Simple 500 Watt Inverter Circuit

This article shows you how to build a powerful inverter that changes car battery power 12V to household current 230 using a modern chip called the IR2153.

This chip is better than older designs because:

• It controls two transistors at once.
• It protects the circuit from low voltage and overheating.
• This makes the inverter more efficient and reliable.

Components needed to build this 500 watt inverter:

• A special transformer
• Powerful transistors with heat sinks to keep them cool
• A power source between 9 and 14V like a car battery
• A fuse for safety

You can also change the settings on this inverter to use less power when it is not in use.

There are also ways to change the output from 50Hz to 60Hz depending on your location.

The transistors you use will depend on how much power you need the inverter to output.

There are different options listed in the guide.

Important: This inverter creates a rough version of household current not a smooth one.

What is a 500 Watt Inverter Circuit:

A 500 Watt Inverter Circuit is an electronic circuit that is designed to convert direct current DC power from a source such as a battery into alternating current AC power typically at 120 or 230V.

The purpose of an inverter is to provide a power source for devices that require AC power when only DC power is available such as in automotive applications off grid power systems or during power outages.

Circuit Working:

Parts List:

To assist in the construction process below are the steps mentioned:

Choose a mains transformer with dual secondary windings at 12V ensuring it can handle the maximum load requirement.

Select a heat sink for the power transistors based on the anticipated load.

Ensure proper isolation by using isolation pads or keeping separate heatsinks without allowing them to touch or ground.

Utilize a robust power source with a supply voltage ranging from 9V to 14V.

Include a fuse in the supply line for added protection.

Experiment with frequencies between 100Hz and 300Hz for applications not tied to a 50Hz frequency.

Adjust the frequency by modifying the values of Rx and Cx.

Choose MOSFETs based on the load requirements: IRFZ44 for up to 200W, IRFZ48 for up to 350W, and IRF3205 for up to 600W.

For loads exceeding 600W consider combining multiple IRF3205 transistors in parallel.

Exercise extreme caution when working with this 500 watt inverter circuit considering the lethal nature of the output voltage.

Always operate at your own risk, and the author bears no responsibility for any resulting harm.

Formulas:

Oscillation Frequency Formula 1:

The IR2153 is often used in applications where the oscillation frequency is a critical parameter.

The frequency is determined by the external components connected to the IC.

f_osc = 1 / 0.693 × R_osc × C_osc​

where,

• f_osc​ = Oscillation Frequency
• R_osc = Oscillator Resistor Value
• C_osc = Oscillator Capacitor Value

Dead Time Control Formula 2:

The IR2153 features a dead time control mechanism, crucial for preventing shoot through in the power transistors.

The dead time t_dead​ can be calculated using the following formula:

t_dead = R_dead × C_dead

​where,

• t_dead​ = Dead Time
• R_dead​ = Dead Time Resistor Value
• C_dead​ = Dead Time Capacitor Value

Caution:

Exercise caution when working with this 500 watt inverter circuit as the output voltage can be lethal despite the input being a safe voltage.

While the output voltage is isolated from the ground simultaneous contact with both output terminals renders the voltage equally hazardous as mains voltage.

Undertake all activities at your own risk and the author disclaims responsibility for any harm incurred.

Conclusion:

It is worth noting that building an inverter circuit requires a good understanding of electronics and power electronics and safety precaution should be taken especially when working with high voltages.

Commercially available inverters are also widely used for various applications, and users may choose an appropriate inverter based on their specific requirements.

References

Design and Construction of 500 Watt PWM DC/AC 220V Power Inverter

Power inverter