The Pulsar PG1202S is a compact and lightweight open frame generator with a rated wattage of 850 W and a starting wattage of 1,200 W. (Read full specs)
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Amazon | Price history for the Pulsar PG1202S |
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| Highest Price $175.99 Lowest Price $110.00 Current Price $175.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PG1202S
In summary, the Pulsar PG1202S is a compact and lightweight portable generator especially useful for:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar PG1202S
The Pulsar PG1202S's engine, 72 cc (2.2 hp) Ducar 2-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 850W and reaches a peak wattage of 1,200W.
Operating at a noise rating of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office), this generator starts up with a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
Equipped with a 1.1 gallon fuel tank, the PG1202S ensures continuous operation for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel usage approximately 0.13 gallons per hour).
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle offering a convenient battery charging option.
Portability
At L14.6 x W12.4 x H12.4 in, the Pulsar PG1202S boasts a traditional open frame structure, ensuring stability and allowing for convenient maintenance access to components, promoting air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
At just 37.5 lbs, the PG1202S is notably lightweight, making it an excellent choice for portable power. The product’s power can be enjoyed on-the-go, as it can be moved by a single person without trouble. With its handle, carrying it becomes a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 3rd in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
The PG1202S's control panel
A light indicator on the device will signal if the generator is ready.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
Apart from the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to facilitate setup, the Pulsar PG1202S features extra accessories: battery charging cables and tool kit.
Product Videos
The Pulsar PG1202S versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG1202S compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).
- Weighing in at 37.5 lbs, the Pulsar PG1202S fits within the expected weight range for devices producing 500 to 1500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Sportsman GEN1000i appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 20.3 pounds.
- When stacked up against other devices of similar running wattage, this generator's lowest possible noise rating of 65 dBA places it in the louder category. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Honda EU1000i. With just 42 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- Given that the PG1202S reaches an autonomy of around 8.5 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Sportsman GEN2000-SS could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 11 hours.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. This generator can be considered as fuel-efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.13 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Pulsar PGD16iSCO, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.09 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 500-1500W generators, the Pulsar PG1202S is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Several accessories included
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (37.5 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- Gas/oil mix required (2-cycle engine)
- 1-year warranty
- On the noisy side (65 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 72 cc Ducar 2-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 850 W |
| Starting watts | 1,200 W |
| Running amps | 7.1 amps |
| Peak amps | 10 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 37.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 14.6 x 12.4 x 12.4 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 65 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | No |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Tool kit and battery charging cables |
| Other model numbers | PG1202SA |
| UPC | 819699010494 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar PG1202S is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Total | 192 W | 1192 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 660 W | 1110 W | |
| For work | Drill | 600 | 900 |
| Total | 600 W | 900 W |
How many amps does the 12v output. (Asked May 08, 2023)
The 12V output provides a current of up to 8A.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
