How to connect a Mains TV direct to 12v DC - Off Grid Living

[@GregVirgoe]

You can buy a 12v to 19v DC Converter using this link www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313&_nkw=12+v+to+19+vdc+converter&_sacat=0&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&siteid=3&campid=5338027957&toolid=11800&mkevt=1 The TV aerial we use is an AUGUST DTA240 high gain Freeview aerial with a magnetic base like the ones on this link www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=august+dta240&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=0&_dmd=2&rt=nc&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&siteid=3&campid=5338027957&toolid=11800&mkevt=1 Our mobile internet we get using an EE sim fitted into a NETGEAR NIGHTHAWK mobile router. www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2334524.m570.l1313&_nkw=netgear+nighthawk+m2&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=0&_odkw=netgear+nighthawk+m1&_osacat=0&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&siteid=3&campid=5338027957&toolid=11800&mkevt=1 If you like our videos please do subscribe to the channel, it's free and a great way of saying thanks

[@dandeeteeyem2170]

Nice one bruvvah 👍😁

[@techman8095]

Very efficient way to power the TV. More people should do this. Nice job!

[@simelanem]

👌🏾 so glad I bumped into this, I’m from South Africa and our Electricity supplier is useless, I was thinking of running all the smaller electronics on Solar, now I know exactly what to do

[@GregVirgoe]

I’m glad it has helped you 😃

[@johnjennings6352]

Greg you have just saved me from buying a 12v tv as I have Samsung, will now get a transformer great.

[@GregVirgoe]

You are welcome good luck mate 👍🏼

[@captkev55]

Greetings from Australia. What a great video, really well explained. I live in my caravan and tour around the country.Using my laptop through the inverter is a pain. The laptop is also 19v DC. So I have followed your instructions and the laptop is now working off the caravans 12v system. I'm really chuffed. Thank you very much.👍

[@paulmills1605]

Great video, there's one thing about your presentations, they don't faff and explain the whole process from start to finish, unlike some who click bait and don't. We'll done

[@GregVirgoe]

Straight forward and to the point glad you liked it. 👍🏼😃

[@praisebewibble]

Thank you for this demo I was thinking of running my mini computer straight from the 12v . Really clear demo. Nice one.

[@GregVirgoe]

Just check the input voltage to the pc. I have the same mini pc and ran it with a voltage regulator 👍🏼😃

[@flyonthewall7026]

Seriously Greg.... you're like a version of The A-Team for Vanlife....💪👍

[@goranekman8042]

I am an old farmer in Sweden . We got an RV built on a -83 Ford Transit diesel . In my world is one of the point with our RV no TV. Like your channel. Göran i Björnarbo

[@GregVirgoe]

But for me being a social media creator I need it for KZbin and as we live full time it’s our home. So to keep up on news etc. I guess you have a tv in your house?

[@alanfoix9911]

I been living in auto's for over 20 years. Ya the first one I have came across, that has any common sense when it comes to conserve power. I run every thing on 12 volts DC. I see converter's as a big waste of power. Great video. Peace ✌️

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s taken me a few years of living off grid to realise this is the way forward.

[@alanfoix9911]

@@GregVirgoe I agree. Peace ✌️

[@rudivandoornegat2371]

Good to know. You must have a lot of courage or trust in your motoring skills to use the super sharp knife on such a beautiful table. 😳

[@ian_morg]

I winced at that one too having watched all the build videos 😂😂😬😬

[@owenparker6651]

Very useful video Greg! Anytime you can cut an invertor out of the loop, you're way ahead of the game... Thanks very much for sharing!

[@GregVirgoe]

Glad you liked it.

[@owenparker6651]

@@GregVirgoe Greg, I was wondering... if you had two 19v devices (monitor & laptop) would you need two of the convertors or could you use one for both. It's not so much a cost issue as trying to keep the 'closet' as clean as possible. I would guess one would do it but I'm skittish af when it comes to electrical stuff. I'd hate to blow up my laptop in an experiment! :)

[@GregVirgoe]

@@owenparker6651 I think my laptop is 19.5v and double the power in watts. Not sure what difference the 0.5v would make but I guess it’s pretty critical to it working right.

