frequently than is convenient. If you set “S tart SOC” too low , your b at[...]

  • Page 63

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–15 Whenever the generator starts automatically in response to “Start DCV”, it will stop when the battery vol ta ge reaches the Stop Battery V oltage (“StopBattV”) setting. If you have enabled “S top Float” or “S top Absorb”, the generator will stop wh en the Absorption or Float stages of t[...]

  • Page 64

    Configuration 3–16 975-0082-01-01 Enable T emp2 Full name Enable Thermostat 2. Purpose “Enable T emp2” is intended to be used when the Auto Gen S tart is connected to a second thermostat. All information and procedures for “Enable T emp1” also app l y for “ Enable T emp2”. Gen T y pe Full name Generator type Purpose “Gen T ype” is[...]

  • Page 65

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–17 When to use Use this setting after installin g the Auto Gen Start. Selecting a suitable “Gen T ype” automatically configures the Auto Gen Start to work wit h the ignition system and starting requirements of your generator . If you are not sure of your generator ’ s requirem ents , please consult [...]

  • Page 66

    Configuration 3–18 975-0082-01-01 Auto Gen Start advanced menu The Auto Gen S tart advanc ed menu contains set tings that can give yo u even more con trol over automat ic generator s tarts and stops. T o view the Auto Gen Start advanced menu on the Sys tem Cont rol Pa nel , see pa ge 4–5. In addition to several items from th e basic menu, the A[...]

  • Page 67

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–19 AG S T r i g ge rs m e n u The AGS T riggers menu contains additional settings for automatically starting and stopping the generator . Th is menu allows you to adjust the default settings for state of charge (when a DC Monitor is i nstalled), battery voltage, thermostat on/off si gnals, inverter load a[...]

  • Page 68

    Configuration 3–20 975-0082-01-01 Purpose “Stop SOC” is a changeable settin g that allows you to set the Auto Gen Start to stop the generator when th e batteries reach a pre-set state of charge. When to use In Automatic mode, the Auto Ge n Start will stop the generator when the batteries’ state of charge equals the “S top SOC” setting. [...]

  • Page 69

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–21 When to use In Automatic mode, the Auto Gen Start will st art the generator when the system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger) falls below the “StartV :15min” setting for 15 minutes. Y ou can use one of the S tarting Batte ry V oltage settings (“StartV :30sec”, “StartV :15m[...]

  • Page 70

    Configuration 3–22 975-0082-01-01 If the Auto Gen S tart is set to Automatic mode, then the Auto Gen S tart will start the generator when the system battery voltage (as measured by the inverter/charger) falls below th e “S tartV :2hr” setting for 2 hours. See “StartV :15min” for more information. StartV :24hr Full name Start ing Battery V[...]

  • Page 71

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–23 S topping conditions Whenever the generator starts automa tically based on the Starting Battery V o ltage, it will shut off once the Stopping Battery V oltage has been reached. If “Stop Float” or “S top Absorb” have been enabled, the Auto G en Start will stop the generator if the Float or Absor[...]

  • Page 72

    Configuration 3–24 975-0082-01-01 Outcomes Selecting On enables the Start on Inverter Load Current (“Start Load”) and Stop on Inverter Load Current (“Stop Load”) functionality . If the Auto Gen Start is in Automatic mode and “Enable Load” is set to On, the Auto Gen Start stops and starts the ge nerator according to the values you have[...]

  • Page 73

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–25 Stop Load Full name Stop on Inverter Load Current Purpose “Stop Load” sets the Auto Gen Star t to stop the generator at a specified AC load on the inverter . The “S top Load” set ting applies to situations when the Auto Gen Start has started the generator to assist the inverter with powering th[...]

  • Page 74

    Configuration 3–26 975-0082-01-01 In power systems with long cables be tween the batteries and the inverter/ charger (over 10 feet [3 m]), the meas ured battery voltage can be a po or indicator of battery condition. In such cases, the ba tteries are more assured of a full charge if the genera tor runs until the char ger reaches the Absorb stage, [...]

