I have a subwoofer system 2 rockford subs and rockford amp /w underbody neons & interior neons, the neons go dim with high bass, what can I do? some people recommend a CAP, but will that only help my subs, not the neons?
help please
2007-01-08 05:17:55 · 8 answers · asked by ceresia_blade 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Audio
Something to consider...this is an example...
To calculate the current draw of an amplifier, multiply the number of channels by the RMS watts per channel (a 2 channel amp rated at 500 watts RMS per channel would be 1000 watts). Double it to account for amplifier inefficiency (1000 watts X 2 = 2000 watts), then divide by the average output voltage of an alternator, 13.8 volts (2000 divided by 13.8 = 145 amps). Since the average music signal requires about 1/3rd of the average power in a test tone, divide by 3 (145 amps divided by 3 = 48 amps).
This is an average approximation of current draw and it can go higher. So I would gather between *48 and 72 amperes for this example.
The alternator of a:
compact car is about 35 amps
mid-sized car is about 65-75 amps
SUV is about 145 amps
Calculate 40% of the amperes of the alternator you have now. This is the average current the car uses when running. Add this number to the approximate average current draw (*48) of the amps you calculate, and you will come up with the actual size of alternator you need.
If the number you come up with is the same as what your alternator supplies, you need to take no action.
2007-01-08 06:00:35 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A cap might help, because it will charge up, and give the amps going to your subs the power they need.
If you have a couple of bucks to spend, you can put a bigger battery, and a bigger alternator in your car, but you should probably still stick a cap in it just so you don't run down the battery.
If you do a little bit of research, you can wire your lights to where they are isolated from the sound system - definitely suggested.
2007-01-08 06:45:54 · answer #2 · answered by superfunkmasta 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
How much power is your amp pulling? It sounds like you need a second battery. If your amp is anywhere close to 1000watts max you need another one. Especially since you have multiple neons and subs/amp in addition to what your car is designed to power. A good rule of thumb is a battery per 1000watts. There are other possibilities, the battery is a more than likely your solution though.
2007-01-08 05:42:52 · answer #3 · answered by Chase M 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sparky is the truth.
Yeah you're probably overtaxing the charging system at points where your music hits really hard. Try the Capacitor first. It may solve the problem.
If not, you may want to look into an upgraded alternator and/or battery.
2007-01-08 06:15:50 · answer #4 · answered by BP 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The cap will help even out the spike in charge, which should keep your neons from dimming.
2007-01-08 05:43:14 · answer #5 · answered by kenny_scarface 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your engine is running you have a voltage drop, and your weakest link is probably your alternator. Make sure you have ample size power wire, and you have a good ground too. You might benifit from a capacitor 0.5 Farad for every 500 R.M.S. wattage you have from your amps.
2007-01-08 06:56:17 · answer #6 · answered by Bmc420 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are drawing so much power you are affecting other things on the vehicle. Upgrade the alternator to one big enough to handle the load.
2007-01-08 05:45:23 · answer #7 · answered by oklatom 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you will want something in between them and the potential furnish so the two you are able to turn them off or they simply activate while the automobile is on, in any different case they're going to consistently be on and could drain your battery.
2016-11-27 20:04:12 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