So what is a CAR CHARGER? Basically it is a power supply. The only problem is that it needs current, and some head room so the power supply doesn’t turn off to protect itself. Engineering stated this was
3A and I confirm. All of the chargers or USB battery based systems I have found limit the current to 2.1A or less. Thus if you can deal with charge only operation with your PNP, then this is a path.
Others on this forum use a DC-AC inverter to then power a PNP AC adapter. This will also work fine, but not what I want for
use with batteries when I’m deep in the forests on my MTB or backpacking…
@MileHighLife posted some
good links to a product that will allow operation of the PNP from standard rechargeable batteries. I still might get one of these…
And how did I make my Proto1 charger and/or how can you make yours? I simply took a development board for a Lineage DC-DC converter and adjusted the output to match the needs of the PNP. This device is way over kill for this application (12A output) thus I have had nothing but trouble free operation once I figured out the voltage drop on the 24AWG cable that comes with standard barrel connectors from Digi-Key. The primary disadvantage is the development board comes with baggage (computer interface) and thus is too expensive…
So for the Proto2 series (prize of the
How stealth is your PNP or PN OG contest!), I found a wonderful little development board from Linear Technologies. It was specifically designed for wide range input applications (5.5V – 36V) and automotive is one of them. The dev board costs $65 and can be easily changed from the default 3.3V to 5.5V by paralleling a 182K resistor. The next steps are to add wires for the PNP output and automobile 12V source. Final step is putting it in a box. Now how simple is that???
I can’t feasibly sell these proto car chargers, thus I decided to have the contest so others might enjoy the ability to road trip with their PNP! And for any customs worries, it will be claimed as your birthday gift if I am asked by the USPS. The contest doesn’t have any Trophy Point minimums so all you new folks can have a try. I really tried making this contest easy and hopefully fun! And to me the freedom of using my PNP on the go is a superb prize! The battery on my PNP still performs the same as day one (5+ 8 minute sessions) and I believe I have my car charger to thank…
So vape and play!
-BB