I am new to SFF computing. I live on a 40' sailboat with a large solar array and lots of 12V batteries. While sailing the computer receives data from the GPS, runs a real time navigation system, and provides control data to an autopilot. The system will run 24 hours a day while underway with only solar power (~480watts) to recharge the batteries (550 amp hours).
I know the max current draw for most components in the box. What I don't know is the average current consumption, watts or amps, while running a single program that writes a disk record every five minutes and receives GPS data every 5 seconds.
The SB51G will have a slow P4, 512MB, 60GB HD, CDRW/DVD installed. There is a 17" LCD and a wireless keyboard but I know the current draw for those components.
QUESTIONS:
1) What is the average long term current draw for the system I describe?
2) I will use a 300 watt modifed sine wave inverter to power the system. Will the SB51G powersupply be damaged by a modifed (square) sine wave?