Adding DC connection

[WDW]

I want to add a DC connection to our TV cabinet so that I can power a IR headphone transmitter for use with our TV. I ordered it online from WALLY thinking it came with a converter but doesn't.

I've been interested in this topic because so many times where others have added 12 V connections for LED strip lights and other enhancements.

I appreciate it it's got a run back to the 12 V power center where in there do you make the connections on the busbar? Do you fuse any of the lines after it leaves there? What gauge wire would you use for a 15 to go more than 20 foot run?

[Shadowcatche]

I have run a number of additional 12DC lines and all of them are fused as I was using the Progressive Design power center and had additional fuse slots. I used the same 14ga line use in the rest of the trailer and fused for the load anticipated. You never know when another use will pop up.
If you have other 12V lines that are not maxed out you can tap into them with out adding a new line.

[vsheetz]

I have 12vdc power jacks at the front passenger seat area, dining table, and bedroom. Plug DC devices in directly or small wattage point of use inverters. 12 gauge runs from main house fuse block, 10a fuses.

[MSHappyCampers]

Why don't you just get an AC to DC adapter

[wa8yxm]

Depending on how much power you need (not much) you can tap any handy 12 volt line, there may already be 12 volt leads in the cabinet behind the TV.. Or you can tap a nearby light.

But if you run it all the way back to the power distrubition center you "Tap" a vacant fuse slot and put in a new fuse,, Most 12 volt centers (well the better ones) have spare slots just waiting or a wire to be connected to the tab.

NOTE: on some motor homes you may have multiple house fuse boxes,, For example on my Workhorse chassis Damon Intruder I have 4 fuse boxes/Distribution centers

1 Chassis Main: Front and center under the hood, access from outside
2: Chassis Aux, Near parking brake pedal iside

3: Intelletec battery control center, to the driver's side of the MAIN under the hood. it has both House and Chassis fuses and circuits inside, also the isolator, boost relay, disconnect relays, and some electroincs.

4: House main,, This is near the 120 volt panel (But on my rig is not the same panel, some folks it is)

Pick a spot.

Oh, I have one more fuse block too but that was customer added.

[docj]

Originally Posted by MSHappyCampers

Why don't you just get an AC to DC adapter

X2; sure seems like a more sensible suggestion than doing wiring if all you're trying to do is power one small electronic item.

[WDW]

Thanks for the feedback! Once it warms outside I can do some planning .... 13 degrees tonight is not motivating to go to where we've stored our MH to investigate by taking panels apart!


Taking in the sights with our Trolley ...but life is always better under a Palm Tree
2015 JAYCO 31FK

Western New York

[jplante4]

If you have an OTA antenna boaster, there's usually a 12V DC line running to that and it should be fairly close to the TV. It may even have a 12V lighter socket.