The Cobra CPI 480 is a 400-Watt power vehicle power converter. It plugs into a 12-volt DC vehicle outlet, such as that used for vehicle cigarette lighters, and converts the output to 120-volt AV and 5-volt USB. It has two outlets for 120-volt appliances and a single USB port.
It also comes with an optional set of cables allowing for a direct vehicle battery connection. The Cobra CPI 480 also has a number of protective features, including an external fuse, low-volt alarm, low-volt shutoff, thermal shutdown sensor, and reverse polarity protection.
Ease-of-Use – The Cobra CPI 480 vehicle power converter is very simple to use. If you want to plug it into the 12-volt socket of a vehicle, the included plug fits right in. In some vehicles, you might have to give it a slight jiggle before it makes a solid connection, but this is due to the nature of 12-volt DC vehicle sockets and is not fault of the charger. It also comes with a set of alligator clips so it can be connected directly to a vehicle battery.
Maintenance – There is no maintenance required for this charger. As long as the plug is not twisted or pulled unnecessarily, it will maintain its condition indefinitely. There is a cooling fan that comes on when under heavy load. It is reliable, but may require dusting/cleaning. This is a great little converter that will treat you right as long as it is not abused.
Dependability – The Cobra CPI works exactly as promised in most situations. Tests show that it will power a 500-watt device, over 100 watts above maximum, for a full minute before shutting down. On shut down, all that is required is to flip a circuit breaker, and it is ready again. This charger is only rated to be used for a maximum output of 150 watts when used in the 12-volt DC socket. Some users say it is only reliable with 100-watt devices or less and others have no problem with 150 watts. There are also some reports of units that are defective out-of-box. However, Cobra customer service is easy to work with.
Pros
• Plug-and-play simplicity
• Comes with 12-volt DC plug and clips for direct battery connection
• Two standard outlets and one USB outlet
• Wide working temperature range ( 0 to 80+)
Cons
• High rate of defective units
• Limited to 150 watts with the 12-volt socket