inverters
Submitted: Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 09:50
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Gronk
Why do I need to use an inverter to run a laptop when all you need is the adapter that plugs straight into the cig lighter of the 4wd ??
Reply By: The Explorer - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 10:10
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 10:10
I suppose you would only really need to go down the inverter path if you wished to use it for other appliances that can not be ran directly off 12V.
Cheers
Greg
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AnswerID:
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Reply By: brett - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 10:56
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 10:56
The adapter that plugs into your cig lighter is also an inverter, just not to 240V, most laptops run on around 20V DC, so you need to step up the 12V. Also the cost of the 12V adapter can be more than a cheap inverter. I use a 12v adapter as it's easier and less cords.
AnswerID:
142452
Follow Up By: V8troopie - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 15:38
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 15:38
Actually, what you describe is more commonly known as a DC to DC CONVERTER.
Inverters only change DC to AC.
Inverters can be the cheaper option if one already has a mains power pack for the lappy, but there is no reason why an inverter MUST be used. Sometimes a DC to DC converter is kinder to the computer, especially if the computer is 'on' for a long time. Also, it has no lethal voltages.
It all depends on your intended use.
And, steer away from cig lighter style sockets for such an application. They are just not reliable enough, IMO, you want a socket that securely retains the plug while underway.
Klaus
FollowupID:
395990
Follow Up By: Sand Man (SA) - Tuesday, Dec 06, 2005 at 00:24
Tuesday, Dec 06, 2005 at 00:24
Klaus,
Not necessarily Mate.
For instance, the Dell Adapter does both converting and transforming.
You buy the one adapter which comes with both a 240 volt lead and a 12 volt lead for the supply side and then outputs the correct DC voltage to run the laptop and charge the internal battery. So you can plug it into a 240 volt AC outlet, a car's cigarette socket, or an aeroplane's unique DC supply socket.
FollowupID:
396073
Reply By: Member - Raymond - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 11:48
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 11:48
Hi Gront
I went inverter after finding most of the after market 12 volt adapters for the IBM would not handle the amps required and IBM want my arm and leg for theirs.
Ray
AnswerID:
142458
Reply By: Peter McGuckian (Member) - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 12:36
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 12:36
An easy solution for laptops is the power supply you can use on aircraft. also have 12v adaptor. These are the most compact
inverters I have found and cost about $90. Great for charging those annoying things that need more than 12v.
Peter
AnswerID:
142461
Follow Up By: Moose - Tuesday, Dec 06, 2005 at 14:26
Tuesday, Dec 06, 2005 at 14:26
G'day Peter
Where would one be able to buy such an inverter?
FollowupID:
396147
Follow Up By: Peter McGuckian (Member) - Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 14:55
Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 14:55
Moose,
I got
mine from a duty free
shop overseas but I know they are available here.
Here's a link to the manufacturer:
For links: APCC
FollowupID:
396318
Follow Up By: Peter McGuckian (Member) - Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 14:56
Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 14:56
I should have added that the one I have is 240v output. Great for the notebook and battery charging.
Peter
FollowupID:
396320
Reply By: Member - Rob B (QLD) - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 15:24
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 15:24
I tried this and was caught out by the fact that my HP Tablet PC won't recharge the battery when running off the 12 volt adapter. Due to the vehicle bouncing around the plug fell out of the socket on the computer, the battery flattened, and I was left with no computer for the rest of the weekend..
So whatever arrangement you decide to go with it is best if you can actually charge the laptop battery.
Rob
AnswerID:
142465
Reply By: Keith_A (Qld) - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 20:21
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 20:21
I fitted an anderson plug in the ashtray of the Patrol.
Inverter has anderson plug as input.
Inverter sits on floor at back along with the laptop power supply.
Simple.
Fitted an anderson plug in the camper trailer (which has own battery).
Never without the Laptop and digital maps, plus can download photos
and GPS track plots each day during a trip....works for me...
AnswerID:
142512
Reply By: Member - Phil G (SA) - Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 21:42
Monday, Dec 05, 2005 at 21:42
But I use an inverter so I can also charge camera batteries etc
Serves more than one use.
AnswerID:
142525
Reply By: techie - Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 00:53
Wednesday, Dec 07, 2005 at 00:53
Inverters are great for angle grinders - use them to remove clamped
wheels on cars.
Techie
AnswerID:
142719