Installation Guide
Complete wiring, grounding, and startup instructions for all Phoenix series converters.
Before You Start
- Verify your single-phase supply voltage matches the converter input (230V for standard NL/PL series)
- Confirm the breaker is sized at 125% of the converter's input amp draw (see nameplate)
- Have your model's wiring diagram handy — download from your model page under Models
Step 1 — Disconnect and Conduit
Mount a dedicated single-phase disconnect within sight of the converter. Run conduit from the disconnect to the converter's input terminals (L1, L2) and from the converter output (T1, T2, T3) to your load panel or equipment.
Step 2 — Input Wiring
Connect single-phase supply to L1 and L2 on the converter terminal block. Do not connect anything to L3 on the input side.
Step 3 — Output Wiring
Connect three-phase output from T1, T2, T3 to your load panel or directly to the motor starter. For NLT/PLT/NLTA/PLTA models, the transformer taps are factory-set to 460V output — confirm before energizing.
Step 4 — Grounding
Bond the converter chassis to your building's grounding electrode system. The ground lug is on the exterior of the enclosure. This is required by NEC 250 and is critical for safety and proper operation.
Step 5 — Startup Procedure
- Turn on the single-phase disconnect — the idler motor starts automatically
- Verify output voltage between all three legs: T1-T2, T2-T3, T1-T3. Should be within ±5% of rated output
- Start your load equipment normally
- Check output voltage again under load — should remain within ±5%
Troubleshooting Startup
If the idler hums but doesn't spin, the start capacitor may need replacement. If output voltage is unbalanced under load by more than 5%, contact support — the unit may need capacitor adjustment for your specific load.