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. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PGD16iSCO
In summary, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO's design includes a gasoline-fueled 57 cc (2.1 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 1,200W and also a peak wattage of 1,600W. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows for doubling of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and reliability for diverse needs.
Featuring a noise rating of 56 dBA (less noisy than a refrigerator), the inverter generator utilizes a simple traditional pull-start mechanism for ignition.
The PGD16iSCO's fuel tank holds 0.6 gallon, ensuring uninterrupted operation for around 6.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.09 GPH).
The PGD16iSCO produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) ideal for charging various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets.
Portability
With an inverter generator design, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO features a closed construction (L17.1 x W9.6 x H15.7 in), enhancing aesthetics and ensuring reduced noise levels, offering a distinct advantage over standard, open frame generators. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
The PGD16iSCO boasts a weight of merely 24 lbs, solidifying its reputation as a lightweight, easily transportable generator. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. Its handle (molded in the case) makes carrying it a simple task, further enhancing its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 8th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
The PGD16iSCO's control panel
The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is overloaded and the generator is ready.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
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 standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to facilitate setup, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO features extra accessories: oil, funnel and tool kit.
Product Video
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).
- Weight-wise, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO has only 24 lbs, which renders it one of the lightest inverter generators which produce 1000 to 2000 rated watts.
- With noise emissions reaching as low as 56 dBA, this inverter generator has a noise level typical for devices of its type and power category. If you wish to prioritize minimal noise, the Honda EU2200i stands out as one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, with a rating of 48 dBA.
- The PGD16iSCO, falls within the average autonomy range compared to inverter generators of a roughly same power, with a run time of around 6.5 hours at a 50% load and a full tank. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Westinghouse iGen2200, with around 10 hours.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. Among devices of similar power, this inverter generator has one of the best fuel efficiency, with consumption rates of around 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1000-2000W inverter generators, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO 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
- CO Sentry technology
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (24 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- Acceptable noise (56 dBA)
- Decent run time
- No data center
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 57 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,200 W |
| Starting watts | 1,600 W |
| Running amps | 10 amps |
| Peak amps | 13.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 6.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 0.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 24 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 17.1 x 9.6 x 15.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 56 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, and tool kit |
| UPC | 814726028114 |
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 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 592 W | 1592 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 950 W | 1370 W | |
| For work | Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 810 W | 1040 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
