We can recall many cases when a converter from 12 volts DC to 220 volts AC would be useful - for example, when you arrive at your dacha by car, you can turn on the lights in the evening or power a watering pump from a battery. Also, such an inverter is an integral part of wind generators.
Buying a ready-made device will not be a problem – and in auto stores you can find car inverters (pulse voltage converters) of various powers and prices.
However, the price of such a medium-power device (300-500 W) is several thousand rubles, and the reliability of many Chinese inverters is quite controversial. Making a simple converter with your own hands is not only a way to significantly save money, but also an opportunity to improve your knowledge in electronics. In case of failure, repairing a homemade circuit will be much easier.
Principle of operation
If it is necessary to change the AC voltage, one device with an initial and reverse wrap may be sufficient.
With continuous electricity, the process is not so easy - the car enthusiast will need a more complex electrical circuit with semiconductor components. This device operates using a pulse width modulation system. The relaxer sends a pulse to the power switch, it controls the high-frequency transformer and the output is voltage (220 V). The magnitude of the shocks depends on the applied load, followed by a feedback system.
The signal received at the output does not look like a smooth drop/increase in voltage, but an abrupt one. This voltage cannot be connected to many devices. To correct the jump signal, filters from capacitors and coils are added to the inverter circuit, as a result of which harmful causes do not affect the devices.
Operating principle
When it is necessary to change the AC voltage, one converter with initial and repeated winding is sufficient. With continuous electricity, everything is not so easy - the car enthusiast needs a more complex electrical circuit with semiconductor components.
In the case under consideration, it is necessary to increase the voltage and transform its type. For this purpose, a mixed circuit is used, in which both converter and semiconductor devices are used.
The basis of pulse-width modulation is the operating principle of the inverter. The main generator supplies impulses, the frequency of which ranges from 10 kHz to 20 MHz, to a power switch connected to the winding of the induction converter - alternating current is removed from its output.
The width of the shocks is determined by the connected load, and therefore the circuit uses a feedback structure. The smallest signal duty cycle is equal to the minimum power, and as the output current increases, the push width reaches 1:1 (the limit value).
The difficulty is that the type of output signal that is obtained in this case is not a plastic decrease/increase in voltage (graph), but a square wave with an abrupt change in potential.
This means that the measured voltage cannot be applied to various electronic devices. To convert a square wave into a sine wave, the inverter circuit is supplemented with filters from capacitors and coils.
Rating of the TOP 7 best car inverters from 12 to 220V
In the material below you will learn reviews and functions of the best models. In our opinion, the TOP 7 inverters look like this:
- AVS IN-2000W.
- AIRLINE API-1000-06.
- AIRLINE API-150-01.
- WESTER MSW250.
- STURM AW98A03.
- MEANWELL A301‑150‑F3.
- MAP "Energy" 900.
Let's look at it in the article below.
AVS IN-2000W
from 6,550 to 6,950 rub.
7th place 4.1/5
This model is the best automotive inverter for powering tools with power up to 2 kW. The device is made in an aluminum case, it promotes natural temperature relief. The built-in cooler helps keep the product cool. The case is equipped with mounting holes, thanks to which the device can be installed as convenient as possible during continuous use in the car. The device also provides high current strength up to 1 A.
| USB | Yes |
| Power | 2000 W |
| Size | 26x14x5 cm |
- there is short circuit protection (sensor);
- manufacturer's warranty (5 years);
- the device has a built-in parameter monitoring system (if a strong deviation occurs, a sound signal sounds and warns the owner);
- One socket is built in, a double is needed, it can power several electrical appliances.
The power of the converter corresponds to the declared one, despite the low cost. There are no unnecessary bells and whistles (in the form of an electronic voltmeter), there are two sets of wires - to the 12 V power source and directly to the battery with alligator clips.
Autoinverter AVS
AIRLINE API-1000-06
from 3,950 to 5,320 rubles.
6th place 4.2/5
It is the best model designed for trucks with a 12V network. Outputs 1000 W AC. To maintain durability and warmth, the body is made of metal. The set includes two screw-on clips with black and red designations. The unit does not create sudden loads, but begins work with a soft start.
| USB | present |
| Power | 1000 W |
| Compactness | 38x25x15 cm |
- built-in fan (cools the system);
- there is a European socket;
- the inverter operates without changes, even strong temperature changes from -20 to +45 degrees will not damage the device.
- short wires (65 cm).
An excellent inverter, small and convenient, produces electricity according to the specifications, quickly charged the phone and laptop on the road, without fear of a possible surge in electricity. When a car requires a real 220V outlet, the inverter will become an indispensable addition. I recommend!
Autoinverter AIRLINE
AIRLINE API-150-01
from 1,189 to 1,600 rubles.
