Re: [VAC] Trace Inverters...

[Tom Howarth <howarth@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dean,

I installed a Trace 812/SB 600 Watt inverter/25 Amp 3-stage multistage
charger and the Trace RC/3 remote control in my trailer in 1997.  I
liked this model with the exception that it was really undersized and
rather noisy (alot of transformer hum).  It did not permit us to use the
microwave and limited multiple appliances run at the same time. 
Although microwaves are available at 500 W, that is the output power. 
The lowest input power microwave I could find was 912 Watts.  This meant
that I was always under powering the microwave with the 600 Watt inverter.

So this past year I sold that system and upgraded to the Legend II
1512/SB inverter/65 A multistage charger and Trace RC/8 remote control. 
This new unit is 1500 Watts and has been fantastic.  It quickly
recharges my batteries and I am able to easily run the microwave as well
as any other appliances I have wanted (even my wife's hair dryer).  I
would not recommend a smaller sized inverter even if you do not plan on
using a microwave.  The 1512 is also much quieter and cleaner in terms
of electrical signals and noise.  I highly recommend the substitution of
the Trace inverter/charger units over the charger stand alone units
because of the flexibility that the inverter allows.  I also have a Link
1000 electrical monitor but you can essentially gain the same
information and the remote control capability with the RC/9 remote
control panel.  The monitoring is really essential in understanding how
much current you are pulling and how much Amp-hrs you have consumed
since your last charge.

Tom Howarth