Standard auxiliary power outlet vs. USB charging outlet

[B_Darling]

I have a 95 adventure that does not have an auxiliary charging outlet. My primary navigation will be from an iPad mini with navionics. Should I install a typical 12v auxiliary power outlet (and use a USB adapter when charging devices) or simply go straight for the USB outlet? Does it make a difference? My only concern is that there will be something that I need to charge that is not USB. Am I overthinking this?

 

[Ky Grady]

I'd do the 12 volt outlet with the adapter like in your car for charging. That way you have a power source for anything else requiring 12V instead of being limited to USB only.

 

[Fishtales]

Depending on space you can

https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Charger-Cigarette-Splitter-Compatible/dp/B077P629DS/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=7INX0QDOTNEU&keywords=12v+cigarette+lighter+usb+charger&qid=1581776677&sprefix=12v+lighter+charger+%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFGNkg0UEI2N0tFNFgmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA4OTI4NzcySFpQNVpKU1dBVUIxJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA0NDYzMjEzUFBHVDEyUU5XQ0ZHJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

You could tap into the wires and add something like this. Pretty easy and gives you mount flexibility.

Amazon.com: Ginsco Dual USB Charger Socket Power Outlet 2.1A & 2.1A（4.2A） for Car Boat Marine RV Mobile with Wire Fuse DIY Kit Blue LED: Home Audio & Theater

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[SkunkBoat]

I put in one with both and a switch. similar to this https://www.amazon.com/Cigarette-Li...ory+panel&qid=1581777188&s=automotive&sr=1-23

Mounted it inside the dash cubby so it and the phones never get wet. I would try to find a red one because the blue is annoying at night.

I don't think I have a picture

 

[DennisG01]

Just something to be aware of using tablets...

-- Tablets can, and do, overheat sometimes in the sun... and then they turn off.
-- Their screens are not "sunlight readable". Meaning, it can be very difficult to see what's on the screen in certain conditions.
-- They're not usually waterproof - although a case can fix that.

If you're going to RELY on this for navigation, you might reconsider and get a dedicated chartplotter. If, instead, this is just for fun or you don't really require it for the type of boating you do, then you'll be OK.

 

[SkunkBoat]

Just something to be aware of using tablets...

-- Tablets can, and do, overheat sometimes in the sun... and then they turn off.
-- Their screens are not "sunlight readable". Meaning, it can be very difficult to see what's on the screen in certain conditions.
-- They're not usually waterproof - although a case can fix that.

If you're going to RELY on this for navigation, you might reconsider and get a dedicated chartplotter. If, instead, this is just for fun or you don't really require it for the type of boating you do, then you'll be OK.

You beat me to it Dennis. Get a GPS/FF/Chartplotter ....mounted in front of you.