Understanding Amps?
#1
08-16-17, 03:40 PM
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Understanding Amps?
I plan to run an IR illuminator far from an AC outlet. The illuminator has a power requirement of 1A. I’m thinking of using a heavy duty CCTV power extension cable of 50 feet rated for up to 3A and an AC Adaptor rated for 3A.
What are the pros and cons? Is this an appropriate match? I read something about power loss on long distances. Is 50 feet considered long? Does the higher amp AC Adaptor and extension cable make up for the loss I would otherwise have with a lower amp adaptor and cable? The actual distance required could be only 30 feet. Should I just measure more accurately and get the 30 feet extension cable?
Also because the AC Adaptor is 3Amp, does that mean it will actually draw 3Amps from my outlet? Or it will draw only what it needs for the illuminator (which is 1 Amp)?
Should an IR illuminator placed near a motion sensing security light?
Thanks in advance!
What are the pros and cons? Is this an appropriate match? I read something about power loss on long distances. Is 50 feet considered long? Does the higher amp AC Adaptor and extension cable make up for the loss I would otherwise have with a lower amp adaptor and cable? The actual distance required could be only 30 feet. Should I just measure more accurately and get the 30 feet extension cable?
Also because the AC Adaptor is 3Amp, does that mean it will actually draw 3Amps from my outlet? Or it will draw only what it needs for the illuminator (which is 1 Amp)?
Should an IR illuminator placed near a motion sensing security light?
Thanks in advance!
#2
08-16-17, 06:32 PM
Group Moderator
You could have posted this on your already running thread. I would have moved it but was afraid you wouldn't see it there.
A 3A power supply will deliver up to 3A of power at 12v.
It will only draw several watts of power from the AC line.... somewhere around 1/10A.
That supply.... make sure it's 12VDC.... will run that IR illuminator fine.
For up to 50' I would use #18 at the minimum and preferably #16 wire.
Makes no difference if mounted near a motion sensor light. Make sure the camera does not look at the illuminator or it will bloom/wash out.
A 3A power supply will deliver up to 3A of power at 12v.
It will only draw several watts of power from the AC line.... somewhere around 1/10A.
That supply.... make sure it's 12VDC.... will run that IR illuminator fine.
For up to 50' I would use #18 at the minimum and preferably #16 wire.
Makes no difference if mounted near a motion sensor light. Make sure the camera does not look at the illuminator or it will bloom/wash out.
