HOW TO WIRE USB OUTLETS (In a Camper Van Conversion Electrical System)

[@gsftom]

This is the best series because u show the parts, tools and the process along with a bunch of tips. Thank you!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ecstrawn6603]

Love the simplicity of the video but you must practice/demonstrate safe electrical practices including, verification that power is removed prior to starting. Thanks for the series, love it

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Even when I forgot to turn the switch off, the circuit was still properly fused so that if I had directly shorted the two wires, the fuse would have blown protecting the system as designed.

[@ecstrawn6603]

It's not about the circuit, it is about performing and/or demonstrating something, others will potentially perform on there on. A statement about 'electrical safety and the need to ensure power is removed', will help others and potentially limit your liability. Just friendly advise, cheers..

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I actually specifically mentioned that there were no fuses in the fuse block so that there was no power flowing to the circuits at 1:45 in this video, which is sufficient enough disclaimer in my eyes for this video. In the next videos in the series, I added a switch to the battery to further the safety of this setup. I understand that what I do will never be safe enough for some people, but that's just what I have to deal with by being in the public eye. Once I got ridiculed by a viewer for not wearing safety glasses while unboxing a roof rack. I simply cant please everybody. But yes... I specifically mentioned that power was disconnected to the fuse block before the video started.

[@ecstrawn6603]

Not ridiculous or ridiculing, just trying to help.

[@MoonRiverTravels]

FINALLY! A 'how to' video that actually shows the 'how' component! Thank you so much for putting this together, the series looks to be unmissable for anyone setting out on a van build, or wanting to up their van building skills. Really looking forward to the next videos in the series.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Kit At MoonRiverTravelsUK, Thanks so much! Cheers!

[@nixmysta]

Hey Nate love all your videos you are the only 2 people I will follow for our van build(when we finally buy a van) just a couple of questions... Q1I heard Installing a cigarette socket is a better idea than usb because you can get USB adapters to slot in making it more versatile and because they can be updated also it doesn't constantly drain the battery. Is this true? Q2. Also could I install a USB c adapter or does it have to be the usual USB outlet Thanks for your help

[@599miata]

👍👍Good info guys.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful. Cheers!

[@lesleyhamilton423]

Lovin this series! i am a 66 yr old grandma of 2 who was going to farm out the electrical part of the build - but no more! Going to go shopping for some fun looking tools. Looking forward to next weeks video already. Thanks.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Lesley Hamilton, No problem! Glad it helped! :)

[@mermaidvanvb]

Me too ( 65 & was really worried)

[@zh8966]

Me also (65 was worried) I feel I can do this.

[@zh8966]

Thank you Nate.

[@sheri4673]

@@EXPLORISTlife I'm another grandma, my Promaster is 2/3rds done and I'm heading out as soon as it's finished for a 2000 mile round trip to visit my grandchildren- but I've still got electrical work to finish up. Can you tell me, since I'm using an Ecoflow Pro 3600 watt portable power station and a smaller Bluett 850 watt for my power, can I just put either a 12 volt or 110 plug on the end of that chain of USB outlets and then plug the whole string into the 12 volt or 110 jack on my power station? Is there anything else I need to do differently when it comes to how they're wired? I'm watching your videos searching for the answer myself, but from what I've seen all of your tutorials are wiring into a traditional house battery. Thank you for anything further you can share, your tutorials are excellent!

[@LolaandPooch]

On one of your older videos you recommended installing 12v sockets instead of usb ports because of the speed technology advances. I'm glad I did that, because I found a 12v adapter that powers my laptop. And also because I've changed other divices to usb-c. Is there a reason now to install as usb ports? EDITED -- I just reached the end of the video -- you installed both. Also, LEVERNUTS ARE THE BEST!!! I so enjoyed installing them. 😁

[@EXPLORISTlife]

*Check out the full electrical installation tutorial for this build:* kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2bUaJJqe61ngrM Want to see these USB Outlets actually wired and Installed into the walls of the van? Check this one out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZeVc52HrbJ-eqs *Resources mentioned in this video:* ➤ USB Outlet Wiring Kit: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/branch-circuit-wiring-kits/12v-usb-outlet-branch-circuit-wiring-kit/ ➤ 12V Branch Circuit Guidebook: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/solar-wiring-diagrams/12v-branch-circuits/ This is the specific 12V USB Outlet we used, but it looks like it's sold out/discontinued: amzn.to/3xYDdKU Our wiring kit will work with pretty much any of the other hard-wired USB outlets found here: amzn.to/3A4Ae6p ➤Shop the EXPLORIST.life Store: shop.explorist.life ➤Shop Battle Born Batteries: battlebornbatteries.com?afmc=explorist_bb67 ➤Binge the Transit Van Build: kzbin.info/aero/PLmvhcyi4n0TVfA4XCYJBkzfUXunSON1zX

