Author Topic: USB Cigarette Lighter Adaptor  (Read 28346 times)

dave_kent

USB Cigarette Lighter Adaptor
« on: June 04, 2025, 09:54:07 am »
As a plane renter, my PAW moves with me.  I still struggle with power issues on the PAW, even though I am using the official lead and approved power pack.  In April, I was throttled on every flight, but last week I was green the whole day.

I noticed in my latest rental that it has a cigarette lighter socket, and wondered if I could use this to provide a better power supply to the PAW.  But conscious that this is likely to have power surges etc, and don't want to fry my PAW.  Is anyone aware of a USB/Cigarette light adaptor that has a surge protector built into it?  I can't find one on Amazon.

Thanks, David

steveu

Re: USB Cigarette Lighter Adaptor
« Reply #1 on: June 04, 2025, 11:51:08 am »
Use the 12V/USB adaptor that PilotAware recommends for use in the ciggie lighter socket?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00VH84L5E/

https://www.pilotaware.com/knowledgebase/choosing-your-power-supply

dave_kent

Re: USB Cigarette Lighter Adaptor
« Reply #2 on: June 04, 2025, 11:59:34 am »
RTFM ?

exfirepro

Re: USB Cigarette Lighter Adaptor
« Reply #3 on: June 04, 2025, 02:44:42 pm »
Hi Dave,

I echo the recommendation posted by Steve. That Anker adapter is good on both 12 and 24 volt systems

Just a few words of warning as you say you have been experiencing voltage issues throughout April with the official lead and recommended power pack...

1. It may just be that your power pack is getting 'tired',  but check that you don't have a defective cable or a faulty microUSB connection at the PAW power input socket. You can do this by powering up the unit then gently wiggling the cable while observing the RED Power LED (below the P3i 869MHz antenna on Rosetta -visible (with some difficulty) through the ventilation slots above and to the side of the microUSB socket), or at the bottom left end of the ventilated rear panel on the PAW Classic. This LED MUST remain solid red - any sign of dropouts indicates a cable or socket fault. If you need to replace the cable make sure you use the recommended one (available from the shop on pilotaware.com). Socket faults are a bit more complicated. In this case, let me know and I will advise further.

2. Assuming the above test is OK, you can go ahead with using the Anker socket but beware of plugging a second device - especially a power hungry 'low charge level' phone or tablet into the 'spare' USB port on the adapter or you will be back to square 1.

Hope this helps

Best Regards

Peter