NEWB Question about on/off switch

**mazda3uzr** · 02-03-2005, 06:01 PM

I currently have everything set-up and powered through an inverter. the problem is now cannot have it turn on unless i go to the trunk and power it on. my question is if there is anyway of having the computer power on using the exsisting power supply that i am using which came with my shuttle pc. i was thinking of just buying an on/off switch and running the wires from my computer in the trunk to my center console or somewhere close. What about a shutdown controller, would it work with the stock PSU?

**KyferEz** · 02-03-2005, 06:25 PM

Mazda3uzr,

The CarPC EZ or Pro, available at mp3car.com/store or here or at thecarpcstore.com will work perfectly for what you want.

If you don't want to spend more than a few bucks, yes, you can simply use a switch wired up to the front of the car. However, I am sure you will be happier with how much the Power controller will do for you.

KyferEz

**mazda3uzr** · 02-03-2005, 08:19 PM

thanks. i just have two questions. 1) will it work without getting a special powersupply (just using the one that normally plugs into the 120v plug and plugging that into my inverter)? 2) has anybody experienced any problems with the sensors and having the computer power on/turn off randomly or incorrectly?

**Tidder** · 02-03-2005, 08:45 PM

I just used 2 relays. One relay switches on and off power to the inverter via the acc power. The other switches on and off power to inverter via the computer. So if you switch on your car and the computer is off, it will send power to the inverter. If you shut off your car but forget to shutdown your computer, the relay hooked to your computer will keep power to the inverter. If you shut off your computer, it breaks that relay, so then the inverter has no power.

**cbergeron** · 02-03-2005, 09:15 PM

Agreed. Mazda, you should also definitely consider the DSSC Startup/Shutdown controller. It's going to be on the mp3car store soon, but for now you can purchase directly from the manufacturer (the company I work for).

A startup/shutdown controller will definitely make your life easier.

Kind regards,
CB

**KyferEz** · 02-03-2005, 09:57 PM

Mazda3uzr,
1) will it work without getting a special powersupply (just using the one that normally plugs into the 120v plug and plugging that into my inverter)?
Yes, that is what it was designed to do.

2) has anybody experienced any problems with the sensors and having the computer power on/turn off randomly or incorrectly?
No. The sensors are setup so that you will not have that problem.

It also makes sure that the inverter is off, so you should never come back to a dead battery, unless you change the voltage monitor and adjust it too low or disabled it altogether.

KyferEz