Status Update on Bee Tracker - Isolated DCDC Methods
I started using a 1W isolated DCDC converter that I bought online to get from the 12V battery to the 5V "USB" input of the Arduino Yun. My plan was to go from 12V-5V through an isolator, and then use a 5V regulator to clamp the voltage consistently at 5V. This is necessary to maintain the 5V rail for accurate voltage measurements (e.g. if the Arduino supply voltage goes low, the Arduino measurements are off - I know there is an internal reference voltage within the Arduino, but I had a 5V regulator handy, and I'm a EE by training, so sometimes these things are just mentally easier for me, since this is a hobby project). Using the 12V/5V Isolator to 5V regulator method has one critical flaw of course...that the 5V regulator needs at least 6V to operate properly. So, I just went online to buy a 12V-12V isolator, which I will feed into the 5V regulator - also I'm going with 2W components this time, just in case.
12V Arduino Applications
I have a hunch that there are other folks working in the 12V, "dirty power," world (such as solar, industrial or automotive) who may appreciate being able to protect their Arduino (or other hobby kit) from getting fried. From what I have seen out there, I have not been able to locate a cheap, easy to use isolated DCDC 12V to 5V converter boards. I have seen different DCDC switching boards, but those seem to be for applications such as drones, where the 12V battery is likely not undergoing any kind of crazy voltage swings as with solar. I'm wondering if anyone else has ever had this need?
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