SUPPORT > SYSTEM SETUP > CHOOSING A POWER SUPPLY

STARFISH CHOOSING A POWER SUPPLY

Before setting up your StarFish system, you first need to decide on the power source you will use - either...

  • A DC supply (such as a battery or boat electrical system), or
  • Mains from the universal AC-DC adapter included with the system.

While the StarFish has internal voltage and current protection circuitry, any DC supply you use should be externally fused with a quick blow fuse rated at 1A.

For best performance of the StarFish, you should ensure any power source is 'clean', meaning it is free from electrical noise possibly caused by mains-inverters, electrical motors or any other similar 'high-current switching' devices.

Additionally, for DC supplies, the source should be a fully regulated and smoothed power source - a dedicated battery is ideal for this.

DC POWER

In marine conditions, where there is a high chance of equipment getting wet, the use of a low-voltage DC power supply is always recommended.

The StarFish electronics module has a 2.1mm DC input socket that will accept voltages between 9V and 28V, and will require a supply capable of delivering 5W. Typically this means the StarFish will require just under 500mA at 12V, or just under 250mA at 24V.

As DC supplies come in many varieties, several adaptor cables have been included with your StarFish.

  • Use the 'Cigar-Plug to 2.1mm cable' to connect your StarFish to either a 12V or 24V system. The plug itself can be disassembled to access the fuse inside it.
  • Use the 'Crocodile-clips to Cigar-Socket' adapter cable, for connecting to battery terminals, or other similar power sources.
  • If you are making your own wiring loom for the StarFish, you should ensure that the centre pin of the StarFish power connector is the positive DC voltage, and the outer connection of the plug is ground (or negative).

AC (MAINS) POWER

The AC power adapter is included for situations where the electronics will be used in a protected and dry environment (such as a boat wheel-house), and where a suitably fused and protected mains supply is available.

  • The AC adaptor will accept voltage in the range of 100V to 240V AC, and 47Hz to 63Hz.
  • Four universal adaptor plates are supplied with the power supply, allowing it to be used in most countries.

When using the AC (mains) power supply, remember that electricity and water do not mix.

To avoid electrical shock, you should only use the AC supply in a dry and enclosed environment, such as a cabin on board a boat.

Ensure the supply has suitable protection such as quick-trip circuit breakers and an RCD.

Only handle the StarFish equipment with dry hands.