Voltage for my astro equipment, is it to high? - Forums

Topic starter

Sep 20, 2023

Im currently building my own powerbank using a 12v 100ah ifepo4 battery. In my pegasus powerbox software it shows 12.9 volt , is that OK or will it damage my equipment?

(Usually when I run my equipment using mains power it shows 12.7-12.9 also)

I have read that astro gear can benefit of alittle higher voltage, but I want to know what you think about that.

If it's not safe I'm going to buy a 12v supply regulator.

Ryan Génier

Sep 20, 2023

Shouldn’t be a problem. Most equipment has a wide input voltage tolerance.

Well Written

Jeff Reitzel

Sep 20, 2023

Pegasus Power Boxes have an input voltage range of 11.0v to 14.5v so it is not an issue for you.
CS
Jeff

Concise

t-ara-fan

Sep 20, 2023

I run EVERYTHING at 13.8V. ZWO cameras, A-P mount, EQ6-R mount, Focuslynx, dew heaters, 12V rated USB hub.

Linwood Ferguson

Sep 21, 2023 · Edited: Sep 21, 2023

"12v" is a class of devices but it has historically applied to lead acid voltages in cars, which are in the 12-13 range normally and about 13.8 (maybe a bit more) charging. Anything labeled for "12v" is designed accordingly since so many people still that way. LiFePO4 may be a bit higher. I wouldn't worry until you are above about 14.5 as mentioned above.

Actual 12v supplies are actually a problem, i.e. that put out 12v. The tiny wires and poor connectors on many astro rigs mean that by the time it gets to the load it's in the 11.x range, which may be too low.

David

Sep 21, 2023

Connected equipment should provide a power specification in the users manual, e.g. 13.8V +/- 10% (12.4-15.18V). Non-LiFePO4 batteries when fully charged could have voltages much too high (16V+) which may damage equipment. I use Ryobi 18V power tool batteries with a golf cart voltage regulator which reduces 18V to 13.8V, to power the mount. The regulator can also increase low voltages (8-40V input).
https://www.amazon.com.au/Converter-13-8V-Automatic-Waterproof-Transformer/dp/B07X9Y5MXT?th=1

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Daniel Renner

Topic starter

Sep 21, 2023

thank you all for the answers! =)

Timothy Prospero

Sep 21, 2023

I run EVERYTHING at 13.8V. ZWO cameras, A-P mount, EQ6-R mount, Focuslynx, dew heaters, 12V rated USB hub.

*I do the same 13.8VDC

Daniel Renner

Topic starter

Sep 21, 2023

I run EVERYTHING at 13.8V. ZWO cameras, A-P mount, EQ6-R mount, Focuslynx, dew heaters, 12V rated USB hub.

do you use a device that stepps up the voltage?

Timothy Prospero

Sep 21, 2023 · Edited: Sep 21, 2023

Daniel Renner:
I run EVERYTHING at 13.8V. ZWO cameras, A-P mount, EQ6-R mount, Focuslynx, dew heaters, 12V rated USB hub.

do you use a device that stepps up the voltage?

I use a power supply that allows me to adjust the voltage from 11 to 14 VDC. I've set it to 13.8VDC. There's a version similar to the 10micron, but you can find more affordable options from other suppliers.

https://www.conrad.it/it/p/ea-elektro-automatik-ea-ps-512-21-t-alimentatore-da-laboratorio-a-tensione-fissa-11-14-v-dc-21-a-300-w-num-uscite-510105.html?source=googleps&vat=true&utm_source=google&utm_medium=surfaces&utm_campaign=shopping-feed&utm_content=free-google-shopping-clicks&utm_term=510105&gclid=Cj0KCQjw06-oBhC6ARIsAGuzdw15GcUm4-S0fbc4mCGgrhAyIQO3k8vD-R7Hy3xlVbCIsYfqJTECk5caAkkvEALw_wcB

LookSpaceThings

Sep 21, 2023

For the record, I have the oposite "issue". My voltage is always below 12V. Most of the time on 11.5V but in one night it was 10.8V. Everything was still running fine.

Arun H

Frequent contributor

Sep 21, 2023

You can check the actual voltage specifications from the manufacturer and most will respond. My power supply is set at 14.1 Volts.

I verfied that the ZWO cameras, my focuser, and my mount can all handle this voltage.

Linwood is correct that setting things at exactly 12V could result in insufficient voltage problems especially with thin wires and long cable runs. There is a reason electricity is transmitted at high voltage - I^2R losses are much lower at high voltage and safety is addressed by stepping down closer to the point of use.

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Linwood Ferguson

Sep 21, 2023

LookSpaceThings:
For the record, I have the oposite "issue". My voltage is always below 12V. Most of the time on 11.5V but in one night it was 10.8V. Everything was still running fine.

You should fix that, as at some point it won't run fine, you will have mystery problems sporadically that you will chase, thinking it is a bad cable or software bugs. Eventually.