Forum Discussion

zoostory's avatar
zoostory
Explorer
Nov 17, 2018

Pepwave Max BR1 Power Hook Up

Sorry if this is a noob question. I'm learning a lot, fast!

Is there a way to hookup my pepwave router to my RV's DC power or batteries so that it stays on when I unplug the shoreline? I don't want to have to turn on the generator while driving just to keep internet going!

Thanks!
  • Year/make/model of RV would help. If the router requires AC power, you could get an inverter and connect it to the coach batteries by any number of methods. An inverter takes 12VDC power in and puts out 120VAC.
  • The quickest and most likely the safest way is to use a small DC to AC Inverter.

    A inverter takes 12V DC battery and converts it to 120V AC power.

    Less safe (and hence dangerous to the device) follow information below..

    IF your device uses a separate "power supply" which plugs into 120V wall outlet AND it has a plug in to the device you MIGHT, be able to connect the device to a 12V DC source directly provided it is marked 12V DC..

    Your devices power supply might be 12V, if so, it might be possible to rig up a power cord with a cig light plug on one end and the matching DC plug to the device.

    If your device is marked 5V DC, then you might be able to use a 12V to 5V USB charger as a way to connect your device.

    This however can damage your device IF you miswire the polarity OR the device is extremely sensitive to overvoltage (12V computer type items tend to MEAN 12V as in 11.9V-12.1V and not 13V-15V you get from an automobile battery system)..

    If you are not adventurous or willing to potentially sacrifice your device then going the inverter route may be best for you.
  • Literally the first result on Google is a automotive DC power adapter. Is that not sufficient?
  • Look at the back of your Pepwave Max BR1 router. It says 10-32 volt DC input. It will run directly off of your batteries

    Richard
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Does the router have a "power brick" or "Wall Wart" if so look at the spect. output 12-14 volt DC you may be lucky. 15 volt AC (some devices use that) NO JOY. Some of my LAN hardware works well with battery power but off hand I don't know what since I have an inverter.
  • I've been using a BR-1 since 2015, constantly on 12v power.

    I installed it in a back closet and grabbed power from a 12v light fixture in the closet, just plugged it in, positive is on the pin. If need be, you can install a 12v outlet somewhere and plug it in there.