Cigarette/USB charger suitable for GN250?

[bosslady]

Sick of being worried I'll run out of battery on my phone or tablet on one of my journeys esp if I go camping and shit. What are my options? Just one of those chargers I guess, but which one and from where? I did see this on TM http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/parts-for-sale/electrics/auction-582555562.htm I did a search but couldn't find a thread relating to my bike, but maybe it doesn't matter I don't know... thoughts?

[hayd3n]

Sick of being worried I'll run out of battery on my phone or tablet on one of my journeys esp if I go camping and shit. What are my options? Just one of those chargers I guess, but which one and from where? I did see this on TM http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/parts-for-sale/electrics/auction-582555562.htm I did a search but couldn't find a thread relating to my bike, but maybe it doesn't matter I don't know... thoughts?

get a relay and a accessory socket :)
that way when you turn off the key the socket also turns off

[bosslady]

get a relay and a accessory socket :)
that way when you turn off the key the socket also turns off

Where do I get such a thing?

[neels]

get a relay and a accessory socket :)
that way when you turn off the key the socket also turns off
Where do I get such a thing?

If you want it to turn off with the key and it's only for charging a phone stick it onto one of the lighting circuits, the extra current for usb is bugger all.

If you want to charge stuff once you've stopped, put it straight across the battery, even a small GN battery should be enough to charge a phone at the end of a ride. Easy enough to push start if you need to anyway ;)

[bosslady]

If you want it to turn off with the key and it's only for charging a phone stick it onto one of the lighting circuits, the extra current for usb is bugger all.

If you want to charge stuff once you've stopped, put it straight across the battery, even a small GN battery should be enough to charge a phone at the end of a ride. Easy enough to push start if you need to anyway ;)

So confused I don't know what I want lol.

[dogsnbikes]

So confused I don't know what I want lol.

Just to confuse you even more Bossy I brought one from Hampton honda in CHCH last month for $25..

Tapping into the lighting circuit will save you alot of time and money and the circuit is already fused

[bosslady]

Just to confuse you even more Bossy I brought one from Hampton honda in CHCH last month for $25..

Tapping into the lighting circuit will save you alot of time and money and the circuit is already fused

usb or ciggy one?

[dogsnbikes]

usb or ciggy one?

Cigy/USB as pictured in TM link you posted

Just use USB to charge Headset units when required and use a I-phone adater kit for the phone.

But if your after a USB connection to charge a smart phone etc you will be better off getting the Cigy lighter adapter kit its more reliable.

[bosslady]

Cigy/USB as pictured in TM link you posted

Just use USB to charge Headset units when required and use a I-phone adater kit for the phone.

But if your after a USB connection to charge a smart phone etc you will be better off getting the Cigy lighter adapter kit its more reliable.

why more reliable?

[nzmikey]

I have 1 on the Gixxer ... works well, just make sure you fuse it with a 10amp fuse ... or 5

Piss of piss to wire up

[dogsnbikes]

why more reliable?

The I-phone charges quicker through the cigy lighter,as the USB is fitment is loose on the I-phone USB but tight on the Headset USB so in my expiernce not all USB plugs are the same....

[Disco Dan]

This is the easiest mod to do to your bike... and one I've done to just about EVERY bike i've owned.

My bike just so happens to have a lockable compartment built into the fairing by the gauges - but you can fit one under your seat as well.

Go to www.jaycar.co.nz and buy one of these:

http://www.jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=PS2003&keywords=cigarette&form=KEYWORD

and one of these:

http://www.jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=SZ2015&keywords=inline+fuse&form=KEYWORD

Grab some wire while you're at it....

Connect like so...

281415

If you want, I can wire it all up for you... will take about 15 minutes. Tops.



I use mine to power a GPS mounted to the headstock of my bike and charge my iPhone in my tank bag. When my bike is not in use I connect a solar powered battery charger (http://www.supercheapauto.co.nz/online-store/products/2-4W-Solar-Charger-Kit.aspx?pid=292830#Cross) to the cig socket to keep the battery topped up.

It is SO useful it amazes me EVERY bike is not fitted with one as standard.

For the nerds out there.... I just built one of these:

http://www.ladyada.net/make/mintyboost/index.html

That is a simple kit that allows you to charge your iPhone (or other 'less' smart phones like androids) using just a couple of AA batteries. But you only get one charge and the batteries are toast!

