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. (Read full specs)
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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.
Zoom on the Pulsar PGD16iSCO
In short, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Amateur DIY lovers
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
Featuring a 57 cc (2.1 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 1,200W and a starting wattage of 1,600W. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit not included) enables power output to double when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and versatility for a wide range of needs.
The inverter generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 56 dBA (less noisy than a refrigerator).
Featuring a 0.6 gallon fuel tank, the PGD16iSCO provides continuous power for around 6.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.09 GPH).
The PGD16iSCO generates a clean sine wave with <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), ensuring minimal electrical noise and fluctuations. This feature makes it ideal for powering sensitive electronics, providing stable and reliable AC power through the outlets.
Outlets
The control panel is equipped with the following 2 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
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. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.
Considered a lightweight portable generator, the PGD16iSCO weighs just 24 lbs. It's easy for one person to move around, ensuring power availability on the move. With its handle (molded in the case), carrying it becomes a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 7th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
When the generator is on overload, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), 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.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO also comes with some accessories: tool kit, funnel and oil are included.
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).
- When it comes to weight, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO tips the scales at just 24 pounds, making it one of the lightest inverter generators in the 1000 to 2000 rated wattage range.
- At 56 dBA, this inverter generator's noise rating is in line with the expected average for devices within its type and power category. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Honda EU2200i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 48 dBA.
- The PGD16iSCO provides around 6.5 hours of runtime at a 50% load on a full tank, placing it within the average autonomy range among similar inverter generators. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Westinghouse iGen2200 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 10 hours.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator is one of the most fuel-efficient models of the aforementioned output range, as its estimated fuel consumption reaches just 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
- 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 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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.



