Don't build this seemingly simple 12V to mains inverter circuit

[Harald Kapp]

Many people have asked on this forum for 12V to mains inverters.
Here's a video explaining the shortcomings of this ubiquitous simple circuit (and probably many similar circuits):

Harald

 

[cjdelphi]

Well, that's what a MOV is for to shunt unwanted voltage, driving sensitive stuff is a no go but... power tools, lights it's better than darkness in an emergency

 

[Gryd3]

Many people have asked on this forum for 12V to mains inverters.
Here's a video explaining the shortcomings of this ubiquitous simple circuit (and probably many similar circuits):

Harald

I saw this too. Thanks for sharing.

Well, that's what a MOV is for to shunt unwanted voltage, driving sensitive stuff is a no go but... power tools, lights it's better than darkness in an emergency

Good point. Would be good to advertise this circuit as such though... I'm sure a number of people have cooked things not understanding it's limitations.