pic: IFI Charger Parts Layout

[Dad1279]

Note that this layout was based on the old schematic. It has been revised, and you need to add a third connection (J3) at output of voltage regulator.

[Matt Krass]

Those paths seem a bit thin, but that's just me, but how much current will they be carrying? It seems like they should be wider.

[Dad1279]

Good point. If etching a board I would make the paths wider. We did not make a board from this, the intent was to use it as an aid for laying out the parts on a breadboard. It is easier to visualize, and the 317 terminals are not intuitive.

[Matt Krass]

Originally Posted by Dad1279

Good point. If etching a board I would make the paths wider. We did not make a board from this, the intent was to use it as an aid for laying out the parts on a breadboard. It is easier to visualize, and the 317 terminals are not intuitive.

Ah, I see now. And yes those terminals are very non-intuitive, I can still smell the smoldering chip from last Saturday's mistake

Did you use point to point wiring or a solderless breadboard? While the latter is very easy I'd be afraid of it coming apart during normal robot operations, that'd be a lousy way to blow a breaker, having your charger fall apart!