But I modified mine (because I'm a geek) to use a high capacity LiPo battery, incorporated the specialist LiPo battery charging circuitry and fitted an auxiliary port which I connect to a solar panel array. The solar panels charges the Lipo battery (or I can mains charge it) then I have a small box that I can just plug my phone into and FULLY charge it TWICE before needing to be recharged again.

Perfect for camping trips and long tramping trips or anywhere when you're far away from a charging point.

281416

*Note picture does not show finished product, more battery packs take up the rest of the space in that box! It was plugged into my Arduino board (http://www.arduino.cc/) for diagnostic testing.

[Disco Dan]

NOTE: if you use a "USB" cigarette lighter attachment your iPhone will only charge at a maximum of 500mh but when you use the mains charger it charges it at 1000mh (1amp).

My stand alone unit switches between the two. For anyone interested...

A USB port has four pins - two are power +/- and the middle two are "data". However the iPhone uses these 'data' pins to detect if it is connected to a USB source or a mains source for charging. A USB power source needs to provide 2.0v to both data pins for the iPhone to charge at 500ma, with the swap of a resistor to change the voltage to 2.3v on each of the data pins the iPhone will then think it is mains powered and draw 1000ma.

Android phones are pretty dumb and you can just 'bridge' the two data pins together (short them out) and the phone will charge at 1000ma.

[Disco Dan]

Oh and if your rubbish with electronics :whistle: you can cheat and buy one of these:

https://nicegear.co.nz/electronics-gear/solar-charger-and-battery-pack-3500mah/

BUT with only a 3500mah battery you will only get a 80-90% charge on an iPhone 4, less with the 5.

AND the tiny solar panel will take at LEAST 10-12 hours to recharge the battery (that is in FULL sun with no interruption to the charge).

Whereas my design recharges in two hours and gives TWO full charges. Cos I'm awesome.

[p.dath]

Have you see the little CyberPower external batteries? They have a USB port in them, and the battery has enough life for about 40 hours of use.

You first charge it off something like a computer. Then take it away, and you can plug your phone/tablet into it to charge that device.

Think of it as a way to store extra charge for when you go away.


They are nice and cheap.

[Banditbandit]

So confused I don't know what I want lol.

A good man perchance ????

For me the point of getting out on the bike is that no-one can reach you ... My cellphone is never turned on when I am out on the bike ... unless there is an emergency - mine - not someone else's ...

[bosslady]

A good man perchance ????

For me the point of getting out on the bike is that no-one can reach you ... My cellphone is never turned on when I am out on the bike ... unless there is an emergency - mine - not someone else's ...

Don't forget I have children. I need to be contactable, can't just shut off my phone. I also use my phone as GPS and I like to text people periodically especially if I am alone so they know where abouts to look for my body if I run off the road and die or something. So, I need to make sure it's charged and stuff. Besides smart phones aren't so smart in terms of battery usage! Forgot to add, yes in fact I do need a good man. So, if you know of any hot, rich guys that ride motorbikes, please send them my way.

[bosslady]

Have you see the little CyberPower external batteries? They have a USB port in them, and the battery has enough life for about 40 hours of use.

You first charge it off something like a computer. Then take it away, and you can plug your phone/tablet into it to charge that device.

Think of it as a way to store extra charge for when you go away.


They are nice and cheap.

Never heard of it, sounds interesting, expensive is it?

[f2dz]

Buy a Nokia 100 for $20-$30 and chuck a spare SIM into it, or buy a cheap SIM.

They have better reception than a smartphone too. Just make sure you keep it in a plastic baggy incase it rains, I went through three of them when they kept getting wet in my pocket.

I'm much more careful with my S3 now.

[FJRider]

So, if you know of any hot, rich guys that ride AND FIX motorbikes, please send them my way.

Fixed it for you. :yes:

It's all a matter of priorities really (and standards .... yours usually) ... :innocent:

[nerrrd]

Never heard of it, sounds interesting, expensive is it?

Found this one, might take a look at one on the weekend.

http://www.pbtech.co.nz/index.php?z=p&p=BATSNY4128&name=Sony-CP-ELS-USB-Portable-Power-Supply-(White)-micr

That rich, hot, motorcycle-fixin' guy is definitely the way to go, though.

[bosslady]

Buy a Nokia 100 for $20-$30 and chuck a spare SIM into it, or buy a cheap SIM.

They have better reception than a smartphone too. Just make sure you keep it in a plastic baggy incase it rains, I went through three of them when they kept getting wet in my pocket.

