View source for Generators for Portable Power

== Generators ==

This article is based upon information gleaned from {{Bose}} engineers and users at the {{forum}}.

Whenever possible, it is recommended that AC power be used to power the {{L1}}.

On those occasions where AC power is not readily available (for example, at an outdoor gig) you may find yourself having to power your {{L1}} through a portable generator.

Portable power generators are usually small diesel or regular gas engines with an electric generator attached. The drawbacks are that they are generally heavy, smelly, and may produce questionable power quality. In addition, because of the engine noise, you will have to locate the generator fairly far away to keep it from interfering with the sound of your performance.

== Considerations ==

If you are in a situation where you must utilize an electric generator to power the {{L1}}, there are several things to consider.

* Although the {{Model I}} / {{Model II}} system is very efficient, it produces 500 Watts of power and therefore requires a good input power supply that is rated at least 750-1000 Watt. Guidelines:
** {{Model 1S}} or {{Model II}}, draws up to 750 Watts per system
** {{Compact}} draws up to [[L1®_Compact#Battery_Power|100 watts]] 
** {{T1}} draws up to [[L1®_Compact#Battery_Power|100 watts]]
** Classic: {{Classic}} 750 Watts of power and therefore requires a good input power supply that is rated at least 1400 Watts. As a general guideline, you should budget at least 1000 Watt per system.

* Only use inverter<ref>inverter [http://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/inverter-generator-advantages Honda article on inverter generators], [http://www.yamahaef2000is.com/conventional_generator_vs_inverter_generator.html Yamaha article on inverter generators]</ref> type generators. These generators will provide clean sine wave power that makes them safe for use with sensitive equipment such as computers, laptops, and the {{L1}}. Generators of the type commonly used in construction should be avoided.
 
* If performing with the {{L1}} at a gig where an unfamiliar generator is being used, it is advisable to bring a multimeter and monitor the output voltage of the generator. If the reading is above 140 V or below 100 V, then the Bose system may not work reliably.

* Beware if you are at a gig where you must plug into a generator that also has something with a large compressor (like a refrigerator or freezer) plugged into it. When the compressor shuts off, there may be an excess of energy going through the line causing a significant spike in voltage going to the {{L1}}. Conversely, when the compressor starts up, there may be a significant power drop-off from the {{L1}}.

== Recommendation/Review ==

The Honda EU2000i is highly recommended at the {{forum}} by several {{L1}} users if a generator is regularly required for gigs. The EU20001 has AC output of 120V 2000W maximum (16.7A) and uses inverter technology to provide the kind of clean power that is safe for use with the {{L1}}. The EU2000i is relatively quiet (59 dB) and light (46.3 lbs. dry) compared to other portable generators in its power specifications range. The fuel tank capacity is 1.1 gallons and can run for 4 continuous hours on full load, or 15 hours at 1/4 load.

Kyle-at-Bose on the {{forum}} posted the following [https://www.bosepro.community/g/portable/topic/recommended-generator Recommended Generator]

"Hi all,
Cap from the forum and I have been discussing how he's used a generator with two double-bass systems and other gear without any problems. Here's his recommendation:

Honda EU2000i generator (15 amps continuous, 18 in a pinch). OK'ed for use in US National and California State Parks (tough regulations).

Cap uses a Furman power conditioner that gives him a readout in terms of available voltage as well as amperage draw.

His system:
 
• Two Bose double-bass systems

•  Numark RM-6 mixer

• Two SONY UHF WRR-802 receivers

• Peavey Kosmos sub-harmonic generator

• Small reading lights to illuminate the console

• LED sign

•  Laptop voltage adapter
 
All of these are running directly out of the Furman power conditioner.

According to Cap, "Pumping the system to at least 60% of capacity, did not draw more than 6 amps, peak. That means that the Bose system, in a typical DJ application (excluding lights, fog, haze, bubble machines and that ilk), an inverter-style generator of 1000-1500 watts would provide more than ample overhead."

Hope this helps anyone who may need to use a generator.

Kyle-at-Bose"

== Battery Power for {{Model 1S}} or {{Model II}}==

Preliminary report see: [[Portable Power Stations for L1 Systems]]




== Battery Power Not Recommended for {{Classic}} ==
{{#lst:PS1 Powerstand|Battery Power}}

=== Battery / Inverter ===

Inverters can be pretty abusive to many systems. Many create a “stepped sine wave” or "modified sine wave" (the red trace below). Those edges can wreak havoc in many electronic systems, especially switching amps and other circuits with critical timing requirements. They can also cause microprocessors to misbehave. Further, these waveforms can also age electrolytic caps much faster than true sine waves. We do not recommend the use of modified sine wave  battery inverters for any electronics you care about<ref>Modified sine wave inverters are not recommended. Source: Bose Engineering</ref>. 

[[File:Stepped Sine Wave.jpg]]

== Acknowledgements ==
Hilmar-at-Bose, Cap Capello, Kyle-at-Bose. Thank-you for your information.

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References:
<references/>


http://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/inverter-generator-advantages

http://www.yamahaef2000is.com/conventional_generator_vs_inverter_generator.html