5th place 4.3/5
This car inverter is quite famous among car enthusiasts. The two main wires are small and connect directly to the cigarette lighter. It's very convenient that you don't have to open the hood and put clamps on the battery. All actions take place inside the car. Modern devices include a main outlet and an additional separate USB connector.
| USB | present |
| Force | 150 W |
| Dimensions | 27x5x17 cm |
- built-in protection against overload and heating;
- capable of delivering 300 W at peak;
- combined type socket (it is possible to include plugs of standard and rare shapes).
- You cannot turn on equipment more powerful than 150 W.
It works at low temperatures, stated up to -25 degrees, tried it at -14 outside the car. Half the power of 75 W pulls calmly, I didn’t load it any further. Without a load, there is not 0.4 amperes, but 0.6, and until you give it a load, the voltage will be 214 Volts. It is better to connect the load already when the green readiness indicator on it lights up, because interference comes first. It's better not to take risks.
Autoinverter AIRLINE
WESTER MSW250
from 1,728 to 1,839 rubles.
4th place 4.4/5
This device provides you with a stable power of 250 W and a peak power of 500 W at the same time; it is connected to the cigarette lighter, does not require stopping along the way and connecting to the battery terminals. The body is made of black metal with the ability to be mounted on the inside wall of a car. A wire with a plug is attached to it, then everything is attached to the cigarette lighter. Unplugging devices does not make the dashboard socket any heavier.
| USB | Yes |
| Force | 500 W |
| Dimensions | 18x10x6 cm |
- there is a fuse against short circuits;
- light weight (600 g);
- indicator indicating readiness for work.
- not detected.
I purchased the device and have never regretted it. Thanks to its small dimensions, it is very convenient to use. There is an indicator, it indicates readiness for work, after some time it turns off to avoid overheating. He does his job with a bang.
Autoinverter WESTER
STURM AW98A03
from 2,328 to 2,599 rub.
3rd place 4.6/5
The converter guarantees a constant transmission of alternating electrical current to the machine. The durable casing reliably protects all internal ligaments from mechanical stress. The built-in protection sensor turns off the load when the current output is high. It is not recommended to connect fancy electrical appliances, because the type of input signal is an uninterruptible power supply.
| USB | present |
| Power | 300 W |
| Size | 19x10x5 cm |
- expanded equipment (wires to the battery like crocodile type and wires to the cigarette lighter);
- overheat protection sensor;
- built-in fan (cools the system).
- not detected.
I purchased the converter six months ago. Using the device is easy and simple, control is expressed in one button. It is equipped with protection against overheating, overvoltage and short circuit. Satisfied with the work, an indispensable assistant on the road.
Autoinverter STURM
MEANWELL A301‑150‑F3
from 2000 to 3000 rub.
2nd place 4.8/5
The presented company specializes in current converters. The appearance of this representative is simple at first glance: the metal cylinder is equipped with a socket, electrical appliances are connected to it, and there is also a cord connected to the cigarette lighter. Among other things, the device notifies the owner with a signal and automatically turns off when the battery charge is below the permissible limit. Equipped with a sensor against overheating, polarity reversal and overvoltage.
| USB | No |
| Power | 1300 W |
| Dimensions | 16x9x7 cm |
- minimum weight (800 g);
- signal indicating low battery charge;
- metal body.
- not detected.
A worthy kid, he has been working for two years. A necessary alarm system, that is, when the battery is discharged, it starts to squeak, you manage to recharge it in time. You can easily charge your phone or laptop on the go. I'm happy with the model and have no intention of changing it. I recommend!
Autoinverter MEANWELL
MAP "Energy" 900
from 7200 to 8500 rub.
1 place 4.9/5
A universal device that can be used both in the car and at home. The inverter is capable of operating - an uninterruptible power supply and a charging starter. It is controlled using specialized buttons, and all information is shown on the screen. During an overload, it turns itself off, warns you with a sound and shows an error on the screen. Perhaps the only disadvantages of the device are its high cost and bulkiness.
| USB | available |
| Force | 900 W |
| Dimensions | 12x5x24 cm |
- the error is indicated by a light signal;
- extended equipment (wire to the cigarette lighter and wires to the battery).
- compactness (12x5x24 cm).
- not detected.
An excellent device, indispensable when traveling. I never forget it, I take it with me on vacation, turn on the tape recorder or put the kettle on, there are no problems at all, that’s for sure. In operation for more than three years, the work is carried out without any complaints! If you believe the company, the service life will be 20 years, then the inverter will move to a new car, because my current car will not last that long.
Autoinverter Energy
Appearance
Actually, two interrelated characteristics are power and body shape. Low-power inverter converters can be designed in the form of a large “adapter” inserted directly into the cigarette lighter, or in the form of a cylinder with a diameter like a soda can for installation in a cup holder - with a cable in the same cigarette lighter.
This format is very convenient, but significantly limited in power - for the first option it usually does not exceed 70-100 watts, for the second - 100-150 watts (although more may be announced, depending on the arrogance of the manufacturer!). Cooling for such gadgets is usually natural, fanless. The cases are safe, plastic.
