Xenarc 700TR: Power

**digifreak** · 01-06-2005, 10:08 PM

First post!

Hi, the carpc bug bit me about a month ago, and I've been doing a lot of research on it, and decided to build a system. I have the computer up and running (installing it in my truck this weekend), and have every componenet I need, but I have a question as far as powering my Xenarc 700TR goes. (7" Flip down touch screen) My question is, will it be ok to connect the monitor to the accessory wire for the car stereo for power? I've read of a couple of people wiring the monitor to the PC's power supply, but I would rather not do that. If it is ok to wire it to the accessory line, what size fuse should I put in line? I've looked at Xenarc's website and through the instructions for the monitor, and I can't find a spec for max current for the monitor.
Thanks in advance

Also, not really on topic for displays, I also picked up an ITPS, not installed yet, but if I understand it correctly, I shouldn't need a voltage regulator if I have in installed, right?
Thanks again

Nice meeting you guys

EDIT: Found an answer to my own question. Looks like I'll need some sort of voltage regulator if I connect it to the car's power. Either that or connect it to the PC's PSU.
Sorry for the board clutter

**ramy_zohair** · 01-07-2005, 05:17 AM

First of all the ITPS acts as a voltage regulator
http://www.mp3car.com/products/itps.html

Second, I think the best way to power your LCD is through the PSU. it the the best regulated, controlled and protected, and it will only consume around 7 Watts. Why do u want it connected to the headunit?? there must be some good reason for that. Anyways, heres a discussion of how to power it throught the PSU:
Xenarc 700TS / hardwire power.

Good luck

**EBFoxbat** · 01-07-2005, 06:07 AM

How are you powering your computer? Inverter? DC-DC ?

**digifreak** · 01-07-2005, 02:05 PM

EB, The PC is getting powered from a 80w Morex DC-DC PSU. (I found out about the Opus after purchasing the PSU and the ITPS) I may upgrade to a larger Opus PSU later if necessary.

Ramy, Sorry if my wording was off, but I'm not connecting the monitor to the HU, I was asking about connecting the monitor to the vehicle's 12v supply, and if it would be ok without damaging the monitor. After doing some more searching, I found that it would be ok, as long as it is regulated. I'm about to head to Radio Shack now to look for a 12V voltage regulator.

Thanks for the replies

**brrman** · 01-07-2005, 02:09 PM

I have run my monitor off the car's battery without problem. It sis only tremporary though and I intent to hook it to the Opus when I am able.

**ramy_zohair** · 01-08-2005, 12:51 AM

ok. didn't get that the first time. well as brrman said, he has the setup but its still risky. I personally prefer the use of a PSU for the reasons i mentioned above. It will only be a problem if you intend to use another input source (such as a game console or camera) while the pc is shutdown, as it will only operate while the pc is running.

**digifreak** · 01-08-2005, 01:29 AM

Thanks for the replies guys,
Yea, it looks like I'll end up running it to the PC's PSU when I do the install tomorrow. First, I'm going to go by a couple of the local car audio shops around where I live and ask them if they use any kind of regulator when they do monitor installs in vehicles. If they do, I'll see about getting something from them, but if they don't, then I'll go from the PSU.
I had hoped to get some feedback from Xenarc, but all of their tech support guys are gone until Tuesday

. I'll still give them a call back on tuesday and see what they have to say. I'll post whatever they say back in this thread, so there will be a definite answer from the people that make the screens.
Thanks again