[@andymerchant4776]

Great video again, really loving the series. Am 7 months in waiting for a Transit, kind of self inflicted pain watching your videos as I just want to start build myself :0 Thanks again, Andy.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey andy, Thanks so much! Cheers!

[@AtomicDogg0213]

Great video. I was wondering if you or any of your viewers could help. I just installed a 4-piece set. one display that shows voltage. One is an on/off switch. One is a cigarette lighter style, and one is two usb. My problem is when I plug in my phone, I'm getting 6 to 8 hr charge times. I have a 10 amp fuse and plenty of battery. The only thing I can think of is the factory wiring is too small. If I rip it all out and replace with 16 gauge will that give me a faster charging time? Any ideas?

[@3genac]

I have a similar questions, should be most recent, above. My sense is a cigarette style plug connected this way would work for your application, presumably because the USB adapter performs some sort of step up. Anker and Baseus make reliable USB-C adapters supporting 100W output and have used these in my van home. I speculate to do the same "straight" from a USB plug illustrated in the video would require a DC step-up converter but I'm an amateur.

[@EricMarenyi]

Does the kit come with usb outlets? I don’t see that in the parts included. I’d also like the ones with no lights but where can I get them?

[@EricMarenyi]

I STILL have not found one without the LED. I have ordered 3 different ones. Can you please help?

[@Npowrd]

So, a lever nut is just a little terminal block. Great idea to have them in-line for add-on circuits, rather than home-run each circuit back to the fuse block. KZbin should have a feedback button stronger than "Like". Love your videos!!!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Yeah! Pretty much. Lever nuts are pretty great for these low-amperage branch circuits.

[@Npowrd]

@@EXPLORISTlife Also, a big THANK YOU for sharing your expertise. So many of your ideas and techniques apply across different activities and hobbies. Had not even heard of them before, but now lever nuts are my new "Go-To" accessory for wiring my model railroad layout... great for both track power and accessories like LED lights. Easy to add on new circuits, and beats cobbling together circuits with solder and heat shrink tubing. Kudos!

[@jrbloggins]

Why wouldn't you want to run each outlet directly to the fuse block? Seems simpler to me, less to go wrong?

[@JaYoeNation]

Did you lizard skin the interior?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Yep! Episode 8-11 of this build series was about that: kzbin.info/aero/PLmvhcyi4n0TVfA4XCYJBkzfUXunSON1zX

[@Stealthbobber06]

Great videos y'all! I am learning so much from your tutorials. I see you are using 16 ga wire to run to your pucklights, but am wondering what ga you are running from the battery to the fuse block? Thanks and I love this channel!

[@3genac]

To install USB-PD capable of 90W output capable of fast charging a laptop or supporting a Starlink Mini, do you insert buck converter? Or are there outlets that provide higher wattage output? Is it simpler to install cigarette plugs and use adapter supporting high-wattage output? Thanks!

[@sarahlindseyanderson1474]

Are these outlets wired in parallel? Also, how do you calculate what wire gauge to use when you don't know what appliances will be plugged in? Do the outlets come with a rating like "rated to 5 amps" so you can calculate wire gauge using wire length and maximum amps? Thanks!

[@charlesmoman]

