>>Should I just use a standard 5V regulator? >> >> > >If you mean a linear-mode regulator, I wouldn't. Not when you're dropping 7V. >All that power has to go somewhere (heat!). > >Have a look at Roman Black's minimal-parts switchmode regulator - it's on > IIRC. Easy enough to add to an SMD board, as long as you >can get a small enough inductor. > > You DID recall correctly (http://www.romanblack.com/smps.htm) and that page is a real GEM! Amazingly simple and inexpensive circuits but also very efficient. Very cool. I like how he shows several adaptations of the circuit, cheapest, best regulation, best all-around. Nice site. Thanks! -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist