 |
|
6 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Posts: 142
|
|
|
mobile phone charger
I want to convert a mobile charger from an old blackberry phone to be able to power my gps on the bike. My problem is I dont know which is the positive wire for the fuse attachemnt.
The power cable on the charger is a single cable with insulation. Inside the insulating sheath there is wire (obviously), this wire surrounds an inner insulated wire (Insulation white in colour, no stripes or any other colours).
Of those 2 wires, is the inner or outer wire the positive ?
Anyone ? - thanks
:confused1:
|
6 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: New Port Richey FL
Posts: 162
|
|
|
You're immensely overcomplicating this. wire a 12V cigarette lighter up directly to your battery with an inline fuse, and install the lighter plug wherever you feel like it will be most useful. two wires, probably 45 minutes or so depending on the bike, and BAM DONE. plus you then have a power supply to produce electric for additional items as well, like a heated vest, or perhaps an air compressor if need be.
|
7 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Posts: 142
|
|
|
I fitted a power socket a few weeks back and, fingers crossed, all appears ok on that front.
I bought a cigarette socket charger for the GPS with the intention of powering it through this socket, however the adaptor is a bit of a clumsy shape and this causes the connection to vibrate on and off as I ride.
I was hoping to have a permanent power supply directly from the battery to the GPS and leave the power socket for other things.
|
8 Jul 2010
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Rockhampton, Australia
Posts: 868
|
|
|
For a start I would make absolutely sure that the GPS is using 12V. In my experience, the car chargers convert the 12V down to around 4.5V or something like that, depending on brand. That is not universal and maybe yours does accept straight 12V.
So, if I am correct, that means you will not be able to use the phone charger without a converter or it will blow up the power supply inside the GPS.
The other thing to think about is what actual voltage AND current the Blackberry charger can supply. I had to make up a charger for my TomTom and although I had the correct voltage, the current supplied by the convertor was only 400mA and this was not enough to keep it charged, I needed a minimum of 800mA before it started to charge.
Cheers
TravellingStrom
|
8 Jul 2010
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Gloucestershire
Posts: 376
|
|
|
Which GPS?
|
8 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Posts: 142
|
|
|
Ive got the Garmin Oregon 400t - use it for hiking, mountain biking and the motorcycle....fairly diverse unit, got some good functions.
Really didnt think it was going to be so complicated.....hmmmm
|
8 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 198
|
|
Hi,
If it will charge of usb and you have a cigarete lighter 12v socket. just get a usb adapter that fits in the socket. They are a few pounds on ebay and sit flush in the socket. Then use a usb lead between there and the gps.
Here is an example
http://www.uxsight.com/product/image...059091121c.jpg
Looking at the device I would avoid 12v as it looks usb spec to me i.e. 5v
|
8 Jul 2010
|
|
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: London, England
Posts: 141
|
|
|
Don't be cheap on the adapters either. I went through 4 Chinese nokia chargers before buying the real deal - no more problems. Vibes wind rain etc not kind to cheap Pcb construction...
|
8 Jul 2010
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: On the border - NE FR
Posts: 865
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Trichelia
Really didnt think it was going to be so complicated.....hmmmm
|
Check your owners manual, most Garmins will take from 6 to 40 volts DC.
You can get a Power/NMEA Data cable for the Oregon here
but it aint cheap at £36. All you need in one cable  with an in-line fuse.
This will also allow you to connect it to an Autocom or similar (bluetooth?) if you want.
John
__________________
Nostradamus Ate My Hamster
|
9 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Posts: 142
|
|
Thanks guys.....
Ive gone ahead and bought a cigarette socket/ USB adaptor, not a cheap one, so hopefully I wont need to be buying any more of these  . I could not find an all-weather model, I will need to house it in some waterproof/ dustproof casing - all good. Awesome for saving space as most my toys come with USB power cables !
In addition I have bought a 2nd cigarette power cable and socket. I was planning on attaching this near the GPS mount to reduce the distance and amount of lose cables, will keep the other power socket available for charging batteries etc..