When we did our 2018 Ford Transit 250 conversion (completed a year ago), I was most stressed out about the wiring of the USB outlets and puck lights with dimmers. Once I finally completed all of that, I found out just how simple it really is. When people ask me about the wiring when they watch our van build series - I tell them that they should not overthink it, because in the end, it is just two wires - positive and negative - and some connectors. The dimmer for our two regions of ceiling puck lights was only a little tricky, because I had the wrong kind of dimmer. I ended up getting the same brand of lights (Acegoo) and dimmer and all was well. I run our whole setup with Ecoflow lithium all-in-ones (Delta 1300's and Delta Max), instead of the "traditional" 100Ah Battle Born setup. We do not really do winter camping, so I do not have to worry about keeping them warm - I just lift them out of the van and take them in our house. Another advantage is less gear - no charge controller,. inverter, MPPT, etc. because all of that gear is inside the Ecoflow units. Also, when at a national park campground with no shore power, I can easily carry one to a nearby campground bathroom and plug it in. The Ecoflows charge crazy fast and no NPS staff have ever cared. Just another option for powering a van - it works perfectly for us. I also have a 200W solar panel on top and tomorrow I am installing a Victron DC to DC charger to safely charge while driving. Without the Victron, if I wired directly to the alternator, I would quickly burn it up charging the Ecoflow units. Great series - excellent filming and editing that demonstrates the tasks without wasting viewers time with patting a dog or doing slo-mo coffee-making or having your wife "accidentally" walk by in a bikini! : ) Blessings!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!

[@Spillingx]

really useful. the lever nuts look like a worthwhile purchase. will you have any 12v items that require separate switches installed? water pump, heater, that kind of thing?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Most definitely! Will be doing 12VDC Switches, 120VAC switches, dimmers, 2 way switches, switches and 2 way switches with dimmers (I think that's all 🤣).

[@piratetreasure]

Nate, I realize this video is a year old, but I’ve just seen it for the first time and have a question: Is it just a trick of the eye where it looks like your initial wires going from the fuse block out to the outlets are reversed? That is, it looks like the red wire is going to the negative buss bar and the black is going to the positive side. Thanks for all the great videos, they’re really inspirational.

[@TheTimeCreations]

What about dealing with voltage drop? Is that not an issue in this case? I found these usb fast charging ports I would love to use on my van, but they generate 90w max and already have 16 gauge wires attached. My run will be about 20ft and if I added 4 of them, that would be about 30amps at full use which I'd need 10 gauge, right? I am not sure how I should wire these up. If I make a single circuit for each one, the 16 gauge wire will have too much voltage drop. I'd appreciate any help.

[@stephenscompactworkshop6036]

First off great series. Like others I will now tackle the install myself. I’m looking for some specific advice how can I contact you one on one.

[@byrne8525]

Hi great vids, thank you. Is there a reason you use seperate red and black wires rather than two in one outer sleeve( ithink you in the U.S call it 12 2 cable)? Thanks in advance

[@superstrings4768]

It's totally OCD, but I would have to put the negative in the terminal directly opposite where the positive was! that way it is easy to know which is which when the board is fully populated. like I say, either works but for a fully neat job and a good dose of OCD....

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Yeah, you can put the wires into the terminal blocks in whatever orientation makes the most sense to you as it, electrically, doesn't matter.

[@mart7404]

what is the point f using a lever nut if you are only connecting one USB outlet? Why not just wire direct fuse block to USB?

[@douglaswindsor120]

Are the USB all the same and are they old slow 1.5 watt where can I get USB quick charge and USB type C charge ports my tablets can't be charged with the fast charge or type C my fitbit watch won't charge on the slow or USB type C my phone takes too long to charge from the slow and can create a dangerous situation I was with my sister in her vehicle my phone was almost dead so I plugged it in to her built in USB slow charge because I was going home afterwards a 2 hour drive and I need a phone incase I have problems or come across someone who needs help our running around took over 3 hrs with my phone plugged in and off all the time afterwards I headed home 15 minutes later just after I left the big city my phone made it's dieing sound and shut off great almost 2 hours to go and no phone it's almost impossible to find a Type C quick charge for the auxiliary plug in also I looking at going solar and one utuber made sense when he said it's wasteful to go from 12 volts DC to 120 volts AC and back down to 5 volts DC or even 12 volts for our cpap machines so I'm going to put 12 volt DC by our bedside and our chairs to charge our phones and tablets and power our cpap machines so I'd like to find a reasonable price type C plug in

[@EXPLORISTlife]

The charging rates can be found in the product specifications from the link I left in the pinned comment.

[@oisinwalker5213]

Hey, at what rate do the usbs charge? Also can this be done to provide a fast charging usb c? Thanks

[@christosmaninos1570]

I learned something today, I was unaware of lever nuts. Thanks :). I was a bit surprised that you decided to go with USB instead of 12v power outlets.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Lever nuts are great! Check through some of the other comments about USB vs 12V outlets as I've already talked a bit about that decision. Thanks for tuning in!

[@davidworthington3661]

Why is USB better than 12v or vise visa??

