12 DC Volt Boost to 15 DC Volt - 1 amp

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on boosting a 12V DC power supply to 15V DC for powering Labtech speakers in an RV. Users suggest that the speakers may operate effectively at 12V, as many devices tolerate slight voltage variations. A recommendation is made to use an isolated DC-DC converter for safely increasing the voltage, with a specific product link provided for reference. Concerns about battery longevity and potential risks of incorrect polarity are also addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of DC voltage and current specifications
  • Familiarity with battery types, specifically NiMH AA batteries
  • Knowledge of DC-DC converters and their applications
  • Basic electrical safety and polarity considerations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research isolated DC-DC converters, focusing on models like the CUI PTK15-Q24-S15
  • Learn about the characteristics and performance of NiMH batteries, particularly the Duracell 2450mAh
  • Explore methods for estimating battery life in DC applications
  • Investigate safe practices for connecting devices to varying voltage supplies
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, RV owners, and anyone involved in DIY audio projects who seeks to optimize power supply solutions for devices operating on different voltage levels.

RV-Traveler
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Superb Old Labtech Speakers to add to my RV without 120 Volt AC
The Labtech AC adapter's output is 15VDC 1000ma.
Using my existing 12VDC power supply (2 - 6VDC inline Deep charge Batteries)
may I boost this output to 15VDC by adding 2 ?or? 3 Duracell Rechargeable AA batteries.
Duracell posts these NiMH AA as 1.2V / 2450mAh.
These AA would be all inline and on the + line of the RV power.
Any possible problems I overlooked?
How do we estimate how long the AA will last or do we how do we know when the AA batteries need replacement?
N.B.: All batteries will be charged while driving with the 1000W Powerbright Inverter in my 2500D Silverado.
 
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I would highly suggest not doing that. You might be adding smoke and flames along with your speakers.

Try the speakers at 12V and see how that works.

BoB
 
I would actually be surprised if it didn't run fine off of 12V. Many devices like this will operate on voltages that are slightly higher or lower than they're rated V. You may lose a little volume at max level, but I doubt it will be much. I am running a device that's supposed to take 5VDC and I'm running it from 12VDC. I don't recommend this, but it was a cheap enough device I figured I'd give it a shot.

I also have run a device rated at 12V on a 9V power supply without a problem. I would go ahead and give it a try, just make sure you get the polarity correct, I have seen devices get killed when the polarity is reversed...
 
For a one-off, I'd just get an Isolated DC-DC converter if this is a concern.

You could then take your 12V input to 15V safely and in a nice little package.
Something like this might work http://products.cui.com/CUI_PTK15-Q24-S15_Datasheet.pdf?fileID=1081
 
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