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hey guys, i have my computer setup in my car with an inverter powering it.

currently, it is setup so that i flick a switch on my dash to turn the inverter on..

then press a button to start up the pc.

i would like to automate this proccess using relays but i have no idea how to do this.

ideally the system will turn the inverter on, then power up the pc a few seconds later. i know they sell intelligent startup controllers out there, but until i have $100 to spare for a good one, this is what i want to do.

any help is appreciated, thanks.

 
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well, if you can push the power button on the computer at the same time as flipping the power switch to the inverter, then you can simply wire a relay on the power switch of the inverter. this will keep it powered on as long as the ignition is on.

A second latching relay (look on ebay for a DEI latching relay, cost ya ten bucks) will fire on with the ignition, flipping on the power to your computer. itll click off aftera few seconds, so it wont be holding powre on. you can also get a latching relay from www.davidnavone.com

now, you will have to come up with a solution for what happens if you simply turn on ignition, then later start the car. or even start the car after having just ignition on for a few seconds (gas station comes to mind).

the other problem will be if you cant even touch the computer power switch without having the inverter fully on. But I dont think that will be an issue.