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AC/DC - Alternating and Direct Current
To understand how your NRG Vault Portable Power Station stores and supplies power, it's important to grasp some basic concepts of electricity. Let's explore how different types of current flow in a circuit and how they work with your NRG Vault Power Station.
AC (Alternating Current)
AC current changes direction periodically within a given frequency, like 50Hz, meaning it alternates 50 times per second. AC is ideal for long-distance transmission, which is why it powers homes and buildings. Appliances that plug into standard wall sockets use AC current.
DC (Direct Current)
DC flows in one direction and maintains its polarity, making it suitable for battery storage. All battery-powered devices operate on DC current.
Why Can't We Store AC?
Batteries store DC power because they have fixed positive and negative terminals. To store AC, the terminals would need to switch polarity at the same frequency as the AC voltage, which isn’t possible. This is where inverters come in.
Your NRG Vault power station has a built-in inverter that converts DC to AC in Pure Sine Wave form, mimicking the stable electricity from a wall socket.
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Benefits of Pure Sine Wave
- Same as grid power: No difference between plugging into your NRG Vault and a wall socket.
- Protects devices: Ensures safe operation of medical equipment, laptops, and sensitive electronics.
- Consistent power flow: Unlike modified sine waves, it prevents fluctuations that could damage circuitry.
- Silent operation: No humming noise from appliances.
- Universal compatibility: Works with most household and industrial devices.
The LiFePO₄ Story
LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries are known for their fast charging, lightweight design, long lifespan, and superior safety. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, they are less prone to overheating or combustion.
Battery Degradation
One full charge and discharge cycle counts as one lifecycle. Standard lithium-ion batteries last around 500-1000 cycles, while LiFePO₄ batteries can last up to 5000 cycles.
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Battery Safety Tips
- Avoid overcharging: Unplug devices once fully charged.
- Use the correct charger: Follow manufacturer recommendations.
- Charge on safe surfaces: Avoid flammable materials like beds or fabric.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t charge in overly hot or cold environments.
- Monitor charging: Stay nearby while charging to prevent issues.