MOTOMASTER ELIMINATOR
MOBILE POWER OUTLET 300 W INVERTER
Model No. 011-1870-6
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! - This manual contains important safety and operating instructions. Read all instructions and follow them with use of this product. Questions? Call Customer Service Hotline: 1-877-466-8191
Technical Specifications
| SPECIFICATION | VALUE |
|---|---|
| AC POWER: AC output voltage (nominal) | 115 V, 60 Hz |
| AC POWER: Maximum AC output power | 300 W |
| AC POWER: Continuous power | 240 W |
| AC POWER: Maximum AC output surge power | 480 W |
| AC POWER: AC output frequency | 60 ± 1 Hz |
| AC POWER: AC output waveform | Modified sine wave |
| DC POWER: USB output | 5 V / 2.1 A |
| DC POWER: No load current draw (at 12 V) | < 0.3 A |
| DC POWER: Efficiency (maximum) | 85% |
| DC POWER: Low-voltage shutdown | 10.0 – 11.0 V |
| DC POWER: High-voltage shutdown | 15.0 – 16.3 V |
| PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Ambient operating temperature range | 0 – 40 °C (32 – 104 °F) |
| PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Dimensions (L x W x H) | 7 3/8 x 3 15/16 x 2" (187 x 100 x 50 mm) |
| PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Weight | 1 lb 3 oz (550 g) |
Safety Information
This manual contains information that relates to PROTECTING PERSONAL SAFETY and PREVENTING EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS. It is very important to read this manual carefully and understand it thoroughly before using the product. The symbols listed below are used to indicate this information.
- DANGER!
- Potential hazard that will result in serious injury or loss of life.
- WARNING!
- Potential hazard that could result in serious injury or loss of life.
- CAUTION!
- Potential hazard that may result in moderate injury or damage to equipment.
- IMPORTANT!
- Installation, operation, or maintenance information that is important but not hazard related.
Warnings
- HEATED SURFACE: The power outlet housing may become uncomfortably warm, and can reach up to 60 °C (140 °F) under extended high power operation.
- Do not use the mobile power outlet in a vehicle in which the plus pole of the car battery is connected to the chassis! Before using the device, please determine how the battery is connected in the respective vehicle.
- Do not operate the mobile power outlet if it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
- Always disconnect the device by pulling on the plug itself, not the power cable.
- The device must be fastened so that it does not cause a safety hazard in case of collision or hard braking.
- Route the power cable so that it does not interfere with the driver of the vehicle when plugged into the cigarette lighter socket.
- Prevent the power supply cable from coming into contact with hot parts of the engine or from hanging over sharp edges and make sure it will not get caught on moving parts of the engine.
- When using car batteries, always follow the advice from the manufacturer of the battery and in the vehicle instruction manual.
- Using improper voltage may result in damage to the device and possible injury to the user.
- The correct voltage is listed on the rating plate.
- Never leave the device unattended during operation.
Cautions
- Do not connect live AC power to the mobile power outlet's AC outlets. The mobile power outlet will be damaged even if it is switched off.
- Avoid placing the mobile power outlet on or near heating vents, radiators or other sources of heat. Do not place the mobile power outlet in direct sunlight (e.g. on the vehicle's dashboard) in order to prevent an overheat shutdown caused by high temperatures. Do not use the mobile power outlet in temperatures over 40 °C (104 °F).
- DO NOT USE the mobile power outlet with the following equipment:
- Small battery-operated devices such as rechargeable flashlights, some rechargeable shavers, and night lights that are plugged directly into an AC receptacle to recharge. The device can be damaged if connected to the mobile power outlet. Always recharge batteries using a separate battery charger.
- Battery chargers used in power tools. These chargers display a WARNING LABEL stating that there are dangerous voltages at the charger's battery terminals.
- Do not insert foreign objects into the mobile power outlets or ventilation openings.
