Stupid volts/amps/watts/AC/DC question...

[cliff]

Thanks for these explanations. I'll now reinforce my appearance of daftness. Please be kind and keep any answers simple.

I was interested, speculating, if one of these tiny generators could be used to power an electric outboard. Please don't ask why!

But I was inferring from Honda's quoted outputs, that it would be necessary to 'adapt' the 240volt current back to 12v DC, which, dare I say, would mean the 4 amps would increase 20-fold...easily sufficient to drive the trolling motor?

In theory - Yes, but not off the 12V output. As you suggested the 230V AC would need converted to 12V (or 24V) DC.
Next you need to consider the following:
How to keep the gennie level within operating limits - bouncing around in a tender will not do the gennie much good and more than likely trip the low oil switch stopping the engine.
Waterproofing the convertor unit and keeping it cool at the same time
Salt water and 230V AC do not mix well.
Outlets on the Gennie are not waterproof - see comment above
Weight of all the bits and bobs needed.
All in all not a practical nor safe idea.

 

[nimbusgb]

In theory - Yes, but not off the 12V output. As you suggested the 230V AC would need converted to 12V (or 24V) DC.
Next you need to consider the following:
How to keep the gennie level within operating limits - bouncing around in a tender will not do the gennie much good and more than likely trip the low oil switch stopping the engine.
Waterproofing the convertor unit and keeping it cool at the same time
Salt water and 230V AC do not mix well.
Outlets on the Gennie are not waterproof - see comment above
Weight of all the bits and bobs needed.
All in all not a practical nor safe idea.

Not much salt water or chop in the canals that dancrane has said he wants this for.