car adaptors

[cnh]

I have just bought an accessory for the boat which has a car cigarette plug at one end. I'd like to snip the plug and replace it with a Driplug. Does anyone know how the cigarette plug is wired - i.e., which is + and which -?

Many thanks,

Nicholas Hill

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[steve_cronin]

Usually the middle contact is positive.

Steve Cronin



<hr width=100% size=1>The above is, like any other post here, only a personal opinion

 

[insider]

normally centre, which unit is the cable for?

<hr width=100% size=1>Logical progression is fault finding tool in every tool box.
Regards,
Insider

 

[Jools_of_Top_Cat]

be aware though that the equipments fuse is now usually fitted in the socket and it would be prudent for you to fit an in-line fuse if you are removing socket.

Older equipments would have a fuse on the input inside the case, but this seems to be a thing of the past.

We have been using car accessory sockets on board now for 3 years without problem, makes using 12v appliances much easier. Even the one in the cockpit is still going strong without visible corrosion.

I guess it depends how sheltered you are.

<hr width=100% size=1>Julian

<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.topcatsail.co.uk>

</A>

 

[simonfraser]

some of the springs in the plugs are a bit too stiff and push it out again, shorten the spring slightly, that seems to work.
my external adaptor still works fine after 4 years, exposed to salty water too.
centre should be positive, use a multimeter if you are not sure.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Talbot]

You should also be aware that some of these plugs also contain a diode to hold the voltage down to a specific figure.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Tekkie]

You'll find that a "normal" diode does not hold down voltage but prevents reverse polarity connection!

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[cnh]

Many thanks for your replies. I was fairly sure that the centre would be +, but needed to check.

Simply computers do a rather nice dc dc converter, and it even fits my IBM laptop, which I use as a chartplotter. Also nice to be able to watch dvds where there's no mains!

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Guest]

IF its true cigarette lighter plug designed for car use ..... centre pin is +ve.

Usually the wire has a white line running along the +ve lead if its a black cable.

<hr width=100% size=1>Nigel ... and of course Yahoo groups :
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gps-navigator/

 

[Guest]

Maplins do a Notebook dc - dc convertor ..... 24.99 ....... excellent and fits most makes and voltages.

I use this for my charting on PC and an invertor - 150W - to power my printer. Having also to use my PC and printer in car when working / travelling - I find this excellent combination.

<hr width=100% size=1>Nigel ... and of course Yahoo groups :
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gps-navigator/

 

[Guest]

Maplins do a nice socket with soft rubber protective cover.

<hr width=100% size=1>Nigel ... and of course Yahoo groups :
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gps-navigator/

 

[SpottedBlue]

See here - currently only £2.50

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=5715052038&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

<hr width=100% size=1>