1. DESCRIPTION
1.1 General
Multi Compact -functional (Multi Compact / MultiPlus Compact only)
The Multi Compact gets its name from the multiple functions it can perform. It is a powerful
true sine wave inverter, a sophisticated battery charger that features adaptive charge
technology and a high-speed AC transfer switch in a single compact enclosure. Beside these
primary functions, however, the Multi Compact has several advanced features that provide a
range of new applications as outlined below.
Uninterrupted AC power (Multi Compact / MultiPlus Compact only)
In the event of a grid failure, or shore or generator power being disconnected, the inverter
within the Multi Compact is automatically activated and takes over supply to the connected
loads. This happens so fast (less than 20 milliseconds) that computers and other electronic
equipment will continue to operate without disruption.
PowerControl – Dealing with limited generator or shore side power (Multi Compact/
MultiPlus Compact only)
The Multi Compact is a very powerful battery charger. It will therefore draw a lot of current
from the generator or shore side supply (nearly 8 A per Multi Compact at 230 VAC). With the
Phoenix Multi Control (PMV) a maximum generator or shore current can be set. The Multi
Compact will then take account of other AC loads and use whatever is extra for charging,
thus preventing the generator or shore supply from being overloaded.
PowerAssist – Boosting the capacity of shore or generator power
The feature that distinguishes the Phoenix MultiPlus Compact from the standard Multi
Compact is PowerAssist. This feature takes the principle of PowerControl to a further
dimension allowing the MultiPlus Compact to supplement the capacity of the alternative
source. Where peak power is so often required only for a limited period, it is possible to
reduce the size of generator needed or conversely enable more to be achieved from the
typically limited shore connection. When the load reduces, the spare power is used to
recharge the battery.
Note 1: The rating of the generator should be 75% or higher compared to the VA rating of the
MultiPlus Compact. (for ex: a genset of at least 1500 VA will be required to operate in parallel
with a Multi Compact 12/2000/80.
Note 2: The output waveform of a generator can be heavily distorted. In that case the "AC
waveform check" should be disabled.
1.2 Battery Charger (Multi Compact / MultiPlus Compact only)
Adaptive 4-stage charge characteristic: bulk – absorption – float – storage
The Phoenix Multi Compact / MultiPlus Compact features a microprocessor controlled
'adaptive' battery management system that can be preset to suit different Typs of batteries.
The 'adaptive' feature will automatically optimize the process relative to the way the battery is
being used.
The right amount of charge: variable absorption time
When only shallow discharges occur (a yacht connected to shore power for example) the
absorption time is kept short in order to prevent overcharging of the battery. After a deep
discharge the absorption time is automatically increased to make sure that the battery is
completely recharged.
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