AC/DC Flat Panel tvs with built-in DVD player

I am seeking input from members with experience evaluating, purchasing and using small (15-19 inch) flat panel television sets that operate on 12V and 120v current. I prefer information about sets that incorporate a DVD player into the unit. Any suggestions as to preferred brands, models, and ways to conserve energy consumption while using one (other than leaving it shut off, thank you!) would be greatly appreciated.

Ken Parker, IP38-107
Priority
Hartford, VT

I'd be wary of the built in DVD players. When they break you either get an external one or pay an arm and a leg for the repair. So why not just go with an external dvd?

I've installed several Sharp LCD TV on IP's. The TV's use a 120vac power cube which provides 12vdc and are easily converted to direct power via the boats DC system. I have also converted several of the cheaper DVD players sold by Walmart (Cyberhome, etc) from AC to strictly DC. The DVD players have a switching power supply internally that convert 120vac to 12vdc and 5vdc. By installing an inexpensive 12vdc - 5vdc sitching supply and wiring the 12vdc portion of the unit directly to the 12volt boat supply you can eliminate any conversion from AC to DC to power these devices. Size of the TV also increases the power required to display the picture - so a resonable size for most IP's (not the newer ones) would be 15 - 19". Anything larger than that in my opinion is a waste and not practical on a cruising sailboat anyway - megayacht maybe - but not the average IP.

Purchase of a combo unit - is also not a wise idea - usually the first thing to fail is the included device (DVD, VHS, etc) and you are left with the larger device with the disfunctional part, still consuming some additional power, and then faced with the addition of the external player!

The conversion from AC to DC wastes an amp or two - not much - but when you are on the hook a few more amps each hour adds up.

Wherever possible we make it a point to go with native 12volt DC devices, be it the TV, DVD Player, ships computer, etc., wherever possible.

Bobby

350-57 Gra'inne

I have used a Skyworth 19" tv/dvd combo for two years now without incident. This is a link to the 22" model which was not available when I bought my 19. There are "Marine" models available as well.
Be careful how you plug in the power cable. I did it wrong and blew the power supply, but the manufacturer graciously replaced the unit free of charge.

roadtrucker.com/12-volt-lcd-tv-dvd-wides...sonic_12_Volt_TV/DVD