Re: HELP! can I tap power for vhf to run a stereo??
Yes and no. If they are the factory wires that came with your VHF, they are designed to carry the current for that piece of electronics equipment only so using those wires to also supply current to your stereo is not a good idea. If the wiring size is appropriate for the current of both units then in theory you can share the wire, but its not a good idea. Also, the shared line should have its own larger fuse or circuit breaker and each piece of equipment should have it own fuse as well.<br /><br />As a rule of thumb VHF is considered sensitive electronics and as such wants it be connected directly to a clean power source. In reality, the quality of VHF electronics can be really good, depending on your unit, and may be much less sensitive. Your stereo is not as sensitive, but the radio in it is. Bottom line: its not a good idea to share the pwr/gnds.<br /><br />Both units come enclosed in metal boxes for a reason. They will not meet standards for stray RF without them. They are specifically designed to NOT interfere with other electronics in close proximity to either unit. You should be able to mount them in close proximity to each other, as Sloopy mentioned.<br /><br />Something else to keep in mind, the electrically produced magnetic fields is not enough to have an effect on either unit; however, cumulatively it may affect your compass. Be sure to check for this if both units are install near each other and within 2 or 3 feet of the compass. Check the compass with power supplied to both units together.
