# Input current consumption for dc-dc converter **URL:** \ **Category:** DIY\ **Tags:** orion\_dc-dc\_convert, vehicles, beginner\ **Created:** [1 October 2024 02:46 UTC](https://community.victronenergy.com/t/input-current-consumption-for-dc-dc-converter/5865 "2024-10-01T02:46:18Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 4\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Yamaha](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/y/74df32/32.png) [@Yamaha](https://community.victronenergy.com/u/Yamaha)\ **Post date:** [1 October 2024 02:46 UTC](https://community.victronenergy.com/t/input-current-consumption-for-dc-dc-converter/5865/1 "2024-10-01T02:46:18Z")
Hey guys, im looking into the orion 48/12-30amp dc-dc converter but cant find anywhere in the specs the current consumption at max dc load? Only at ‘no dc load.’ My question is because i have a 48v 8amp output available that i want to use to supply the orion 48/12-30 converter but not sure if the 8amps at 48volts is enough for it? I only have basic knowledge of dc-dc converters so any help would be much appreciated. Cheers ---
**Author:** ![M\_Lange](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/victron/user_avatar/community.victronenergy.com/m_lange/32/16_2.png) [@M\_Lange](https://community.victronenergy.com/u/M_Lange)\ **Post date:** [1 October 2024 03:45 UTC](https://community.victronenergy.com/t/input-current-consumption-for-dc-dc-converter/5865/2 "2024-10-01T03:45:44Z")
The output power is 360W. This power is also needed at the input+ conversion loses. The datasheet says it has a efficiency of 87%, that means the input power is something around 414W. 414W at 48V is 8,6A. ---
**Author:** ![JohnC](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/9de0a6/32.png) [@JohnC](https://community.victronenergy.com/u/JohnC)\ **Post date:** [1 October 2024 04:41 UTC](https://community.victronenergy.com/t/input-current-consumption-for-dc-dc-converter/5865/3 "2024-10-01T04:41:55Z")
I use a 48/12 - **20** converter and it’s input is measured with a Smartshunt. When first switched in it peaks at ~300W for a few minutes. That’s with ~50V, so 6A. Translates to 9A for your 30A unit. When the Smart Orions were introduced there were a few complaints on this forum that they were producing more than their rating. People were buying them also as a limiter. Victron admitted that they were a ‘best effort’ output, but would derate when the heatsink warmed a bit. They were to correct that, but I don’t know if that was ever extended to the Converters. Maybe your 8A supply will just V-sag a little if exceeded. The Orion can handle that, maybe your power supply can too?. ---
**Author:** ![Yamaha](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/y/74df32/32.png) [@Yamaha](https://community.victronenergy.com/u/Yamaha)\ **Post date:** [1 October 2024 09:17 UTC](https://community.victronenergy.com/t/input-current-consumption-for-dc-dc-converter/5865/4 "2024-10-01T09:17:32Z")
Ahh ok cool thanks guys, so these need to have enough input current to provide the stated output current! That makes sense.