  • Page 75

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–27 assured of a full charge if the genera tor runs until the char ger reaches the Float stage, rather than waiting until the char ger charges the batteries to the voltage yo u may have set for “S topBattV” (see page 3–22). For more information on battery ch ar ging, see your inverter/charg er guide.[...]

  • Page 76

    Configuration 3–28 975-0082-01-01 Generator Configur ation menu The Gene rator Config uration (AGS Gen Config) me nu contains additiona l options for configuring the Auto Gen S t art for your make and model of generator . The items on this menu in clude the settings you automatically select when you select a Gen T ype (see “Gen T ype” on page[...]

  • Page 77

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–29 Max Run Time Full name Maximum Generator Run T ime Purpose The Max Run T ime setting allows you to set a limit on how long the generator will run. This setting overri des any automatic start triggers. For example, if the generator starts in response to low battery voltage, and your batteries are not fu[...]

  • Page 78

    Configuration 3–30 975-0082-01-01 This setting also requires you to set an Exercise Duration (see “Exercise Dur” on page 3–30) and an Exercise T ime (see “Exercise T ime” on page 3–31). When to use Generators need to run regularl y in order to maintain mechanical health and performance. If you ha ve no need to use your genera tor (for[...]

  • Page 79

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–31 Exercise Time Purpose “Exercise T ime” allows you to set the time of day that the Auto Gen Start exercises the generator . This setting also requires you to set an Exercise Period and an Exercise Duration. When to use Y ou must set the Exercise Time when you have set the Exercise Period and the Exe[...]

  • Page 80

    Configuration 3–32 975-0082-01-01 Some diesel generators require preheatin g of their glow plug s before start cranking. Setting “Relay3” to Preheat enables Relay 3 to perform this function in addition to Relay 1. Some generators require Relay 3 to switch 12 volts to the glow plugs, while some generators re quire ground to be switched to the [...]

  • Page 81

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–33 Crank Retry Time Purpose “Crank Retry T ime” specifies the le ngth of time the Start relay is engaged (and cranking the starter motor) for th e second and subsequent attempts to start the generator , in cases when the generator fails to start on the first attempt. When to use This setting is automa[...]

  • Page 82

    Configuration 3–34 975-0082-01-01 Start T ries “Start T ries” specifies how many times the Auto Gen Start will attempt to start the generator . On the first star t try , the Auto Gen Start cr anks the starter motor for the Crank T ime. If the generator does not start, on subsequent start tries, the Auto Gen Start cranks the st art motor for t[...]

  • Page 83

    T he Auto Gen Start Menu 975-0082-01-01 3–35 A GS: Device Info menu The Device Info menu al lows you to view the Fault, W arning and Event logs. On the Device Info menu you can also restor e the default settings for the Auto Gen Start. View F ault Log Purpose The Fault Log displa ys the last 20 Auto Gen S tart faults for your reference. When to u[...]

  • Page 84

    Configuration 3–36 975-0082-01-01 User Settings Use this table to record any customized Auto Gen S t art settings for future reference. Setting V alues Default User Setting “QT Begin” 12:00AM–11:59PM (12-hour clock) 00:00–23:59 (24-hour clock) 9:00PM (12-hour clock) 21:00 (24-hour clock) “QT End” 12:00AM–11:59PM (12-hour clock) 00:0[...]

  • Page 85

    4 Oper ation Chapter 4 describes the operation of the Auto Gen S tart and how to get the most from its features. This includes information about: • using the Auto Gen S tart for both manual and automatic generator control. • setting Quiet T ime. • displaying the advanced Auto Gen S t art menu. • changing system modes. • viewing the firmwa[...]

  • Page 86

    Operation 4–2 975-0082-01-01 Starting and Stopping the Generator Y ou can use the Auto Gen S tart to start the generator manually (on demand, using the System Cont rol Panel) and automat ically (in response to an electrical system condition). In general, to avoid Auto Gen S tart faults, try not to combine automatic and external manual starts and [...]

