Laptop power without an inverter while boondocking?

[okmunky]

It makes no sense to my feeble brain that to run a laptop in an RV while boondocking you must have an inverter transform the 12 volt DC house power to 120 volt A/C power and then connect the laptop power cord that includes a converter back to D/C. Isn't there a shorter way to get there?

Basically, I want to know if there is a cigarette lighter style power cord for laptops. I found this online but I'm not sure this is right.

12vAdapters.com: 12 Volt DC Power Supplies Adapters. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Amp 12V (1A, 2A, 2.5A, 3A, 3.5A, 4A, 5A, 6A)

HHHHHeeellp! PLEASE.

[texnet]

The adapter you referenced is a 110vac to 12vdc adapter... that won't work.

At most of the electroinc stores, like Walmart, Best Buy, Fry's Electronics and even Radio Shack they will have universal power supply kits for laptops that will have the correct voltage output and connector for you laptop. If you are not near a electronics store and you want to order online I would also try the same stores websites.

Most laptops require more than 12vdc. Look at the adapter you currently have. It will have the output voltage and amps it outputs. What you need is a 12vdc INPUT to whatever voltage/amps the laptop requires.

Do you have the model number of the laptop? If so post it and maybe someone can find what you are looking for.

If you have an HP, this one from Walmart may work for you: http://www.walmart.com/ip/HP-ED493UT...i_sku=13213960

[srydve]

You could also buy a small inverter that will plug into the cig. lighter.

[HD4Mark]

Quote:

Originally Posted by srydve You could also buy a small inverter that will plug into the cig. lighter.

I agree. Even though it does seem stupid to go from 12V to 120ac then back via your charger it might be the best route price wise. I had an old laptop at work that the battery was shot. It would work about 10 seconds. A cheap inverter that would not run much else got it going while on the road. A battery was $200.

[MaverickBBD]

I was advised not to run my laptop on anything but a pure sine wave. The store advised to charge the battery and then run the laptop. Maybe over cautious but if have not had an occasion where I had to do otherwise.

[JimM68]

I've been running various laptops, and televisions, and microwaves in 2 rv for 4 years, on modified sine wave inverters, one of which is a 2000 watt model that came factory in my current rv. Never ever any kind of power problem.

My current Dell Laptop... I went online to dell and bought a second power adapter, that accepts both 115ac and a cigarette lighter plug. works great.

[Chuck 1935]

Go to EBay and look up LAPTOP CAR ADAPTERS. There are all kinds. I bought one for $8.00 with shipping.

[okmunky]

I have a Toshiba NB-505 mini laptop, but if the DC adapters are all in the $98 price range, I'll stick with the inverter. With everyone using laptops in cars today, I figured there would be demand for 12 volt plugs. Guess I figured wrong

[garym114]

You do not have to use a sine wave inverter to run a laptop. All the power brick does is convert the 110v to 16v DC. Sine wave not needed.

[texnet]

Quote:

Originally Posted by okmunky I have a Toshiba NB-505 mini laptop, but if the DC adapters are all in the $98 price range, I'll stick with the inverter. With everyone using laptops in cars today, I figured there would be demand for 12 volt plugs. Guess I figured wrong

There is demand.. but not enough to bring the price down. You coach or house batteries will last longer if you use a DC to DC adapter.

Just remember.. when you plug into a 12vdc outlet in your MH you are probably using the coach batteries... make sure you don't run it down or you may not be able to start the engine the next day

[TXiceman]

I run my net book in the truck from a 12 VDC laptop adapter.

Ken

[01zeosix]

I use an iGo "Green" laptop charger for my Alienware laptop. Works Great!!! Comes with different tips for multiple brands of laptops. Has the added benefit of the ability to charge USB devices and it comes with a 12volt and 120 volt power supply cord(s). Also reduces "Vampire" power by 85%. Google it. Prices vary.

01zeosix
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[Wayne M]

Barb,
Search on the words "what is a step up converter" without the quotes for a definition.

You may require more than 12v and a step up converter can provide it. just plugging into the lighter socket may not be enough voltage to power your laptop. Check Specificaitons.

I have two Toshiba laptops. The older one requires 15v at 8 amps. The newer one specifications are, 75W (19V 3.95A) Auto-sensing, 100-240V / 50-60Hz input. When you purchase an inverter that plugs into the lighter socket you have to make sure that is is supplying the correct voltage and can carry the correct current. You have to make sure that your source batteries (coach or house) are sufficient to provide the current for as long as you are going to be using the laptop.

Yes, laptop batteries are expensive, but if you do a lot of boon-docking you may want to purchase an extra battery. Keep the both charged, alternating them from time to time. If you can find a step up converter there is no reason at all why you cannot use it. Just make sure it meets the specification requirements of the laptop you are using.

I think your best approach is to buy an inverter that plugs into the lighter socket. I use one all the time when we are at laundry-mats, etc. without adverse affect. Most of the time for an hour +/- a little time.

Good luck.

[wa8yxm]

Targus sells a DC/DC converter, 12vdc or there about in, and a whole lot of assorted voltages out (you select one) comes with an assortment of tips (One should match your laptop, as should one of the voltages) yes, this is an inverter/converter in one package, but due to the way it's done way more efficient than two stand-alone devices.

I have one.. Radio shack used to sell one too (Had one) Micro Center (Google them) has them.. You may find at Frys or Best buy but frankly..... never checked.

Home at iGo, Inc. should have 'em too.