- The mobile power outlet must only be connected to a battery that has a nominal output of 12 V. It will not operate if connected to a 6 V battery and may be damaged if connected to a battery with 16 V or more.
- REVERSE POLARITY: Power connections from a 12 V battery to the mobile power outlet must be positive to positive and negative to negative. A reverse polarity connection (positive to negative) will blow a fuse in the mobile power outlet and might permanently damage the unit. Damage caused by a reverse polarity connection is not covered by your warranty.
- Disconnect the power cable whenever the engine is switched off for extended periods of time. In some vehicles, the power does not turn off after the engine has been switched off. If the plug is left connected, the vehicle battery might become discharged or damaged.
- Using the device for extended periods of time can completely discharge the vehicle battery.
- When using a mobile power outlet continuously inside a vehicle that is not running, the engine should be started at least once an hour for 10-15 minutes to keep the battery from discharging. Do not start a vehicle in a closed garage, as the carbon monoxide in the exhaust is fatal.
- Mobile power outlets work best with a battery that is in good condition and fully charged. A weak battery will be drained easily if demands are too high. This could leave you stranded so be sure to check the battery's condition before using a mobile power outlet in a stationary vehicle.
Key Parts Diagram
The following components are identified on the device:
- VENTILATION OPENINGS (A): Located on the sides of the unit for cooling.
- NEGATIVE (-) DC CABLING TERMINAL (B): For connecting the negative DC power cable.
- POSITIVE (+) DC CABLING TERMINAL (C): For connecting the positive DC power cable.
- USB PORT (D): A standard USB port for powering or charging USB devices.
- AC OUTLET (E): Standard household AC outlet(s) for connecting devices.
- GREEN INDICATOR (F): Indicates normal operation.
- RED INDICATOR (G): Indicates a fault condition or shutdown.
- ON/OFF SWITCH (H): Controls power to the AC outlets and USB port.
- DC CABLE WITH CLAMPS FOR DIRECT CONNECTION TO 12 V VEHICLE BATTERY (I): Heavy-duty cable with battery clamps for direct connection to a 12V battery.
- DC CABLE WITH CIGARETTE LIGHTER PLUG (J): Cable with a plug designed for a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket.
Intended Use
The MotoMaster® Eliminator® mobile power outlet is an electronic device that converts the low-voltage 12 V (direct current) from a battery, as can be found in cars, motor homes, boats or other similar power sources, to the conventional 115 V (alternating current) like you have in your home.
Do not connect this mobile power outlet to batteries below 6 V and above 16 V as it might get damaged.
This conversion process allows you to run standard household devices such as a cell phone, digital camera, portable work light, portable DVD player, battery charger, stereo system, laptop computer, 13" TV, soldering gun, finishing sander, 27" TV, 3/8" drill, 12" 3-speed fan, and other similar devices in automobiles, boats, tractors, trucks and virtually anywhere else.
This mobile power outlet uses a modified sine wave that delivers power consistent and efficient enough to run most devices adequately.
Options for connecting devices to the mobile power outlet
According to the wattage of the devices and its features, you can choose to connect the device to the:
- AC OUTLET (E): For devices requiring standard AC power. [Diagram Description: An arrow points from the AC OUTLET (E) label to an illustration of a laptop computer.]
- USB PORT (D): For USB-powered devices. [Diagram Description: An arrow points from the USB PORT (D) label to illustrations of a tablet and a smartphone, with a USB symbol.]
Operation
Determining the maximum load of connected devices
WARNING! DO NOT overload your mobile power outlet! Overloading the mobile power outlet, even for a short time, could result in serious damage to the mobile power outlet and/or to the connected device.
A few simple steps are necessary to avoid overloading the mobile power outlet:
- Identify all devices that you would like to power.
- Add up the total wattage of devices that will be powered. The wattage can be found on the individual device's rating plate, as well as in the instruction manual.
