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Powering a PC from a Car Without an Inverter?

Posted by Cliff on from the hardware-hacks dept.

(H)elix1 asks: "Without using an inverter, what is the good cheap way to power an ATX motherboard from a DC source? I have a mini-itx based computer I'm looking to use in the car and house. I'm looking for something like a laptop uses, with an AC-to-DC brick that feeds a DC-DC internal connector. Linitx.com has one, but it is a bit pricey after shipping to this side of the pond, googling turned up even more expensive industrial PSU's. Am I missing a simple hack? I have a soldering iron and am not afraid to use it..."

4 of 80 comments (clear)

  1. Maybe I'm missing something here... by gklinger · · Score: 3, Informative

    Have you considering using a DC power supply?

  2. Don't skip the inverter. by Bastian · · Score: 3, Informative

    The DC power supplied by your car only in the region of 12v. It's riddled with power spikes that will be damaging to the motherboard's electronics. This is the main reason why you're supposed to use a power inverter on anything that wasn't specifically designed to be powered by a car's DC outlet.

    A DC adapter can't effectively smooth off the spikes. On the other hand, switching the current to AC using an inverter and then converting it back to DC with an AC-DC adapter will supply power that isn't dirty.

    You can get a decent 300 watt power inverter at a truckstop for 30 or 40 bucks if you look around. It would certainly be a lot cheaper than having to replace a fried motherboard.

  3. Try .. by .milfox · · Score: 4, Informative

    http://205.147.44.194/store/commerce.cgi?product=S olarPC

    There's a 12V DC/12V DC/ATX inverter there. :P

  4. A few sources, and a site for more info by TwoStep · · Score: 4, Informative

    DC-DC Power supplies:
    The best one is Opus Solutions
    Another good one is Keypower

    You can find a lot more info at MP3Car.com, and especially at the forums there.

    Twostep

    --
    There are 10 different types of people in this world... those who understand binary, and those who don't.