I'm much more careful with my S3 now. Nah not interested I want my smart phone with me, hence it has gps too, which I use often. I will also take my tablet with me which does not have internet, it uses the net through my phone. Also the point of having my phone with the same number I've had for like 6 years is so people can contact me.. so no spare or cheap sim.. I already have an old nokia I could use, but I want my smart phone. Thanks for the idea though, it's one I've considered in the phone but I'm a greedy bitch.

[bosslady]

Fixed it for you. :yes:

It's all a matter of priorities really (and standards .... yours usually) ... :innocent: Haha yea quite right, someone who can fix my bike when I break it aye?


Found this one, might take a look at one on the weekend.

http://www.pbtech.co.nz/index.php?z=p&p=BATSNY4128&name=Sony-CP-ELS-USB-Portable-Power-Supply-(White)-micr

That rich, hot, motorcycle-fixin' guy is definitely the way to go, though.Let me know how you go this weekend with looking at that and let me know your thoughts? Looks like a good option.

[pete376403]

Cig lighter socket to usb adapter - 3.15A

http://www.jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=MP3664&CATID=95&form=CAT2&SUBCATID=1052#7

[St_Gabriel]

cig lighter socket, twin, 3.1A with tablet cable (search around for the right combo of cables), for less than jaycar charges for the lighter alone.

http://mobile-phone-accessories.co.nz/products/pr1805#.UW-KbMqxnOU

used these guys, got the charger/tab cradle/ipod lead and tablet lead for an excellent price (tracked shipping was 5 bucks)

[clint640]

I got one of the above 3.1A Jaycar jobs & it has powered the gps no worries. Far better than using a flaky inline ciggy socket is to solder your 12V feed directly onto the USB adapter. I did that, plugged my usb cable in t-other end, wrapped it up in insulation tape & stuffed it under the dash.

Cheers
Clint

[HornetBoy]

I got one of these from Ebay a while back (http://www.ebay.com/itm/151020227739?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649) and its served my iphone well - comes with all the wires needed to hook it up to your battery. I had it to power the phone for GPS.

I brought an external fuse box and set it up so that the charger runs only when you turn on the ignition (I had it hooked up to the battery for a few weeks without any problems even with my little lithium battery! :first: of course youll want to make sure you dont leave anything plugged in accidently or else that might cause some problems :eek:).

$35 is pretty decent i thought.

[nerrrd]

I got one of these from Ebay a while back (http://www.ebay.com/itm/151020227739?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649) and its served my iphone well - comes with all the wires needed to hook it up to your battery. I had it to power the phone for GPS.

I brought an external fuse box and set it up so that the charger runs only when you turn on the ignition (I had it hooked up to the battery for a few weeks without any problems even with my little lithium battery! :first: of course youll want to make sure you dont leave anything plugged in accidently or else that might cause some problems :eek:).

$35 is pretty decent i thought.

That looks really good, I'm keen to get something similar up and running on my bike for GPS. Which iPhone do you have? I've got a 3gS on Vodafone and it's performance accessing the web/google maps on my recent trip was pretty crappy.

[Maha]

That looks really good, I'm keen to get something similar up and running on my bike for GPS. Which iPhone do you have? I've got a 3gS on Vodafone and it's performance accessing the web/google maps on my recent trip was pretty crappy.

Pre GPS days Rodney, people just stayed at home :rolleyes:
Part of the adventure is stopping and asking ones self ''where the hell am I''? :confused:

Twice on our away trips, GPS has been in use and both times things didn't go quite to plan...I can manage that without GPS...:eek:
I suppose a GPS is good if you're by yourself or a very small group..but they (GPS) do not allow for allocated stops or change of mind in an instant.

[nerrrd]

Pre GPS days Rodney, people just stayed at home :rolleyes:
Part of the adventure is stopping and asking ones self ''where the hell am I''? :confused:

Twice on our away trips, GPS has been in use and both times things didn't go quite to plan...I can manage that without GPS...:eek:
I suppose a GPS is good if you're by yourself or a very small group..but they (GPS) do not allow for allocated stops or change of mind in an instant.

Yeah, it's just on the trip with BL i ended up going the wrong way about three times before realising / forgetting where we'd stopped previously (she could probably have done without that under the circumstances.)

No doubt it's not a cure-all for my lack of a sense of direction, but I'll take all the help i can get.

