6 replies to this topic

[ForgotToGrowUp]

Thought I would share this with the group. For full blown automation systems like Max and Gump are building PSUs are the way to go but I found a nice small affordable solution for other uses.

CCTV (closed circuit TV) cameras use the same standard power plug as KNex Electric motors and also operate at 12 volts DC. The connectors on these motors is a 2155 DC Coaxial power plug. (2.1mm inside diameter, 5.5mm outside diameter). I was able to buy a 10 pack of these with pig tail wires on Amazon for $10. They also sell just the connectors with either solder or screw terminal connections. Better than cutting the cords off your power packs.

I also found these nice compact 4 channel power adapters for CCTV cameras. They have 4 12V DC channels rated at 500 mA (DC motor adapters are rated at 350). The device has built in fuse protection and an LED indicating power. I found these for $10 each on eBay.



Here is the power adapter







plugs with pigtails



In action

[Snake]

Nice job, but aren't knex motors 12v not 5v.

[ForgotToGrowUp]

Ooops good point, yes they are and so are these power adapters (clearly shown in 2nd pic). I will edit my post above. Thanks.

[alpal]

Sooo, what does it do?

[Snake]

^ It runs 4 knex motors on 1 outlet.

[alpal]

Oh! Great idea, I should try it sometime.

[Maxlaam]

It blasts out 5A's you can probably run about 6 motors on it. Nice find, much better than all those power adapters.