Hi pianotuna,
Will want to connect cell phones, ipods, ipad, curling iron, laptop, keurig coffeemaker, and if possible small microwave, haha.
Also, there is a seller locally on craigslist for a 200watt portable zampsolar. It retails for $900 plus tax but she is selling for $700. I think it's too much power. But the 100 watt kits are selling for around $500. I know you said that the portables are a lot more expensive than wired kits. But if we are sitting on a campsite with a lot of trees, wouldn't it be harder to get sunlight? I would probably end up paying for the install anyway and that would even out the cost. I admit I am a dummy when it comes to wiring electrical stuff. I could probably ask my friends at work (maintenance dept.) and see if they can help me. The wife also mentioned about theft on the portables, and we would probably lock it up.
As far as the converter, it could be a loose ground issue.
