How to Install a 3000 Watt Inverter
By Chris Waller
The 3000 watt power inverter is a device created by the Whistler Group that allows you to run devices such as a television or video game system from the power in the battery of a car, truck, SUV or van. The inverter converts the 12-volt power coming from a vehicle's battery into AC power to provide energy to these devices. By connecting the inverter to a battery and plugging in the devices to the 3000 watt inverter, use many of your electronics while on the road.
Turn the "Power" switch on the 3000 watt inverter to "Off." Plug the two power cables that came with the device into the inputs on the rear. The inputs have screws attached that you can tighten down with your fingers to ensure that these connections will not be broken while using the device.
Connect the negative or black power cable from the inverter to the negative terminal on the battery by clamping it down. After this is secure, connect the positive or red power cable from the device to the positive terminal on the battery and clamp it down to secure it. Do not connect these cables to the wrong terminal as you could cause damage to the device and vehicle.
Wrap a piece of any-sized American Wire Gauge (AWG) wire around the "Ground" terminal on the back of the inverter. Wrap it around several times so it is tight. Take the other end and wrap it around a metal area on the vehicle. Make the connection tight so that the wire will not come off the metal.
Plug in one of the electrical devices you intend on using into one of the AC ports on the front of the inverter. When the device is plugged in, turn the "Power" switch on the inverter to the "On" position. If the inverter was improperly connected, it will not power on or may cause an electrical short. Once the inverter is turned on, turn on the electrical device and begin using it.
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Warnings
- Be extremely careful connecting anything to the battery of your vehicle. Any misstep could result in electrical shock or damage to the vehicle or the inverter. If you are not confident in your ability to perform the task, take the vehicle and the device to a professional mechanic or to a car audio-video expert.
Writer Bio
Chris Waller began writing in 2004. Chris has written for the "Fulton Sun" and eHow, focusing on technology and sports. Chris has won multiple awards for his writing including a second place award in the Missouri Press Association's Better Newspaper Contest. Chris earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in journalism and English from Truman State University.