John....that is EXACTLY what I want to build myself. I suppose my issue, assuming my garmin will handle 12v input is then still to determine which wire to attach the in-line fuse to ? Would give a great sence of satisfaction building it myself....would also make use of the redundant mobile chargers stored in the shoe box in the top cupboard  .
If all goes bellies up....that Garmin hardware could be the next purchase.
Question.....what would happen if I reversed the polarity across the gps unit by mistake ?
.....
|
9 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: On the border - NE FR
Posts: 865
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Trichelia
Question.....what would happen if I reversed the polarity across the gps unit by mistake ?.....
|
You could talk to these guys and see if the have a cable for your unit in the pipline or maybe they can tell you which wire is which.
pfranc.com: Cables and connectors for Garmin GPS, and more!
John
__________________
Nostradamus Ate My Hamster
|
9 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: On the border - NE FR
Posts: 865
|
|
Trichelia, if you just want power, look at this: USB Power Socket Weatherproof - ::. UKGSer.com .::
Also, Cig lighter sockets are NOT the way to go, impo. They are just not designed for the rigours of motorcycle use. Get the DIN standard sockets like these. 12-Volt/24-Volt Plugs, Sockets & ConnectorsThey wont fall apart on the road.
John
__________________
Nostradamus Ate My Hamster
|
10 Jul 2010
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Rockhampton, Australia
Posts: 868
|
|
|
You need to be real careful on what you spend your money on. In my post above I specifically mentioned the current draw of the unit you have, which you never mentiond by the way.
If you bought a12V to USB adaptoor that is fine, BUT, will it power the unit, it will need to supply at least 2 Amps to be able to run my TomTom GPS(without overheating and blowing fuses)
Make sure you can take it back if it cannot handle the job, but I guess it is too late now
|
13 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Posts: 142
|
|
|
Travellingstrom, I have a cig socket power cable with a 10A in-line fuse, the USB adaptor has a 12v input and 4.5v/ 1A output (It doesn’t appear to have a built in fuse)
I looked through my Garmin documents and could not find any details on voltage nor amp. I called Garmin and they were not prepared to tell me as “if it is not in the manual, then it is not for public consumption” – I don’t think their Client Service Dept knew, which is why they made that excuse. After looking on a few forums I saw it mentioned that the Oregon 400 will accept 0.8A and 4.5v….this sounds as if the UBS adaptor should work without any damage to the device ? - How does this sound ?
I am still not convinced that the USB adaptor will not vibrate and be sufficiently robust (as John mentioned). The weatherproof USB power cable and socket that looks to me the best of my current options.
From past experience…..what is the best way to charge or power items ? – using a USB socket or Cig socket or a combo depending on the device ? – Are DIN sockets necessary ?......I havent really looked into these at all.
Thanks again…
|
13 Jul 2010
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: On the border - NE FR
Posts: 865
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Trichelia
I called Garmin and they were not prepared to tell me as “if it is not in the manual, then it is not for public consumption” – I don’t think their Client Service Dept knew, which is why they made that excuse. After looking on a few forums I saw it mentioned that the Oregon 400 will accept 0.8A and 4.5v….this sounds as if the UBS adaptor should work without any damage to the device ? - How does this sound ?
|
Ahh, the old, you cant blame us 'cos we didn't tell you.
Well, from their own web site: https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=26668 This cable will take from 8 to 36volts. They normally do this so you can use them in cars, trucks and boats without concerning yourself about the voltage source.
I still think this would be your best bet, hard-wired to the bike.
Good luck with it
John
__________________
Nostradamus Ate My Hamster
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Next HU Events
ALL Dates subject to change.
2025 Confirmed Events:
- Virginia: April 24-27 2025
- Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
- Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
- CanWest: July 10-13 2025
- Switzerland: Date TBC
- Ecuador: Date TBC
- Romania: Date TBC
- Austria: Sept. 11-14
- California: September 18-21
- France: September 19-21 2025
- Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
See all event details
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