  • Page 87

    Setting Quiet T ime 975-0082-01-01 4–3 Setting Quiet Time Use the Quiet T ime feature to ensure that the Auto Gen S tart will not start the generator during the ni ght, or during times that might clash with “Quiet T ime” guidelines at R V parks and campgrounds. Setting Quiet T ime for the firs t time involves three steps: 1. Setting “QT Ena[...]

  • Page 88

    Operation 4–4 975-0082-01-01 3. Use the up or down arrow butto n to select the minute, then press Enter . If you are using the 2 4-hour clock, go to step 5. 4. Use the up or down arrow butto n to select AM or PM, then press Enter . 5. Press Exit twice to return to the System screen. Setting the end of Quiet Time Setting a time for “QT End” de[...]

  • Page 89

    Viewing the Adv anced Menu 975-0082-01-01 4–5 V iewing the Advanced Menu The System Control Panel can displa y the Auto Gen S tart menu in two formats: basic and advanced. The Auto Gen Start basic menu is displayed by de fault. It lists status information and settings you may have to adjust routinely . See “The Aut o Gen Start basic men u” on[...]

  • Page 90

    Operation 4–6 975-0082-01-01 Changing System Modes The system modes described in this section affect the behavior of the Auto Gen Start and every Xanbus-enabled device in the system. Y ou will have to change the syste m mode when setting a Ge nerator T ype, travelling, putting your vehicle in storage, or when installing a new Xanbus-enabled devic[...]

  • Page 91

    Changing System Modes 975-0082-01-01 4–7 Operating mode Characteristics Operating mode is the default mode of the Auto Gen S tart. In Operating mode, the Auto Gen Start communicat es on the netwo rk, responds to signal input, and can start and stop the generator automa tically . Operating mode includes all the AGS Modes describe d on page 3–9 o[...]

  • Page 92

    Operation 4–8 975-0082-01-01 Hibernate mode Characteristi cs Hibernate mode remove s power from t he Auto Gen S tart and a ll Xanbus- enabled devices on the Xanbus system . The Auto Gen S t art suspends all operations (including starting and st opping the generator) until power is restored to the network. If there are active faults in the syst em[...]

  • Page 93

    5 T r oubleshooting Chapter 5 contains inform ation and procedures to troubleshoot the Auto Gen Start, including tables of warnings and faults for your reference.[...]

  • Page 94

    T roubleshooting 5–2 975-0082-01-01 F aults and W arnings Under certain conditions, the Auto Gen Start generates a fault or warning message. These messages appear on th e System Control Panel. This section describes how to respond to fault and warning messages when they appear . Acknowledging messages When a fault or warning message appears, you [...]

  • Page 95

    Wa r n i n g M e s s a g e s 975-0082-01-01 5–3 T o view a fault list or warning list: 1. On the Select Device menu , highlight System and press Enter . 2. On the System Settings menu, high light V iew Fault List or V iew Wa r n i n g L i s t . 3. Press Enter . W arning Messag es T able 5-1 provides details and sugg ests action for Auto Gen S tar[...]

  • Page 96

    T roubleshooting 5–4 975-0082-01-01 W204 Manual Off: Max generator cycles reached. Reset AGS Mode. No The generator has reached its maximum num ber of start-and-stop cycles. T o help prevent an unattended generator from startin g, the Auto Gen S tart changed the AGS Mode to ManualOff. Acknowledge the warning. Return the Auto Gen Start to the desi[...]

  • Page 97

    Fa u l t M e s s a g e s 975-0082-01-01 5–5 Fa u l t M e s s a g e s When the Auto Gen S tart detects a fault condition, it stops the generator . The red Fault light also comes on, an d the System Control Panel displays a fault message. The Auto Gen S tart remembers the AGS Mo de that it was in at the time it detected the fault. After you have cl[...]