[@danielfunk1979]

Great video as always. Complete beginner question. How do you fasten the USB outlet to the wall? They all have the plastic tightening nut on the back, but how are you suppose to tighten it when the walls are up and you don't have access behind the wall? What am I missing. Thanks

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Great topic! Will make sure to cover that when we install the walls. Stay tuned!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Just a heads up, but that video is now live and you can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZeVc52HrbJ-eqs

[@danielfunk1979]

@@EXPLORISTlife wow I can't believe you remembered my question to follow up with it. Amazing. I'll check it out. Thanks

[@travelandtrails679]

Hi there, I thought in a previous video you recommended not hardwiring USB outlets so if the technology changed, such as with USB C, You could easily swap out the USB A outlet shown in this video with a USB C outlet? Thank you for your helpful videos!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

These outlets can indeed be swapped out with whatever USB type comes around, yes. Check through the rest of the comments on my thoughts on that older videos as I've shared my thoughts about that already.

[@libertybell144]

I was searching your store for the USB outlets, but you don't seem to have them. Do you have a link for this product?

[@my1st50k]

I was also looking for this product link....

[@livingfreewithgigi228]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I have been so frustrated with trying to learn how to wire 12v and how to daisy chain.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!

[@oh2hqe]

Hey. Thanks for USB video. Had Your consider two things. DC/DC converters are usually somehow switch regulated and that for cabable be reason for RFI. As HAM radio operator always be bit conserned. Another item is had your thinked USB-C. Those are increasing brand - and offer bit more power as ordinary A-type.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

USB-C would have been great, but I couldn't find USB-C/USB-A combo outlets that didn't have the annoying lights and such I was trying to avoid.

[@Pro4Sound]

Dumb question! Why not just put in a 12V Cigarette Lighter Socket? Over the years USB outlets are going to change. I just bought a car with NO regular USB plugs, only hs USB "C". Point being that each year is USB ver 3.0, next year ver. 4, 5, and 6! Just put in a Socket, and plug in charger units over the years.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

That is also an option if that's the route you'd rather go.

[@Flyahead]

Why my usb glowing even I didn’t plug fuse in yet 😅

[@paulmfti]

The best channel on yt for diy van builds…amazing resource….

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Thanks! 🙂🙌

[@retro4100]

Does this make it a series circuit? Would charging from one USB device effect the charging speed of the other separate outlets?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

No and no.

[@tonynotstated695]

Nate, your attention to detail and showing the audience exactly what you are doing and why is absolutely one of the best I have seen. You really have a gift for conveying information in such a pleasant and informative way. Keep up the good work.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Tony Notstated, Thanks so much! Cheers!

[@yami3960]

On the fuse block, how come you didnt put the black wire across from the red wire? Isnt it more manageable that way as opposed to opposite ends?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

The black wire anywhere on the negative busbar works, so put it wherever you need for proper wire management.

[@steveking8548]

If you only have one circuit, why do you need any lever nuts? Just wire the fuse panel directly to the USB port with spade connectors?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Sure! That's another option. Lots of ways to do this stuff.

[@Michaelajacksonfilms]

Possibly stupid question, instead of the added complexity of lever-nuts why not just use a wire that's long enough to complete the job?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

It just gives you more flexibility for extending/replacing that last bit of wire if needed.

[@mermaidvanvb]

Love the series so far, just purchased wiring to pre wire prior to main build & scared of electrical- glad to have these videos 👍🙏

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Nice! Sounds like an awesome project! Thanks for watching!

[@kmtischer]

I'm not using those special connector nuts. I'm really not a big fan of liver.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Good one Jim

[@northwiebesick7136]

Question... would it be worth it to NOT wire in USB ports, and just buy a USB included 120v outlet, if you're already including 120v outlets? Is there ANY GOOD reason NOT to do that, and just have the USB outlets on the 12v circuit, as shown here? I mean, i know that USB 120v outlets are pretty expensive, but if you're only including a total of 4 or 6 USB plugs, besides what you replace your cigarette lighter(s) with, unless you ACTUALLY use your cigarette lighter for something, then that would likely eliminate a little bit of wiring that you would normally have to do...

[@holliemolliekins3514]

heya, can you add a switch to this series? also can i have 5 x 15w usb connected in the same way together? will the 12v supply be split between all of them? this is what my USB ports say - Output voltage: 5V - Output current: 2A - Max. 15W power consumption, consider when selecting suitable drive Thanks so much!

