Wagan Tech Lithium Cube 1200
User's Manual
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of Wagan Tech's Lithium Cube™. This advanced electrical system can power AC appliances, charge communication and entertainment devices, and provide power for home appliances during emergencies. It's also useful on job sites for tools where power lines are unavailable, or at night for lighting. It can power items like microwave ovens, water pumps, CPAP machines, and entertainment equipment at campgrounds.
The unit includes an automatic AC to DC Charging Adapter for efficient charging and battery maintenance. Please read and understand all warnings, cautions, and notes in this manual before use. Keep these instructions for future reference and fully charge the Lithium Cube before its first use.
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
WARNINGS identify important safety concerns that could result in personal injury or loss of life if not followed.
CAUTIONS identify conditions that can cause damage to the equipment.
NOTES identify operating details.
General Warnings
- Shock or Fire Hazard: The Lithium Cube generates lethal AC power similar to a household wall outlet. Treat it with the same respect.
- Explosion Hazard: Do not use near flammable fumes or gases (e.g., in a gasoline boat bilge, near a propane tank). Do not use in enclosures with automotive-type lead-acid batteries, as they vent explosive hydrogen gas.
- When working with electrical equipment, ensure someone is nearby for assistance in an emergency.
- Limitations on Use: The Lithium Cube has not been tested for use with life support or medical equipment. The user assumes all risk if medical devices are used with this product.
- Not Waterproof: Do not expose the unit to rain or heavy moisture.
Major Features
- 1,000 watt power inverter (2,000 watts peak)
- Three AC outlets
- One 12-volt automotive socket for DC appliances (up to 10 amps)
- Six USB power ports for charging phones and tablets
- AC charging adapter with 120W output
- DC charging adapter (fused)
- Comprehensive display showing charge status and power consumption
- DC port to connect solar panels to the internal solar charge controller
- Flat-fold carry handle for easy lifting
- Lithium-ion battery for long life
Port Layout Description: The front panel features an Anderson Port, DC Input, LCD Screen, AC Output sockets, USB-C Input/Output, DC Socket, DC Ports, and USB Output.
LCD Display Screen
The LCD screen displays charge and discharge status. Indicators include:
- Battery Percentage: Current battery power remaining.
- Hours: Running time of the Lithium Cube.
- Watts: Amount of power currently being used.
- DC: Indicates DC output is active.
- USB: Indicates USB output is active.
- TYPE-C: Indicates USB-C output is active.
- AC: Indicates AC output is active.
- Fan Icon: Cooling fan is in operation (activates at 104°F / 40°C).
- Warning Icon (!): Overload warning.
- Temperature Warning Icon: Temperature warning (activates between 194°F - 203°F / 90°C - 95°C).
Charging the Lithium Cube
Fully charge the Lithium Cube to 100% before first use. Recharge after each use. For long-term storage, charge the battery at least once every 6 months.
Caution - Risk of Battery Damage:
- Do not attempt to charge a frozen battery. Gradually warm a frozen battery to 32°F (0°C) before charging.
- Ensure the Lithium Cube is fully charged before initial use.
Charging Methods
The Lithium Cube can be charged using:
- AC Charging Adapter: Approximately 8-12 hours.
- DC Charging Adapter: Approximately 12-16 hours (charging from your vehicle while driving).
- Solar Panels (not included): Approximately 14 hours, depending on weather conditions.
AC Charging Adapter
To charge using the AC adapter:
- Connect the AC charging adapter to an AC wall socket.
- Insert the charger's DC plug into the Lithium Cube's DC input socket.
- Charging is complete when the battery status light reaches 100% and stops flashing.
- Disconnect the adapter from the AC wall socket first, then from the device.
- The Lithium Cube will automatically shut off when not in use.
DC Charging Adapter
This adapter has a 10-amp fuse to prevent damage from shorts. Refer to the maintenance section for fuse replacement.
Important: Use only the supplied DC charging adapter. Do not continuously charge for more than 16 hours using the DC to DC method.
- Ensure the vehicle's engine is running while charging to avoid draining the vehicle's battery.
- Plug the DC charging adapter into the Lithium Cube's DC input port.
- Plug the other end into the vehicle's accessory socket (cigarette lighter socket).
- After charging, disconnect the adapter from the vehicle socket first, then from the Lithium Cube.
