yes you have to add a power inverter. If you want it permanent you can hardwire it to the battery. I would install in below the dash away from anything that should not get hot. The inverter will get warm but better be safe than sorry. Yah check ebay for a 300 watt unit this should be just fine for your use. Anything above 300 watts must be connected straight to the battery otherwise you will start to blow fuses. better off you hook it up the the battery any ways. use like 8 gauge wire, you can get it at a local car audio shop and make sure to run a fuse in line about 1-2 feet away from the battery. hope this helps.