Trace / Xantrex Generic Remote On/Off switch for Inverter

[LegalEagle82]

Does anyone know the inner workings of the RC8 remote for the Trace / Xantrex inverters.   Seems to work off a phone cable (4 wires)   My bus has a toggle remote already at the driver's seat.   It basically is just to complete the circuit, with an LED attached (2 wire system/ in and back out).   I would like to use it if possible so I would not have to run a new wire at this point. 

I can not find the wiring diagram for the RC8 Trace Remote.  If anyone has it or could share some info, I would appreciate it.   Thanks in advance.

[Sean]

Trace-series Xantrex inverters use a proprietary communications protocol over a proprietary network link for both inverter-to-inverter synchronization (such as in series-stacked 120/240 volt applications, or parallel-stacked double-amperage applications) and for remote control operation.  On most inverters you can have one or the other, but not both (since there is only one COM port on the inverter).

In order to reverse-engineer the RC8, you will need a digital logic analyzer -- it's a microprocessor-controlled device.

Sorry, there is no way to connect a simple switch-and-light control to these inverters.  You'll need to find an RC8 (or it's predecessor, the RC4), and, yes, it will require all four wires run back to the COM port to work.


HTH.

-Sean
http://ourodyssey.blogspot.com

[Gary '79 5C]

Well put Sean,
There is much of the original documentation for current & obsolete units on the Xantrex site. "Discontinued models" I believe. I had a bad remote and tries without sucess to repair. Although the 10 yr old Trace looked good, I replaced with a factory refurb. unit with a remote for under $500, and have never been sorry.  Not sure of your location, but Chris of Tekris (?) in Point Pleasant NJ helped me out greatly. I have his number at work, but Xantrex assistance/website provides his number as he is the local factory trained repair station.

Best of luck.
Gary

[Dale MC8]

Here I go again, talking without knowing what's going on.

What does the remote LOOK like? Is it something that must be moved [twisted, turned, pushed, slid, etc.?] If so, you might think about using the existing switch to control a mechanical [solenoid, relay, motor, etc.] device to do the moving.

This will probably be a lot of work and design and may give you a somewhat unreliable system, but if you want to keep the switch for cosmetic or esthetic reasons [BTDT], this may work.

FWIW.......Dale MC8

[DrivingMissLazy]

Congratulations Jr. Member Dale!  You are no longer considered a newbie. LOL
Richard