[@TheBrokenNomad]

Wouldn’t it be better to wire them in parallel with a common negative than to wire them in series like that?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

They are in parallel. Series would have been a positive to negative connection.

[@CraigMullins1]

No mention of the power of those chargers? The latest phones & tables require big power to even charge now days. Those are usb type A connectors. Do you have an option for USB 4.8A chargers? As well as supporting PD 3.0 and QC 3.0 specs? What about type c connectors since most device want that these days.

[@miykaelah]

Really been enjoying your videos. We have usb outlets in our van put in by winnebago. We've slowly been changing things to our personal preference. Question for you, when we plug in our phone charging cable to the usb immediately i hear a high pitched sound coming from the usb outlet. But when its unplugged there is no such noise. Any ideas? The wire by itself or plugged into phone makes the noise.

[@HK-cx3ws]

My solar panels have a couple of voltage ratings on them. They are…. Open circuit voltage & voltage at PMax. Which voltage number should I use to Calculate the panel wiring configuration? There are also 2 amp ratings (short circuit current and current at PMax) which amp rating should i use to calculate my solar panel lay out?

[@heatherm4276]

Great video! Can you link the outlets used? EDIT: I took the time to read all they way down and I read your edit! Thanks IF you are looking for the outlets they used just keep scrolling.

[@Mike-iq4kv]

Newb question... um how do I wire the input source. It's threaded and but it doesn't look like it uses a screwdriver. I'm kind of stuck on step one. lol

[@colinracheljustpootling7468]

Love these videos as they are clear and concise. Can you tell me what gauge wire you recommend from the battery to the fuse board. Appreciate different distances but say 3-4 feet from the battery? Thanks

[@thegraeescape3285]

This may be a dumb question, but I see you attached the hot and ground to opposite ends of the bus bars. I have all my circuits wired next to each other (don’t worry, no fuses yet). Do I need to switch them?

[@oboloori]

I have a VERY important question. Where can I get that shirt Nate is wearing in the intro. Cut, Strip, crimp, heat shrink. I love it!!!

[@whitelightinggaming3737]

I know this is a older video. I just found the series and I'm loving it. I would like to add to what you are showing from a troubleshooting point of view, it's easier if your negative is in line with your positive. I.E. first fuse use the first negative spot. So if you start on one end your positive and you're negative wires are straight across from each other or at least in the same number of holes down.

[@Yumirj]

Best channel on KZbin 👍👍👍👍👍

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Юрій Мельник, Thanks so much! Cheers!

[@matthewspdx]

Is there a video explaining / sourcing the the fuse block? Thanks!

[@billcoleman7316]

I'm not sure if you have any kids but just in case, Happy Mothers Day and have a great one.

[@williamsampler3474]

Do you happen to have a guidebook or video showing how to wire a USB-C jack?

[@HK-cx3ws]

Should i use the watt rating on the solar panels to calculate the how many panels the inverter can handle. Or the volts x amps? (This number is a little higher than the stated watts)

[@h.m.jjammag2782]

Hi, Do you have a video how to program Victron DC to DC 30amp charger?

[@jarrethoney2905]

Very informative content giving me ideas for my camper van conversion

[@mitchellpeaslee9406]

1. What is the best way to check the system is working properly? I understand to follow to owners manual but since I have followed a plan of yours I was wondering if you have specific numbers and or a video? ( 3000w INVERTER | 400-600Ah | 400 TO 1200W SOLAR -CAMPER SOLAR KIT) 2. 110v in fuse box does not have power, how to trouble shoot? The inverter is not putting out power where the triplex wire is hooked up going to the fuse box but everything has a correct reading. 3. How to test shore power? (Without having a shore power wire to plug into van) 4. I have purchased some cheap “5 pin Halo switches” i am hoping to use them as a three way switch, do you know if this is possible? If so do you have a diagram or can you explain how to wire it? They have 5 wires(common,positive, negative, normal open, and Normal closed) 5. Do you know specific brand or switch that looks like “5 pin halo switch” that is meant to be used as a 3 way switch. 6. There extra positive wire for BMV monitor that goes into the b2 terminal, does it need to go to battery bank for extra battery monitoring?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