[@owenparker6651]

@@GregVirgoe Mine all say 19.5v as well, Greg. I totally missed that or wanted to miss it, maybe! :)

[@GregVirgoe]

@@owenparker6651 search for 12v laptop charger on eBay there will be a lot that come up quite cheap just check the power rating in watts

[@clearprop]

This was really useful, Greg. I had no idea some mains TVs actually ran on DC and 12v TVs can be expensive. Thanks as always - you are the 'go to' source of info for me. 😁👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes most things for camper-vans are very overpriced. I guess they think if you can afford an expensive motorhome you can afford to pay more for normal items. 🤔🥴

[@Dickie2702]

​@GregVirgoe add the word mar8ne and you multiply the price by 10😢😢😢

[@paulluggar5964]

Have a look at 'car charger for laptop' and for £10 you get a multi voltage 80W adaptor with loads of plugs for your kit. Very easy and cheap way to do this! Good to see you doing vidsxagain Greg. 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes you can do that also 👍🏼😊

[@jimb7406]

I tried one of those laptop adapters and it conked out within 1 hour. Didn't bother sending it back. Greg's transformer looks much more robust. Greg - you did screw it to the bulkhead I hope.

[@paulluggar5964]

@@jimb7406 I would think you had a faulty one? It's only a DC-DC circuit, as simple as it gets! Mines 2005 vintage and still going strong. 💪

[@jimb7406]

@@paulluggar5964 They don't make them like they used to it seems! The one I had was one of the multi voltage outputs depending on the jack that you use. Also had the retracting coiled up cable so plenty of scope for broken wire or bad connections. Ive got a 12v TV in my van now.

[@F1McLarenFan]

I only stumbled across your channel yesterday Greg, and very thankful I did. Working my way through your how toos and knowledge. Absolutely brilliant! Thank you again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@GregVirgoe]

Where have you been all these years 😆😃 welcome aboard I’m sure you’ll find loads of useful stuff here 🤩

[@papasova674]

Everything off grid should be run like this, excellent video!

[@chriscrook7511]

Yet another really useful video, thanks for sharing. Take a look at the Wago lever connectors for joining your cables, they really are game changers. The slight cost increase over the terminal blocks is minimal when compared with the quality of the connection. Keep the vids coming pal. Their great.

[@GregVirgoe]

It was the only thing I had in the van at the time. Did say it was temporary 🥴👍🏼

[@andrewal410]

Thanks Greg, we are building a new house with a lot of solar power and I have been pondering on how to pull a dc circuit from the batteries for all the tech. This answers my questions, Fab!

[@GregVirgoe]

Going off grid at home with the rise in fuel prices is the way to go and will save you a fortune 👍🏼😃

[@glynatmore1817]

Hi Greg Yet another ripping blog. As time moves on you always seem to look younger. Thank you for all your time & efforts. Kind regards Glyn

[@bacilluscereus1299]

Thanks for this. 👍 Trying to get a low-voltage DC system off the ground and 'Mains TV direct to 12v DC' is a big consideration.

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s a great solution to be off grid

[@CORRIGEEN71]

Brilliant I was just about to buy a 12 v tv now I’ll just get an inverter Tks again

[@GregVirgoe]

what i'm trying to do is not use the inverter and replace it with this boost converter as the TV that I have only needs 19v DC and not mains electric. Hope that makes sense.

[@chrisneville7310]

Computer monitors are great as well, paired with an android box you have so many options. The 12v TV's I looked poor and the energy efficiency was rated at grade C using about 40 watts.

[@byfunkyoid2917]

That’s the way I’ve gone. Way better efficiency and I just use a raspberry pi.

[@jasonbroom7147]

Very cool stuff! It's surprising how many electronic devices work this way, making them very inefficient when used in either off-grid or mobile situations, where an inverter is used to convert AC to DC power. It would be interesting to see a future where more DC power is generated from local solar or wind sources and then used directly with DC appliances. This results in a single, more efficient conversion, from the source current to that required by the device.

[@GregVirgoe]

Absolutely agree with you and local off grid setup at home can save you fortunes with these rising energy costs. 👍🏼😃

[@jasonbroom7147]

@drswan - Depends entirely on your definition of "local", doesn't it? Rooftop solar is the most obvious example, but smaller wind turbines and microhydro make a lot of sense, in the right situations. Stepping down from 11kv transmissions lines, to 240/120, then stepping down again to whatever DC voltage an appliance actually runs on is very inefficient. By comparison, what I'm proposing is LESS inefficient, if that's how you want to look at it. Also, it's not just theory, because some people are already doing it...quite successfully. If people keep thinking the way you do, we'll never realize these benefits?

[@jasonbroom7147]

@@GregVirgoe - I believe grid-scale power is going to price themselves right out of a market, in some places. If people saw what other countries are doing to reduce the demands put on electrical grids, they'd be more open-minded about the possibilities.

