> The original circuit (attached) has a separate Vcc (eg battery) but I'm > wondering if the Vcc for the ACS712 and associated circuitry can be > powered from the mains via a capacitor dropper. You'd lose the > isolation of course but for a self-contained sealed unit that wouldn't be > important If you use a current transformer you may be able to power any output electronics from it . You need a certain minimum current to get enough voltage to be useful OR charge a local battery when the output is high enough. . Russell --=20 http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist .