Key Cutting Machine Hack | Don't have enough power to do the job? No Problem!

Let's discuss 12-volt key machines or alternatives to them. Now, I understand that there is a market for 12-volt key machines. I believe it is much smaller than we think, and I have always advised people to stay away from them. I'm aware of the advantages, as I'm sure you are, but I'd like to discuss how to use standard 110-volt key machines in situations where you believe you may require a 12 volt.

Now, these situations can arise for a variety of reasons; perhaps your inverter and van have failed; maybe you're between service vehicles, or perhaps your service vehicle is in for repair or maintenance, and you still have jobs to complete. Perhaps you typically work in a shop setting. Still, you find yourself in a situation where you need to go out to a location and cut a bunch of keys and possibly rekey some locks, but you lack the necessary power or are unsure whether you have the energy required. Thus, in each of these instances, I'd like to offer you an unconventional key cutting machine solution. I'll leave that up to you to decide.

As a result, my solution is to use a jump box equipped with a built-in power inverter, such as this one. Primarily if you perform lockouts or make keys for automobiles, this is something you should already have in your van, and getting one with an integrated inverter like this one is the way to go.

Now, because this has a 300-watt power inverter and the Flash 008 key machine requires only 130 watts to operate, we have plenty of power on this. I ran it for a while, and it barely touched the battery, and it's straightforward. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to cut some keys but lack power, all you must do is turn on your box, plug it in, and start cutting.

That is my solution - using a jumper box equipped with a built-in power inverter, such as this one. Now, you must verify ahead of time that the built-in inverter has the appropriate amount of energy or watts to operate the key machine or machines that you require.

I'm interested in hearing your thoughts in the comments section below. Additionally, inform me of any additional solutions that others may be aware of that they can use if they find themselves in a situation similar to this one. We appreciate your time and will see you next time!