Using a different 401FS travel adaptor

mudskipper

Newly Enlightened
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Aug 6, 2005
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I have a Maha 401FS with the large ACDC adaptor that came with it (Model # MKD-481201000). The specs for it say
INPUT: 120V AC 60Hz 0.3A
OUTPUT: 12V DC 1000mA.

I have another adapter for another device that is much smaller and lighter that I want to use when I travel. Its specs are
INPUT: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz
OUTPUT: 12V 500mA

I know Maha makes a travel adaptor but I do not want to buy one.
I always use slow charge.
Will it be a problem if I use this charger? Would it be too weak even for slow charge. Will it damage the charger or batteries?
 
I think it will work OK on slow charge, but probably is a little under powered for fast charge. There are no guarantees of course, but I doubt there would be a problem when sticking to slow charge mode. The 401FS can plug into a car cigarette lighter socket, so it must be able to take up to 14 V input without harm.
 
Thanks Mr. Happy

Another Question, will it affect the topping off ability and independent cell sensor to maximize top off?
 
I've just noticed that your proposed other adapter doesn't specify that the output is DC. That could be critical, as if the output is AC it definitely won't be suitable.

The requirements of a power supply are as follows:
a) It must regulate and maintain the voltage within the expected input range and polarity of the powered device;
b) It must provided the current asked for by the powered device while maintaining the expected voltage;
c) It must provide current of the quality required by the powered device, smoothed and ripple free to the necessary extent.

It is obviously possible that any substituted power adapter may fail on any of these points.

If you have a multimeter and a small 12 V bulb (e.g. a 6 W automobile bulb) you could do some tests.

To check for AC/DC, use a DC voltage range on the meter and verify that it reads approximately +12 V when measured the right way round, and -12 V when measured the wrong way round. (By right way round, I mean the connection to the power plug should be made the same way round as on the Maha adapter.)

To check for voltage regulation, measure the voltage open circuit and also when powering the small bulb. The voltage in both cases should be in the 12-14 V range.

To check for smoothing is more difficult, but that may not be too critical for most applications. One way is to divide the voltage down to about 1 V and connect it to the line input of an audio device to see whether you get a loud hum or not. But don't do that unless you know what you are doing.

As to your specific question about topping off, it will work fine as long as the substitute power adapter is suitable overall.

Basically, as long as the charger doesn't ask for more than 500 mA and the adapter can supply 500 mA at the right voltage and power quality it will be OK. The charger is unlikely to ask for more than 500 mA unless you use the fast charge mode.

If this all sounds complicated, it is. If you really want to be comfortable, go out and buy a regulated universal DC power adapter designed for travel and use that.

I don't want to be responsible for you damaging your charger, so if you are scared of something going wrong make sure you can afford to replace the charger before you experiment.
 
Thanks again Mr. Happy

I think you are right and I will buy the travel adaptor. Thanks
 
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