Hello. I will be taking a long road trip and I'd like to plug my laptop into the cigarette lighter so my battery does not die and I can watch movies or surf the net. I don't really know much about this stuff.
I've read some forums but I'm having difficulties figuring out if a Power Inverter, Replacement battery , or another option is the best way to go.
I own a 15 inch Mac Powerbook G4 Model # 1106 / Processor 1.5 Ghz / Memory 1GB. I was reading my manual and it says the Power Adapter is 65 Watts / Input : AC 100-240 volts (V), 50/60 HERTZ (HZ)/ Output: DC 24.5 V, 2.65 A.
Battery is Output: DC 10.8V / Capacity: 50 WHR. Can someone please guide me on how to determine which option is the best and what is really compatible with my Powerbook G4? I see alot of "compatible with most laptops" but it doesn't give the specifics.
I have run my G4 ibook many hours many times using it's regular power supply plugged into a small inverter that plugs into lighter socket.( inverter was 100 watt or less)I've used 3. different models at various times.
Some have cooling fan all the time OR only as needed. (good but minor noise) A pilot light is good, so you know it's plugged in OK. They have a loud annoying beep, IF the car battery is getting low.
In some cars it's physically awkward. You can get a lighter two outlet y cord ,or extension to get more room for the inverter or to move it away from the dashboard. keeps it from falling out or getting knocked.
If also plugging in (flashlight battery charger etc) easier with an extension cord in between.
If you fall asleep like I do, have a plan for jumper cables, or car battery charger (& extension cord) if you kill the car battery. (if battery is Poor.) My present car is no problem.
Many libraries, & many other places, have strong enough WiFi to use from the car.
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