Here's a fun video that Jason Mitchell and I did back in 2012... of course a lot has changed since then and there SO MANY ways to trick-out your portable shelter, but I thought this would at least get the minds moving!
What do most people use for switches for the lights? I was thinking of getting a board that has light switches and USB ports. One of my questions is do I make a box or attach the board to my shelter? What is everyone's thoughts on this?
I used a single gang outlet box (may want to switch to a double to make wiring easier) with a blank cover plate and managed to fit 2 switches, a 12 plug, and a battery status indicator on it. I have leads that come out of the box to connect to a battery that sits clams battery bracket. I also ran the wire from my tube light through the pole so it is almost entirely hidden. Provides a clean look, doesn't take up space like a box does, and doesn't get in the way. I will try to post pics tomorrow.
12 v rocker switches seem to be the best. Go into an auto parts store and look over all the choices, then you can decide where to purchase from. Amazon sells them, ebay, auto parts stores etc.
Amazon sells small project boxes if you want another option for the box. In-line fuse from the positive off the battery is a good idea.
I apologize for the delay in posting these. I have another project taking up garage space and posting pics is a little more work than i anticipated. Let me know if you have questions. I do have a fuse inside of the box as well.
