USB Charger

[ScottB]

Anyone ever install a USB charger (or cigarette lighter) in their boat? They have just a + and - coming off, and I wonder if I could just connect this to an open toggle switch on the fuse panel. Suggestions?

I like to be able to charge my phone et al if needed.

 

[allimax]

Anyone ever install a USB charger (or cigarette lighter) in their boat? They have just a + and - coming off, and I wonder if I could just connect this to an open toggle switch on the fuse panel.

Sure could 12 volts is 12 volts and a phone doesn't need much amperage so go for it. I've got a IPod connection on my stereo so I charge my phone through that.

 

[Jon]

I've added secondary cigarette outlets to my boats and cars in the past, and a USB version to my KTM for GPS purposes. I would find a switched wire to connect to, or better yet add a relay of your own, and fuse it. Relay's are cheap.

Something like this would get you going:

Single pole single throw 12V relay and fuse.

 

[catfish123]

Jon, you may just want to consider one of these instead:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Antigravity-Batteries-XP-1-Personal-Power-Supply-Micro-Start-Jump-Pack-Charger-/351258950945?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item51c8aa3d21

I have one and it started my Tahoe this winter when the battery was totally dead.

 

[whipper]

i found a cord that plugs to the back of my stereo for charging my phone and Ipad. You can get them with different outlets for different devices. works great.