I use a 300 watt inverter that plugs into the cigarette lighter and that will power the 19" mounted TV for at least a couple of hours without hampering engine start. Earlier question: I have used the generator (ran for about two minutes) to start a dead eng battery. I have found with the inverter that the TV starts up quickly if I have the eng running (higher input voltage = less amperage required), but will struggle for a few seconds if not running. I have used this arrangement for at least a couple of years with no apparent adverse affects. I like to eat my lunch in the coach (I commute in it)and watch the noon news several days a week.