The MultiPlus is a very powerful battery charger and will draw a lot of current from the generator or shore side supply (almost 10 A per Multi at 230 V AC). The Phoenix Multi Control Panel can be used to govern the maximum current which can be drawn from the generator or shore supply. This enables the multi to take into account other AC loads that are connected and use the remainder for charging. This prevents the generator or shore power supply from being overloaded.
The -Power Assist- is a special feature of the MultiPlus which takes the idea of -power control- to a new dimension and allows the MultiPlus to supplement the capacity of another source. Peak power is usually only required for a short period of time, generally when starting inductive loads such as motors. If the generator or shore supply is insufficient the MultiPlus can compensate for this by adding energy from the battery for a limited period. When the load reduces the spare power is used to recharge the battery. Please note that a minimum shore current of 2A or generator capacity of 2 kW is required per MultiPlus.
The battery system receives a powerful charge from the main output. Depending upon batteries and conditions, software can be used to fine-tune the three-stage charge process to form a fourth stage which enables long periods of float charging. Additionally, the Multi is capable of charging a second battery using an independent trickle charge output which is intended for either the main engine or generator starter battery.
Even if shore power fails or the generator is disconnected, the inverter with the Multi will automatically activate and supply the energy using the batteries. The Multi switches so fast (within 20 milliseconds) allowing computers and other sensitive electronic equipment to continue to operate without disruption. Each Multi is able to handle a current switch of 16A.
Even higher power output is available when using multiple Multis installed in parallel.