[@jasonbroom7147]

@drswan - Once the solar input is run to your battery, distribution inside of your structure or vehicle is not 30m. In many cases, that run is more like 10 meters, especially if the system is designed and installed properly. How much do you pay, over the course of time, for the electric company to run that line to your meter? The established way of doing things is designed to be safe, but also to be profitable for large industries. There are DC alternatives available for many of the common electrical devices we use and given that the grid is failing in many places, due to poor maintenance and design, wouldn't it be wise for consumers to understand and implement solutions that are entirely within their control?

[@eddvanlife]

Good job Greg. Early in my build I bought the Cello 12v. But if it needs replacing I will get a small smart tv that gives me plenty of option to change to same size. Incidentally I ran a trial on what the Jackery 500 would give me running telly and it was 20 hours. I can run direct from leisure batteries but prefer to use as much solar energy as possible. Thanx 4 Sharing.

[@GregVirgoe]

Those power banks are a good all in one solution apart from being a bit expensive 🤔😊

[@herethereandelsewhere1941]

A lot of devices can be charged directly through that 12/19v converter. I've been charging my laptop like this for years. Bought a converter on AliExpress and it does the job! Didn't know some TVs could be the same though. 👍👍👍

[@douglasdickson6986]

Isn't that aliexpress in USA? Do you have to pay taxes?

[@GregVirgoe]

A lot of modern electrical devices run on lower DC voltages 👍🏼😃

[@northeastcarpfishing]

I bought one last week works great cheers Greg im not really bothered about power drain when not in use as van gets used daily and battery dont drop much anyways even with 12v fridge on 24/7

[@GregVirgoe]

I would imagine it is close to nothing at all 😃

[@northeastcarpfishing]

@@GregVirgoe I have fridge router and TV on standby and all my victron running 24/7 it only drops a few % overnight nothing to worry about

[@GregVirgoe]

@@northeastcarpfishing I agree if your system can handle it no problem

[@rallycorsa1600]

Nice one Greg, I knew that plenty of TVs are low voltage so we bought a 24" LG last week but I had assumed it was 12v. Probably would had me scratching my head when it didn't work, I have ordered a voltage converter today.

[@GregVirgoe]

Just check the input voltage on the back and make sure it’s dc 👍🏼😃

[@SamandCatsAdventures]

Planning on doing a Van conversation very soon and this is a too tip. Thanks Greg 👍🏼

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s a great solution to get a better quality tv without inverter.

[@SamandCatsAdventures]

@@GregVirgoe might be calling on your vids for some more tips in the near future, when the van prices come down a bit that is.

[@Biondo30Hz]

Hi Greg, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart! I am about to finish my Sprinter Van conversion (it is exactly like yours, but in red) and...well... I ended up copying 95% of your layout, I was quite clueless and your series helped me so much! If you ever come to Barcelona in the next months, I would love to offer you and your lady a dinner :) thank you again!

[@GregVirgoe]

I’m really pleased to hear this and so happy that the videos have helped you. Thank you for your generous offer too 👍🏼😃

[@sleepingwarrior4618]

If more people realised they could do this (and how) we wouldn't really even need 230v in our homes. Most appliances don't need so much power. Great video.

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes with the increase in fuel prices going off grid at home is the way forward 😃

[@sleepingwarrior4618]

@@GregVirgoe I totally agree

[@philtucker1224]

Thanks Greg, I have a fair bit of electrical knowledge but never knew about the low voltage running on some smart tvs. Many thanks for sharing 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

You’re welcome 😃

[@neomatrix2722]

This is fantastic and thank you for sharing with us now what is this TV as I want to look to buy a DC TV I like to have a bigger TV to find out what's possible again thank you for sharing this video I've learned a lot and I really appreciate you

[@ianofsjkartwork]

Well explained of a great idea to have a smart TV in your campervan Greg......stay safe......thanks for sharing

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Ian, much appreciated 👍🏼😃

[@pacmania1982]

I was tempted to do this, but Lidl had an offer on for a 24" Sharp TV so I bought that and saved myself the hassle. Still - another great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for watching 👍🏼😊

[@tonyworkswood]

Hi Greg, that's brilliant. You don't know of these easy fixes when mains 240V AC is involved. Thanks for sharing. Tony

[@tonyworkswood]

Just forwarded this tip and your channel on to my sister as she's doing a self build Citroën van, camper conversion right now. Cheers again.

