Xantrex Technology Automatic Generator - Manual (Page 18)

Introduction
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System Requirements
The Auto Gen Start is not designed for stand-alone operation. It does not
function in a simple system containing only an Auto Gen Start and a
generator. The Auto Gen Start requires several other components for
configuration and operation.
Generator The generator should have automatic starting capability.
Some manufacturers of generators without this capability may sell an
optional automatic engine control module that will simplify operation
with the Auto Gen Start.
The generator should also supply a Generator Run signal, which the Auto
Gen Start uses to detect whether the generator is running. Some generator
manufacturers refer to this signal as the hour meter signal or
Switched B+.
Control panel A separate control panel is required to configure the
Auto Gen Start and monitor generator starting and stopping activity. The
control panel also provides real-time clock information for the Auto Gen
Start Quiet Time and Exercise Time features.
Network power supply The Auto Gen Start requires a Xanbus power
supply to operate. Network power is carried by the network cables, and
can be supplied by a Xanbus-enabled product (such as an inverter/
charger) or an external Xanbus power supply.
As a device that draws network power, the Auto Gen Start consumes a
maximum of 3 watts.
Start and stop triggers The Auto Gen Start requires a source of start
and stop triggers for automatic operation. These triggers can come from:
• thermostat 12/24 V input.
• battery voltage, state of charge, and inverter load status. This
information must be transmitted over the network by another Xanbus-
enabled device, such as an inverter/charger or DC Monitor.
When network-broadcast battery voltage, state of charge, and inverter
load information are not available, the Auto Gen Start could operate in a
reduced system with a control panel and network power supply. In this
system, the Auto Gen Start would be limited to automatically starting and
stopping the generator from thermostat 12/24 V input. In such a system,
you could also start and stop the generator manually using the control
panel, and Quiet Time, Exercise Time, and maximum run time settings
would function.