power for laptop?

**crzystng** · 11-30-2003, 08:34 PM

I am not sure exactly what type of specs i would need to power my new dell 5100 laptop in my jeep? any clues?
what voltage would i need and amount of amps, for the power inverter?
any help would be greatly appreciated.

**frodobaggins** · 11-30-2003, 08:58 PM

If you are going to use a laptop you can get a car adapter for it, no need for an inverter.

**chut** · 11-30-2003, 09:12 PM

Ive got a generic adapter with adjustable amps and volts. eBay...19.99. I wired the Dell proprietary plug on to the adapter and it works great. I also wired a SPST switch inline between the power supply and the adapter. That way I can charge the unit whenever I'm in the car and not charge it when I get out.

**crzystng** · 11-30-2003, 10:35 PM

I guess I was under the impression that i had to have a specific one for this impeticular laptop. you know with certain voltage and amps? not sure about that though. This is my first time dealing with a laptop, i build desktops.

**Altimat** · 11-30-2003, 11:00 PM

Originally Posted by crzystng

I guess I was under the impression that i had to have a specific one for this impeticular laptop. you know with certain voltage and amps? not sure about that though. This is my first time dealing with a laptop, i build desktops.

Nope they're universal and fit almost anything. I have same one and its a steal at $20.

**chut** · 11-30-2003, 11:22 PM

I'm not sure how you interpreted what I wrote but I'll say it differently. I bought a generic power adapter from eBay. The power adapter had an adjustable output. I adjusted the output to match what the power adapter that came with my laptop said it output. In my case it was a dell that required 19 volts at 3.4 amps. I set the generic dc to dc power adapter to match and it worked like a charm. You can buy anyones power adapter, providing you have the proper plug on the end and providing you match the voltage and ampherage (sp). Check the power adapter that came with your laptop....on the side there will be specifications. If you know the model number, you can look it up on Dell's website.
Peter

Originally Posted by crzystng

I guess I was under the impression that i had to have a specific one for this impeticular laptop. you know with certain voltage and amps? not sure about that though. This is my first time dealing with a laptop, i build desktops.