Buck Converter Mod – Reducing the RV 12 VDC to 4.5 VDC

[Ray]

In this video, I install a device called a “buck converter” in my RV to power my Lacrosse Weather Station display. By doing this, I will no longer need to replace the 3 AAA batteries.

See previous post and video on the weather station install and review – http://www.loveyourrv.com/installed-la-crosse-weather-station-wind-speed-rv/

I explain what the buck converter does and give you a demo of it in action. I also show how I modded my weather station display to accept the converter and how I installed it in the RV.

I used the same 12 VDC power source that my See Level tank monitor runs off. I was able to hide the wiring behind the wall for a clean looking installation.

**Disclaimer: Working with electricity can be dangerous. I’m not a certified RV technician merely an RV owner. This post and video should not be taken as instructional. If you decide to do a similar type mod as depicted in the video, do the research and be aware of all risks involved. I accept no liability, you have been warned. – Ray

[Kent V. W.]

Ray,

Will the unit take a variable input voltage and maintain a fixed output voltage? If so what is the range on the input side?

Thanks

[Ray]

UPDATE – I did some testing. I found what I think is the main filter capacitor 470uf 16 volts. I plugged in the OEM 5VAC wall adapter and measured 7 VDC on the cap. This would be expected after a bridge rectification. Then I fed 5 VDC into the input jack and measured 4.5 VDC on the cap. Also expected as there would be a voltage drop across diodes. It’s quite the difference. I guess there is enough regulation to compensate. But folks supplying 5 VDC to the jack with things like USB adapters are definitely supplying much lower voltage than the OEM design. I changed my buck converter to 7.0 VDC and wired it right to the cap. Now I have the full features just like it was plugged into the wall and the correct DC supply voltage.

[Ray]

[quote quote=51302]Ray,
Will the unit take a variable input voltage and maintain a fixed output voltage? If so what is the range on the input side?

Thanks
[/quote]

Here is a link to it on Amazon with the specs – https://amzn.to/2IAuLGk

Basically, it will handle 4 – 32 Volts on the input side.

[Kent V. W.]

Sounds like there must be a magnetic ion defrapulator wired parallel with the tonkatoykastat…. Good to know! 🙂

[Terry]

I think you’ll like New Power Supply LED Display Voltage Regulator Voltmeter Voltage Regulator 4.0~40 To 1.3-37V Step-Down Converter Power Module. Add it to your wishlist!
(Their words not mine) 🙂 😉
https://geek.wish.com/c/582ebf0962bc851e129edcfd

$5 including shipping from a slow boat from China. If you are willing to wait 6 weeks or so for it.
Just thought i would mention it. 😉

[Author]

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