Powermate PM401211 User Manual
Page 23
200-2341
23
Two methods are available to start the generator.
The automatic, or AUTO mode is for use with an
automatic transfer switch. With the control panel mode
switch set to this position, the generator waits for an
external signal to start. This signal is supplied by the
transfer switch when utility power is of unacceptable
quality. Since utility power can fail at any time, be aware
the generator can start unexpectedly whenever in the
AUTO position. Keep away from moving parts at all
times. Once utility power is once again acceptable, the
signal from the transfer switch is removed, the generator
shuts off, then returns to waiting for another signal to
start.
The other method for starting the generating is to
place the mode switch into the RUN position. This mode
is intended for generator control during maintenance or if
an automatic transfer switch is not used. With the control
panel switch shifted to this position, the generator will
immediately attempt to start after a brief pause. Upon
starting, the generator runs until the switch is moved
from the RUN position, at which time the generator will
shut off.
To insure the generator starts without damaging the
starter motor, cranking of the engine is performed in a
cyclic manner. When the generator is started from either
the AUTO or RUN positions, the controller alternates
between 10 seconds of engine cranking, followed by 10
seconds of engine rest. If the engine starts during any of
the cranking periods, crank attempts are halted and the
controller begins monitoring for proper function of the
generator. In the event that three 10 second start
attempts occur without the engine starting, cranking
attempts are halted and the Overcrank light is lit.
After the engine is started and the generator is
producing electrical power, the controller begins
operation in a monitoring state. In this state, several
generator functions are continuously checked to ensure
proper operation of the generator. If functions are
determined unacceptable, a fault is declared, the engine
is shut down and a status light is lit to communicate the
reason for the shutdown.
When operating with the control panel switch in the
RUN position, the generator will continue to run until a
fault is declared or until the mode switch is moved to the
OFF position. Once the switch is shifted to the OFF
position, the engine is shut off.
When operating with the control panel switch in the
AUTO position, the generator continues to run until a
fault light is declared or the run signal is removed. Once
the signal is removed, the engine shuts down and the
controller returns to waiting for a start signal.
S
S
S
S
T
T
T
T
A
A
A
A
R
R
R
R
T
T
T
T
II
II
N
N
N
N
G
G
G
G
T
T
T
T
H
H
H
H
E
E
E
E
G
G
G
G
E
E
E
E
N
N
N
N
E
E
E
E
R
R
R
R
A
A
A
A
T
T
T
T
O
O
O
O
R
R
R
R
C
C
C
C
Y
Y
Y
Y
C
C
C
C
L
L
L
L
II
II
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
R
R
R
R
A
A
A
A
N
N
N
N
K
K
K
K
W
WA
AR
RN
NIIN
NG
G
•
With the Mode switch in the Auto position, the
unit starts and stops without notice.
•
Keep clear of all moving parts at all times.
R
R
R
R
U
U
U
U
N
N
N
N
S
S
S
S
T
T
T
T
A
A
A
A
T
T
T
T
E
E
E
E
S
S
S
S
H
H
H
H
U
U
U
U
T
T
T
T
D
D
D
D
O
O
O
O
W
W
W
W
N
N
N
N