NUC power supply

[Boatmandan]

Hi, Ive recently purchase an Intel NUC (model RNUC11PAHI70000 Core i7 11th Gen) that I intend to use as a boat computer for navigation etc. I want to run the NUC directly from the boat house system 24 volt supply (lithium batteries), rather than using a inverter to power the NUC from the supplied 240 volt power supply.  My broad plan is to source an appropriate male plug (to plug into the NUC 19 volt) and use a buck converter to step down from 24 to 19 volts.  Is there any reason why this won't work - and should I place an inline fuse between the buck converter and the NUC?  Any recommendations and advise would be most welcome.  

[n_scott_pearson]

No, this is exactly how you want to do it. So long at you supply the right voltage (19V) and wattage (120W), you will be good to go.

There is one Buck Converter that was aimed specifically at the NUCs: Mini-Box.com: DCDC-NUC, 6-48V automotive power supply for NUC, 12V or 19V output. It's getting a bit long in the tooth now, but you can use it as a reference if nothing else.

...S

[ClariceStarling]

On a boat I assume you use the mounting bracket ... you wouldn't want to get hit by a flying NUC!

[Boatmandan]

Hi, yes it will sit on a bracket mounted to the side of a cupboard under the nav station....prefer no flying objects at any time.  

[Boatmandan]

Hi,

Thanks for getting back to me - much appreciated.

I actually just ordered one of these on eBay after I posted.  

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/333760421743

I had a look at the Mini Box unit that you suggested - looks great with lots of functionality but seems pretty complicated…I’m not a techo by any stretch and was hoping for a simple install with wires from the 24v power supply to the buck converter, then from the converter to the NUC. Do you see problems if I use the unit already ordered?

Thanks again,

D

[LeonWaksman · Accepted solution]

I'm afraid that 2A output current rating may be not enough to feed your NUC. I would prefer a Step Down Converter with higher output power and since is to be going installed on a boat, packed in waterproof case. This may be an example:  DC/DC Converter 24V/36V Step Down to 19V/10A 190W Power Supply Module

Leon

[Boatmandan]

Thanks Leon - much appreciated. Regards, D

[n_scott_pearson]

I agree with Leon - and this is why I recommended the (slightly) more-complicated Buck Converter from Mini-Box.

...S

[Boatmandan]

Hi S,

Thanks for your (and all other) help and suggestions - it is much appreciated.  I have no doubt that the Mini Box solution affords much more functionality.  However, I'm a bit "gun shy" after purchasing a Raspberry Pi about 3 months ago as an "experiment" to try to get it working as a (back up) boat navigation computer etc using Open Plotter - whilst I've had some success, its still a long way off from being fit for purpose.  I have so much on my hands getting this new NUC boat computer running and interfaced (into NMEA 0183 / 2000 instruments) that I don't feel I have the time to mess around with power conversion.  I like the Mini Box solution, but I think I'll order it and put it in the same box as the Raspberry Pi - something to tinker with whilst having a beer at anchorage!

Again, many thanks

D

[Arulpremkumar]

Hello @Boatmandan 

Is the converter still working well for long-term use?