IMPORTANT! In some cases, the wattage might not be listed on the devices you want to connect to the mobile power outlet. In that case, calculate the wattage using the following equation:
VOLTS x AMPERE = WATTS
Formula: 120 Volts x X Amperes = XXXX Watts
Example: 120 Volts x 2 Amperes = 240 Watts
CAUTION! Understand the difference between rated (running) wattage and surge (starting) wattage.
The RATED (RUNNING) WATTAGE is the average amount of power that a device consumes continuously.
The SURGE (STARTING) WATTAGE is the amount of power that a device consumes at start-up for a limited period of time (2-3 seconds). Some devices (e.g. induction motors of drills and fans) may have a start-up surge of 3 to 7 times the rated wattage.
IMPORTANT! The mobile power outlet can supply momentary surge power that is higher (480 W) than its maximum power rating (240 W). Some products with a rated wattage lower than the maximum power rating for your mobile power outlet may still exceed the mobile power outlet's surge capability and trigger an overload shutdown.
Products rated with the following power and surge ratings or less can be connected to the mobile power outlet:
| POWER RATING | MAXIMUM WATTAGE |
|---|---|
| 5 min max. power rating | 300 W |
| Continuous power rating (RATED WATTAGE) | 240 W |
| Surge rating max. (SURGE WATTAGE) | 480 W |
Wattage of commonly used devices
IMPORTANT! The wattages given below are estimates. The actual wattage required for your devices may differ from those listed. Be sure to check the specific wattage requirements on the rating label and in the operating instructions of devices to be used.
| PRODUCTS | WATTS REQUIRED |
|---|---|
| Portable music/MP3 player | 1-5 W |
| Cell phone | 10 W |
| Digital camera | 15 W |
| Handheld gaming device | 20 W |
| Portable work light | 25 W |
| Portable DVD player | 30 W |
| Battery Charger | 35 W |
| Stereo system | 50 W |
| Laptop computer | 75 W |
| 13" television | 100 W |
| Soldering gun | 132 W |
| Finishing sander | 176 W |
| 27" television | 200 W |
| 3/8" drill | 220 W |
| 12" 3-speed fan | 231 W |
NOTE: Power requirements for product examples are estimates only. To calculate the wattage of a product, use the following equation: amperage x 115.
IMPORTANT! Add up the total wattage of devices to be powered. TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE SURGE WATTAGE REQUIRED BY ELECTRICAL MOTORS AS WELL AS THE RATED WATTAGE.
Example: Devices can be operated simultaneously.
| DEVICE | SURGE (STARTING) WATTAGE MAX. 480 W | RATED (RUNNING) WATTAGE MAX. 240 W |
|---|---|---|
| Light bulb | 40 | 40 |
| Table fan | 400 | 200 |
| Total wattage used | 440 | 240 |
These devices usually CAN be connected to the MotoMaster® Eliminator® mobile power outlet: [Diagram Description: Icons representing devices like a light bulb, fan, laptop, etc. followed by a checkmark emoji ✔️.]
These devices usually CANNOT be connected to the MotoMaster® Eliminator® mobile power outlet, as they might have a start-up surge or continuous rating that is too high. [Diagram Description: Icons representing devices with high power requirements, followed by a symbol indicating 'greater than 300 W' and a cross emoji ❌.]
Before you start
IMPORTANT! The device is not suitable for professional or industrial use.
- Unpack the mobile power outlet. Inspect the unit for damage. If the unit has been damaged, contact the retailer immediately.
- The carton should contain:
- Mobile power outlet
- DC cable with cigarette lighter plug (J)
- DC cable for direct connection to 12 V battery (I)
- Owner's manual
- Check the mobile power outlet's identification label to ensure that you have purchased the intended model and that it has the required specifications for its intended use.
Positioning of the mobile power outlet:
Position the mobile power outlet on a flat and stable surface in a location that is:
- DRY: Do not expose to water, rain, moisture, snow or spray.
- COOL: Operate the outlet in ambient temperatures between 0 °C and 40 °C (32 °F and 104 °F). Keep it away from heating vents and direct sunlight. We recommend using the outlet in environments not exceeding 25 °C (77 °F).
