On Wed, 15 Aug 2012 09:27:23 -0400, Spehro Pefhany
wrote:

On Tue, 14 Aug 2012 20:20:09 -0700, "Steve B"
wrote:

Every once in a while, I need a 12 v. DC power source to trouble shoot
something. I have been using a battery charger, 12 v. around 6 amp.

Is that okay, or is there a dedicated power source for this purpose? Maybe
one of those power rescue jumper battery pack thinguses? Kinda spendy, but
sure I could score one at a yard sale. How do they last? Very
rechargeable?

Something with variable connectors for the times when you need a clamp, or
just a probe to put the juice at the right place.

Steve


As others have said, it's only marginally more suitable than cutting
off a power cord and plugging it directly into the wall.

Don't you have a left-over 12VDC regulated wall-wart or brick you
could use? Wall wart up to 2 or 3A and 6A should be available easily
in a brick. Chinois ones are quite available, but of dubious pedigree
and safety-agency-approval status.

Just don't use the ones that say "electronic transformer" or are
advertised for LED power supplies.

My local thrift store has a shoe box filled with miscellaneous
wallwart power supply's. Big uns, little uns, your choice, $ !.00
each.