OutBack Power Systems Passes Additional Testing Required for Grid-tie Applications of the new “G” series of the FX and VFX Inverter/Charger Systems 

Arlington, Washington (December 31, 2003) OutBack Power Systems has completed the additional tests required by the UL 1741 standard for grid-tie applications of the "G" series of the FX and VFX inverter/charger systems. In addition to being able to “sell” power back to the utility (spinning the meter backwards) the OutBack inverter system is also able to power the customer’s AC loads during power outages without exposing utility line workers to hazards.

The OutBack GTFX and GVFX series are 2000 to 3600 watt, 24 and 48 VDC, continuous rated modular sine wave inverter/charger which are now able to be used for grid-tied applications with power sources such as PV (solar electric) and other renewable energy sources. Both the GTFX and GVFX series are complete power conversion systems - a DC/AC inverter, battery charger and an AC transfer switch system integrated together as a single system component.

The GTFX models incorporates a unique die-cast aluminum, sealed housing, which keeps the electronic components cool while protecting them from the major causes of inverter failure - corrosion, dust, insect and animal damage - even temporary submersion and pressure washing. All of the GTFX models also now include standard an external cooling fan to improve operation in high ambient temperature conditions and increased efficiency at high power.

The GVFX models uses the same die-cast aluminum housing but is not sealed - outside air is drawn through the electronics to allow higher power ratings and better performance in high ambient conditions. The air intake of the inverter includes a removable, washable filter and the exhaust openings are protected by grills with very small openings to prevent entry of insects, etc.

"These new OutBack GTFX and GVFX models advances our next generation power conversion technologies into the grid-tie market," according to Christopher Freitas of OutBack Power. "The extremely rugged construction, field serviceability and the utility back-up capability provides higher system value, performance and reliability -- all critical to the success of utility connected renewable energy systems."

ETL Testing Laboratories, a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory, is authorized by OSHA to conduct safety testing and provide product listings and is comparable to Underwriters Laboratories. The GTFX and GVFX are listed under the UL 1741 standard, "Inverters, Converters, and Controllers for use in Independent Power Systems, 1st Edition".

The operation of one or even multiple FXs or VFXs can be programmed and monitored by the OutBack "MATE" system control and display unit. The OutBack MATE also allows the system users to monitor the performance of the inverter/charger while providing a simple, single-screen display of the system's status and operation using words and symbols. A personal computer, using third party software, can be connected to the MATE to allow monitoring of the system and for remote control. Remote, web based, monitoring and control is also currently being developed as well.

The GTFX and GVFX inverter/chargers are available from all major renewable energy product distributors throughout North America. OEM sales are sold directly by the factory. Export output inverter/charger models are also offered for 230 VAC 50 Hz applications.

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