Inverter Power Question

SniperXX · 06-12-2005, 02:47 AM

Ok well I will be powering my carputer with a inverter I already have. I have tested it and it works fine with my setup. Now all I have left to do power wise is run power to the inverter in my trunk.

I have alot of 16awg (copper oxogen free) cable left from when I installed our home theater and wondered if that would work fine for my inverter? I will only be using maybe 100-150W max on the inverter so I think it will be fine right? I just want to make sure so I dont hurt myself or anything.

Oh and I would only be using about 8-9ft of cable if that matters.

Also what is the best way to connect it upfront to the battery? Is there a way to connect it to the car's connectors on the battery terminals?

Thanks!

markland556 · 06-12-2005, 03:07 AM

http://www.the12volt.com/info/recwirsz.asp
good table, should apply to what your doing.

SniperXX · 06-12-2005, 06:48 PM

Ok from looking @ that I would most likely need 8 gauge wire right?

Oh and what if I ran 2 sets of wires would that work? Basically it would be like combining them. Do you guys know what I mean?

Bugbyte · 06-12-2005, 07:04 PM

Two sets would work.

Jahntassa · 06-12-2005, 07:14 PM

You really only need to run 12v to the battery. You can ground the inverter to the chassis of the car. It's probably better to do so, anyway.

As far as connecting to the battery, make sure you put a fuse within 18 inches of the battery. Unfused connections can be a VERY dangerous thing. If something happened and it shorted out, you could cause a lot of problems. Having a cheapo fuse in the way can only help prevent accidents.

SniperXX · 06-12-2005, 11:14 PM

Ok thank you for the replys. I am glad to know I can just use this wire (w/ two sets) and not have to spend more on wire when I already have some. How big of a fuse should I use? I was thinking 40ish? What do you guys think and what have people around here used?