Eh.. Instead of using the cigarette adapter every time, I had the grand idea of hardwiring the adapter to my car, so it'd free up my cigarette lighter. I snipped the cigarette adapter to the phone, which left two wires (+ and ground). I spliced them into the constant line that is always on as long as the battery is connected. The cell phone showed activity in regards to the adapter (it was charging), and then I began to smell something funny and realized that the phone was getting extremely hot. An electrician I am not.

What must I do in order to get this 'excellent' idea of mine to work?


[Modified by harrytg, 6:25 PM 5/27/2002]

 

Inside the cig plug you cut off, was likely a voltage regulator which converted the 12V to 6 or 9 volts or something. There could have even been some charge circuitry specific to your battery type.

You likely overcharged your battery. *Probably* didnt do too much damage if your battery is a nickel type (NiCd or NiMh). Lithium Ions generally dont like to be overcharged. You may want to replace the battery to be safe

 

I would have recommended soldering your supply power directly to the cig. lighter plug (to use it's circuitry). Rarely can you damage a battery by overcharging since it's the phone that controls what the battery gets... this means your phone might be toast!

 

My phone works fine, as far as I know. It was only 'charged' for a few seconds to make sure that it 'worked'. Thanks for the advice.

 

A word from the somewhat wise.

USE A FUSE in the line.

I once knew this guy who did an install with strobes and forgot to fuse his line and well he needed a new hood and motor. Evidently his car caught on fire.

 

hahah, well noted