Tons of pictures and a howto:

http://thoughtfix.blogspot.com/2006/...njector-2.html

Yay! It's not the best one out there (Simon's is awesome) but the components are EASY to find and it took under two hours from start to finish.

Next step: Add a switch and a power LED. The LED will probably just be patched right against the regulator and the yellow power lead was left so long to allow for the switch.

Enjoy.

LVTT:

Thanks for the Monty Python moment: "Oh, look at the penguin!"

More great work!

Thanks Mr. Cane.
I added to it and updated the post: A switch and an LED.

Hey thoughtfix, looks good! You made me remember I had to update my page. No circuit diagram yet sorry. Been busy (been rebuilding an old sports car the last 2 years and I REALLY want to get the engine running before a friend visits from the states in a week). But I did put up a link to the low voltage circuit I used in mine and a link to some data for the LM2940CT-5 low voltage regulator I used. It is pin compatible with the 7805 you used so since you have your brilliant no solder connection method you can easily change it over. Page is here: http://www.asciimation.co.nz/770/

Just wish I could get that folding keyboard to work

Simon

Thanks Simon.
How did you get it to blink when the voltage was low? Also - do you know if the regulator will operate at 7.2V input? If I put in six 1.2V 2200 mAh rechargable batteries, I could have something that's good for long-time road use.

Also - I am going to convert my old patch cable to work on the 12V - 14.4V in the car in case I want to do some extensive GPS/mapping stuff that requires external storage.

LVTT:

*tapping my feet, waiting to be able to buy something like these...*

Hey... who'd be interested in a car charger that also provided power to USB devices? I could build one of those too.

If you look on my page there is a link to the circuit I used for the blinking low power warning. That regulator I used would be fine with those batteries of yours. I think it is good for up to 26 volt imput.

My box is dead again. The AAA cells I used are, well, total crap. Two of them have died again. Need to get some better batteries.

this could be an interesting addition http://www.apc.com/resource/include/...B10&tab=models

As a warning to anyone who frequently travels, and is interested in building a USB power injector. These devices do NOT pass through airport security easily. Aparently mint tins with wires connected is frowned upon at screening areas. I gave up traveling with mine, and ended up modifying a USB hub.