More powerful inverters are available in the form of rectangular aluminum cases with radiator fins and purge fans. As a rule, models up to 200 watts of power still have a cord in the cigarette lighter (and sometimes can even be fanless), but more powerful ones already come with crocodile wires for connecting directly to the battery terminals under the hood and with an effective purge cooling system.
The move away from an easy connection in the cigarette lighter to a not very convenient and unsuitable for use on the move “crocodile” connection is due to the fact that the fuse in the cigarette lighter circuit on most cars does not exceed a nominal value of 15 amperes. With this current consumption, the inverter cannot output more than two hundred watts to avoid blowing the fuse.
Even more powerful models of voltage converters are limited in power, in fact, only by the capabilities of the battery and generator of an average car. There are inverters on sale with a power of up to 1.5-2 kilowatts, and even higher. Let's look at the relationship between power and capabilities in more detail!
Comparison table of characteristics
We clearly suggest that you consider the comparative table of all the described models.
| Model | USB | Power, W) | Dimensions (cm) | Price, rub) |
| AVS IN-2000W | Yes | 2000 | 26x14x5 | from 6,550 to 6,950 |
| AIRLINE API-1000-06 | Yes | 1000 | 38x25x15 | from 3,950 to 5,320 |
| AIRLINE API-150-01 | Yes | 150 | 27x5x17 | from 1,189 to 1,600 |
| WESTER MSW250 | Yes | 500 | 18x10x6 | from 1,728 to 1,839 |
| STURM AW98A03 | Yes | 300 | 19x10x5 | from 2,328 to 2,599 |
| MEANWELL A301‑150‑F3 | No | 1300 | 16x9x7 | from 2000 to 3000 |
| MAP "Energy" 900 | Yes | 900 | 12x5x24 | from 7200 to 8500 |
Useful tips
Tips for selecting and installing an inverter power supply:
- When using a converter connected to the vehicle's on-board network, the power consumption should not exceed the output of the generator (taking into account the energy consumption of lighting and ignition systems). Otherwise, the battery will begin to discharge, causing the engine to stop.
- It is recommended to purchase equipment with an aluminum housing that provides heat dissipation. There are devices with active cooling and a steel casing that can withstand increased loads. Converters with such housings are designed for use in harsh conditions.
- When selecting, you should take into account the standard of the socket on the converter. Most devices are equipped with a European-size plug with a grounding contact; there are products with a universal socket.
How to connect correctly?
Proper connection and correct use are the basis for long and high-quality work. Here are a few rules that will help you install your device correctly.
- Before connecting, check the device; the power lever must be turned to the “off” side.
- The device must be installed directly where there is no moisture and the ambient temperature does not exceed +50 degrees.
- Protect the device from direct sunlight and flammable objects.
- Check the integrity and accuracy of the wires being attached to the plug, then insert it into the cigarette lighter.
- Do not connect electrical appliances to the inverter whose power exceeds the permissible power of the car inverter.
- Do not use cigarette lighter to crocodile adapters. Avoid any poor contact on the power lines, this may cause the inverter and electrical appliance to overheat.
Installation and connection rules
Proper installation, connection and subsequent use are a guarantee of long and safe operation of the inverter. To avoid disappointment in your purchase, follow the principles below:
- Place only in a non-humid place;
- Do not allow direct sunlight to penetrate the device;
- Do not place the inverter near heating equipment;
- Do not turn on near flammable objects.
Like any modern device, an inverter for a car is equipped with a specialized protective device that protects it from failures or malfunctions and voltage failures of more than 12 V.
Auto shut-off protects against overload and is instantly activated during voltage drop. In the event of a short circuit, the device will also turn off.
What to look for when choosing
When choosing a device, focus on your needs. There are several main rules when choosing a car inverter:
- The main thing is that before connecting the inverter to the car's generator, you need to know the power. It should not exceed the power of the generator. Basically, this figure varies from 150 to 220 W.
- Decide on a list of devices that you will connect to the converter in the future. It is necessary to look at the power consumption parameters when starting the device in normal operation mode and in high consumption mode. Wattage also affects voltage, and some appliances will not work unless they receive the required 220 watts.
- If the inverter fails, it can cause the car to catch fire. For such reasons, choose a device from a reliable manufacturer of a well-known brand. Well-known brands provide a guarantee for their devices.
Areas of application
Inverters are used in various situations:
- On long trips, they provide the ability to connect the necessary devices (refrigerator, electrical tools, etc.) to the car battery.
- Conversion of energy obtained from alternative sources (for example, from solar panels).
- Backup power supply to your home in case of an unexpected power outage.
- Source of energy in suburban areas in the absence of centralized electrification, etc.
To perform each of these tasks, select the appropriate converter models. Most often, 12/220 inverters are used by motorists.
Devices with 12 V and 24 V input voltages are not interchangeable!
