well i've run my laptop continuosly over the last four months with a usb
gps plugged into it and a usb cordless mouse & keyboard. i only have 3
batteries & an 80w solar panel. (also run hf/vhf/radar/lights etc) i
usually have the battery removed from the laptop, use either an inverter
or a dc adaptor and the only time i ever notice a problem is if i'm
watching dvd's on it without a break between them. in your case i'd expect
the external lcd panel would be almost compensated for by having the
laptop lid closed.

cheers
bruce

On Sun, 07 Nov 2004 11:02:09 -0800, Paul wrote:

A lot of good suggestions here. Keep an eye on the power consumption --
what you can handle depends on the application, of course. I do occasional
long-distance sailing passages, have a big battery bank, 300W of solar
panels (in a non-optimum configuration), and no generator (other than the
diesel alternator) for charging, so every amp counts. I would love to put
an external LCD and keyboard on my laptop, but I am concerned that the
additional power drain would be a problem. Most chassis-based computer
systems seem to draw even more power, although it is hard to tell from the
specs. Max power is not the same as typical power drain.

-Paul
S/V VALIS -- PSC44 #16


"just me" wrote in message
news:_Xaid.361334$D%.112227@attbi_s51...
I need to purchase a laptop to keep on my boat while cruising and living
aboard.
I'm concerned about moisture and salt air.
Any advice and recommendations appreciated.
Thanks, Jay