  • Page 98

    T roubleshooting 5–6 975-0082-01-01 T able 5-2 Auto Gen Start fault messages Fa u l t Number Message Self- clearing? Cause Action F200 Exceeded max number of start tries. Check ge n, clear fault. No The Auto Gen Start has tried and failed to start the generator . T o prev ent drainin g the start battery , the Auto Gen Start will suspend furthe r [...]

  • Page 99

    A Specifications Appendix A contains the electrical, mechanical, and environmental specifications for the Auto Gen St art . All specifications are subject to change without notice.[...]

  • Page 100

    Specifications A–2 975-0082-01-01 Electrical Specifications *Limited to Class 2 levels (100 V A) as in Chapter 2, page 2–6. Mechanical Specifications Nominal input n etwork voltage 15 VDC Minimum operating network vo ltage 14.2 5 VDC Maximum operating network voltage 15.75 VDC Maximum operating curr ent 200 mA @ n ominal input network vol tage [...]

  • Page 101

    Environmental Specifications 975-0082-01-01 A–3 Environmental Specifications Regulatory Compliance Operating temperature -4 to 122 °F (-20 to 50 °C) Storage temperature -40 to 185 °F (-40 to 85 °C) Maximum case temperature 140 °F (60 °C) Operati n g hu midity 5 to 95% Storage humidity 5 to 95% Ignition protection None Safety CSA certified t[...]

  • Page 102

    A–4[...]

  • Page 103

    B Gener ator Auto Start Requir ements and T ypes Appendix B describes the generator requirements and starting types that can be used with the Auto Gen Start.[...]

  • Page 104

    Generator Auto Start Requirements and Types B–2 975-0082-01-01 Recommended F eatures In order for the generator to be au tomatically started by the Auto Gen Start, it must include electric start a nd an automatic choke. An automatic primer system may also be required on natural gas and propane po w ered generators. The generator should also inclu[...]

  • Page 105

    Generator Starting T ypes 975-0082-01-01 B–3 Tw o w i r e The two-wire type is suitable for gene rators that are fully automatic. This merely requires two wires to be conn ected together for the generator to start and run. Separating the wires stops the generator . Some generators use a mom entary tw o-wire connection for starting and stopping. I[...]

  • Page 106

    Generator Auto Start Requirements and Types B–4 975-0082-01-01 Connection The common wire from the generator should co nnect to the common connections of both Relay 1 and Rela y 2 (wires 16 and 18 respectively). The start wire from the generator connec ts to the normally open contact of Relay 2 and the generator stop wire connects to the normally[...]

  • Page 107

    C Relay Timing Appendix C contains in formation about relay configuration and timing for each major type of Auto Gen S tart starting mode. This information applies to each of the generator types described from page 2–10 to page 2–20.[...]

  • Page 108

    Relay T iming C–2 975-0082-01-01 RunMode For generators with Run Mode starting types (T ypes 7 and 8): • Relay 1 (RunS top relay) can be used for two-wire co nfigured generators. • Relay 1 (RunStop) and Relay 2 (Sta rt) can be used with a common ground for three-wire configured generators. • The Preheat will never overlap the Crank T ime. ?[...]

  • Page 109

    MomentaryRun Mode 975-0082-01-01 C–3 MomentaryRun Mode For generators with Mo mentaryRun mode starting ty pes (T ype 1 1): • Relay 1 (Run/S top relay) can be used for two-wire configured generators. • Relay 2 has no unique func tion in this configuration, but it is easiest to leave it doing the cranking so that another configuration is not re[...]

  • Page 110

    Relay T iming C–4 975-0082-01-01 GlowStop Mode For generators with GlowS top mode starting ty pes (T ypes 1, 2, 3, 6, 12 ): • Relay 1 (Sto p) and Relay 2 (Start) can be used with a common gro und for three-wire configured generators. • The Preheat signal sh ows up on Relay 1 a nd also Relay 3 (if enabled ) so that Relay 1 can be used for both[...]

  • Page 111

    PulseStop Mode 975-0082-01-01 C–5 • The “Delay” refers to the “Preheat to Crank De lay” and may be zero. • Cranking will cease when the generato r run signal goes high for the specified hold time or when the crank time has elapsed. • T o get the ShutDown Bypass on Relay 3 with no preheat, Relay 3 must be configured for Preheat w ith[...]