[@GregVirgoe]

@@tonyworkswood thank you very much for the recommendation 😃

[@fromtheflightdeck252]

Good information. You can also get a buck converter for 24v from 12v to run CPAPs. Some companies charge $500 for a small lithium battery when you can build your own off grid camping CPAP supply with a 12v battery for $100

[@GregVirgoe]

We should all be looking at this with the rise in energy bills

[@truegamer2819]

wow this is smart thinking about the 12v to the 19v, something i would do if i had to take a step further, love your video, this is very inspiring to watch 😁

[@Improveng1]

Greg, that was superb, showing us exactly what you did and the rationale behind it. It's a huge thumbs-up and a sub from me...and loads of respect from Derbyshire. Look forward to seeing more of your channel.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Stan and there are loads more videos like this here

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

Cheers to you and Lou, Greg. Looking forward to upcoming videos. Always great stuff.

[@GregVirgoe]

We really appreciate your continued support John 🙏🏼😊

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

@@GregVirgoe Always Greg! One of these days, I'll buy you and Lou a beverage, either on your side of the Pond or mine.

[@chrisbroom8418]

A great video as usual like all of yours. Would never have known TV ran on DC.

[@GregVirgoe]

Some are like mine with external transformers and some larger ones have it built inside so not possible

[@AB-C1]

Great video Gregg. Cheers from London 👍😎🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you 😊

[@indianajones9928]

and it works! Awesome 👍 greetings from the USA!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for watching from across the pond 🙌🤩👍🏼

[@adamgrace5973]

Another great video from Greg. Keep the posts coming mate, love to watch them👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Adam. I’ve got a few of these in the pipeline.

[@paulbrown3312]

You the man Greg👍😂. Can I ask you or anyone with these skills... I found a TV which states 19v but at 50v ...so the question is... Would this work for those tvs too. Much appreciated 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

There wouldn’t be two different voltages. If it’s 19v the other figure would be either power in Watts or the current in amps. Can you check the label again.

[@librab103]

Great video Greg. I have been thinking of doing this for my TV and laptop so I do not have to turn on my inverter as often. I hate those types of wires in which the ground "Wire" is a sheath that goes around the positive wire. Such a pain to work with in my experience. I cannot wait for your updated video.

[@GregVirgoe]

I have a new smart controller to replace that blade fuse holder. Should be interesting 🤔

[@MultiPJoys]

You don't need an inverter to charge your laptop. Just buy a 12v charging cable (it has the cigarette socket plug) specifically for your laptop. Easy and cheap.

[@librab103]

@@MultiPJoys Correct, I was doing that with my old laptop and cost about the same as the inverter that Greg is using. My new laptop is a gaming laptop and uses about the same voltage as my old laptop (~20V) but uses 10A at peak. If I can find a 12V adapter for it that would be great but no luck so far hence why I am thinking of buying one of these inverters.

[@GregVirgoe]

@@MultiPJoys yes just check that the laptop power requirements are below the output of the 12v charger. Most only go up to 90W

[@arthurkettle3010]

Perfectly explained as always...nice one Greg...very handy walkthrough

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Arthur, glad you liked it 👍🏼😃

[@RAL2010]

2:30 It is a boost converter (up, 12->19V), not a buck converter (down)

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks for correcting me, sorry I got it wrong :D

[@ceythehun83]

niiice, didn't know that!

[@camperdude5241]

please help me with an issue I have. I bought some ex EV lithium ion batteries and connected 4 x 3.65v in series, which means they're 14.6v nominal, and they'll probably charge up to 16v. can I use a buck converter from that 16v down to 12v from the battery to the 12v fuse box? is it safe to do? I know I should have bought a lifepo4, but didn't have enough money, and really want to make this work. Thanks.

[@RAL2010]

@@camperdude5241 The maximum charge voltage for lithium is often 4.2 Volts for a single cell, not 3.65V. Lithium batteries are charged with constant current, not voltage. You provide a constant current to the cells and the voltage will rise. When the cell voltage is 4.2V (varies with the cell type), charging is stopped. Not all cells may reach the cut off voltage at the same time, this is remedied with "balancing". A buck or boost converter does not provide a constant current (CC) by default, most only provide constant voltage (CV), like the one that is used to power the television in the video. You need a power supply that provides CC and CV. The current never rises above the set maximum current and the voltage also never rises above the set maximum voltage. The current and voltage applied to the cells always follow Ohm's Law. Be careful what you do, Lithium batteries can burn.

[@Dirt-Diggler]

@@RAL2010 you got it the wrong way round he wants to use the buck converter to use power FROM the battery pack not to charge it 👍 Yes you can use a buck converter to lower the voltage from the pack 👍 Just make sure the converter can handle the full amount of amps the whole fuse board is distributing to the whole system 👍

[@ratgreen]

Nice one but its actually called a boost converter (as buck's step down voltage, boost's steps up, I'm sure it was a slip of the tongue). You can buy adjustable ones too for dirt cheap, sometimes also known as dc step up converters. Or even use a universal 12v laptop charger, 19v dc is a commonly used voltage for laptops. Problem is finding a TV for cheap that you are certain takes DC. Lots of used ones on FB for cheap but no one takes good enough pics to see the model numbers etc.

