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Pulsar PGD16iSCO - 1200/1600W Inverter Generator

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,200 W and a starting wattage of 1,600 W.

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Pulsar PGD16iSCOPulsar PGD16iSCOPulsar PGD16iSCO

Description

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO inverter generator provides super-quiet performance and weighs only 24 pounds, making it perfect for camping trips, outdoor events, the job site, and much more. (source: Pulsar (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Pulsar PGD16iSCO

In a nutshell, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:

  • Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
  • Amateur DIY lovers

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO in use

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO is powered by a 57 cc (2.1 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 1,200W as well as a peak wattage of 1,600W. In addition, the device is parallel capable (parallel kit not included) and thus, can be linked to a similar or compatible unit for added power.

The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 56 dBA (less noisy than a conversation at home). Its starting mechanism is based on a conventional pull-start mechanism.

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 0.6 gallon, the PGD16iSCO can operate for around 6.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.09 GPH).

Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the PGD16iSCO generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Furthermore, it has 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) with which you may charge electronics, for example mobile phones or tablets, conveniently.

Portability

Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L17.1 x W9.6 x H15.7 in), the Pulsar PGD16iSCO, is more esthetical than a typical, open frame generator. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

Since the PGD16iSCO weighs only 24 lbs, it can be labeled as a portable lightweight generator. A single person should not have any problems moving it around and thus, enjoy power availability on-the-go. Further convenience is provided by its handle (molded in the case), as it allows you to carry it effortlessly.

Good to know: This unit ranks 7th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.

Features

Panel of the Pulsar PGD16iSCO

The PGD16iSCO's control panel

Some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is ready, the generator is on overload and its oil levels are insufficient.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

The unit also benefits from Pulsar's CO Sentry carbon monoxide detection. The sensor monitors for the accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide gas around the generator, and shuts down the engine is increasing levels of CO gas are detected.

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO also is packed along with the following accessories: oil, tool kit and funnel.

Emissions

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.

The Pulsar PGD16iSCO versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PGD16iSCO compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1000 and 2000 W).

  • In terms of its dry weight, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO stands at only 24 lbs, meaning that is one of the lightest inverters of the 1000-2000 rated wattage category
  • Since the inverter generator's noise is rated at 56 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar type and power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
  • As the PGD16iSCO offers around 6.5 hours run time on a full tank at a 50% load, it falls within the average autonomy range among the inverter generators of a similar power. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse iGen2200, as it provides around 10 hours.
  • Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This inverter generator can be considered as one of the most fuel efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • CO Sentry technology
  • Several accessories included
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Lightweight (24 lbs)
  • Fuel efficient
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Acceptable noise (56 dBA)
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start

Do you own the Pulsar PGD16iSCO and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine57 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V
Running watts1,200 W
Starting watts1,600 W
Running amps10 amps
Peak amps13.3 amps
Run time @50% load6.5 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
DC outlets2x 5V USB port (USB-A)
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank0.6 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight24 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)17.1 x 9.6 x 15.7 in
Noise (lower limit)56 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, and tool kit

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.

Spec Improvement×

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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 PGD16iSCO is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. 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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizer.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Blender400850
Total592 W1592 W
For campingRV refrigerator180600
Rice cooker650650
Radio100100
Cell phone charger2020
Total950 W1370 W
For workReciprocating saw730960
Bug zapper8080
Total810 W1040 W

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