  • Page 112

    Relay T iming C–6 975-0082-01-01 • The Auto Gen Start will make three attempts to stop the generator . If the generator has stil l not stopped at the end of the third attempt, the appropriate Fault will be generated. • Each stop attempt will consist of en gaging the stop relay for 5 seconds and then waitin g 20 seconds bef ore checking the st[...]

  • Page 113

    975-0082-01-01 WA–1 W arranty and Return Information Wa r r a n t y What does this warranty cover? This Limited W arranty is provided by Xantrex T echnology , Inc. ("Xantrex") and covers defects in wo rkm a nshi p and ma terials in your A utomatic Generator Start. This warranty period lasts for 12 months fr om the date of purchase at th[...]

  • Page 114

    W arranty and Return WA–2 975-0082-01-01 What proof of pur chase is requir ed? In any warranty claim, da ted proof of purchase must accompany the product and th e product must not have been disass embled or modifi ed without prior written authorization by Xantrex. Proof of purchase may be in any one of the following form s: • The dated purchase[...]

  • Page 115

    W arranty and Return 975-0082-01-01 WA–3 Disclaimer Product THIS LIMITED W ARRANTY IS THE SOL E AND EXCLUSIVE W ARRANTY PROVIDED BY XANT REX IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR XA NTREX PRODUCT AND IS, WHE RE PERMITTED BY LA W , IN LIEU OF A LL OTHER W ARRANTIES, CONDITIONS, GUARANTEE S, REPRESENT A TIONS, OBLIGA TIONS AND LIABILITI ES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, S[...]

  • Page 116

    W arranty and Return WA–4 975-0082-01-01 When you contact Xantrex to obtain service, please have your instru ction manual ready for reference and be prepared to supply: • The serial number of your product • Information about the installation and u se of the unit • Information about th e failure and/or reason for th e return • A copy of yo[...]

  • Page 117

    W arranty and Return 975-0082-01-01 WA–5 Information About Y our System As soon as you open your A utomatic Generator Start package, record the foll owi ng information and be sure to keep your p roof of purchase. If you need to contact Customer Service, please record the fo llowing det ails befo re calling. This information will help our represen[...]

  • Page 118

    WA–6[...]

  • Page 119

    A Advanced menu 3–18 AGS Mode 3–9 AGS T riggers menu 3–19 asterisk beside selected value 3–5 automatic mode 3–9 B B+ wires 2–8 Basic menu 3–7, 3–18 bottom panel features 1–6 C Clear Faults 3–17 clearing faults 5–2 Configure Gen 3–18 Configure T riggers 3–18 Crank Retry T ime 3–33 Crank T ime 3–32 Customer Service prepa[...]

  • Page 120

    Index IX–2 975-0082-01-01 I Information about Y our System form WA–5 M manual off mode 3–10 manual on mode 3–10 Max Run T ime 3–29 mechanical specifications A–2 modes 4–6 momentary run m ode C–3 N network connector 1–6 Network light 1– 5 network po w e r co nsumption 1–4 network-managed power system 1–7 O Operating mode 4–[...]

  • Page 121

    Index 975-0082-01-01 IX–3 U Up arrow button 3–3 user settings reference table 3–36 V verifying network power 2– 26 W W arning Log 3–35 warning messages acknowledging 5–2 reference table 5–3 warranty out of warranty service WA–4 terms and conditions WA–1 X Xanbus 1–2 Xantrex web site ii, v, 1–2[...]

  • Page 122

    IX–4[...]

  • Page 123

    [...]

  • Page 124

    Xantrex Technology Inc. 1 800 670 0707 Tel toll free NA 1 360 925 5097 Tel direct 1 800 994 7828 Fax toll free NA 1 360 925 5143 Fax direct customerservice@xantrex.c om www.xantrex.com 975-0082-01-01 Printed in China[...]