[@northeastcarpfishing]

That's me checking what voltage my TV is in van cheers greg

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s the way forward mate 👍🏼😃

[@malcolmhead2852]

I’ve been wanting to do this for a while Thank you for showing us how !

[@GregVirgoe]

You’re welcome

[@RoaminRob]

Might do this with my van, can't believe you was cutting on top of your work surface!! Lol

[@GregVirgoe]

The knife never touched the table and after 4 yrs of use it’s covered in scratches 😂😃

[@Stoopheadfred]

Hey Greg, great setup and video! I actually bought all the pieces to do this, but then realized there is another (much easier) way. There are adapters that will convert USB-C to the correct size for the TV. You can then use a 65w PD compatible charger to provide the correct voltage. The adapters were less than $3, and I already had the USB-C cable and power source.

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, I also found that you can buy 12v cigarette plug - 19v DC adapters pre made online for under £8 sold as car adapters. 👍🏼😊

[@adrianlusty5409]

@Greg Virgoe Hi Greg, would you have a link u could send me for this adapter so I make sure I get tge correct one

[@johnlivingston9217]

Link please?

[@31Daca]

Link would be helpful. Thankyou!

[@Z1212Z-X]

Any old laptops charger converts ac to 19v dc output. I wonder if that would work for you if you choose to use your invertor??

[@stuipooey1]

a good solution Greg, given that like invertors, DC to DC converters are not 100% efficient (despite the claims 80 to 85% is a good rule of thumb particulary at lower power) it could be interesting to do a comparison between both methods of powering the TV.

[@GregVirgoe]

But with the mains inverter you are converting the voltage twice and much bigger differences. With this it’s only once and 6.5v difference. 👍🏼😊

[@andypidsley2688]

@@GregVirgoe the bigger issue is using an inverter doesnt create pure sinewave ac even when claimed so it gives the TV internal power supply a bit of a headache and is inefficient.

[@inquisitive1911]

Super awesome stuff Greg - I wish I had your skills and experience for sure!!! Thanks!! Love from Scotland, xxx

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for a lovely comment 😃

[@trundlebustravels]

Thank you, so much useful and easy to understand information

[@GregVirgoe]

Really pleased that you liked it 👍🏼😃

[@javierri0]

Always good stuff from your channel. Keep it up! One question/suggestion: Have you considered/tried running the telly out of the 12v directly? I've seen some other youtubers mentioning that this works and it would take the "middle man" out of the equation. Just my two pence.

[@GregVirgoe]

12v - 19v does seem a big difference. I’m not sure I want to risk my tv for the sake of £20 🤔

[@aaronag7876]

Such a great video and so helpful. Food for thought when purchasing a new TV. Thanks

[@GregVirgoe]

Pleased it was helpful. 👍🏼😃

[@aaronag7876]

@@GregVirgoe yes it was a great help because I'd have gone the route you suggest in the video, 12v to inverter to 240v then downscaling to 19v. Already ordered the converter. Will look to do the same for all devices that would need a inverter/down converter to supply 19v to 30v. Thanks again

[@andypower6938]

Great video. very helpful. one question. How do you get the internet ? As you can tell I'm completely new to this. Planning on converting my vauxhall vivaro LWB Thanks Andy

[@sunnymas2656]

Thank you for this video, too. I´m stil searching for an used flat screen with a low voltage input. Because the most has 220 Volt AC input.

[@GregVirgoe]

I saw a couple like mine on eBay refurbished. 👍🏼😃 LT24

[@sunnymas2656]

@@GregVirgoe Ok, thank you. I should check out, which modells have low voltage input. And then search these models to buy it.

[@paulsalisbury2678]

Another vote here for a switch between the fuse and regulator. I used a regulator on my wifi router in a similar set-up and it had a surprising impact on my battery depletion even when router was off. Tried a digital timer on the 12v end, but gonna replace for a simple manual switch. Seeing as my screen, laptop and I think maybe even camera chargers are at 19v I might add a makeshift plug and socket system. A couple of outlets from the transformer, and sockets on all the device adapter cables so they can be plugged and unplugged depending on what's needed.

[@GregVirgoe]

As so many are concerned about it I’ll add some findings in my forthcoming control upgrade video

[@keithlillis7962]

Very good. Although without a switch in the circuit the TV will be on standby all the time, which will draw some power.

