I was recently seeking a portable power inverter for use in my vehicle as well as my travel trailer for when I go camping. I happened to find the Potek 500W Inverter here and opted to give it a shot based on the price and because it looked like it would get the job done. Of course, there is a 1000W inverter; however, I don’t need anything with that much drag on my battery and am quite satisfied with 500W at this time based on my personal needs.
If you’re a camper or need an emergency power supply (110 – 125 VAC) when you’re on the go, then an inverter is what you need. I am not going to pretend that I know enough about electrical connections or currents in order to sell this to you in my review, but what I will do is present it how I intend to use it and have used it and you can decide from there. I haven’t a significant understanding of electrical systems, so I am a bit of a letdown there. However, as a “typical user,” perhaps this will review will help you as it would me!
Here are some specs for those interested:
Input voltage: 12.8-13.2 volts DC (VDC)
Output voltage: 110-125 volts AC (VAC)
Output frequency 60Hz +/- 3Hz
Continuous output power: up to 500 W
Waveform: Modified Sine Wave
Efficiency (Maximum): 90%
Output power overload shutdown: 550+/- 50 W
Fuses: 30A (x2)
2 NEMA AC Receptacles
1 USB Port (2.0A)
Can connect both to a battery (e.g., vehicle/deep cycle) and via 12V accessory plug
Okay, now that specs are out of the way, let’s just talk about how the unit works and how it looks. I love the look of the unit, as I mentioned before, because it appeared like it would get the job done. I like that it looks professional and is not very large. In fact, the unit is smaller than a typical amplifier you would see in a vehicle for an audio system. In addition, the unit has four small notches on each of the bottom corners so that it can be mounted flush against a wall or other setup such as in a vehicle, trailer, etc. I will likely mount mine on a block of wood that is easy to set out with my battery on my trailer and at my vehicle should the need arise to use it.
The unit performs very well and is extremely quiet. I’ve owned other inverters that kicked the cooling fan on within 30 seconds of use; however, this unit does not kick the fan on for quite some time, even under decent load (not full). I assume that if I maxed out the output power upon first turning the unit on, it would likely kick the fan on immediately.
I love that this unit has two NEMA AC Receptacles, as I can connect my laptop and a mobile phone charger that requires something higher than 2A. For example, I use devices that use Quick Charge, and I need a higher amp charger for that to function, therefore connecting two units to the NEMA ports is convenient. Additionally, I can charge my Bluetooth headset or other lower-amp requiring device using the 1 USB port (2.0 A) (e.g., low-end tablet, Bluetooth Headset, speaker, portable Wi-Fi hotspot, Nintendo DS, etc.).
Overall, I wasn’t able to overpower the unit during my use. Although I would not necessarily recommend it, I was able to connect an extension cord into the NEMA port and power an electric drill off of my battery (this is not pictured as I did not have my mobile device with me during that use). This was a great example of how I can use this inverter in a pinch when I am in need of power supply and all I have is a battery. The unit performs well, is quiet, doesn’t get extremely hot, and is easy to hide away in a compartment or under a seat – don’t forget it’s mountable should that be necessary!
I am quite pleased with this unit. I have placed it in my vehicle’s trunk at this time so that I can use it in a pinch should I need connected to power without being close to it. I travel for work quite a bit and am on the road constantly, which means I am not always near a power supply that is sufficient for my needs. Therefore, this unit will provide a much-needed connection point when I am on the road for extended periods. Additionally, it will be great for camping as an extra connection or in my shop that is not connected to AC power.
If you’re in need of portable power, look no further!
| Manufacturer | POTEK |
|---|---|
| Brand | POTEK |
| Model | FBA_PI 2000W |
| Item Weight | 10.21 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 16.14 x 7.09 x 12.8 inches |
| Item model number | PI 2000W |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Manufacturer Part Number | FBA_PI 2000W |
| Wattage | 2000 |
