Can I use a Thermaltake temp monitor in a car (12V)?

I need a water temp monitor to use with a HHO generator I am
installing in my car. It will monitor electrolyte temp. The
thermaltake PC water cooling temp monitor uses a standard white molex
power connector, so it uses 12V, 5V, or maybe both. It has a sensor in
an in-line "T" adapter. If the unit acutally uses only 12V, then
with the addition of a simple regulator to maintain 12V (From the
approx 14 v alternator output) I would think I could use it without
problem in the HHO installation going into my car. This is quite a
bit cheaper that an actual automotive *DIGITAL*water temp readout,
that is why I am hoping it can work.

geronimo wrote:
> I need a water temp monitor to use with a HHO generator I am
> installing in my car. It will monitor electrolyte temp. The
> thermaltake PC water cooling temp monitor uses a standard white molex
> power connector, so it uses 12V, 5V, or maybe both. It has a sensor in
> an in-line "T" adapter. If the unit acutally uses only 12V, then
> with the addition of a simple regulator to maintain 12V (From the
> approx 14 v alternator output) I would think I could use it without
> problem in the HHO installation going into my car. This is quite a
> bit cheaper that an actual automotive *DIGITAL*water temp readout,
> that is why I am hoping it can work.

Wouldn't the automotive one work up to and slightly above the
boiling point of water ? The Thermaltake one might not be designed
for that usage. The water cooling in the car, might also be under
pressure.

The temperature sensor in my car, appeared to have been a simple
resistive unit. At least the tech working on my car, tested it with
a multimeter, to see whether it was in the right range or not. It
turned out to need replacing.

The Thermaltake could do just about anything it wanted. It could be
a resistance to ground. It could be a voltage sender. Any amount
of active circuitry could be in there.

I suspect you'd have a few parameters and properties to check, before
making a substitution. You could end up with a large puddle under
the car if you don't :-)

Paul