Mini RC step-down

[atmaturen]

Is it possible to run the mini-rc controller off the standard 12v battery with a step-down converter, and if so does anybody know of one which would work? Also, can we use a spike on the mini?

[Joe Johnson]

Originally Posted by atmaturen

Is it possible to run the mini-rc controller off the standard 12v battery with a step-down converter, and if so does anybody know of one which would work? Also, can we use a spike on the mini?

Mini-rc = VEX ? Mini-rc = Isaac? Please explain and we will try to give you an answer that makes sense.

Joe J

[eugenebrooks]

Originally Posted by atmaturen

Is it possible to run the mini-rc controller off the standard 12v battery with a step-down converter, and if so does anybody know of one which would work? Also, can we use a spike on the mini?

We use the LM350T voltage regulator to operate an EDU-RC on 12 volt power. The digikey part is LM350TNS-ND that includes short circuit and thermal protection. The output voltage of this regulator is set with two resistors, one fixed at 120 ohms and one adjustable in neighborhood of 570 ohms if you want 7.2 volts out. We use a 1K adjustable resistor, as I recall. Refer to the data sheet that you can get from digikey by looking up the part.

The regulator is capable of handling up to 3 amps, but you have to deal with the power dissapation requirements of your current load (4.8 volts times whatever the load current is) by mounting the regulator on a suitable heat sink. Don't forget to insulate the mounting and use heat sink grease on both sides of the mylar insulator.

If you have a different mini-controller that requires a different voltage, adjust the 1K pot until you get the right voltage.

Legacy documentation for the EDU-RC indicates compatibility with the spike relays. The current documentation does not, but it would be hard to imagine that IFI had made them incompatible. If you are using a different mini, as queried by Joe, your mileage may vary.


Eugene