- WELL-VENTILATED: For proper cooling, allow at least 2" (5 cm) of clearance around the outlet.
- CLEAN: Choose a location that is free of any debris that could get into the outlet.
- SAFE: Do not install the mobile power outlet in a compartment with batteries or flammable liquids, such as gasoline, or explosive vapours.
Connecting the MotoMaster® Eliminator® Mobile Power Outlet
CAUTION! Prior to connecting to the power source:
Make sure that the total wattage of the devices you are planning to connect to the mobile power outlet does not exceed the maximum load of the respective power outlet.
| LOAD CONNECTED (W) | CONNECTION WITH CIGARETTE LIGHTER PLUG | CONNECTION WITH VEHICLE BATTERY |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous load under 100 W | Yes | Yes |
| Continuous load between 100 and 240 W | No | Yes |
Connecting the connector cables to the mobile power outlet
- Make sure that the mobile power outlet is switched off by verifying that the on/off switch (H) is set on the "0" position.
- Choose the DC cable (I / J) suitable for connecting the AC products that you want to operate.
CAUTION! Only use the cables provided with your mobile power outlet.
- Screw off the caps of the DC cabling terminals (B / C).
- Connect the cable with the DC cabling terminals (B / C).
CAUTION! Make sure to connect the RED CABLE TO POSITIVE PORT (+) and the BLACK CABLE TO NEGATIVE PORT (-).
- Place the red cable connector on the positive DC cabling terminal (+ / red). Make sure that the respective holes are matching. Screw the red cap back on the cabling terminal until the cable connector is tightly fixed. [Diagram Description: Illustration showing a red cable connector being attached to the positive terminal.]
- Place the black cable connector on the negative DC cabling terminal (- / black). Make sure that the respective holes are matching. Screw the black cap back on the cabling terminal until the cable connector is tightly fixed. [Diagram Description: Illustration showing a black cable connector being attached to the negative terminal.]
Connecting the mobile power outlet to a lighter socket (loads under 100 W)
- Follow the instructions in the previous section. Choose the DC cable with cigarette lighter plug (J).
- Plug the cigarette lighter plug into the lighter socket of your vehicle. Make sure the plug is fully inserted.
- The mobile power outlet is now ready for use.
CAUTION! Always disconnect the power cable from the cigarette lighter socket when you are not using the device.
Connecting the mobile power outlet to a 12 V vehicle battery (loads up to 240 W)
IMPORTANT! The normal voltage drop that occurs when the vehicle's engine is started may trigger the mobile power outlet's low-voltage shutdown feature. We recommend having the mobile power outlet disconnected from the cigarette lighter plug while starting the engine.
Safety guidelines for handling batteries
DANGER! A spark may be visible when making the connection to a battery because a current will flow to charge the capacitors in the mobile power outlet. Do not make this connection in the presence of flammable fumes. Explosion or fire may result. Thoroughly ventilate the battery compartment before making this connection.
DANGER! Take special care when working with a car battery. Batteries contain corrosive materials and present an ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD.
DANGER! Do not use the car battery in the proximity of open flames. Do not smoke when using a car battery.
WARNING! Remove any jewellery (watch, ring, etc.). Be careful not to short-circuit the battery with any metallic object (wrench, etc.).
WARNING! To prevent irritation and burns, wear protective eyewear and clothing when you install the mobile power outlet or work with a vehicle battery. Should battery acid come into contact with skin or eyes, flush it with water and consult your physician.
CAUTION! Power connections from a 12 V battery to the mobile power outlet must be POSITIVE (RED) TO POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE (BLACK) TO NEGATIVE. A reverse polarity connection (positive to negative) will blow a fuse in the mobile power outlet and may permanently damage the unit. Damage caused by a reverse polarity connection is not covered by your warranty.
