Can I connect a 12-volt product in a 24-volt lorry?
Yes, but a product intended only for 12 volts should normally not be connected directly to a 24-volt system. A small number of products can handle voltages from 12–28 volts.
To use 12-volt equipment in a 24-volt lorry, you usually need a DC-DC converter, also called a voltage converter.
What does a voltage converter do?
A DC-DC converter converts one DC voltage to another.
In this case, a converter is used to reduce the voltage from 24 volts to 12 volts.
This allows you to use equipment such as:
Car stereos and other audio equipment.
Cameras and displays.
USB chargers and mobile accessories.
Other electronic equipment intended for 12 volts.
How do I choose the right voltage converter?
The most important thing is to check the product’s current consumption and choose a converter that can handle the load.
Check the following:
Input voltage: The converter must be suitable for the vehicle’s 24-volt system.
Output voltage: It must deliver a voltage compatible with the equipment, usually 12 volts.
Maximum current: The converter must be able to supply enough amperes.
Power: The converter’s power capacity must be sufficient for the equipment.
Brief current peaks: Some products require considerably higher current for short periods.
Example
A product consuming 60 watts at 12 volts needs approximately 5 amperes.
A suitable converter must therefore be able to supply at least 5 amperes continuously, but it is wise to choose a model with some headroom.
For equipment with high or rapidly varying power requirements, such as powerful amplifiers, the converter needs to be sized particularly carefully.
Can I connect the equipment to one of the lorry’s batteries instead?
Drawing 12 volts directly from a single battery in a 24-volt system with two 12-volt batteries connected in series is not normally recommended.
This can create an imbalance between the batteries, affecting charging and shortening their lifespan.
A correctly sized voltage converter is normally a better solution.
Can I use a normal 230-volt inverter instead?
An inverter and a DC-DC converter have different functions.
A DC-DC converter converts DC voltage, for example from 24 to 12 volts.
An inverter converts DC voltage from the vehicle’s battery to AC voltage, usually 230 volts.
If you want to connect a normal 12-volt product to a 24-volt system, a DC-DC converter is normally the most suitable option.
What should I consider during installation?
Use cables sized for the load.
Make sure the installation has the correct fuse protection.
Follow the converter’s installation instructions.
Install the converter where it has sufficient ventilation.
Check that both the converter and connected equipment are intended for use in vehicles.
If you are unsure which converter is suitable, our customer service team can help you choose based on the vehicle’s voltage and the equipment’s power requirements.