120v ac to 12v dc adapter - small compressor
12-03-07 | 02:08 PM
#1
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120v ac to 12v dc adapter - small compressor
I have a small air compressor that's meant to be powered through the power port on the dash of a car or truck. However I'd like to be able to operate the compressor in my garage when there's no vehicle present. The compressor draws 10 amps. Would a battery charger set on 10 amps serve the purpose? Or is there a device (converter?) that would better do the job?
Regards,
Bob P.
Regards,
Bob P.
12-03-07 | 02:15 PM
#2
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From: Newtonville, Massachusetts
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I have a small air compressor that's meant to be powered through the power port on the dash of a car or truck. However I'd like to be able to operate the compressor in my garage when there's no vehicle present. The compressor draws 10 amps. Would a battery charger set on 10 amps serve the purpose? Or is there a device (converter?) that would better do the job?
Sheldon "Electron Wrangler" Brown
12-03-07 | 02:29 PM
#3
A computer power supply would probably be the cheapest way, if you don't mind wiring it yourself. You'll also have to short two terminals to make it turn on when you flip the switch.
12-03-07 | 03:00 PM
#4
Scott
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The best way to do this is purchase a cheap lawn tractor battery from your favorite X-mart or automotive parts store. Keep it charged with a cheap trickle charger. The battery can also be used with a few lights and an old radio when the power fails due to weather or some drunk taking out a power pole.
12-03-07 | 03:17 PM
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From: Mid Willamette Valley, Orygun
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I've used my 10 Amp battery charger to power my 12V compressor without problem.
12-03-07 | 07:55 PM
#7
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Car battery charger will be fine. There is some voltage ripple, but it won't affect the compressor motor.
Buy a female cig lighter jack from Radio Shack. Wire that in, it'll be easier than trying to attach the alligator clips to the plug.
Buy a female cig lighter jack from Radio Shack. Wire that in, it'll be easier than trying to attach the alligator clips to the plug.
12-03-07 | 09:32 PM
#8
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An automobile jump starter. Most have a 12 v. accessory plug. Prices start at about $35. Plus you can use them to jumb start a vehicle. They only need to be plugged in to recharge the battery, depending on how much it is used. You can take it with you wherever you like.
12-04-07 | 01:26 AM
#9
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Just get a 12v ac-dc converter from radio shack. The same kind you would use for whatever small electrical devices use ac-dc converters. Look for one that can handle 10 amps and wire it up. You may if you want to get really tricky, you could wire in a switch so you could leave it plugged in. Also, the female cig. lighter plug is a good idea.
edit. on second though, finding one that will put out 10 amps could be tough.
edit. on second though, finding one that will put out 10 amps could be tough.
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