Laptop Car Charging Options

[LokRobster]

Searched around, but didn't find much on this...

I've got a Dell Latitude D610 and need a car charger. Obviously I can pay over $100 and get the official charger from Dell, but really, $100 to step down 3v? Seems crazy. Someone have a better solution?

I've heard that DC to AC inverters are a viable option, but also that they might cause problems due to not being true AC. It'd be kind of a waste to kill my battery over this, and running 12v DC to 120v AC and back down to 9v DC is a bit silly too...

Anyone found something that is working good for them for running a laptop in the car?

 

[corkyg]

I use the Targus Auto-Air adapter. It works perfectly in the car, and also it flies with me and handles airline power connections.
Inverters also work, but they are not useful in a plane.

It has a collection of power connectors for any laptop.

Targus

 

[deathwalker]

I use an inverter..never any problems.

 

[LokRobster]

Thanks for your input, ya'll.

I saw the Targus Auto-Air yesterday at Micro Center for $87, and was thinking about it.

I'm going to go with an inverter, though. Doing some more research on it looks like the main concern is getting a cheap inverter without the rated power handling needed to run a modern laptop.

Most the inverters claim they're good for running and charging laptops, so that's what I'll go with. I noticed that APC has one for under $50...

 

[deathwalker]

Originally posted by: LokRobster
Thanks for your input, ya'll.

I saw the Targus Auto-Air yesterday at Micro Center for $87, and was thinking about it.

I'm going to go with an inverter, though. Doing some more research on it looks like the main concern is getting a cheap inverter without the rated power handling needed to run a modern laptop.

Most the inverters claim they're good for running and charging laptops, so that's what I'll go with. I noticed that APC has one for under $50...

Plus you can use the inverter for other small devices that you may want to use in the car also...its very handy.