POWERING the 16*32 RGB MAtrix AND the arduino

[Quizz]

Hi there !

I'm looking up a way to wire both my arduino Mega (7 -12 v) and the very enjoying matrix. I really would like to plug both on the same batteries (without using a wall plug) so my question :

What would happen if I plug both my arduino and the matrix to a little battery, for example 7V ? is the matrix going to be damaged ?

thank you for your attention.

[adafruit_support_mike]

I don't think the 16x32 panel has a voltage regulator, and most CMOS logic is specified for 6.5v as an extreme upper limit. There's a good chance that connecting the matrix to a 7v supply would damage it.

If you want to use a single battery pack, I'd suggest using a UBEC like this one for the matrix power: https://www.adafruit.com/product/1385

[Quizz]

Thank you for your quick response !

So a 6volts supply would work ?


Otherwise, I'm going to look for an equivalent of your UBEC product. But I'm living in France, and my last order was too expensive (50 $ of tax and deliveries) to order often...

[adafruit_support_mike]

I can't make any guarantees. 6v might work most of the time, but a voltage spike larger than 0.5v could take the supply voltage high enough to kill a chip. It's best to run devices at their recommended level.

WRT non-US purchases, check our distributors page: http://www.adafruit.com/distributors/ You may be able to get our hardware from someone closer.

[Quizz]

Thank you again !

very smart service here !