laptop into a cigar lighter outlet

Long threads elsewhere!

However- I use two methods, small 150w inverter, and original mains charger runs at 2/4 amps. Really needs to connect directly to battery not cig lighter so I croc clip the inverter in the locker and power up the ships hook up so all sockets work.

Alternative is my Belkin 240v/12/ Charger with multiple tips. Uses slightly fewer amps, not a lot in it.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Belkin-Un...Accessories_PowerSupplies&hash=item19d95d68f9

I've now got a 10" Tablet, runs briefly at <1amp then up to 10 hours disconnected. runs Memory Map and Internet

Nick
 
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You may find your cigar lighter socket fuse or circuit breaker is too light to cope with the startup requirements of the laptop.
 
Why always Maplins for this sort of stuff? They are generally very low on my list.

Put your laptop type into this eBay search: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_n...=UK_Computing_LaptopAccessories_PowerSupplies

Make sure the wattage of the charger matches or exceeds your existing one.

i bought from ebay, contacted the seller,"yes ok for your machine" it wasnt, then he claimed it wasnt returned

http://www.maplin.co.uk/100w-laptop-car-adaptor-with-usb-charging-socket-223912
this works does not run hot, does multiple voltages, multiple tips & a usb port as well
 
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Why always Maplins for this sort of stuff? They are generally very low on my list.

Put your laptop type into this eBay search: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_n...=UK_Computing_LaptopAccessories_PowerSupplies
Make sure the wattage of the charger matches or exceeds your existing one.
Could be because in the UK Maplins are likely to be handy? And if you ask their advice, then if it isn't right you can go back and get if changed (sale of goods act)?

eBay is fine for this sort of thing if you know exactly what you want, and have the technical knowledge to read the specification fo the equipment on offer and match it to your requirements. Things like this aren't as straightforward as it seems - things like peak and mean load come into it.

If you find you haven't got the right thing from eBay, then you might be lucky and get a responsible seller who will help you get the right thing. But you might not, as well.
 
What's the best way to plug a laptop into a cigar lighter outlet?

I do this too, using selectable output voltage charger (yes, from Maplins). It will work OK - for a while.

Charging a PC takes a lot of power - my Toshiba lap-top requires 19v and 4.75 amps. So, first ensure your socket will take it, perhaps for several hours - mine says it's rated up to 20 amps. Once you've done that you can start charging but don't expect the male plug to last long. In my experience, over-heating of the plug is a common problem and, in this case, is exacerbated by the highish ampage and relatively prolonged use. Even the so called "heavy-duty" plugs will eventually melt.
 
I do this too, using selectable output voltage charger (yes, from Maplins). It will work OK - for a while.

Charging a PC takes a lot of power - my Toshiba lap-top requires 19v and 4.75 amps. So, first ensure your socket will take it, perhaps for several hours - mine says it's rated up to 20 amps. Once you've done that you can start charging but don't expect the male plug to last long. In my experience, over-heating of the plug is a common problem and, in this case, is exacerbated by the highish ampage and relatively prolonged use. Even the so called "heavy-duty" plugs will eventually melt.


the socket i now have :rolleyes: is push & turn to lock it in position. its much better than an earlier one
 
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