So, I started off with one visor monitor and an n64 in my trunk, I want to take it farther. Im installing an xbox 360 and 3 more monitors (other visor and headrests). I have a few questions. I ordered a 400 Watt power inverter because the 140 watt one I have now that runs of the dc outlet is not enough. The 400 watt one requires a strait line to the battery. How do I make it so that it can not run while the car is off? That is the only thing im worried about. Also, Im not taking power for any of the monitors from the battery, just the fuse box on those..

 

Use a switch.

 

Thats very clearly not the answer im looking for.. I would not have asked the question if I wanted to use a switch.

 

Run a relay rated for that amount of power running through it that's triggered by the switched cigarette lighter's power wire.

Or plug the thing into a real HDTV at home instead of 7" low-res headrest... cars are not your living room.

 

I have another one inside hooked up to my TV.. I dont need this one for that! and Its fun, I like it, and its a good project. Plus its a dvd player, and im going to try to get some kind of media setup going on it. Thanks for the advice of the relay

 

No problem.

Disagreeing with what you want to do and giving good advice are not mutually exclusive... Just don't do anything you can't un-do and return to stock when you decide that a rolling living room isn't what you bought.

 

I already know that, the reason why Im doing it is because I do electronics related projects in between big purchases for the car. I have already done so many things that are irreversible (ie monitor in the visor) but hey, it has a backup cam too!