|
A DC-DC converter will
provide power for all 12V car's accessories - head and tail lights, wipers, radio,
motorized windows, etc. Depending on the power output, a DC-DC can also run more demanding
loads such as power steering pump. There are two standard ways to set the system up - with
and without auxiliary 12V battery along with DC-DC converter. If it is desired not to have
any auxiliary batteries and always have steady output, choose the power level you need.
Normally it is average steady consumption current of all the loads you may run
simultaneously. Instantaneous peak power demand can be handled by a large capacitor
(supercapacitor) in parallel to the converter's output - peak load handling ability is
required for fraction of a second and it is not worth having converter rated for
continuous power equal to the peak power demand of your vehicle. Disadvantage of such a
method is totally non-operable vehicle should DC-DC fail (unless you have small
inexpensive extra converter just to run emergency lights/radio if needed). But consider
that usually more stressed traction controller has greater chance to fail leaving the
vehicle stranded; however normally no EV carries extra "emergency" controller
and the risk of having that small chance is well accepted. Same applies to DC-DC
converter. Another way is to use lower power converter along with auxiliary 12V battery which will supply peak power and also work as emergency power source if main converter fails. This battery's charge will normally be maintained by the DC-DC converter. Apparent disadvantage is to have another battery to worry about. Overall weight and space taken by these components in this case will be more can a DC-DC alone - a factor user must consider optimizing setup. Traditionally this method has been used the most since standard DC-DC power supply grade converters, not meant to be used in vehicle, fail quite frequently, rendering use of auxiliary battery as necessary part. Unlike most generic DC-DC converters on the market, BRUSA DC-DC converters, designed ground up to work in an electric vehicle will provide long reliable and dependable operation, so its failure is no longer a concern. Several models are offered with different power level and future set. Only 12V output models are presented here, but 24V and 48V models are available as well. One year warranty. |
