Hi All,
I modified an old ATX 250W power supply to provide 5V and 12V for little projects. When I plugged my arduino into the 12V line, it worked fine, but the IC next to the power jack (I'm assuming the power filter) got real hot, real quick so I unplugged it. So my question...
Is it safe to plug a 12V power supply around 10Amps into the arduino? Or will this destroy (or significantly shorten the life span) of the arduino?
If it's that IC it's the voltage regulator which takes 7-12 volts and outputs +5. If the arduino was working and that got hot the switching supply may not be regulating which would place too much voltage on all of the power supply parts in the arduino.
This shows a resistive load on the +5V of the PC power supply to keep it happy. It even states that those supplies can be damaged without a load.
I highly suggest installing that resistor and also getting a multimeter. Then get an automotive 12V bulb and put it across the +12V supply and read the voltage with a meter. If it's 12+-2V it should be ok.