Switched power in a truck refers to an electrical system that only provides power to certain components when the truck’s ignition is on. This helps conserve the battery, increases safety by ensuring essential systems are operational when needed, and simplifies maintenance by reducing constantly powered circuits.
Essentially, it’s a smarter way to manage your truck’s power usage.
The 2023 Ford F-150 is equipped with a variety of on-demand electrical power points sufficient for powering devices like laptops, smartphone and tablets. The vehicle is also capable of charging tools and running small appliances, such as portable fridges.
USB Ports: Multiple USB ports, including USB-A and USB-C options, located on the dash, in the front console, in the center storage bin and rear seats.
12V Outlets: Available in the center storage and rear seats of the truck for powering various accessories.
110V Outlets: Providing 400 watts of power there is one each on the front dash, rear seats, and near the tailgate in the truck bed.
Installing a new 12-volt device, such as a Uniden BearTracker 885, will require access to direct 12-volt power. One can certainly opt to run their own direct fusible link to the battery – I however prefer switched power. My research finds switched power available in the cab as described below.
On the 14th generation Ford F-150, you can find a 12-volt power source beneath the dash by tapping into the white/blue wire in the connector C2280F. This wire is located in the driver’s side footwell and is connected to the wiper relay and trailer tow relay, providing power only when the key is in the run/acc position.
Here is a wiring diagram.
