Indeed, if only one pair of red/black DC terminals were on the large inverters, the cost would be down.
But as the high-quality inverters we made, we can not do that.
(check the video here https://www.youtube.com/shorts/x1a1MPWtcw4)
Because for large-wattage inverters, the second pair of DC positive and negative terminals plays a critical role in ensuring efficient power delivery and reducing voltage drops. Here’s how they are typically used and where they go:
Purpose of the Second Pair of Terminals:
- Reducing Current Load on Cables: Large inverters require higher current at the DC input to deliver significant AC power. By using a second pair of terminals, the total current is distributed across multiple cables, reducing the load on each cable and minimizing heat generation and resistance losses.
- Improving Voltage Stability: A single pair of cables can experience voltage drops due to resistance, especially over longer runs. Adding a second pair of terminals allows for parallel connections that reduce the total resistance, maintaining a more stable DC voltage at the inverter input.
- Enhancing Safety: Splitting the current across multiple cables can also reduce overheating and the risk of damage to a single cable or terminal.
Where They Are Going:
The second pair of terminals is typically connected to:
- The Same Battery Bank:
- Both pairs of cables (positive and negative) are connected to the same DC power source, such as a battery bank or a solar charge controller. This ensures that the current drawn is distributed evenly.
- Parallel Batteries:
- In setups with multiple batteries in parallel, the second pair of terminals might connect to a different battery in the same bank. This helps balance the load across the batteries, improving their lifespan and performance.
- Busbars:
- If the system uses a busbar (a centralized connection point), the second pair of terminals might connect directly to the positive and negative busbars, which aggregate connections from multiple batteries.
- DC Distribution Panel:
- In some cases, the second pair might connect to a DC distribution panel, which serves as an intermediary for routing power from multiple sources to the inverter.
Key Considerations:
- Cable Sizing: Ensure that all cables are appropriately sized for the total current to prevent overheating and losses.
- Proper Connections: Secure and clean connections at the terminals are crucial to avoid resistance build-up.
- Fusing: Each pair of cables should be individually fused for protection against short circuits.
This dual-terminal configuration is a design enhancement for handling the high current demands of big-wattage inverters safely and efficiently.