On Dec 8, 2008, at 5:15 PM, solarwind wrote: > On Mon, Dec 8, 2008 at 8:00 PM, Peter Loron > wrote: >> Way too complex. Just put in one of the aforementioned SMPS chips and >> you'll be good. For example, you could run 3x or 4x AA cells, and use >> a buck-boost converter. That way you can efficiently use much more of >> the available energy in the batteries, regardless of your choice of >> alkaline or rechargeable. >> >> Or just run the kit for now on a 5v wall wart (or 7-12v one with a >> LM7805), and worry about adding battery capability later. >> >> -Pete > > Where can I get one of these SMPS chips? And these chips also waste > energy, probably just as much or even more than my design itself will > consume. > > ..::[ solarwind ]::.. Many companies make them including Maxim, Fairchild, Linear, etc. And no, they are very very efficient...potentially much more efficient than a fixed regulator like the LM7805. Study this: http://fairchildsemi.com/whats_new/power_solutions/600100.pdf -Pete -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist