View Single Post
  #3   Spotlight this post!  
Unread 30-11-2015, 22:34
orangemoore orangemoore is offline
Registered User
AKA: Roger Moore
FRC #3135 (Robotic Colonels)
Team Role: College Student
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Rookie Year: 2013
Location: Chicago
Posts: 2,307
orangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond reputeorangemoore has a reputation beyond repute
Re: Neopixels & regulators

Quote:
Originally Posted by AndyB871 View Post
So We're toying around with the idea of using Adafruit's neopixels for some fun projects this year, I know other teams have done similar things, and I'm also aware of the rioDuino MXP widget.

That being said, I'm concerned about total current draw and where to source that current. The large neopixel strips can draw upwards of 4 amps. The VRM can only source 2A, Plus the neopixels are finicky about having a common ground between the data signal and power supply.

My Question is this:
If we were to use an arduino as a coprocessor to control these strips, does anyone have any reccommendations for legal 12V-5V >4A DC-DC regulators? Ideas how to ensure that power supply ground & arduino DIO ground is connected?

I'm a Comp-Sci Guy, I've only lightly dabbled in EE, so while I "understand" this stuff, I'm not as fluent as Id like to be (obviously)

Thanks!
Try the old KOP 12v -> 5v converters. Those things should work just fine and you should probably have some lying around not being used.
http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-0899.htm

EDIT:Ninja'd
__________________
Stronghold


Student 2013-2016
3135 -- Robotic Colonels
3507 -- Robotheosis (FTC)

Last edited by orangemoore : 30-11-2015 at 22:35. Reason: Not Fast Enough!