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From: gaarder@batcomputer.tn.cornell.edu (Steve Gaarder)
Newsgroups: sci.engr,sci.electronics
Subject: Re: use of inverters with modified sine wave output with computers, etc
Keywords: inverter, modified sine wave
Message-ID: <1990Nov8.002006.14991@batcomputer.tn.cornell.edu>
Date: 8 Nov 90 00:20:06 GMT
References: <29237@boulder.Colorado.EDU>
Organization: Cornell Theory Center
Lines: 15

In article <29237@boulder.Colorado.EDU> gordon@spot.Colorado.EDU (GORDON ALLEN R) writes:
>We currently have an inverter which produces a modified sine wave output...
>Does anyone know of any long term effects of using such an inverter, rather
>one which produces a real sine wave...?

Most electronics should take it ok.  The stuff you have to worry about is
that which puts a large capacitive or inductive load on the unit.  Motors
and fluorescent lights with non-electronic ballasts fall in this category.
Effects I would watch out for are overheating and shortened lamp or ballast
life.  Also, check the inverter - some should not be used with a load that
is too reactive.  With motors, there is also the starting current to factor
in - it can be a lot more than the running current.

Steve Gaarder
gaarder@batcomputer.tn.cornell.edu