Power
The operating power of the engine installed in the generator. Traditionally stated in horsepower; 1 HP approximately equal to 735 watts.
First of all, the rated power of the generator directly depends on this indicator (see above): in principle, it cannot be higher than the engine power, moreover, part of the engine power is spent on heat, friction and other losses. And the smaller the difference between these capacities, the higher the efficiency of the generator and the more economical it is. However high efficiency affects the cost, but this difference can pay off with regular use due to fuel savings.
Fuel consumption (50% load)
Fuel consumption of a petrol or diesel generator when operating at half power, and for combined models when using petrol (see “Fuel”).
Fuel consumption usually increases with load. However, generator efficiency is not always linear - fuel consumption may vary disproportionately with different loads. In this case, the approximate amount of fuel consumed by the generator when operating at half power (50% of the rated power) is given. Knowing the fuel consumption and tank capacity, you can at least estimate how long one fill-up will last.
Fuel consumption (100% load)
The amount of fuel consumed by the generator when operating at full power. The parameter is specified for petrol and diesel units (and for models on combined fuel - when using petrol).
In full power mode, the generator consumes maximum fuel. However, such long-term operation is fraught with accelerated wear of the unit components, so generators are rarely loaded to 100%. Nevertheless, the parameter gives an approximate understanding of the expected fuel consumption when used "at full capacity".
USB charging port
The generator has
a USB connector(one or more) for charging various devices. Most modern smartphones and tablets can be charged from USB, and this charging method is also found in many other equipment - from cameras and flashlights to electric screwdrivers and radio-controlled models. The standard supply voltage through this connector is 5 V, but the power may be different, it should be specified separately.
Output 12 V
Existence in the generator of an
output with a direct current and voltage of 12 V. The main function of this output is to charge car batteries, as well as power devices originally intended for cars (recall, 12 V is the standard voltage of on-board networks in cars).
The following types of 12-volt outputs are found in generators:
- Terminals. Terminals are used to connect wires directly without using any plugs. This connection is the most reliable.
- Socket. Socket outlet for a plug with two flat pins, designed to connect 12-volt consumers. Holes in sockets come in different layouts, which you need to pay attention to.
- Cigarette lighter. The so-called "car socket", which in many cars is combined with a cigarette lighter socket (hence the name). Such connectors are used to power various automotive devices and accessories.
Noise level
The noise level produced by the generator when operating in normal mode. The less noise the unit makes, the more comfortable it is to use, the closer it can be placed to people, but the higher its price, all other things being equal.
It is also worth considering that generators with internal combustion engines are, in principle, quite noisy equipment. Thus, even the "quietest" units produce
< 70 dB - this is the volume of a conversation in tones from medium to high. Accordingly, it is recommended to install the device remotely from the place of use. At the same time, we note that the noise level is not directly related to the power: for example, among units of 80 dB and more, there are both heavy and relatively low-power models.
Sound level (7 m)
Sound pressure level in decibels at a distance of 7 m between the noise source and the ear of the equipment operator. Since people do not work in the immediate vicinity of the generator, the parameter will be useful for estimating the noise level at a distance. For example, current European Union regulations require that the sound power of generating sets with a power of more than 2 kW does not exceed 97 dB — at a distance of 7 m, the noise from the generator engine will correspond to a sound pressure of about 72 dB.
