Operating the Maestro with external vehicle power

Bob KN4HH

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

K1DLM

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

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

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

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.