To do this, you need a power inverter.

Each inverter jot down will have its strengths and weaknesses.

So before buying one, you should weigh their differences and decide which better fits your needs.

New Powa pure sine wave inverter

How Power Inverters Work

The voltage characteristics of AC and DC vary.

As you could see, DC voltage is linear, hence the name.

In contrast, AC voltage looks wavy or sinusoidal.

AC and DC signals

Image Credit:Leaptrend/Wikimedia Commons

So, how does a power inverter turn a linear DC signal into a wavy AC signal?

Before addressing the edges of our modified square wave, the inverter must boost the voltages of this wave.

Usually, batteries and power generators provide 12, 24, and 48 volts.

Inverter block diagram

Depending on the power inverter bang out, the sine wave quality you get will vary.

What Is a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?

A pure sine wave inverter outputs smooth and stable AC sinusoidal signals.

Modified square waves

Its output quality is comparable to what you get from your wall outlet.

It sometimes even produces cleaner signals, depending on the design and manufacturer of the unit.

Furthermore, a clean AC source affects measuring tool accuracy, sound output cleanliness, and power tool efficiency.

Inverter step-up transformer

It also helps sensitive circuits last longer.

However, generating such smooth signals require complex designs, expensive components, and longer assembly times.

This makes pure sine wave inverters costly and challenging to repair.

Inverter smoothening circuit

What Is a Modified Sine Wave Inverter?

A modified sine wave inverter produces a stepped approximation of a sine wave.

However, these modified sine waves are inefficient and create noticeable harmonic distortions.

Pure sine wave inverter

Image Credit:Leaptrend/Wikimedia Commons

Which Power Inverter Should You Buy?

The first factor to consider is compatibilityyour inverter should be capable of running your gear.

But for everything else, a modified sine wave inverter is enough.

Modified sine wave inverter

Image Credit: Qurren/Wikimedia Commons

You should also consider how often you’ll use the inverter.

Modified sine wave inverters can run most AC-powered devices.

However, consistently using it for long periods can damage or shorten the lifespan of more sensitive instruments.

A man thinking hard

But a modified sine wave inverter should suffice if you only need an inverter for emergencies or occasional events.

As for efficiency, pure sine wave inverters will always be more efficient and produce little to no noise.

This quality is essential if you want your devices and equipment to work with peak performance.

So, if you’re on a budget, you should stick with modified sine wave inverters.

You also need it if you have a battery to store power from wind turbines and other similar sources.