1: I don't have a specific video; but this video is the closest one. I'll put a video like that on the list for this current series. The best way to 'learn' how to use your system is to simply use it. You'll learn more the more you use it. 2: Verify the battery switch is on, verify that there is DC voltage to the inverter, verify that the inverter is on, verify the wires are in their proper locations per the manual/diagram you're following, verify the main AC breaker is on the 'correct' side of the breaker box with all of the other branch circuits, verify that AC out is on AC Out 1 and not AC Out 2 (AC Out 2 is only for shore power passthrough. 3: Not possible. You'll have to find shore power to test shore power. 4: Stay tuned to this series as we will be covering two way switches. 5: I'm not familiar with those, but stay tuned to this series as we will be covering the specific switches needed to make two way switches. 6: If using Lithium batteries with a built in BMS, it's not necessary, no.

[@benoitbenoisbenoistchaine]

I won’t put the liver nuts less connector better

[@EXPLORISTlife]

You are welcome to do whatever you like. None of this is law. 🤣👋

[@kevingalloway9338]

Always great videos

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Thanks again!

[@KouSurfGuy]

I feel like you covered this in another video, but I'm wondering why the wires from the Wago's to the USB connectors are only 2 to 3 inches long? Any particular reasoning for that?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

It just gives more flexibility to add outlets to the circuit.

[@Altboatlife]

Awesome videos! I’m using it as a base to build my live-aboard sailboat. I want to only have 12v DC onboard. Running DC appliances with many different voltages are becoming a bit of a headache. Shavers, laptops, CCTV cameras, raspberry PI, WiFi etc. are all running at different voltages from 8 - 20v DC. Have you find an efficient way to step down and step up DC voltages in a 12v DC system? XY-SK 80 adjustable power supply is the closest solution I could find but it’s cumbersome to set up. Keep up the awesome videos!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Most small DC devices come with a 12V 'cigarette lighter' adapter, of some kind. We'd just use that. For things that don't; we'd just plug them into our 120V system and run it through our inverter. Big fan of keeping it simple here.

[@johnw65]

Thanks Nate, Retired electrician here with very little 12V experience and no solar at all... Currently 3 mos into a cargo/camper conversion and wish I'd found you last January! Planning on paralleling 90AH battery and Aux from car to a 6 ckt 12V fuse block. 120V shore pwr runs a 3amp trickle charger to a 5amp fuse. Solar ctl panel to a 10amp fuse. 12V lighter sockets, USB jacks, lighting and radio/DVD player all fused accordingly. WHY CAN'T I USE A 20A SPEC GRADE 2 POLE SWITCH FOR THE SOLAR DISCONNECT? 100watts @ 16V is a little over 6 amps...

[@EXPLORISTlife]

If the switch is rated for DC current, the voltage that will be flowing through it, and the amperage that will be flowing through it, I suspect it should 'technically' be fine, but without knowing your exact setup, I can't validate for sure. This is the solar isolator switch that we are now recommending that meets the needs of nearly all solar arrays we come across: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/switches-disconnects/solar-isolator-disconnect/

[@davidworthington3661]

New to this. You guys are great. I am learning from start to finish. I do not know anything about Instant gram...yet. Just got a 2022 170 3500. I will be following you Thanks

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@camerongarcia3128]

INSTEAD OF USING YOUR PHONE TO CHECK FOR POWER, WHY NOT TAKE A 12C LIGHT, AND HOOK IT UP TO THE CIRCUITS TO SEE IF THE CIRCUITS ARE LIVE? YOU FOLKS SEEM SO IN THE DARK ABOUT USING SOMETHING OTHER THAN YOUR CELL PHONE.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I know you're just trolling, but you can use whatever type of USB device you like to test the circuit.

[@Frankenstein-sc8rc]

I just couldn’t trust those little clamps on those wire connectors. It seems as if the mechanism cannot provide ample enough clamping power, and also will those clamps wear out and loose clamping capabilities over time.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

The lever nuts absolutely provide ample clamping power. If they didn't, they wouldn't be UL Listed for this purpose. Sounds like you're just worried about something 'new', which is fine... but perhaps give it a chance instead of basing your judgement on how you 'feel'.

[@jackturtle131]

How can you have a problem with lights in your USB charger. I sleep with my eyes closed or is that only an Australian thing

[@EXPLORISTlife]

With all of the different animals out to get you in Australia, I'd definitely be sleeping with at least one eye open.

