Replacing magnetek 6300 with inverter/charger

nakedgun wrote:

Thanks, all great tips. Will definitely consider the remote switch - didn't know the idle draw was so high on the inverter!


...Now I just need to make a call on the 2000w vs something smaller.

Yes, inverters can have a pretty high idle current, generally the higher wattage inverter, the higher the idle current will be.

It is for that reason why some boondockers will employ a low wattage inverter for low wattage needs (300W-400W for say TV, entertainment) and a higher wattage inverter for heavy 120V needs and only run them when needed.

For extremely low wattage items like charging your phone, tablet, laptop PC consider buying 12V chargers designed to take 12V directly and convert to the needed application.

Pretty much any device that uses 5V USB connection to charge you can buy a cig lighter style 12V to 5V USB charger that will work great and has extremely low idle current draw when compared to any inverter.



$5-$10..

Just need to add in a couple of cig lighter power points..

You can also buy built in 12V to 5V USB charging ports..

$8-$15



For laptops, you can buy a "universal" 12V to laptop power supply, uses changeable "tips" that sets the voltage and current for your laptop..







That one is a 90W universal laptop supply I bought for DDs loaded i7 laptop.. DD liked it so much that she only uses that power supply for her laptop! Bought it back in 2019 and so far, she hasn't broke the power supply yet. Best of all, it can not only operate from 12V but 120V also and even has built in 5V USB charging port to boot!

Found HERE for $35

Just verify that the power supply you choose has a compatible tip for your PC..