| Author | Message | ||
     Jon Bowers (Jonbowers7) Member Username: Jonbowers7 Post Number: 82 Registered: 07-2002 |
I'm working on adding an AC inverter to run our GPS and Laptop, probably other devices at times. Looking at 800-1000 watt. My question is should I use the run of the mill "modified sine wave" type or step up to the "pure sine" type? I'm concerned where I'm running rather expensive and sensitive gadgets. Any experiences or feedback on this? Thanks, Jon | ||
| Erik G. Burrows (Erik) Senior Member Username: Erik Post Number: 274 Registered: 04-2002 |
True sine wave inverters are much easier on delicate electronics, especially True sine wave inverters are much easier on delicate electronics, especially the switching power supplies in most electronic gadgets. Witht the modified sine wave inverters, you'll find your laptop power supply getting unbearably hot. On the other hand, many devices don't care at all, so for your very delicate stuff, if you can buy a DC power supply (running from the cigarette lighter socket) with the money you save, go that route. It's more efficient anyway. | ||
| Dean Brown (Deanbrown3d) Senior Member Username: Deanbrown3d Post Number: 1067 Registered: 02-2002 |
Jon, Radio shack sells a laptop power supply that is just wonderfull. You select a voltage from 12V to 27V in steps of 1 and it plugs directly into the laptop and the cigy lighter. I got one and ite MUCH better than a inverter and power supply combo. But its $60. Dean | ||
| Ian Soady (Iansoady) New Member Username: Iansoady Post Number: 4 Registered: 12-2002 |
You can get a similar device to the one Dean mentioned in the UK from a company called Maplin for less than 20 GBP ($30?). Have a look at their website http://www.maplin.co.uk/?targetmodule=36836 | ||
| Perrone Ford (Perroneford) Member Username: Perroneford Post Number: 225 Registered: 02-2003 |
Im running a 600w power inverter to run my laptop, charge my power tool batteries, etc. It's a modified sine wave, and works just fine. I've used Dell, Acer, and Sony laptops on it for months at a time with no trouble at all. -P |
