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Operating the Maestro with external vehicle power

Bob KN4HH
Bob KN4HH BobMember ✭✭
edited September 2017 in Maestro
I operate my Maestro in my vehicle actually more often than fixed station.  On long trips, batteries become an issue.  I would like to power the Maestro using vehicle power.  I am hesitant to use a direct connection from the car electrical system to the Maestro.  Does anyone know of an acceptable cigarette lighter type power interface unit or one that I could connect to my mobile power bus that would offer some protection for the Maestro.

Thanks, Bob, KN4HH

Answers

  • K1DLM
    K1DLM Member ✭✭
    edited September 2017
    Bob - Not sure what you're concerned about.  I think having a 3-amp fuse inline would be sufficient.  I would suggest you pick up some PowerWerx equipment, which HRO generally has in stock.  Alternatively, you can order directly from PowerWerx.com. 

    I would purchase one of each of the following:

    Cigarette Lighter to Powerpole adapter:
    https://powerwerx.com/cigbuddy-cigarette-lighter-powerpole-adapter

    Powerpole t0 2.1mm right angle preterminated cable
    https://powerwerx.com/21mm-angle-coaxial-powerpole-adapter

    3-amp mini ATC fuse:
    https://powerwerx.com/mini-atm-blade-type-fuses



    73,

    Dave
    K1DLM



  • DH1RK
    DH1RK Member ✭✭
    edited September 2017
    Hi Bob,
    using the Maestro for my mobile remote operation.
    Everything works okay, but crunking test (start of engine) failed for the Maestro device...
    Maestro issued with switching on/off the device...
    You should start your Airbus first, hi and then connect the Maestro and startup the radio.
    May you meet you on air from remote  /am 2 remote /m.

    73, de DH1RK, Ruediger
  • Bob KN4HH
    Bob KN4HH Bob Member ✭✭
    edited September 2017
    Thanks David and Ruediger for your suggestions.  I was just concerned about noise/transients, etc present on the vehicle DC bus.  Good idea to power up the bus before energizing the Maestro.  I work Germany every day on HF FT-8  so will have to try you on phone sometime.
  • Stan VA7NF
    Stan VA7NF President Surrey Amateur Radio Communications Member ✭✭✭
    edited September 2017
    Have not done this here but:
    Place a diode in series with parallel electrolytic and.1 mica or equivalent.  This will hold the voltage and also remove most noise from the power feed.  The lighter adapter may have difficulties with too much initial power draw. 

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