BL> A series regulator loses about a volt before it starts to work.
BL> Forget it. There's sure to be a regulator inside the VCR
BL> already (the same as the TV). 

DD> The TV runs off 12V (is came with a 240 to 12v SMPS). It
DD> doubles as an LCD computer monitor. 

 I meant that there'll be *another* regulator inside the DVD and TV
(the same as they use a series regulator on top of the internal power
supply to run the CPU in a computer).

BL> If you're worried, take the lid off, find it, and put your
BL> finger on it. If the flesh doesn't sear, it's okay.

DD> I am not pulling the case off this thing!

DD> It is about the footprint of a CD walkman, but a bit taller. If
DD> I open it up I'll guarantee I'll never be able to squeeze the
DD> case back on. 

 In that case, don't even think about taking the lid off. And you
have just answered the question of it using 3A... there is no way
it can dissipate 20W within that size and not glow cherry red.

DD> The body is plastic but the underside is metal. I would think
DD> that would be acting as some sort of heat sink, I'll feel that
DD> when I get it going. 

 The dear little thing...

Regards,
Bob

--- BQWK Alpha 0.5