Installing Car PC: How to run power to C4-CT-DC150L

**highvoltz** · 04-17-2006, 10:02 AM

I'm in the process of purchasing all the equipment I will need to install a carpc. I recently was a winning bidder on ebay for this carpc:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...DME:L:RTQ:US:1

Towards the bottom is a description for the powersupply: Model:C4-CT-DC150L: X90-120W DC-DC Converter Max. 120W output, 19VDC Input

I've installed car stereos / systems before, however this will be a first. I've done some searching and have yet to find some install info, on how to run the power, and if this contains everything I need to do this correctly.

Any information or ideas would be great!

This should be a great setup. I will be running USB for GPS, Wireless, and Bluetooth. I also purchased a 7" LCD, http://www.digitalww.com/DWW-700H.htm and ODBII ECU cable to monitor the ecu.

Should I power the LCD from the computer as well? ALso, whats the best way to create an on/off switch for this paticular PS? I'd prefer auto turn on and off, however from what I've read this is not doable. What are my options?

The car is an 04 WRX. (Stage-4 w/Methanol injection)

Thanks!!

**01black_ac** · 04-17-2006, 10:37 AM

My guess is that the unit also comes with an external "brick-type" power connector. It's probably that brick that outputs 19VDC from mains power, and the C4-CT-DC150L takes that 19VDC as its input. In the ebay auction photos, you can see in the rear view of the case, on the bottom-right of the case, is a small circular plug. That's where the external brick would connect to the internal C4-CT-DC150L PCB.

So, unless your car battery is putting out 19VDC (doubtful), then I think you'll need to remove the C4-CT-DC150L and the external "brick" and buy a DC-DC PSU that takes 12VDC to use this system in a vehicle.

[EDIT: However, overall, you got a killer deal on that system, assuming everything works properly. That case alone is about $120]

'01