CAUTION! Loose connectors result in an excessive voltage drop and may result in overheated wires and melted insulation.
CAUTION! Do not start the vehicle engine during operation.
- Follow the instructions in the section (Connecting the connector cables to the mobile power outlet) to connect the DC cable to the mobile power outlet.
- If the battery can be switched off, switch it off.
- Fasten the positive / + (red) clamp to the positive / + battery post, and then fasten the negative / - (black) clamp to the negative / - battery post. Make sure to have a secure connection.
Switching on/off
- The mobile power outlet is now ready for use.
CAUTION! If you are going to disconnect the battery, switch the mobile power outlet off first (Switching on/off).
CAUTION! Always disconnect the power cables from the vehicle battery when you are not using the device.
- Be sure to have your mobile power outlet properly placed and connected according to the wattage that is to be connected before attempting to switch it on.
- Switch the battery on in case it is switched off.
- Set the on/off switch (H) to the "I" position to switch on the mobile power outlet. The green indicator (F) lights up, indicating that the mobile power outlet is operating normally and that the AC outlet and the USB port are powered.
Using the USB port
- Plug in the devices that you want to operate to either the AC outlet or the USB port.
CAUTION! After plugging in the devices, turn them on ONE AT A TIME. This will ensure that the mobile power outlet does not have to deliver the surge currents required for all the loads at once.
- Set the on/off switch (H) to the "0" position to switch off the mobile power outlet.
CAUTION! Switch the mobile power outlet off and disconnect it from the power source when it is not in use.
IMPORTANT! When the mobile power outlet is switched off, it draws no current from the battery. When the mobile power outlet is switched on without any load connected to it, the mobile power outlet draws approx. 0.3 A from the battery. This low current draw will eventually discharge the battery.
- Plug the USB-powered device into the mobile power outlet's USB port (D) and operate normally.
IMPORTANT! This unit's USB charging port does not support data communication. It only provides (5 V/2.1 A) DC power to an external USB-powered device. Not all mobile phones are provided with a charging cable. Data cables are not supported by this device. Please check with your mobile phone dealer for the correct charging cable.
Automatic Safety Features
The MotoMaster® Eliminator® mobile power outlet includes the following automatic safety features to ensure safe and trouble-free operation:
- Vehicle battery low-voltage automatic alarm and shutdown: activated when the battery voltage drops to 10-11 V, to protect the battery from being damaged.
- Vehicle battery high-voltage automatic shutdown: activated when the battery voltage rises to a dangerously high level due to a defective battery.
- Overload protection with automatic shutdown: activated when a device rated more than 100 W is plugged into the mobile power outlet.
- Overheat protection with automatic shutdown: activated in case the mobile power outlet overheats due to improper ventilation or a high ambient temperature.
- Output short-circuit protection: activated in case of a short-circuit in the connected device.
- Built-in fan: activated when a significant amount of power increases the internal temperature and it exceeds its ambient operating temperature.
- Replaceable 8 A fuse: used for continued protection against a risk of fire or electric shock and should be replaced manually, if necessary.
The RED INDICATOR (G) indicates a shutdown of the mobile power outlet due to low-voltage, high-voltage, overloading or overheating.
An AUDIBLE ALARM warns you if a low-voltage or a high-voltage shutdown is about to occur (Troubleshooting).
Maintenance
WARNING! Before cleaning, make sure the mobile power outlet is switched off and disconnected from the power source.
- The exterior of the device should be cleaned periodically with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap solution.
- Be sure vents and fans are free of dust or debris.
- Never immerse the device in water or any other liquid.
- For cleaning, never use corrosive detergents, wire brushes, abrasive scourers, or metal or sharp objects.
- Store the device in a cool, dry, location that is protected from moisture and out of the reach of children.
Maintaining battery condition
- Vehicle batteries are designed to provide brief periods of very high current needed for engine starting. They are not intended for constant deep discharge.
- Regularly operating the mobile power outlet from a vehicle's battery until the low-voltage alarm sounds will shorten the battery's life.
