XM Satellite Install

bjac

Member
Jul 13, 2008
232
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Boat Info
2004 Sea Ray 320 Sundancer
Engines
Twin 350 Mag MPI 300hp w/Bravo III Drives
I installed an XM Satellite receiver today and got it running just fine. In order to power it I had to run into the 12V receptacle on the galley counter. My question is what is the best way to direct wire the 12v cable and avoid the receptacle on the counter. Can I simply patch into the 12v line going to the Clarion radio, or do I have to run a separate line?
Thanks!

SO3x5.jpg
 
Not sure what the amp draw is from the stereo but the Sirius units draw about 2 amps. If the breaker that controls the stereo is enough to handle the stereo and the satellite receiver amperage without popping, you're good to go. I believe most stereos have an in-line fuse behind the dash anyway (extra protection from circuit overload).

I'll get crucified for this but on a previous boat I tapped into the windshield wiper power source to set up a 12DC receptacle. I ran the TV off of it and charged my cell phone occasionally. Never popped the breaker but never watched tv while using the wiper either!
 
I just installed Sirius satelite radio this weekend on my boat. I hooked mine up to the 12v power source for the clarion radio. Haven't had a problem yet.
 
I just installed Sirius satelite radio this weekend on my boat. I hooked mine up to the 12v power source for the clarion radio. Haven't had a problem yet.

Did you just go direct wire to wire or did you have an interface. I've been told the 12V accessory plugin steps it down to 5V for the receiver but if you go direct it puts 12V to it?
 
If it's like my XM the accessory plug takes it from 12v to 5v. I bought a socket and a fuse from Radio Shack and wired it behind the radio. Secure it so it's not bouncing around and you'll be fine. These things draw very little power so you'll most likely be ok just running it off the radios power.
 
The newer Sirius radios seem to all work on 5.2v. My old ass Starmate 1 runs on 12V. I wonder if they step it down INSIDE the radio or at the plug (??) If you guys tapped right into the 12v source without the "cigarette lighter plug," I have to figure they reduce the voltage inside the unit.

Check the "specifications" tab here...

http://shop.sirius.com/edealinv/ser...0&catParentID=7875&scId=7875&oldParentID=7870
 

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