Swapped power outlet (12V) for a power meter with QC3.0 USB charger [pics]

[erkme73]

This probably won't get most excited, but for the gadget geeks among us, it may be a worthwhile mod.

While a plug-in power adapter to USB charger is certainly an option (they even have the kind that will provide power readings), I wasn't having much luck with mine staying put. Whether vibration or the slamming door, my charger kept falling out.

This evening, I installed this hard-wired power adapter. It wasn't a plug-and-play install - I did have to enlarge the existing hole in the trim piece by about 1/8". But now, with a quick glance over my shoulder, I know what the condition of the battery is (if engine is off) or whether the alternator is providing adequate voltage to charge the chassis battery.

Plus, since my phone is Quick Charge 3.0 compliant, it bumps the voltage to the phone from 5V to 9V, all the way to 12V. I can charge my phone from dead to full in about an hour - or get about 40% bump in remaining battery in 15 min. Your accessories have to be QC2 or QC3 compliant for the faster charge voltages. And, since it's backwards compatible, if the device attached isn't QC compliant, it will fall back to a standard 5V charge.









Full disclosure: I have no affiliation with the manufacturer of the power adapter, its seller, or Amazon. Just thought it was cool way to geek-out.

 

[y2kvfr]

Nice! Was going to ask if ok for weather (no cab on my 2538), clicked the link and looky-loo, it's on the way to my house.

Thanks for the link!

 

[erkme73]

I bought my first one for my 4-wheeler - which I regularly clean (inside and out) with a pressure washer. I didn't install the weatherproof cover in the tractor because of the cab, but left it on the buggy. The blue readout is BRIGHT. So if you mount in where it is in the line of sight on a vehicle you intend on driving at night, having the cover is a great way to dim it (the cover is opaque and the values can still be read with it closed).