Cobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB (Model CPIALCDG1). When used with your Cobra Power Inverter, this controller provides convenience to turn your power inverter on or off from anywhere inside your vehicle. It also allows you to simultaneously charge your smartphone and other devices. Cobra offers power where you need it.

This controller works with the following Cobra Power Inverter models: CPI400PSW, CPI500W, CPI1500W, CPI2500W, and CPI3000W.

For the full manual, visit: cobra.com/manuals

Cobra® and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Other trademarks and trade names belong to their respective owners. ©2020 Cobra Electronics Corporation.

Remote Controller Features

• A. LCD Display: A screen that shows the inverter's status, input voltage, output wattage, and fault messages.
• B. Power Button: Used to turn the connected Cobra power inverter ON or OFF.
• C. Fast Charge USB-C: A USB-C port capable of fast charging devices up to 10W.
• D. Fast Charge USB-A: A USB-A port capable of fast charging devices up to 10W.
• E. Flush Mounts: Integrated points for flush mounting the controller for a clean, permanent installation.
• F. Clip Mount: An accessory for clip mounting the controller to surfaces like seat backs.
• G. Keyhole Mount: A mounting slot designed for keyhole mounting on walls or panels.
• H. RJ-45 Remote Control Cable Jack: The port on the controller where the remote cable connects.
• I. RJ-45 Remote Control Cable: A 15-foot cable used to connect the remote controller to the power inverter.
• K. M3.5 Screws: Small screws provided for flush or keyhole mounting installations.

* Fast Charge functionality requires devices capable of supporting a charge up to 10W.

4-Point Mounting System

Cobra provides four versatile mounting options to suit various vehicles (standard cars, RVs, professional trucks, campers), allowing you to position the remote controller for optimal convenience and access:

• 1. Flush Mounting: Offers a permanent and integrated installation, often utilizing a provided template for precise cutting and fitting.
• 2. Keyhole Mount: Suitable for mounting on walls or vertical surfaces, providing a secure attachment point.
• 3. Cup Holder Mounting: Allows the controller to rest conveniently in a vehicle's cup holder, ideal for charging smartphones while driving or for easy access in RVs or truck cabs. It can also rest on a flat surface.
• 4. Clip Mount: Designed to attach to the back seat or other areas of the vehicle, making it accessible for passengers to charge their devices.

Connecting the Remote Controller to Your Power Inverter

Follow these steps to connect and operate your remote controller:

1. Using the provided RJ-45 Remote Control Cable (I), connect one end to the RJ-45 Remote Control Cable Jack (H) on the front of your Cobra power inverter (labeled REMOTE). Connect the other end to the corresponding jack on the Remote On/Off Controller.
2. Press the POWER button (B) on the Remote On/Off Controller to turn your inverter ON.
3. When the inverter is powered on, the Input Voltage LED on the inverter should illuminate green.

Once connected, you can turn the power ON or OFF from either the inverter itself or the remote controller. For models with a push-button ON/OFF switch, the remote will function as the primary control regardless of the inverter's physical switch position.

Mounting Template

A mounting template is provided within this guide. It measures approximately 3.35 inches and should be checked against your print-out for accuracy before making any cuts for installation. This template is crucial for achieving a precise flush mount.

Remote Display Messaging

The Cobra Remote On/Off Controller with Fast Charge USB is compatible with Cobra PRO, PURE SINE, and POWER Series power inverters. These inverters support the remote's fast charge and audible alarm features. The LCD display provides status and fault information.

Cobra PRO Series Remote Display Messaging

When the remote is powered ON, the PRO Series display typically shows AC Output (in Watts) and DC Input (Battery Volts).

Inverter ON: Displays AC Output (Watts) and DC Input (Volts).

Inverter OFF: Indicates the inverter is in standby mode.

Note: The display backlight automatically turns off 5 seconds after pressing the POWER button.

Fault Messaging (PRO Series)

The inverter and remote are equipped with audible alarms to alert you to power requirements or battery voltage outside the normal operating range. These are considered "faults". When a fault occurs, both the inverter and remote alarms will sound. If the fault is not addressed, the inverter will shut down, and the remote will display a specific fault message.

• DC Input Low Voltage Alarm (Default Setting): Alarm sounds at 11.5V.
• DC Input Low Voltage Cutoff (Default Setting): Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down at 10.5V.
• DC Input Low Voltage Alarm (Alternate Setting): Alarm sounds at 10.5V.
• DC Input Low Voltage Cutoff (Alternate Setting): Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down at 9.5V.
• DC Input High Voltage Alarm: Alarm sounds at 15.0V.
• AC Output Short: Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down if the AC output is shorted.
• AC Output Overload: Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down if the AC output exceeds inverter limits.
• Inverter Over Temperature: Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down if the inverter overheats.
• GFCI Trip: Alarm sounds and inverter shuts down if a Ground Fault is detected.

