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Main => Builders Discussions => Topic started by: quid246 on June 13, 2015, 03:30:22 PM

Title: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: quid246 on June 13, 2015, 03:30:22 PM
I'm starting to work on my power setup for my first "real" build...

That being, I am trying to see if anybody know how much juice the various lights in a real cockpit pull... map lights, chart lights, dome light, etc?

Trying to figure out my power "budget".

Any help is appreciated.
Title: Re: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: 727737Nut on June 15, 2015, 03:50:15 AM
Hey Adam,
If I were doing a real shell I would or any build with the intent of using all real parts this is what Ii would do.   3ea  28Vdc power supplies representing , Batt bus, TR1 and TR2.  They can be had on MPJA.com at a cheap price and 10amps each would suffice.

Rob
Title: Re: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: quid246 on June 15, 2015, 05:12:11 AM
Thanks again Rob... never thought out of the box like that!
Title: Re: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: mickc on June 15, 2015, 05:19:33 AM
Hi Adam,

I just tested all of those lights, and i'd budget on 300mA per bulb.  Average draw was around 220 mA

But as Rob said, 10 A per bus would be ideal.

My fire panel alone draws a bit over 3A during a light test with the handle unlock solenoids on :)
Title: Re: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: quid246 on June 15, 2015, 09:18:06 AM
Mick, thanks for checking this out... will take those numbers into consideration.
Title: Re: Power Draw of 28V Map / Chart Lights Etc?
Post by: KyleH on June 15, 2015, 11:50:33 AM
Just a reminder to all to also being sure the wiring used is rated for the current that you will be drawing.
'Speaker wire' is not ok at these power levels. Use wire with a UL/CSA/CE etc. mark, and appropriate wire gauge.