[@michaelgilbert6437]

I saw your wiring kit in your shop but it does not include the 12v usb outlets themselves. Do you have a link to those?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

This is the specific one we used, but it looks like it's sold out/discontinued: amzn.to/3xYDdKU Our wiring kit will work with pretty much any of the other hard-wired USB outlets found here: amzn.to/3A4Ae6p

[@babydilla11]

What is fuse rating? Thanks

[@EXPLORISTlife]

This video teaches you how to size fuses: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6qQqneDesyJbZI

[@malgreenley-lakedistrictvi5230]

Just bought our van, but no USB sockets. This video has given me the confidence to have a go myself. Thank you!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Mal Greenley - Lake District Views, No problem! Glad it helped! :)

[@OM-PeaceE]

Thank u guys...very helpful from start to finish...gave me huge confidence to build the van myself...

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching! 🙂😀

[@markkimmerling4251]

I thought you didn’t like usb dedicated and recommended the 12v open plug?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

There are a lot more dedicated USB options available now than there were back when I made that recommendation so my opinion has shifted a bit. I just recommend getting the most up to date USB protocols that we can and then be sure to make it so the USB outlet can be upgraded in a few years when the current USB protocols are outdated.

[@stephenpakus3459]

Nate cleaver use of the box wrench to put wire loom on! Was no one else impressed by that trick?!?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Haha! Saw that one on TikTok and had to try it. It 'mostly' worked. I give it a 7/10 on helpfulness. 🤣

[@thomas4961]

always 1 cord to every socket, NEVER a lot of joints, and ALWAYS with fuses......,, This is so wrong.....

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I understand that you're probably just trolling, but... 1: That's not necessary and is often excessive. 2: "Joints" are minimized with UL listed connection methods that pass ABYC standards. 3: There is a fuse protecting the whole circuit, which is perfectly fine. There is nothing wrong with what we've done there. There are OTHER ways to do it, but this way is a perfectly fine way of adding outlets. Please don't say that we are doing something wrong when you are simply uneducated on different ways to do things and you're just adding to the misinformation of the internet. I know that you're going to come back with an argument, but I don't argue with trolls, so don't bother. It'll simply be deleted.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Your previous comment has been deleted in an attempt to decrease misinformation on the internet, but If you're an 'Electrical Engineer' I wonder why you are spending your Monday morning trying to learn how to wire USB outlets... There are multiple outlets on a circuit protected by a single overcurrent protection device (breaker/fuse) in literally every single house/building in the US. Can you imagine how big of a breaker box a house would need if every outlet in a house had it's own dedicated breaker?

[@wjhann4836]

Fine, Plugs without LED. They sometimes tend to be anoying.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Yeah, super annoying.

[@tomwilliam5118]

What are your thoughts about tinning the end of the wires. Do you think it would make a better connection?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I absolutely do not recommend that. Heating the wire and adding solder to the end of the wire to 'harden' the wire makes a weak point where the wire goes from stranded to solid and introduces a point of increased failure.

[@MaxShaffer]

Hey Nate, which software tool do you use to create your wiring diagrams?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I use Microsoft Visio to make all of my diagrams.

[@maryf.6679]

This step-by-step video makes your 12V Branch Circuit Guidebook come alive. It's just the right amount of information and explanation. Great job and thank you! I'm looking forward to your other 12V wiring presentations :-)

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey, Mary F.! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀

[@wjhann4836]

A comment / warning. 2014 I was installing a new sailing boat. Also there should be some USB chargers. So ordered them online - somewhere on Amazon - if I remember right. Later I measured their idle current - some 60 - 80mA. That seems a lot so I decided to insert a switch. For me this should go with much less. I recommend to test them before installing. Otherwise they eat up your battery soon.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Good tip! That's another reason we went with USB outlets without all of the LED lights and voltage indicators and such on them.

[@daveminnich632]

@@EXPLORISTlife Which USB outlets were those? Unless I’m missing it, I don’t see a link. Thx!

[@rogerjob2780]

Very helpful. Thanks 😎🍷🚍⚓️🇬🇧👍

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Roger Job, No problem! Glad it helped! :)

[@stephennolte5412]

Would it matter if you used a 3 conductor lever nut instead of a 2 conductor on the last outlet?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Nope.

