Car power inverter: what is it?

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A car power inverter is a small electronic device that is designed to convert the direct current electrical output of a car battery into alternating current, which can be used to power things like cell phones and other small devices. Most inverters are designed to fit into an automobile cigarette lighter socket, which is found in the control console of most vehicles and provides easy access to battery power. The inverters in turn are usually connected to charging cables or cables designed for specific devices, particularly phones or small computers. Theoretically, almost any device can be powered from a car battery, but most inverters are intended for small, occasional use only; Powering large devices or using charges for extended periods can drain the battery and impact the power the car is receiving. Larger, more permanent options can be fitted directly to the battery and connected to the car, although this often requires a lot of expertise.

Car Power Basics

The batteries in most cars and trucks supply power to the vehicle in general, as well as supporting accessories such as radios and lighting. When the car drives, the battery is normally charged, allowing a more or less constant flow of energy into the vehicle. This power comes as a direct current, or “DC.” Direct current is perfect for devices that are powered directly from the battery, but it doesn’t normally work for external electronic devices. Things like smartphones and music players typically require alternating current, or “AC.” The main job of the inverter is to convert the DC signal into an AC output.

Basic concept and main objectives

People often find themselves in situations where it would be advantageous to charge multiple electronic devices while driving. Cell phones are a very common example, as are portable global positioning system (GPS) units. Especially on longer trips, it can be useful to be able to keep these types of devices fully charged. Power inverters are specifically designed for this purpose, essentially allowing a person to convert a car’s existing DC outlet into an AC outlet. Once reversed, the socket will function in the same way as any electrical outlet in a home or office, although in most cases the wires attached are device specific.

SIZES available

Power inverters come in a variety of sizes. Some versions simply involve plugging a cable into the car’s cigarette lighter, while permanent units mount in the vehicle’s engine bay and connect directly to the battery. Most people are familiar with the style of lighter inverters, as these are relatively inexpensive, widely available in most places, and generally quite easy to use. Many smaller appliances, such as laptops, DVD players, and small televisions, will run out of this style of inverter. The larger under-the-hood inverters mount close to a vehicle’s battery and are designed for much larger products such as circular saws, drills, and flood lights.

The more advanced examples are very elaborate, often incorporating numerous outlets; others are quite simple, with a single power outlet or USB port. Many families install a temporary car power inverter to power a TV or DVD player for their children, for example, when they go on a cross-country trip. Some police cruisers have permanent power inverters installed so laptops can run for a full shift without worrying about battery life.

Load Considerations

It is important to choose an inverter that fits both the needs of the user and the electrical demands that will be placed on it. Using a small inverter to run equipment that requires a lot of power will make it difficult to run accessories, for example, since most inverters have fuses that will trip at a certain voltage. To purchase the correct size inverter, the user must add up the maximum wattage for each fixture they plan to run simultaneously on the inverter, and then add 10% to that number. An inverter that can handle this power should work without tripping the fuse while the appliances are running.

There are usually many different options available, some of which tend to be better made and more secure than others. People interested in buying inverters are usually wise to do some research, especially if they intend to rely on the availability of reliable power. A poorly made or incorrectly wired inverter can damage the device it’s plugged into, the car, or both.

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