cigarette lighter socket max current question

[richardtan]

Dear Sifus,

could i know what is the max amperage obtainable from the cigarette lighter socket of a car?
Is it as much as the lead battery is able to supply or limited to 3 amps ?
I have a device that needs 3 amps. If I consider the efficiency factor, I am trying to find out how much current or amperage is required from the socket.

thanks in advance.

regards
Richard

 

[mcwk]

This should depend on the rating of the fuse connected to the cigarette lighter, which may vary with different cars. You should be able to find out more from your manual.

 

[craziechild]

not recommended...

 

[Zenn]

3A is ok la, i think cig lighter fuse is at least 5A...

 

[craziechild]

sorry.... me blur blur got the idea of 3 amps...

while the ts said 3 ampere... hehehe...

my bad...

 

[richardtan]

sorry.... me blur blur got the idea of 3 amps...

while the ts said 3 ampere... hehehe...

my bad...

Yes, I meant 3 amperes.

Thanks for all the kind advice provided. Greatly appreciated. :)

I will check what is the fuse in the car and increase it if necessary.

Cheers.

Best regards
Richard Tan

 

[mcwk]

Yes, I meant 3 amperes.

Thanks for all the kind advice provided. Greatly appreciated. :)

I will check what is the fuse in the car and increase it if necessary.

Cheers.

Best regards
Richard Tan

Better not increase the fuse rating, as the wiring gauge (thickness) may only be rated to take a certain amount of current. If you have something that uses that amount of current, better get your car installer to hook it up directly to the battery, with appropriately rated fuse connected in-line, of course....

 

[richardtan]

Better not increase the fuse rating, as the wiring gauge (thickness) may only be rated to take a certain amount of current. If you have something that uses that amount of current, better get your car installer to hook it up directly to the battery, with appropriately rated fuse connected in-line, of course....

I am very grateful for your advice. Many thanks to you, Sifu. I think I better play safe and take extra precaution when dealing with high currents.

Cheers.