[@GregVirgoe]

We always unplug the tv when not in use. I never leave anything on standby for that reason 👍🏼😃

[@alextheape90]

Interesting 🤔 i didn't know there were TVs with jack connectors and outside transformers. Makes it easier then 👍 BTW I bought same transformer (but the 300w) for my laptop and works within the specifications 👍. I still recommend to check what voltage it gives before feeding anything valuable with it, you never know, and it only takes a few seconds to do so...

[@GregVirgoe]

That is a good point, it's worked very well for me so far on the TV :D

[@ian_morg]

Top job! I did something similar but with an older budget curry’s tv that had a 240-12v brick to use at home which I removed and ran a cable from my 12v fuse board and earth and used a dc plug which had 2 screw terminals on the back. It’s not a smart tv but we use a chromecast for all the usual stuff and a fire stick if we’re away and it’s a F1 weekend 😍😎👍🏻

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes a chrome cast or fire stick is another great solution 👍🏼😃

[@stephenboyd4934]

Well that's strange as all my TV's don't come with a brick / well not on the outside ? & Have a two pin push on connector ?

[@ian_morg]

@@stephenboyd4934 not all do

[@GregVirgoe]

@@stephenboyd4934 yes it will only work with smaller TVs like this not all sadly. Your tv probably has that built into it. 🥴

[@ezioauditore3128]

So helpful from one of my favourite You Tubers. Hey, Greg, when are you putting up your completed Euro Tour III video?

[@GregVirgoe]

I’ll upload that one next. 😊👍🏼

[@ezioauditore3128]

@@GregVirgoe Nice one Greg. Love your content. :)

[@ntvtexan5015]

Awesome video sir ! I've been thinking about this for my home TV's, to run off of a solar panel or two !

[@GregVirgoe]

There are lots of ways to make your home off grid very easily.

[@SamJackson-j9s]

Another very helpful film. Once again Thank you.

[@sarahwhiting8026]

Hi love your Chanel you have helped me with several tasks along the way, but this latest one I am stuck with. I have bought a buck converter which is 12v 60w 5A because that’s what it says on the back of the TV, I am just trying to connect it all but still have no power to it can you tell me what I am doing wrong. Kindest regards Sara

[@GregVirgoe]

Please can you check what the electric input data is on your tv? If your tv requires 12v input then it is different to mine and will need a slightly different converter. What does it say for the power input on the tv? 🙏🏼😊

[@sarahwhiting8026]

Hi thanks for your response, I’m afraid I won’t be using that tv now as I have dropped it so it’s broken 😂 I now have a choice between one that’s 220-240v 135w or buying another one. What would you suggest ? Could I convert that one or would I be better with one that uses less power ? Best regards Sarah

[@james10739]

Ya I was going to say when you said 230v that I have a similar looking TV that uses like 19v and use a boost converter but I guess you have it all figured out

[@GregVirgoe]

I do now thank you 🙏🏼😃

[@karlossmith3714]

Those 230v plug sockets you got…are they an extension of the sockets from the inverter? A plug into the inverter and a wire from the plug to the sockets?

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes exactly that 👍🏼

[@susanbaynham-evans8453]

Great vid thank you Greg. What size TV have you used ?

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s a 24” LT24 tv 📺

[@simonmiddleton4977]

Hi, I’d add a switch between the fuse board and the transformer so it’s only powered when required.

[@jeffsteinmetz7188]

So you are saying the transformer is always on if it is getting power from the 12volt fuse box? Does it also generate more heat without being able to push that power to a device? I thought the TV on/off was all that was needed to break the circuit, but your saying that circuit is separate from the fuse box and transformer. Correct?

[@simonmiddleton4977]

@@jeffsteinmetz7188 As transformer is permanently connected to 12 volts it is always using a small amount of power.

[@GregVirgoe]

A switch is a good idea. We unplug the tv when not in use but I do plan to swap the fuse board out for a smart relay board so that will switch power. Video out soon. 👍🏼

[@lordbungle6235]

Top chap, great tip. What TV aerial do you use? I have tried a few (Internal ones,) but before getting an external one I thought I would ask what you would recommend.

[@kalebmartinson]

Thank you for the detailed explanation

[@brenxster4543]

Thanks for the good idea, in the future I will use my 4k monitor (19V) directly without inverter. I follow the channel, I see good ideas here.

[@aramb]

As ruud waij commented below, it is an active device. I'm wondering how much of a constant load the device has since it's always connected to your 12V supply. That along with the fact that the TV is never really completely off (it's in a standby state), are you finding it's a constant draw on your battery power?

