Need to know the difference with compressor

what is the difference as far as compressor like duty cycle, psi, etc. cause i want to start ordering some stuff but want to know what i am getting myself into. the biggest thing i notice is duty cycle does that mean how long it stays on or what. any help would be cool.

Dont bother with anything less than 100% duty cycle.

what is the duty cycle is that how long they run or what i know i sound like a n00b but i am so i want to learn.

the higher the psi rating the higher the compressor will fill your tank, the duty cycle is how long it runs for without shutting off, your best bet is the viair 380 it is 200 psi 100% duty cycle, if you want that much pressure if you dont then go with the viair 450
just my opinions

A 380 is only at 100% duty cycle at 100 psi

Duty cycle refers to the amount of time(usually based on an hour) the compressor can run within that time frame. 100% would mean you could run it continuously for the hour without 'resting'. I wouldn't recommend that, but in real terms it means it can run for five minutes then shut off then cut back on at anytime without having to 'rest' the comressor. For example 30% means that the compressor is only meant to run for 30% of an hour(which equals about 20mins) and be at 'rest' the rest of the hour. So basically run for 5 min. then off for 10 min. and so on. 50% would be 30 min. total run time or 10 min on 10 min off. Bottom line is 100% would be your best bet.

-Shane

cool thanks for the info so why would i need a higher psi. is it for speed in filling the tank. just wanted to know.But thanks for all the good info now i am learning.

You need to look at CFM for speed-- the higher the # the faster it will fill up the tank. PSI is a consideration as well , but more so for the life of your compressor. You just need to make sure the PSI rating is equal or higher than the amount of pressure you are going to be running in your system. For example, if you have a pressure switch that cuts off at 150psi, then the compressor needs to be rated at 150psi or higher. Again higher the # the better.

-Shane

quite skrewin around with little baby compressors and get an oasis and mine is one 30% duty cycle and will smoke all of those little ones

only30% i mean