- Do not leave the Lithium Cube connected to the vehicle's DC socket when the engine is off.
Caution - Equipment Damage:
- Always remove the DC Charging Adapter from the vehicle's DC socket before starting the vehicle.
- Disconnect the Lithium Cube from the vehicle's DC socket when the engine is turned off.
Charging With Solar Panels
The DC input circuit is designed to maximize charging from solar panels via the Anderson port.
Caution - Solar Charge Controller Limit:
The solar charge controller is rated for a maximum of 100W @ 12V and 200W @24V. Do not exceed these limits.
Solar Panel Positioning:
For maximum power, position panels perpendicular to the sun. Align panels with the sun's expected path. Adjust panel positions every 3 hours for optimal solar absorption.
Caution - Equipment Damage:
- Ensure solar panels are rated for 12V or 24V systems.
- If connecting multiple panels, ensure the combined voltage is no greater than 40V DC.
- Do not connect more than 100W @ 12V or 200W @24V of solar panels to avoid overloading the controller.
- Ensure all air vents are unobstructed for optimal performance.
Output Power
Using the AC Outlet Power Receptacles
The Lithium Cube's inverter can power AC appliances up to 1,000 watts. Operating time depends on the AC load and battery condition. Turn off or disconnect any unused AC appliances.
Converting DC to AC generates heat. Ensure airflow is not blocked to prevent overheating. Ambient temperatures above 77°F (25°C) can reduce cooling efficiency and operating times.
The inverter produces Pure Sine Wave (PSW) AC, mimicking household power.
To use the AC Power Inverter:
- Connect AC appliance(s) to any AC Outlet.
- Turn the inverter ON by pressing the AC button.
- Turn on an AC appliance and observe the power indicator.
- After use, turn OFF the AC button.
- Remove AC appliance plug(s) from the AC outlets.
- Recharge the Lithium Cube as soon as convenient.
Note: The AC output has an auto-shutoff override feature. Press and hold the AC power button for 3 seconds to keep the inverter on until manually shut off. This is useful for appliances with intermittent power draw. The AC icon will flash while this function is active. Prolonged use of this feature can cause excessive battery drain.
Note: The cooling fan operates as needed to maintain internal component temperature.
12V DC Accessory Outlets
| DC Output Type | Capable Amperage |
|---|---|
| DC port | 5A |
| DC socket | 10A |
Overloading a DC port will trip a safety circuit. Remove the overload to restore power.
Caution:
Do not insert an automotive cigarette lighter into the socket, as it lacks a pop-out feature and excessive heat may damage the socket.
AC Operating Time Using Inverter
Estimated operating times for typical AC products. Actual times may vary based on battery charge, ambient temperature, and the specific product. The Lithium Cube cannot continuously operate AC appliances rated over 1,000 watts or motors over 12 amps. Operating times can be extended with external batteries or chargers.
| AC Powered Products* | Watts | Estimated Run time 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Clock Radio | 10 | 117 hours |
| WiFi Router | 15 | 78 hours |
| DVD Player | 50 | 23 hours |
| Laptop | 65 | 18 hours |
| CPAP w/ Humidifier | 90 | 13 hours |
| 42" LCD TV | 120 | 10 hours |
| Playstation® 5 | 160 | 7 hours |
| Refrigerator (AC) 40% duty | 200 | 6 hours |
| Curling Iron | 220 | 5 hours |
| 1/2" Drill | 500 | 2 hours |
| Deep Well Water Pump 1/3 HP | 750 | 2 hours |
| 1/2 HP Garage Door Opener | 875 | 1 hour |
| Coffee Maker | 1000 | 1 hour |
* Power usages are averages. Check appliance ratings for precise times. 1 Assumes fully charged battery and 77°F ambient temperature. Results may vary.
DC Operating Time
Estimated operating times for typical DC accessories. Times vary based on battery charge and accessory.
| DC Powered Products* | Watt-hours | Number of charges |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone® 12 | 10.8Wh | 115 |
| iPad® Pro Air® | 28.6Wh | 41 |
| MacBook® Air® | 49.9Wh | 23 |
* Power usages are averages. Check appliance ratings for precise times.
Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| AC shuts off during operation (3 beeps) | Battery voltage too low Excessive AC load |
Reduce AC load and charge the Lithium Cube battery |
| No AC output, 12V/USB outlets operate, inverter switch ON | Inverter is not working | Call Wagan Tech Support |
| 12V DC outlets shut off | DC outlet is overloaded | Reduce DC load. |
| Television interference (static picture) | Picture breaking up (static) | Place Lithium Cube away from TV, antenna, and coaxial cable. TV station may be out of range. |
| Static/noise in audio system | Sound system has weak AC shielding | Do not use with low-quality audio AC filtering. Replace with a high-quality noise filtering system. |
| Run time less than expected | Lithium Cube not fully charged Product power consumption higher than expected |
Charge using AC adapter. Check power/wattage ratings and compare with operating times tables. |
| Charging light OFF when AC adapter connected | No AC power at wall socket | Ensure wall socket has power. |
| DC charging adapter does not work | Blown fuse | Check and replace blown fuse in plug. |
Recycling/Disposal
The Lithium Cube contains hazardous materials (batteries, inverter components) that require recycling. Contact local authorities for disposal instructions.
Specifications
Shipping Specifications
| Dimensions | 8.3 x 13.4 x 9.3 in. |
|---|---|
| Weight | 24.5 lbs (11.11 kg) |
| Warranty | 1 Year (See manual for details) |
Battery
| Internal battery type | Lithium-ion 21700 |
|---|---|
| Internal battery voltage (nominal) | 21.6V, 54Ah |
| Internal battery capacity | 1166.4 Wh |
DC Outlets
| Max load current via DC socket (continuous) | 12V/10A |
|---|---|
| Max load current via DC port (continuous) | 12V/5A |
| Max USB output | (2) 2.4A, (2) Fast Charge QC3.0 (5V3A / 9V2A / 12V1.5A) |
| Max USB-C Input/Output | 100W PD (5V3A / 9V3A / 12V3A / 15V3A / 20V 5A) |
| Max USB-C Output | 27W PD (5V3A / 9V3A / 12V 2.0A) |
Inverter
| AC output voltage (nominal) | 120V |
|---|---|
| AC output frequency | 60 Hz |
| Max continuous AC output power | 1,000W |
| Momentary AC surge power | 2,000W |
| AC output waveform | Pure sine wave |
| Battery drain with no load/outlets on | < 0.6A |
| Operating temperature | 32°F - 113°F (0°C - 45°C) |
| Storage temperature | 14°F - 149°F (-10°C - 65°C) |
| Low battery shutdown (nominal) | 12.1V |
AC Charging Adapter
| AC input voltage range | 100-240V AC |
|---|---|
| AC input frequency | 50-60Hz |
| DC output | 24V 5.0A (120W) |
| Output connector | 6.5mm OD/3.0mm ID |
DC Charging Adapter
| DC cable length | 6ft |
|---|---|
| DC internal replaceable fuse | 10A |
DC Input
| Internal Solar Controller max panel wattage | 100W (12V) or 200W (24V) |
|---|---|
| DC input voltage range | 12V-40V |
WAGAN Corporation Limited Warranty
The WAGAN Corporation warranty is limited to products sold in the United States.
Warranty Duration:
One (1) year from the original purchase date, covering defects in material and workmanship. WAGAN Corporation disclaims liability for consequential damages and will not be responsible for damages exceeding the retail price paid.
Warranty Performance:
Defective products will be replaced with a comparable model upon return with an original store receipt. WAGAN Corporation may, at its discretion, replace or repair the defective part. The replacement product is warranted for the remaining original warranty period. This warranty does not cover units used in violation of written instructions.
Warranty Disclaimers:
This warranty replaces all other expressed or implied warranties. No representative is authorized to assume other liability. Claims for defects or failure are not valid under tort, contract, or commercial law, including negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty.
Returns:
Items returned without an official Return Authorization number (RA#) are not the responsibility of WAGAN Corporation. Contact customer service for an RA#. Details and instructions for warranty claims are available on the website's "Contact" page under "Returns". WAGAN Corporation is not responsible for shipping charges for returns.
Register your product online at http://tinyurl.com/wagan-registration to be added to the email list for product updates and promotions.
Contact Information
WAGAN Corporation
www.wagan.com
customerservice@wagan.com
Tel: +1.510.471.9221
U.S.A. & Canada: 1.800.231.5806
31088 San Clemente Street, Hayward, CA 94544, U.S.A.