[@GregVirgoe]

We unplug the tv when it’s not in use to prevent standby uses

[@triggerthefish]

Thanks for this tutorial. I don't suppose you or anyone else can recommend a 32in smart TV that comes with the 19v power supply? I've spent some time reading technical specs of tvs and not found one yet

[@GregVirgoe]

There are 32” smart TVs that run off 12v but bit expensive see here Avtex W320TS 30" Smart TV for Motorhome Caravan Truck Boat - 12v 24v 240v 32 inch Slim LED Wifi Bluetooth Connected Television Full HD FHD with built-in Freesat Satellite Decoder www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09TTJZHRR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_AX8PST9252N430BC0Z5A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[@murtzia]

Great idea. Would be possible to do the same with laptop chargers? Maybe allowing a plug in the van just for the laptops?

[@bruceeldred6417]

I was thinking the exact same thing!!

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes exactly just make sure the power and voltage are within the rating of the converter. You can put a cigarette plug on the input side so you can plug it into a 12v outlet anywhere in your van. 👍🏼😃 You can buy 12v laptop chargers on eBay for £11 but most are only 80-90w so not as powerful as this converter. 👍🏼😃

[@skyh1348]

Hey Greg I've been trying to look for a TV that could be converted to DC but im having trouble trying to find the specifications. Where could I copy your TV? And what size cabling would i need? thanks for all that you do, by far the most helpful vanlife youtube channel.

[@GregVirgoe]

If you don’t already have a tv then there are many nice 12v TV on the market now. Two brands of hat are very good are Avtex and Ferguson I personally would not go for Cello as I think they are cheap made and overpriced. Here are some deals www.bestproductsreviews.co.uk/12v-tvs-for-caravans?targetid=&matchtype=&device=m&campaignid=18707265103&creative=&adgroupid=&feeditemid=&loc_physical_ms=1006886&loc_interest_ms=&network=x&devicemodel=&placement=&keyword=$&target=&aceid=&adposition=&trackid=uk_all_top_11_1&mId=407-132-4411&trackOld=true&gclid=Cj0KCQiA37KbBhDgARIsAIzce16FbCkvI2Rjh1SEx0QBOO3QFXn1Ig9rHmPhK8aFkyh_wuBnBv5oDV4aApHjEALw_wcB

[@skyh1348]

@@GregVirgoe thanks so much for your response Greg!

[@GregVirgoe]

@@skyh1348 no problem 😉 anytime 😊👍🏼

[@markwellington8899]

Great helpfull video again do you have a link as to where you got the invertor from thanks

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes there is a link in the video description 👍🏼😃

[@vernpasfield3892]

well done again Greg, looking at my CPAP to do the same , thanks Mate.

[@GregVirgoe]

You’re welcome 😉

[@rikb6930]

Nice one👍 Did the same for my laptop back in 2017

[@GregVirgoe]

My editing laptop is 190w so I haven’t found one big enough to power that yet but I’m looking

[@theborednerds]

Most laptops run on~19v, too. Since you have extra wattage left after the TV, you could charge your laptop, too!

[@krystynahaywood1968]

Thank you, this really is so helpful for my van... and... I have the exact same TV so I know it'll work... bonus!

[@GregVirgoe]

Perfect! Thats great news, all links are in the video description.

[@lostsoulparty]

Is this for all Samsung TVs and if not can you share the model? I'd like to do the same, thanks for the great idea

[@mattwoodproperty]

So u can safely feed the 156watts to the telly? I can treat that as an ‘available’ amount- and the telly will just consume what it wants?

[@GregVirgoe]

That rating is the max you can connect to the converter. It’s perfectly ok to use much less 👍🏼

[@kevinnewbury1540]

Hi Greg I'm just starting out im looking for a 24" tv i have watched your one with transformer can you give me a clue where best place i can get one from, cant seem to find much info on tv ratings, thanks you, love you channel

[@GregVirgoe]

If you are looking to buy a new tv then go for a new 12v tv from avtex they make some great smart 12v TVs that you can power direct off your batteries without doing what I did. www.avtex.co.uk/television/smart-range

[@conradpaul6100]

God stuff fella. Quick question here....im assuming the battery will need to be charged after some time of watching the telly?

[@GregVirgoe]

The leisure batteries are charged by my solar system. Please see my other off grid videos.

[@davidhale4830]

Hi,Greg great videos but I must admit some go right over my head but very interesting nonetheless, keep it up. I have a question,am I right in thinking if I install a non smart tv but connect a firestick I can in fact make the tv "smart".

[@GregVirgoe]

Any external device like fire stick or even chrome cast will allow you to stream content to a normal tv

[@jeffsteinmetz7188]

Thanks Greg! I figured that is was what was needed, but it was helpful to see it done and put into practice. Do/can people do the same thing with a PC provided they have the correct voltage booster?

