Is a Small AC Generator Suitable for Running Electronics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of a small AC generator for running electronic devices, particularly in the context of frequent electricity outages. Participants explore issues related to the generator's output quality and its impact on sensitive electronics like computers and UPS systems.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant reports that their 2.2kW AC generator produces a consistent 220V output but causes issues when powering a PC, including a buzzing noise from the power supply.
  • Another participant suggests that the generator likely outputs a waveform with higher harmonics, which can be detrimental to computer power supplies and may lead to operational glitches or failures.
  • A participant inquires about the possibility of using a device to improve the generator's output quality, expressing disappointment at the lack of a simple solution.
  • There is mention of true sine wave converters that can provide cleaner power from batteries, which may be a potential solution for the issues faced.
  • One participant notes that Honda produces small generators with inverter outputs that have better output characteristics, although they may not be suitable for larger appliances.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the generator's output is not suitable for running sensitive electronics, but there is no consensus on the best solution or whether the suggested alternatives would be effective.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of older UPS systems and the quality of output from various generator models. There are also concerns about the reliability of cheaper generators and their manufacturers.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals experiencing similar issues with small generators and electronics, as well as those considering alternatives for reliable power supply during outages.

gamefreak123
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Hi all,
The country where I live, electricity outages are a part of life, so to compensate for it I have a small 2.2kW 220V AC generator in my house. The problem with it is that I've heard and found out for myself that its output is unfit for running electronics.

Testing with a voltmeter, the output is a consistent 220V, however, whenever I turn on my PC on it the power supply makes a weird buzzing noise. Also, I have a UPS w/ surge protector that doesn't even go on charge mode when plugged in with the generator on i.e. it doesn't consider the output suitable enough. Many laptop repairers and computer technicians have also warned me not to charge laptops from small, single phase generators.

So anyone have any idea what the problem might be, and more importantly any inexpensive way to get around it?

Thanks in advance.
 
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Hi there "Gamefreak123"!
Your computer power supply wants a pure sine wave, and what it is probably getting is full of harmonics.

What model is your present generator, please?

Unfortunately, higher harmonics in the mains supplied to the computer can cause glitches in the operation of the machine, and can also cause power supply failure.
I have seen "true sine wave" converters, which produce nice clean mains power from 12V batteries.
Such converters are cheaper this year than they were last year. This link might help: http://www.powerstream.com/in15t.htm
 
*cough* some cheap Chinese one whose producer doesn't even have a website :D

Yeah you're probably right. I was hoping that there would be some magical device which could fine tune the generator's output and make it suitable, but I guess there isn't any. In that case, should I just buy a pair of fresh batteries for my old UPS? Its an http://www.ablerex.com.sg/downloads/products/tearsheet1000.pdf" a decent brand I think. You think its output would be good enough? It is pretty old.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
gamefreak123 said:
*cough* some cheap Chinese one whose producer doesn't even have a website :D

Yeah you're probably right. I was hoping that there would be some magical device which could fine tune the generator's output and make it suitable, but I guess there isn't any. In that case, should I just buy a pair of fresh batteries for my old UPS? Its an http://www.ablerex.com.sg/downloads/products/tearsheet1000.pdf" a decent brand I think. You think its output would be good enough? It is pretty old.

It's probably OK.
Although I cringe every time I see people use batteries.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I noticed Honda has been producing small generators with inverter outputs. These have excellent output characteristics, but would probably be too wimpy for larger appliances.
 

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