Description

• Any device that converts DC power into AC power for typical household applications is called a voltage inverter. The device can also be configured to do the opposite, that is, to convert DC to AC. It finds applications in many different devices and electronic items such as battery-operated backup units or UPS, solar panels, induction heaters and electric vehicle drives.
  
  

Function

• An inverter works by taking in DC power, which is a straight line current, and converting it into a wavy current that resembles AC power, which comes to our homes. It does this by passing the DC current through a series of transformers inside it, which rapidly turn on and off, thus producing a wavy texture into the current. Using other mechanisms within the inverter, the current that ultimately comes out is maintained at voltage to frequency ratio of 220V/60Hz.
  
  

The Role of Transformers

• Transformers are devices that can amplify and convert current. In an inverter, the current is passed through series of transformers that bring in a sine wave pattern of the AC by switching between positive and negative cycles at a fixed rate. In this manner, the current that comes out of each transformer gets molded either into the positive half of the wave or the negative half. Ultimately, with the help of a number of transformers, the inverter completely converts the incident DC into AC.
  
  

Types

• Depending on the final current type, there are three types of inverters. A square wave inverter is no longer in wide use and is restricted to power tools. A modified sine wave inverter is used in household applications since it is a near perfect replica of the domestic AC power. A true sine wave inverter produces an exact wave and therefore is used in precise instruments and electronic devices only.
  
  

Solar Power Systems

• The main use of voltage inverters is in solar power systems. A solar power system uses solar panels to capture energy from sunlight and employs a voltage inverter to deliver this power to the entire household. Depending on the solar energy levels captured by the device, a proper strength voltage inverter should be used. Voltage inverters specifically for this purpose are available on the market with different specifications.