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes absolutely you just need to make sure the converter gives you the right voltage and enough watts to power the pc. You can also put a 12v cigarette type plug on the input so you can plug it in different sockets

[@linz_in_NZ]

Hi Greg, As the TV already had a DC plug, why not save all the hassle and use one of the 12V adapters that come with multiple plug ends and selectable Voltage you can get for about GBP20 and just plug that in? I run my laptop off one in the van, but still have the 240V brick and lead to plug into mains when at home or on hook up.

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, that is another way you can do it. I wish I could find one big enough for my laptop but the brick is 140W and most only seem to go up to 80-90 watts.

[@dalepurdon8948]

Great vid Greg. What are you using for your wifi/internet? Some sort of 12v router with a SIM card installed? Or do you hotspot off your mobile phone? Thanks!

[@GregVirgoe]

I have a video all about that 👍🏼 How we get 4G Mobile WiFi in Europe? 😃 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3fXea2YrrWhoMU

[@glenmiller7374]

Thanks Greg that was very informative. What model samsung is your TV please as I'm also looking to add on in my van.

[@GregVirgoe]

We got this 4yrs ago and sadly this model is now superseded. It’s an LT24 smart monitor.

[@tonysutton6559]

Nice to see another "how to" video. Are you wearing M&S slippers?

[@GregVirgoe]

I’ve always had Moccasins for years now. Just so comfy 😊

[@maninavan.2043]

Great video. I was wondering if to use a 12v TV. But now watching you're video I am now convinced to go the same way you have. Can you send the link as to where you got the transformer from. Many thanks. Gary. (Maninavan)

[@andrewataria4947]

Hi Greg Thanks for the instruction and info.. Do you know if you could use the same convertor to power a Xpelair Extractor fan for my shower/bathroom build in my Spirinter..? ? Cheers Andrew

[@GregVirgoe]

I’m afraid not as most domestic low voltage fans are AC not DC. You would still need to use a mains transformer for those fans. Sorry

[@gerlar67]

Hi Greg, thanks very much for the upload, I'm knew to this caravan motorhome malarkey, so it's much appreciated. What aerial system do you use to get your picture on your telly? As I've bought a few aerials now but I still struggle to get a decent signal. Cheers Gerry

[@rorymax8233]

Hi Greg, thanks for this video, can you help me with my question please? I want to power my router via 12v supply, the input requirement for the router is 12v :::: 1amp, what buck converter\transformer rating should I be buying to do this and so as not to damage my equipment. Thankyou.

[@GregVirgoe]

i woudl recommend a 12v voltage regulator and if its only 1amp then that equates to 12 watts of power as 12volts x 1 amp = 12 watts. Something like this one woudl be perfect, just make sure the input to the router is 12v DC and not AC www.ebay.co.uk/itm/394874378542?hash=item5bf058d92e:g:XjYAAOSwCO1k~~yL&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4HWzZ56yMxvB%2FSVo0N9J117%2BQXKgGzhbZWbdKTvvSs22oKIlJRy1MD1F%2FPOp0lQlBXYjzWkrM59iWl0QjJp27taZhnS06j9gyF2f%2Bjg0Nnjk8xAZ2vpaqPcd2uOzdp4qTZXTG9ZW26QlHHrsVMxeYa83eKZ8S2PIYwl1zkOxYCK%2F8ADT8usPa%2BCKwHDOb3%2FbSpt7BnP8ngd46dBjMlvbEESZu5ypPO%2FcXlYeN92kJF%2Bdr52CuDCYjMM%2F4%2Fyx46yRSgNaO25slmslKvLPb3eaurdPGcVeC%2B7KdMEiKYLIqbyG%7Ctkp%3ABFBM9q_JrfRi&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&siteid=3&campid=5338027957&toolid=11800&mkevt=1

[@facebookinger]

Thank you! 😀😀 greetings from philippines. ☺☺

[@jinjocat]

What's the quiescent (no load) current of the boost convertor though? Maybe put a switch inline to eliminate this when not in use?

[@GregVirgoe]

It will be negligible when the tv is unplugged but wait for my follow up video to find out what I already had planned 🤔😃

[@daveanddodger5498]

Hi greg what’s the benefits of a router compared to using personal hotspot on your iPhone.

[@GregVirgoe]

My van security system needs WiFi to give me live video feed if it detects sound or movement when I’m not in the van direct to the phone in my pocket.

[@GregVirgoe]

Plus the router can connect up to 20 devices to the internet at once