Cobra PURE SINE or POWER Series Remote Display Messaging

For Cobra POWER 500W or PURE SINE 400W inverters, the remote display shows operating status.

Inverter ON: Displays operating status.

Inverter OFF: Displays operating status.

Note: The display backlight turns off after 5 seconds from pressing the POWER button.

Fault Definitions (PURE SINE/POWER Series)

When a fault occurs with these series, the remote and inverter will sound an alarm, and the remote will display "ERROR CHECK INVERTER".

• Alarm Sounds (Inverter Continues to Work):
  • DC Input Low Voltage (battery reaches 10.5V): Indicates the vehicle battery needs charging. Turn on the vehicle to charge. If ignored, the "ERROR" message persists, and the inverter will eventually shut down at its cutoff limit.
• Alarm Sounds and Inverter Shuts Down:
  • DC Input Low Voltage Cutoff (battery reaches 9.5V): Battery needs immediate recharging.
  • DC Input High Voltage Cutoff (battery reaches 15.5V): Can occur from voltage spikes.
  • AC Output Short: AC output is shorted (short circuit).
  • AC Output Overload: AC output load exceeds inverter limits. Try unplugging some devices.
  • Inverter Over Temperature: The inverter is overheating. Ensure proper ventilation.
  • GFCI Trip: A Ground Fault is detected.

If the inverter shuts down, the "ERROR CHECK INVERTER" message will be displayed on the remote.

Troubleshooting Guide

If none of these solutions resolve your issue, please contact Cobra Product Service and Support online at www.cobra.com/support or call 1-800-543-1608.

Specifications

Important Power Inverter Safety Information

Before installing and using your Cobra power inverter, please read these general precautions and warnings.

CAUTION: Statements specify conditions which could cause damage to the unit or other equipment.

WARNING: Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

General Precautions

1. Never install the inverter in a boat's engine compartment where gas and battery fumes are present.
2. Do not operate the inverter if it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
3. Do not open the inverter; it contains no user-serviceable parts. Attempting to service the unit could cause electrical shock. Note: Internal components remain charged after all power is disconnected.
4. Do not expose the inverter to rain, snow, bilge water, or spray.
5. Do not obstruct the ventilation openings.
6. Do not install the inverter in a zero-clearance compartment.

CAUTION: This inverter should be used in negative ground applications only.

WARNING: Power inverters contain components that tend to produce arcs or sparks. To prevent fire or explosion, do not install the inverter in areas or compartments containing batteries or flammable materials or in locations that require ignition-protected equipment.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, do not cover or obstruct the ventilation openings. Do not install inverter in zero-clearance compartment.

Proposition 65 Warning: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Rechargeable Appliances

Certain chargers for small nickel cadmium batteries can be damaged if connected to a Modified Sine Wave inverter. These chargers will operate efficiently with a Cobra Pure Sine Wave inverter. Two particular types of equipment prone to this problem:

1. Small battery-operated appliances such as flashlights, razors, and night lights that can be plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge.
2. Certain battery chargers for battery packs used in hand power tools. These chargers have a WARNING label stating that dangerous voltages are present at the battery terminals.

This problem does not occur with the vast majority of battery-operated equipment. Most use a separate charger or transformer that is plugged into the AC receptacle and produces a low voltage output. If the label on the AC adapter or charger states that it produces a low voltage AC or DC output (less than 30 volts), the inverter will have no problem powering the adapter safely.

Limited 2-Year Warranty

For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.

Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra power inverter, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of two years from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.

Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective power inverters, products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra Factory Service department, accompanied by proof of the date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt. You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra's expense, if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

Exclusions:

This limited warranty does not apply:

1. To any product damaged by accident.
2. In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs.
3. If the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed.
4. If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.

All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including, without limitation, to damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A. Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.

Trademark Acknowledgement

Cobra®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

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Summary of Spanish Safety and Warranty Information

The document also contains safety and warranty information in Spanish. The safety precautions mirror the English version, emphasizing general precautions, specific cautions regarding installation in engine compartments, avoiding water exposure, ensuring ventilation, and warnings about arcs/sparks, fire hazards, and Proposition 65. The warranty section in Spanish reiterates the 2-year limited warranty for US purchases, exclusions for damage, misuse, unauthorized repairs, altered serial numbers, and out-of-USA residency. It also mentions implied warranties and limitations on incidental/consequential damages, advising customers outside the USA to contact their local dealer.