Kawasaki Concours Forum

The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => Accessories and modifications - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: jeffmccracken on September 22, 2017, 08:59:07 PM

Title: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: jeffmccracken on September 22, 2017, 08:59:07 PM
So I'm looking to install a "Cockpit Power Distribution" strip of some kind.

I like to use 2 pin SAE connectors to power most of my gadgets, like GPS's, radar detector, tank bag, blah bah blah.
I rigged a little power strip made by connecting several of these SAE connectors side-by-side and attaching it under the backside of my home brew dash. One half is switched, the other unswitched. I can add and remove accessories pretty much at will with this scheme.

So now I'm making a few changes and thought I might redo my power connection setup.

I was thinking about maybe a strip of RJ11 connectors but my ideas run out of steam after that and even this one probably won't provide much current capacity I suppose.

I don't want to use cig lighter / BMW plugs due to real estate required.

What kinds of cockpit power schemes are others using out there?

Here's a picture of my current rig job and I'm looking for something in this general size maybe 2-3x larger with 5 or more connections.

Thanks for any ideas.

Jeff
'08 C14
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: maxtog on September 22, 2017, 09:53:13 PM
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=22752.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=22752.0)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=20430 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=20430)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=447 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=447)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=5812 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=5812)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=7022 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=7022)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=10651.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=10651.0)

AKA:  http://www.fuzeblocks.com/ (http://www.fuzeblocks.com/)
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: mikeyw64 on September 23, 2017, 02:12:14 AM
Given that the original power over Ethernet specs allow for up to 15.4 w of power per port (& that's at 44v DC) then there should be no problem using rj45 /rj11 connectors imho
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: VirginiaJim on September 23, 2017, 05:51:19 AM
So I'm looking to install a "Cockpit Power Distribution" strip of some kind.

He said Cockpit....   he he he.... :rotflmao:
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: gPink on September 23, 2017, 06:32:04 AM
Twit
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: maxtog on September 23, 2017, 07:00:19 AM
Given that the original power over Ethernet specs allow for up to 15.4 w of power per port (& that's at 44v DC) then there should be no problem using rj45 /rj11 connectors imho

I don't think RJ connectors are a good choice.  They are not very strong, don't carry much current, have no weather protection (and with contacts that close, wow).  I am not sure what I would recommend for the connections, other than exactly what he was originally talking about, SAE 2-pin bullet connectors https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Disconnect-Harness-Connector-Bullet/dp/B00MYDR15I (https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Disconnect-Harness-Connector-Bullet/dp/B00MYDR15I)
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: mikeyw64 on September 23, 2017, 10:15:38 AM
I don't think RJ connectors are a good choice.  They are not very strong, don't carry much current, have no weather protection (and with contacts that close, wow).  I am not sure what I would recommend for the connections, other than exactly what he was originally talking about, SAE 2-pin bullet connectors https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Disconnect-Harness-Connector-Bullet/dp/B00MYDR15I (https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Disconnect-Harness-Connector-Bullet/dp/B00MYDR15I)

for light current devices then I would say they were ideal

3.5Amps  and an operating range dependent on the cable you use with them *you dont have to use Cat5/Cat6 if you're improvising.

Yes there is the question of waterproofing but it depends on that you want to use them for/what you're trying to achieve. As a small form factor for a custom fit then maybe acceptable
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: maxtog on September 23, 2017, 10:46:40 AM
Here are more ideas:  http://www.cycleterminal.com/motorcycle-connectors.html (http://www.cycleterminal.com/motorcycle-connectors.html)  Tons of choices
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: mikeyw64 on September 23, 2017, 11:01:04 AM
aye there are plenty of connectors avaialble but what I think the OP is looking for is a slightly left of centre solution.

Maybe something like this (but smaller and using  just the blocks) that can be monted neatly somewehrere in the cokpitarea

Given that POE injects at between 44 & 52v DC then in theory it should work for lower wattage/current draw appliances

(http://brain-images.cdn.dixons.com/6/2/00939526/u_00939526.jpg)
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: maxtog on September 23, 2017, 12:47:37 PM
The first time it gets wet from rain or washing the bike and the water gets into the connection, it might not be good.  Same thing with high humidity plus a few mites.  The conductors are not even 1mm apart and most RJ connectors are only rated for 24 gauge wire.  Really, I don't think that would be the best selection in a fairly hostile environment.  I suppose if it were kept way hidden and far away from any opening it MIGHT sorta work, but that isn't very convenient either.

Keep in mind that I deal with RJ connectors every day (in dry, temp/humidity controlled areas), I have installed thousands of RJ cables/devices and made hundreds of RJ terminations.  Even a USB plug would be better in most every respect (except they are not locking).
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: mikeyw64 on September 24, 2017, 01:04:36 AM
OK so found this rather neat (although admittedly not cheap ) little package, the Dispatch 1

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r4/dispatch-1/ (http://www.webbikeworld.com/r4/dispatch-1/)


http://www.advdesigns.com/di1wimopodia.html (http://www.advdesigns.com/di1wimopodia.html)


Ok so more designed to sit under cover but ...............
Title: Re: Cockpit Power Distribution
Post by: VirginiaJim on September 24, 2017, 10:07:04 AM
Twit

 ;D