The Quattro can be connected to two independent AC sources, for example shore-side power and a generator, or two generators. The Quattro will automatically connect to the active source.
The main output has no-break functionality. In the event of a grid failure, or shore or generator power being disconnected, the Quattro takes over the supply to the connected loads. This happens so fast (less than 20 milliseconds) that computers and other electronic equipment will continue to operate without disruption. The second output is live only when AC is available on one of the inputs of the Quattro. Loads that should not discharge the battery, like a water heater for example can be connected to this output.
Up to 6 Quattro's can operate in parallel. Six units 24/5000/120, for example, will provide 25kW / 30kVA output power and 720 Amps charging capacity.
Three units can be configured for three-phase output. But that's not all: up to 6 sets of three units can be parallel connected to provide 75kW / 90kVA inverter power and more than 2000A charging capacity.
The Quattro is a very powerful battery charger. It will therefore draw a lot of current from the generator or shore side supply (16 A per Quattro at 230 VAC). A current limit can be set for both AC inputs. The Quattro will then take account of other AC loads and use whatever is spare for charging, thus preventing the generator or shore supply from being overloaded.
This feature takes the principle of PowerControl to a further dimension allowing the Quattro to supplement the capacity of the alternative source. Where peak power is so often required only for a limited period, the Quattro will make sure that insufficient shore or generator power is immediately compensated for by power from the battery. When the load reduces, the spare power is used to recharge the battery.
With this feature problems related to insufficient shore or generator power are solved once and for all. Air conditioning, an electric hob, a washing machine, a dish washer: a 16A shore connection, or even less than 16A, will not limit you in any way.
The Quattro can be used to in off grid as well as grid connected PV and other alternative energy systems.
A PV or other grid connected alternative energy system is a big investment. But it is incomplete: it will shut down in the event of a grid failure. A Quattro plus battery can solve this deficiency: the Quattro will replace the grid when needed, keeping the alternative energy system ‘on line'. During a power outage the system continues to function ‘on its own', as a small autonomous grid. The Quattro will stabilise the ‘mini grid' by taking power from it to recharge the battery when power generation exceeds consumption, and by supplying additional power when demand exceeds the supply from the alternate sources. In addition, the Quattro can be used to connect an AC generator to the mini grid.
After installation, the Quattro is ready to go. If settings have to changed, this can be done in a matter of minutes with a new DIP switch setting procedure. Even parallel and 3-phase operation can be programmed with DIP switches: no computer needed! Alternatively, VE.Net can be used instead of the DIP switches. And sophisticated software (VE.Bus Quick Configure and VE.Bus System Configurator) is available to configure several new, advanced, features.