[@shawncraig4085]

Love the videos, do you or have you worked or designed 50 amp services with the milultiplus 2. All the pieces should be in the mail coming my way but had a few questions about my existing inverter. It is only dedicated to the fridge, has its own breaker in the junction book and fridge wires go straight to inverter bypassing the junction box. My question is should I just leave it or require all of that into the multiplus. Sorry for the long post

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I would remove the OEM inverter and let the Multiplus (s) shine.

[@shawncraig4085]

Was looking through your vids do you have any multiplus 2 installs

[@ron-almog]

Nice. what do you think about soldering? all these lever nuts can add up, and are cumbersome. what's easier than soldering cables and parts? cheap (nearly free) , very secure, and in the rare case you need to open or redo stuff, the soldering iron is your friend. what's your opinion?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Here is what ABYC says about soldering: ABYC E-11.15.3.8 Solder shall *not* be the sole means of mechanical connection in any circuit. If soldered, the connection shall be so located or supported as to minimize flexing of the conductor where the solder changes the flexible conductor into a solid conductor. When a stranded conductor is soldered, the soldered portion of the conductor becomes a solid strand conductor, and flexing can cause the conductor to break at the end of the solder joint unless adequate additional support is provided. Here's what I have to add: If I had two people, both inexperienced with electrical wiring, and gave them both 100 connections to make, one using lever nuts and one soldering, how long do you think it would take each of them? What percentage of connections would be perfect? It's so fast and easy to make perfect connections with lever nuts. Soldering is a skill that, if not practiced regularly, results in sub-par connections.

[@ron-almog]

@@EXPLORISTlife Thank you for this detailed answer. I am an electrical engineer, and been soldering all my life. But on the other hand, the things I've been soldering are not traveling in a van. so maybe. If I'll ever be able to purchase a van (nowhere to be found these days) i'll consider this again.

[@anthonymarino4260]

Well done first class wiring

[@adventure_onthedaily9851]

Hey Nate. Is there a reason why the third USB port has a levernut? Could it also be connected directly to the positive and negative wire leading from the second USB port?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I just find it easier that way.

[@adventure_onthedaily9851]

@@EXPLORISTlife thanks for the reply 👍 I think it is neater

[@deanjames7935]

Great video!! Can you integrate how to connect a toggle switch to a circuit like that just in case you want to power those outlets down and turn on when needed?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

I'm not going to cover that use-case specifically, but next weeks video is going to cover how to wire puck lights which teaches how to wire a switch, and once you know how to wire a switch; you could wire a switch into this circuit if desired.

[@amythinks]

Top notch videos. I've watched these kinds of videos for years but there's never enough detail for non-professionals. These deserve more views than some of the inferior videos that get hundreds of thousands/millions. I will seriously consider buying from you guys directly when I get to that point, if for no other reason than to support your efforts.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey, Amy L! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀

[@waynegenewick8570]

Very cool video this will help a lot of people you are very patient and clear talking through the steps. Enjoying the series.

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Hey Wayne Genewick, No problem! Glad it helped! :)

[@ceeattle]

Do you have to unscrew the box off the wall to change the fuses??

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Nope.

[@Sue.242]

Great video. Please can I ask. I want to add another USB port to my fuse board. With battery and everything connected do I add the red live cable into fuse board first or do I add the black cable to the earth point first. Or does it not matter. Want to do this safely thanks

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Disconnect the battery before working on your electrical system and then it doesn't matter which one you connect first (as shown in this video). 👍🙂

[@Sue.242]

@@EXPLORISTlife ok thanks

[@wideawaketotruth5301]

Thank you so much for taking the time, to lay out this step by step demonstration. Extremely helpful!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alishabab3]

Wouldn't it be easier just to solder the wires than heatsink them?

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Nope. Definitely not. Plus, soldering the wires creates a weak point where the wire goes from soldered to unsoldered which can lead to breaking. So, that would make it more difficult AND work worse. 🤣👍

[@readysteadycamp552]

Great video! UK viewer!

[@peterrobbienuttycombe3541]

DO not see them in your shop ?????? Just saying

[@EXPLORISTlife]

It's there now; just had to put some final touches on it: Resources mentioned in this video: ➤ USB Outlet Wiring Kit: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/branch-circuit-wiring-kits/12v-usb-outlet-branch-circuit-wiring-kit/

[@lonmar44]

Nice video bro you make it look like real easy thanks

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful. Cheers!

[@roseannarabia6461]

Best video I've seen on this subject, thank you!

[@EXPLORISTlife]

Glad it was helpful. Cheers!