bcope01 wrote:Not being familiar with LCD TVs, are they all 12V? Thanks, Bill
No, not all LCD TVs are 12V DC. But some are available with this option aimed at mobile and low energy use markets. The 21-inch Initiial LCD TV in the Born Free living room uses 120V AC -- but that can be used going down the road too -- see below. The living room TV has an integrated DVD player just like the bedroom TV does.
Xantrex Freedom 458 Inverter (Modified Sine Wave, 2kW)
Again, I'm not an electrical engineer (but my Dad was), but I mention the usefulness of an inverter when desiring to use non-12V products while on the move. For example, the in-motion satellite dish, DirecTV receiver, living room TV, Bose Wave Radio and CD player, coffee maker, microwave oven, laptop computer, and just about anything except for the air conditioning units, can be powered using the inverter without firing up the generator. The inverter draws power from the coach batteries, and they in turn are continuously recharged by the vehicle's alternator while the engine is running. The 12V products (interior lights, water pump, small TV, cell phone charger, etc) also use the coach batteries as a source. Not having to resort to the generator conserves fuel, keeps the noise down, and saves wear-and-tear on the generator unit.
I have begun switching on the 2000W inverter just before disconnecting from shore power and this permits all the 120V electrical gear to continue being powered so when it's needed on the road, there is no startup period (resetting clocks, DirecTV receiver search mode, in-motion satellite acquisition mode, for example). The inverter overcomes those minor irritants, and the vehicle alternator quickly recharges the coach batteries once underway.
In-motion Wireless Internet Access
Oh, and I have just acquired a Sony Ericsson GC89 wireless network card for our laptops that will allow me to connect to T-Mobile's wireless cellular network , or to networks of similar service providers, anywhere there is a signal. These are also called 'air cards' by some service providers. The cconnection speeds will vary with signal strength, but we should see better than dialup speeds under most conditions while moving, and approaching DSL speeds when near a T-Mobile hotspot (e.g. Starbucks, Borders, FedEx-Kinko's, Hyatt properties, airports, etc). Since I am still working full-time, this adds to my mobility, and is a worthwhile expense at $50 per month.
Wireless Amplifier (Cell Phone, Internet Access Card)
To help the signal strength situation, I have also purchased a Wilson 3-watt dual band amplifier and magnetic mount antenna which is designed to boost the signal of cell phones, and can be used with the network card as well. The claims, backed by customer results, is that cell phone and network access is at least doubled, and can be up to 50 miles from the nearest tower under good conditions. This should really help acquire and stay connected with both cell phone and internet while cruising or parked. Oh, and all the gear is portable from one vehicle to the next, with 12V as the power source (that's why I was bringing it up in the first place.) All told, the amplifier, antennas (I purchased two styles), ground plane disc, and a carrying case cost $315 and shipping was $9.
That's my 2.32 cents (Cdn) worth anyway.