[FJRider]

Pre GPS days Rodney, people just stayed at home :rolleyes:
Part of the adventure is stopping and asking ones self ''where the hell am I''? :confused:

Twice on our away trips, GPS has been in use and both times things didn't go quite to plan...I can manage that without GPS...:eek:
I suppose a GPS is good if you're by yourself or a very small group..but they (GPS) do not allow for allocated stops or change of mind in an instant.

I've managed 39 years of riding around NZ without GPS. I see no point in getting it now.

I have a good map book which I refer too ... should I need help with directions. But directional signage has improved considerably over those 39 years. Perhaps the ability to read those signs hasn't ...

[HornetBoy]

That looks really good, I'm keen to get something similar up and running on my bike for GPS. Which iPhone do you have? I've got a 3gS on Vodafone and it's performance accessing the web/google maps on my recent trip was pretty crappy.

I have an 4s , and use the standard USB to iPhone cable that came with it ,as you would when you plug it into the wall charger(except you plug it into the usb port on your bike).

I find that Google maps is really good , never really had a problem with it taking me into a lake or anything like that :eek: I use this other app on there to measure GPS speed and it also tracks whatever route you took for the ride (really cool to save and look back on if you went on a random route and wanted to pass it onto someone else or do it again ).

I like having the gps setup more for a backup or for if i get lost and need to get direction back onto the road - bloody handy really !

[nerrrd]

I've managed 39 years of riding around NZ without GPS. I see no point in getting it now.

I have a good map book which I refer too ... should I need help with directions. But directional signage has improved considerably over those 39 years. Perhaps the ability to read those signs hasn't ...

Me read real good, and write stuff good too.:yes:

[Maha]

Some of us detoured out the back of beyond, GPS couldn't tell us where we were, just how we got there, but we already knew that...:laugh:
We asked some off roaders about location, then got the map out to geographically get an idea, most in the group were pleased with the detour...

[leathel]

http://burnsmoto.com/usb-power-socket-weatherproof.php

That would be handy...not seen one over here though

Munster just used a std car charger and pulled the bit you put in the cigarette lighter apart and hard wired it in.... and that runs to the phone holder, only good for that phone though

A std cig lighter point is pretty easy to fit and you could use the usb adapter plug in it but its bulky ...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/12V-Motorcycle-HandleBar-Cellphone-Smartphone-USB-Charger-Power-Adapter-Yellow-/321115055870?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4ac3f2e6fe&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-Power-Port-Charger-Cable-Permanent-Mount-Hardwired-Motorcycle-ATV-Boats-/261073681312?pt=US_MP3_Player_Chargers_Cradles&hash=item3cc9343ba0

[nerrrd]

I got one of these from Ebay a while back (http://www.ebay.com/itm/151020227739?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649) and its served my iphone well - comes with all the wires needed to hook it up to your battery. I had it to power the phone for GPS.


Ordered one of these, thanks for the tip. Now all I'll have to do is install it... :confused:

[HornetBoy]

Ordered one of these, thanks for the tip. Now all I'll have to do is install it... :confused:

good to hear, its really simple to install honestly . You can just attach to your battery terminal for now or if your really good you can splice into a wire that only activates when you turn the key (so you dont run the battery flat )

To be honest, i have one of the really small lithium batteries and ran it off the battery terminal for a while just fine (always made sure i did'nt leave the phone connected when im off the bike for too long).

if you get stuck id be happy to help mate

[nerrrd]

Cheers, a trip to Wellington is definitely on my list at some stage...:niceone:

[Ratti]

GTRMAN made a widget that he installed in Henry's topbox. has a double hole so I can have 2 devices charging. Cellphone ( bought the plug with cord attached from the Warewhare ) and the other plug has a usb thingummy that I can plug my camera charging cord into. He made a block that also has my garmin wired into it so now I can leave that on the bike. The unit turns off when I turn off the ignition so I am very happy.

Now to work out how to waterproof the top box...

[BMWST?]

Pre GPS days Rodney, people just stayed at home :rolleyes:
Part of the adventure is stopping and asking ones self ''where the hell am I''? :confused:

Twice on our away trips, GPS has been in use and both times things didn't go quite to plan...I can manage that without GPS...:eek:
I suppose a GPS is good if you're by yourself or a very small group..but they (GPS) do not allow for allocated stops or change of mind in an instant.


of course they do...thats the best thing about them.You dont have to go where they tell you,go wherever the hell you like and the gps will always tell you which way you can go to get to where you where thinking of going.