- The battery operating time depends on:
- the charge level of the battery,
- the battery capacity,
- the amount of power drawn by the devices that are connected to the mobile power outlet.
- With an average load of about 240 W connected to the mobile power outlet, consider that the engine should be started at least once an hour for 10-15 minutes to keep the battery from discharging.
- If you need to start the engine to recharge the battery, first disconnect the mobile power outlet from the battery or the cigarette lighter socket.
Fuse replacement
WARNING! For continued protection against risk of fire or electric shock, replace only with a fuse of the same type and rating (12 V, 8 A).
Follow the instructions to replace the fuse inside the cigarette lighter plug of your connector cable (J):
- Screw off the upper cover of the cigarette lighter plug. [Diagram Description: Illustration showing the top of the cigarette lighter plug being unscrewed.]
- Remove the faulty fuse. [Diagram Description: Illustration showing a fuse being removed from the plug.]
- Insert a new fuse and screw the cover of the plug back on. [Diagram Description: Illustration showing a new fuse being inserted and the plug cover being screwed back on.]
Troubleshooting
The mobile power outlet is equipped with protective shutdown features and an acoustic signal. The details are listed in the following table:
| ALARM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION | ERROR SIGNAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low battery alarm and low-voltage shutdown | As the battery discharges, its voltage decreases. Voltage drops to: 10.5-11.0 V = alarm. Voltage drops to: 10.0-10.5 V = shutdown. This protects the battery from being over-discharged. | Shut down sensitive loads such as computers and then recharge the battery. | Audible alarm |
| High- Voltage shutdown | A defective battery charging system can cause the battery voltage to rise to high levels (15.0-16.3 V). Although the mobile power outlet has a protection against high voltage, it might still be damaged if the input voltage were to exceed 16 V. | Recharge the battery. Disconnect the connected devices. Verify that the charging system is properly regulated and the battery is 12 V nominal. | Red indicator light (G) turns on |
| Overload shutdown | If you connect a device that is rated too high or a load that draws excessive surge power, the mobile power outlet shuts down. | Use a product with a power rating within the mobile power outlet's continuous power rating (Operation). | Red indicator light (G) turns on |
| Overheat shutdown | The mobile power outlet shuts down automatically if it exceeds its safe operating temperature. |
| Red indicator light (G) turns on |
Problem: The connected device does not switch on.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| The battery is defective. | Check the battery and replace it if required. |
| The mobile power outlet is damaged and needs to be repaired. | Have the mobile power outlet repaired by an authorized service centre. |
| Incorrect connections to the inverter. | Check all connections. Make sure the connection is correct and tight. |
Problem: The mobile power outlet will run some small loads, but not larger ones.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| The cables are either too long or not heavy enough. | Only use the cables provided with your mobile power outlet. |
Problem: Measured mobile power outlet output is too low.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| The battery voltage is too low. | Recharge the battery. |
| The AC product power consumption is higher than rated. | Use a larger battery to make up for the increase in power requirement. |
Problem: Battery run time is less than expected.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| The battery is old or defective. | Replace the battery. |
| The battery is not being charged properly. | Some chargers are not able to fully recharge a battery. Make sure that you use a powerful charger. |
Problem: No power to mobile power outlet.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| Power dissipation in DC cables. | Only use the cables provided with your mobile power outlet. |
| Blown fuse. | Replace fuse. |
Problem: Buzz in the audio system.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| Inadequate internal power supply filtering of stereo system. | Use an audio system with a high-quality filter. |
Problem: Television interference.
| POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|
| TV signals are weak. |
|
Warranty
This MotoMaster® Eliminator® product carries a one (1) year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials. At its discretion, MotoMaster Canada agrees to have any defective part(s) repaired or replaced free of charge, within the stated warranty period, when returned by the original purchaser with proof of purchase. This product is not guaranteed against wear or breakage due to misuse and/or abuse.
