Panel mount USB power port

Ritchard · #1 (**permalink**) 02-13-2012

I am shortly going to be building in instrument panel for my pedestal, and would like to mount both 12V cigarette lighter ports, and a USB port in the face of the panel. Anyone know where to get a panel mount USB power port? I have seen many of the sort of loose motorcycles ones, but nothing that mounts on a panel. I'd like to be able to power my iPad -or whatever else - at the helm.

Thanks

R

jackdale · #2 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ritchard

I am shortly going to be building in instrument panel for my pedestal, and would like to mount both 12V cigarette lighter ports, and a USB port in the face of the panel. Anyone know where to get a panel mount USB power port? I have seen many of the sort of loose motorcycles ones, but nothing that mounts on a panel. I'd like to be able to power my iPad -or whatever else - at the helm.

Thanks

R

I Googled "USB panel mount" and got a bunch of hits. Is that what you are looking for?

Ritchard · #3 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

Thanks Jackdale,

I had been googling "weatherproof" and "waterproof," and didn't readily see what I was looking for.

The items coming up with this search appear to be more about data than power, but I will look carefully thru these results. I may have to figure out a voltage regulator for one of these data-ish connectors.

HUGOSALT · #4 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

Check out something like "power ports usb for RV's or autos...at the very least I know
there are portable dual plug in combos cigarette lighter/usb.
Probably you will have to fabricate waterproof cover for built in panel mounted port.

Ritchard · #5 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

Here's one that would do the trick, but $39.95 seems a bit steep for something so simple. I guess you pay for the fact that the market for this is limited.

http://www.3brpowersports.com/products_TAPP.htm

Oops, scratch that, only 1 amp. Need two for iPad.

arf145 · #6 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

I don't think the USB power standard is required have more than 500mA available. All the USB chargers that I see are 1A.

redline · #7 (**permalink**) 02-14-2012

L-Com have a nice line of waterproof connectors, cables, etc etc., including mating plugs to keep things waterproof while mated.

Waterproof USB Field Installable Connectors - Revision 2.0 Compliant, IP67 Rated

Not expensive either, however these are connectors only; you would need to add the 5V 2A regulator with the Apple-handshake resistors to convince the iPad/Phone to charge, but that could be taken from a generic automotive non-waterproof device.

I have not used these specific products, but I have ordered other parts from L-Com and been happy with their products, prices, and service.

boltnbrew · #8 (**permalink**) 03-15-2012

I suggest not using the USB, since the standard can change fairly quickly. Instead, how about one of these in the cigarette lighter socket, or two sockets with this in one of them.

Amazon.com: Griffin Powerjolt Dual Universal USB Micro: MP3 Players & Accessories

Ritchard · #9 (**permalink**) 03-15-2012

BoltNBrew, the USB standard is going to be with us for a good long time. And most of those plug-in kind will not deliver 3 amp current to charge/power an iPad. This is the main intent of the panel mount USB.

What i ended up getting was one of these:

USBFirewire - USB Waterproof Coupler - A female / Solder Type - Low Profile C3 Size - Panel Mount - Board Mount Pins

it will be powered by a 3 amp 12v>5V power converter (eBay) mounted inside the Navpod.

Minnewaska · #10 (**permalink**) 03-16-2012

Sounds like you have the solution you're looking for, but if I had seen this thread earlier (it was created back in the day when threads were automatically marked as read if you didnt get to them in time), I would have offered the same cig lighter advice.

The cig lighter, which our kids don't even know was originally for lighting cigarettes has more use than a USB. You may want to power other devices intermittently.

The standard iPad charger runs at 2.1 amps and the iPhone at 1 amp. They are interchangeable, but you will naturally get different charging rates. I have a cig insert with two USB outputs, one at each of those amps. In fact, it will also convert the 24v electrical system onboard the aircraft.

I've used it many times and it works as effectively as plugging it in at home.

Now, if you can explain why modern aircraft still come with ash trays? (seriously some do) I tell all passengers, if they would like to smoke inflight, they should kindly step outside.