GPS wired switched or always on

[mkjeld76]

I've got a GPS on it's way I'm asking how you have it wired up. Why straight to the battery always on would be better than on a switched source.

 

[chuckfz6ryder]

I hate coming out to a dead battery. If I wired anything straight to the battery, I would eventually leave it on and kill my battery.

 

[Motogiro]

Whichever way you go make sure you fuse it close to the source you tap into.

I have to do the same thing. I saw on another post where someone wire up a waterproof lighter socket to the inside of the fairing. Looked good and you might get some good info from searching posts under 'power outlet/lighter socket/gps etc.

Happy riding!

 

[Fz6Sa]

Got my TomTom wired to the tail light.

Since you normally take your GPS with you when you leave the bike, there should not be a problem with unswitched, - but if you are like me, - it's better to be safe than sorry

 

[mkjeld76]

Yes I had read all those post I'm going to install a switched relay fuse panel under the fairing with at least 1 powerlet socket. This forum is filled with awesome info which is usually my first step before working on the FZ. Being a mechanic my whole life and doing all my own maintenance I am a member of every forum pertaining to each of my vehicles what would we do without the wealth of information out there. :rockon: My brother has his gps wired always on which he like's because while he's stopped taking a break or refueling he can check things on the gps just wondering how many others do the same.

 

[mkjeld76]

I'm thinking of connecting it to switched easy enough to start bike up to check gps. It's a streetpilot 2610 my brother is mailing me for free he's been using a newer pilot and this was just laying around. I also have a Shad SH50 and rack on it's way can't wait to hit the Smokey's this spring.

 

[SANGER_A2]

You two options really. The safest is to wire it into a relay that is switched on by a point that only has power when the ignition is on like I did here.

The other option would be to wire it directly into the battery and include a switch somewhere on the live connection so you can turn it on and off when needed. This would be simplest but you have the risk of leaving it on over-night and finding you have killed your battery (and often, once they are completely discharged you have to buy a new one).

Either way, make sure there is a fuse on the live connection to the battery. Personally I would (and have) go with the safer first option. You can always use the GPS on battery for 5 minutes or turn the key to use it when not riding!

 

[ant_mb]

I have mine wired directly to the battery. In over a year and a half I've yet to kill the battery. I do take it off the bike when It's stored, but it stays on the bike while I'm out. I left it on the bike and powered on for a day and a half once and I had no problems with the battery.

I chose not to have it power down with a switch for a reason. Every time you stop and turn the key off the GPS turns off. If your like me that is really often on some rides, and can be a real PIA if your relying on it for directions. Personel preference I guess.