Specifications & Features
Features
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All of our Powerlet sockets are BMW compatible. Made from aluminum, they are machined in Germany. They will fit in stock BMW locations. Unlike cheap plastic sockets, our metal sockets provide a "snap" fit with the plug. NOTE: If replacing an existing cigar or cigarette plug on an existing appliance cord, verify that the cigar plug does not contain a voltage reduction circuit. Please verify this before cutting the cigar plug off your cord. Failure to do so and not verifying the operating voltage of your appliance may result in you burning up an expensive piece of gear.
Typical Applications
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Battery Charging
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Heated Vests
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Other Heated Clothing
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GPS Units
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Radar Detectors
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Cell Phones (requires cigar adapter)
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Camcorder
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Music Systems
Benefits
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One Hand Operation
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Snap Fit With Plug
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High Current Rating
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Will Not Scratch Paint Like A Dangling Cable
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Arguably Looks Better - Can Provide Stock Appearance
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Smaller Than A Cigarette Socket
Additional info
Cigarette/Cigar Lighter - This is your basic automotive type connector. Unfortunately there are no standards for the design of either the plugs or the sockets. Keep in mind this was never designed to be a connector; it was designed to be a cigarette lighter.
The connection between plug and socket can be intermittent or even non-existent. There is no standard to dictate how the plugs and sockets are manufactured. The sockets are manufactured in two popular sizes, 21mm & 22.2mm (inside diameter). Also while the center terminal is always positive, the design of the terminals can vary widely. These variables can cause a mismatch between the plug and the socket. Primarily it causes problems with loose or sloppy fits between the various manufacturers plugs and the socket.
Vibration must be minimized and 21mm sockets are highly recommended. Our experience shows that even well manufactured cigarette plugs & sockets have a tendency to vibrate out of the socket when mounted directly to a motorcycle frame or panel. We believe that the fused, "spring loaded" center terminal actually "pushes" the plug out. However, these are a very popular format and under the right conditions, they can work just fine.
Advantages: Popular, one hand operation. Many appliances are supplied with this type of connector.
Disadvantages: Big - it requires the most mounting space, problems mating plugs and sockets, not weather resistant, not reliable, not capable of high current loads like heated clothing.
Caution: Many cigar sockets are not capable of high current loads like heated clothing.