I like the series zener idea. It just subtracts the unwanted voltage
without burning excess current. This is as simple as it gets.

>
> I was incorrect in stating NO power loss, what I should have said is
>...

The power loss in the zener is the zener voltage times whatever the
circuit draws. If the circuit draws nothing, the zener wastes nothing.
The only thing more efficient would be an actual power converter (ie
switching regulator).


>
> As far as getting a newbie into trouble, I assume that the kit comes
>...

Just make sure newbies understand that a zener is supposed to be
pointing the "wrong" way ;-)

- Ben

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