12v dc to 5v dc converter

Got the 1 mA from here. About 3/4 down the page under technical specifications.

RB

Get an LM309K from the radio shack.

This is just a suggestion as to a what may be a simple solution for you:

Wire from the fuse box to a chassis-mounted cigar/accessory socket. The latter mounted somewhere accessible but not likely to get too hot/wet/etc. You say a truck - so I would imagine that there are plenty of out-of sight suitable places for this.

Then plug your exisiting plug-in converter (or any of these plug-in battery replacement converters with the right output and polarity) in to that and run the cable from that through to your radio. You can obviously cut and rejoin the cable, if needed to get the wire through a hole.

This gives the advantage of using a converter already designed and built and intended to be used on a vehicle supply. It can be easily removed/replaced if need be. And the extra socket may be useful for other things, at times, too.

The unit takes so little power (I have been back to the manufacturer's web site, which repeats the power requirement for the receiver), that any plug-in converter will do - often sold to allow CDs, etc to be used in a vehicle. It will probably be adjustable voltage and polarity - so check these with a meter at the output plug, before connecting it to your receiver.

If you really want to build your own from parts, then fine. Another poster has suggested a voltage regulator that you could use. Write again or email me if you want a circuit diagram. However, when you can buy something for very little, that is already designed and made for the job, making your own has few advantages.

To all, thanks for the responses.

Sue, your idea to install an additional socket might be just the ticket. Right now the unit is plugged into the extra outlet on the rear of the console. The power adapter sticks out a ways from this socket. I can tuck an additonal socket inside the forward console, and all wires will be out of sight.

The thought of building my own power supply did not take cost as a factor. Just thinking of a way to get the job done.

Again thanks for the help.

RB