I bought a Sony bullet camera that runs on DC power. The transformer that came with the camera is 12V 200ma. The specs on the camera indicate 12V 100 ma or less.
Before I hook up the camera to my DC outlet in the S, I need to know if the output from that source is safe for the camera. If not, does anyone here know if a DC converter is available to hook up that will be safe for the camera?

I have spent a lot of time puttting this together and I don't want to blow up my camera. The party I bought it from does not know.
Thanks in advance.

 

If you're not comfortable with using that converter, Radio Shack should have a universal DC converter with the correct output. The converter also include a variety of connectors so hopefully you can match it up to the plug on the camera.

 

You might want to post your question in the Electronic forum.... where the electronic geeks hang out.

 

This is, presumably, the AC -> DC transformer. It takes in house current (120V, 10 or more amps) and puts out 12V, 200milli-amps.

The key number in this is the 12V specification. Given that potential, the camera will draw whatever juice it needs from the source, apparently 100 milli-amps in this case.

The amperage on the transformer (milli-amps, in this case) refers to the capacity of that source to put out power, and the amperage on the device refers to what it needs. The latter has to be smaller (or, in a pinch, equal to) the former. You don't want to plug a 2-amp (12V) device into a 12V socket rated for only a half-amp, because it'll fry the socket or the source or the fuse (or at least overheat something).

If you're worried about it, one approach would be to get a 12V socket extender with an in-line fuse holder (but you don't need a converter, as the car's socket is 12V already). Put a 200 m-amp fuse in and you'll be worry free. Or, if the socket on the S has its own fuse (I don't recall), just put a 200 ma fuse in there.

Now, this doesn't speak to transients, starting the car or plugging the thing in to a live socket. Those are one reason why 12V converters are useful, as they buffer transients. HPH

 

Thanks doc. I think you have nailed it. I would have gone to the suggested forum but I know that there are experts right here.
Thanks to all.

 

Guano,
Are you planning on shooting some video at the Dragon?

 

Nah, I dont plan to shoot some video. I plan to shoot a heeluva lot of video if I can all my stuff together. Are you going?

 

Sure, we'll be there along with some other vints from Ohio. Mary (my wife) and I will be there till Tuesday if the weather holds (we'll move to Gatlinburg starting Sunday night I guess).

 

We will be there thru Sunday and leaving there to tour. May go to Helen Georgia to see the Bavarian city.