Hi everybody!

So I've tried to resolve this problem on my own. Every time I think I have the solution I come to a new question. SO I thought I'd ask some experts on the subject as the electrical science has muddied my brain in the last few days. I promise to try and learn

So let me explain my project and where I need some help.

My goal is to use a small 12v battery to run a couple LED bulbs in my camper. Here's what I have:
1 x 12v 18aH SLA battery (ExpertPower EXP12180)
1 x 7w LED bulb designed to run on 12v system
1 x standard bulb socket base
1 x cigarette lighter socket

Questions:
Is it possible to run both the cigarette socket (with two phones charging) and the LED bulb on the battery at the same time?

As far as a fuse goes, should I use one rated at 15a or 10a?

What gauge wire is appropriate for this project?

Thank you all!

 

You should use the lowest rated fuse that will satisfy your current requirements (or what is dictated by your wiring choice).

I have no idea how much current your two phones draw while charging -- that's something that can be all over the map depending on the phone and the charger.

I don't think you should have any problem driving the LED bulb and the chargers from that battery. My guess (and that's all it is) is that your total draw will be somewhere in the 3 A range, so you might size the fuse at 5 A to start with.

The ampacity of light-duty conductors varies depending on where you look, but you shouldn't have any problem with using something as small as 18 AWG (think light-duty extension cord) and can move up to a 10 A fuse if you need to.

There is also the matter of how long your wire is going to be. The longer the run, the bigger the conductor should be for the same current.

 

Be careful handling the Lead Acide batteries. If you short the battery terminals with a thick metal conductor which can handle the current of the battery then the battery will explode.

 

...LEDs, 555s, Flashers, and Light Chasers

[URL='http://forum.allaboutcircuits.com/threads/wendys-index.112710/']Wendy's Index[/URL]

 

He's not trying to make a flasher, just run an LED light bulb in his camper.

 

The phones will take "5v, 1a" or "5w" each, the light bulb is about "0.5a, 12v" or "7w", I don't know for the rest of your devices.

Like mentioned before, check the current ratings of your devices.

 

He's not trying to make a flasher, just run an LED light bulb in his camper.

LEDs, 555s, Flashers, and Light Chasers

Not sure if that comment was for me, but the article covers how to power LEDs via battery in detail.

 

LEDs, 555s, Flashers, and Light Chasers

Not sure if that comment was for me, but the article covers how to power LEDs via battery in detail.

Ah. Okay. My apologies.