DC 12v power source
012620
12-13-2008, 03:21 PM
Whats the best way to install a extra switched DC 12v power source for a GPS unit. Thanks for any help. 2000 Park Avenue.
The00Dustin
12-14-2008, 12:36 PM
I would probably go to the back of a cigarette lighter outlet that isn't considered a power supply. I believe these outlets switch with the ignition, and it is 12 volts. However, I believe the ones designated as power supply stay on when the car is off. I'm not certain on this, but I helped someone replace a radio in a 99 Cavalier that had the same digital signal instead of switched power going to the radio. I had to go to the fusebox & find a switched fuse, as the cigarette lighter was dead, but the cigarette lighter would have otherwise been easier.
012620
12-14-2008, 02:29 PM
Thanks for your answer. I had thought about going to the fusebox. But I wonder if taking the plastic moulding off under the steering wheel and then looking for a switched wire at this location would be another approach. Then I thought I could use a blue or red wire tapper and hook onto one of these wires. Thats how I use to do it some 10 or 15 years ago but I am unsure if this would be a good correct way to do it on newer cars.
012620
12-15-2008, 10:38 AM
Just wondering if anyone has ever used these products. Littelfuse Add-A-Circuit Fuseholder for Mini Fuses or Wirthco Fuse Block Add-On Circuit Tap #30003.
012620
12-18-2008, 12:41 PM
These are the items I used to make a SWITCHED power source. I went to the fuse box under the glovebox and found a switched fuse. I then piggybacked the add a fuse to this power source. I then plugged in my auxiliary power source and mounted it to a dash location. You can buy theses items at Auto Zone.
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http://i362.photobucket.com/albums/oo68/012620/IMG_0660.jpg
http://i362.photobucket.com/albums/oo68/012620/IMG_0668-1.jpg
http://i362.photobucket.com/albums/oo68/012620/IMG_0683.jpg
http://i362.photobucket.com/albums/oo68/012620/IMG_0656.jpg
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