Anyone build an external power supply for their game camera?

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ImARugerFan

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I have a wildview xtreme 3, and I need to make it use a 12v power supply because it eats through batteries too quickly. Wildview sells a 12v kit, but it's $50. I figure I should be able to build one for a lot less. My plan consists of the following:

- 12v SLA Battery: $16
- Ammo can
- some caulk
- trickle Charger
- heavy duty plastic bag with zip tie (extra weatherproofing)


What I'm missing is the wiring. I don't know exactly what I need to run between the battery and the camera. There is a 12v plug on the camera, but I don't know what size to get. I should be able to solder/clip/rig wire to the battery terminals and then splice that with the plug.... I just don't know what size plug to look for. Anyone who might have done this, please let me know. I have everything I need to do this except the plug and the battery. So I figure for $20 I can have the whole setup, and it will likely be more weather proof than the $50 version that the manufacturer sells.

I just need to know what size connector I need out of these: http://www.partsexpress.com/webpage.cfm?webpage_id=3&SO=2&CATID=21&ObjectGroup_ID=114
 
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Sounds like a good idea
Take the camera down to Radiumshack and match the plug there. The diminsions given on the link are ID-OD-length and usually center contact is postive.








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Harbor Freight sells a 12V solar trickle-charger that works well on ATV & boat batteries- a little math factoring in the avg current draw (battery Amp/Hr rating/# hrs of operation) vs. charger output might give continuos operation without having to bring the unit in for recharging. If needed, additional panels could be paralleled for additional current.

The units sell in the $10 range.
 
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Thanks, I've heard of rigging them up, but usually I saw them in the $40 price range, and am skeptical as to how well they might work in the woods. For $10 it sounds like it might be worth a try even if it just extends the battery life a week or two.
 
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