Introduction: BlackBox AddOn #1 - Alternate Power Input

By monoclecat.de
READ THIS FIRST: This is an add-on to the BlackBox project which can be seen here.



In this Instructable I'll show you how to add an alternate power input to your BlackBox, so your batteries don't go empty as quick.
With this add-on, you can take a wall adapter belonging to a battery charger or a cell-phone charger and use it to power your BlackBox. The wall-adapter must have a DC jack like the one in picture #2 .

Step 1: Only a Few Parts Needed:

For this add-on you'll need:
  • a DPDT (double poll double throw) toggle switch
  • a 2.1mm or 2.5mm female DC jack (depending on what size the male DC jack your wall adapter has)
  • female and male header pins (recommended)
  • wire

Step 2: Add the DC Jack

First, drill the hole into your box and add the DC jack.
I added female header connections to the DC jack.
I didn't do my insulation nicely... I bet you can do it better.

Step 3: Adding the Switch

Now it's time to add the DPDT toggle switch, so you can switch between DC-jack-power and battery power.

Step 4: Rewiring

Now we must rewire the switches. Here's how:
  1. Look at your switches, you should see something like in pictures 1&2 (pic #2 is a simplification of the schematic)
  2. Now desolder and solder your wires to the new switch so you get something that resembles pictures 3&4 (pic #4 will be easier to understand).

Step 5: Reconnect Everything

Last Step: Reconnect your header pins.

Step 6: Finished!

Now you can listen to music on your BlackBox without depleting the batteries!
Don't forget to only plug in voltages that your amp can handle (The voltage output of your wall adapter can normally be found on the back of it).


Please rate, comment and have fun!