DC - DC Converter

[Ammonite]

The interference is most likely due to radiated emissions from the high frequency switching of the power converter which is why I suggest you put it in an earthed cheap metal 'project box' to act as a Faraday Cage.

Given the substantial heat sinks on the converter suggested by Paul would putting it in a project box cause any problems, assuming its needed of course

 

[BarrytheViking]

Given the substantial heat sinks on the converter suggested by Paul would putting it in a project box cause any problems, assuming its needed of course

You could mount it so the heatsinks were in contact with the metal box and therefore the heat is conducted to the box or you could drill holes to allow air movement.

 

[PaulRainbow]

Given the substantial heat sinks on the converter suggested by Paul would putting it in a project box cause any problems, assuming its needed of course

You could mount it so the heatsinks were in contact with the metal box and therefore the heat is conducted to the box or you could drill holes to allow air movement.

It's way overrated for running a few LEDs, so i doubt the heatsinks will even get warm. I have a pair in a plastic enclosure (for protection), one runs a 14v TV and the other a 14v soundbar. They are about 4 years old now and work fine. I went for overrated ones on the theory that they will be getting an easy life, so should last a long time.

 

[Ammonite]

Thanks for the input. I'll give the 400w converter a try and add the project box if needed. Some of the cheapo eBay electronics can be a bit hit and miss so maybe I got unlucky

 

[William_H]

The plotter dropping out on engine start is a function of battery voltage dropping with the huge starter current. Best option is to have a separate domestic battery system which supplies plotter and is not used to start engine. (don't start on "both" with 1,2,both switch) If you don't have a dual battery system you cna use a diode in the plotter supply and a very large elctrolytic capacitor from plotter supply downstram of diode to ground. This capcitor will act like a battery to supply the plotter for the short time the battery voltage is low while cranking. Around 10000ufd should do it. You can add more in parallel to increase capability.
Re LEDs just run them off battery direct. If you are concerned re excess voltage on battery charge fit silicon diode(s) in series each one dropping voltage about .7 volt. ol'will