What is the difference between AC and DC power?
Direct current (DC) flows in one direction and is used by batteries, solar panels and many vehicle circuits. Alternating current (AC) regularly reverses direction and is the form supplied through standard mains outlets.
Where each form of power appears
Batteries store and supply DC power. Solar panels produce DC power. Vehicle electrical systems and many electronics also operate internally on DC. Standard Australian mains outlets supply AC power, and many jobsite tools and appliances are designed to plug into that AC supply.
A power system often has to convert between the two. An inverter converts DC from a battery into AC for mains-powered equipment. An AC charger converts incoming AC into controlled DC to charge a battery. A DC-DC charger accepts one DC source, such as a vehicle electrical system, and regulates it for another battery.
Why the distinction matters
An AC socket and a DC connector are not interchangeable. The label on the equipment should state the input voltage, current or power and the required connector. Check those values against the output specification of the power source. A plug that physically fits does not prove electrical compatibility.
Conversion also affects system sizing. The inverter has its own continuous and peak limits, and some energy is lost during conversion. A battery may have enough stored energy for a task but still be unable to supply the instantaneous power required by a large motor, heater or compressor.
Practical check
Start with the equipment input label. Decide whether it needs AC or DC, record its running and starting demand, and identify how long it must operate. Then check the power system's output type, ratings and operating instructions. Do not alter fixed wiring or improvise adaptors. Work on fixed 230 V wiring must be handled under the applicable Australian electrical licensing and safety requirements.