DC AC Inverters

DC AC inverters or converters are used to convert Direct current (DC) into Alternating current (AC). They're used by engineers for power conversion where an AC output with a particular frequency is needed, whether this be in industrial systems or consumer gadgets.

DC AC inverters can be used for everything from battery storage systems to photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate electricity from sunlight. There's an inverter or converter for every circumstance, whether that's a 12V DC to AC inverter or a DC to 3 phase AC inverter.

Check out our selection online and get in touch with our expert team if you have any queries. Our extensive catalogue will mean you can find the device you need. Contact us to start your order today.

How do DC AC inverters work?

DC AC inverters or converters are electrical circuits that convert Direct current (DC) input into Alternating current (AC) output from an energy source. They are the opposite of AC to DC converters, which transform Alternating current (AC) into Direct current (DC). DC AC inverters rely on oscillators to reverse the direction of the current at the frequency needed.

You may hear them referred to as 24V DC to AC converters or 48V DC to AC converters. The power can also be converted into 110V if you choose a DC to 110V AC inverter. You need to recharge the battery as the power is extracted by the inverter. Inverters can also convert DC power from solar panels, something that has become more common in recent years.

You can also choose a DC to 3 phase AC inverter, where the power supply is transformed into a current source instead of a voltage source. The current is directed to a three-phase AC load using a six-step system.

What are the benefits of using DC AC inverters?

Some people use a power inverter at home as a portable power device by connecting it to a battery, then connecting an AC device to the inverter. As well as many industrial applications, a DC AC inverter can power a number of electrical devices in the home, such as:

• Lights
• TVs
• Power tools
• Microwaves
• Refrigerators

Key benefits of using a DC AC power inverter include the reduced amount of load on its power supply, which limits instabilities. This can mean that the life of components is increased, and it also means that the inverters themselves are a lot quieter.

What are the different types of DC AC inverters?

DC AC inverters can have different characteristics and waveforms, which can dictate your decision when buying one. There are three different waveforms to be aware of:

Sine wave inverters

A sine wave inverter has a waveform that oscillates above and below zero. This s-shape moves up, down or side-to-side. You can get sine waves, pure sine waves or true sine waves. Sine wave inverters tend to be efficient appliances with AC motors, like microwaves or refrigerators.

Modified sine wave inverters

Also known as a 'quasi-sine' inverter, modified zine wave inverters are less sensitive to power instabilities. They tend to be a cost-effective option for running appliances that aren't sensitive to power fluctuations - otherwise, a pure sine wave inverter is needed. You can run a variety of equipment using modified sine wave inverters, such as motors or household items like phone chargers.

Square wave inverters

Inverters at the lowest price point tend to be square wave inverters. They are only capable of running the simplest of tools with universal motors. Square wave inverters should not be attached to delicate or sensitive electronic appliances, otherwise, they may become damaged.

How to choose the most suitable DC AC inverters

Before deciding on a converter or inverter, the first step is to know whether you need Direct current (DC) power or Alternating current (AC) power. Once you know the type of output you need, you can choose the right DC AC inverter or an AC DC converter for the job.

The type of DC AC inverter you buy is dictated by the watts you need. This information can be found on the appliance or tool you want to run. If you needed 410 W, for instance, you should choose a 500 W inverter as a minimum to give you wiggle room in case you want to run additional devices at the same time. Consider the starting load and the continuous load - in other words, the amount of power your tool requires and the continued running requirements.

When choosing a DC AC inverter, you should consider the following:

• Maximum voltage
• Maximum power
• Frequency range
• Maximum stead-state current

Get DC AC inverters from RS Components

Our huge array of DC AC inverters and converters means you can take the time to invest in one that fits your requirements, considering different characteristics and waveforms. Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that you'll get a durable product from a credited brand.

Use our expert hub to help inform your decision, taking in a wide range of resources and industry updates. Alternatively, contact us and get support from our team of experts. Customer service is a top priority for us and we encourage you to tap into our expertise if you're unsure. Happy to make your purchase? Start your order online today. Our quick, efficient delivery means you can get cracking in no time.