I'm working on a project using another user's code for Arduino based Ghostbusters lights and sounds for a proton pack prop.
I'm using an Arduino UNO, running into the Adafruit FX sound board for sound effects, running a bunch of neopixels lights for the lights.
I have the sound running from the FX board, into a 2.5w Class D amp into a speaker.
My question is, currently everything is just being powered by USB into the Uno from a computer. But, I'm gonna need the final product to be portable. My first thought was to use a USB power bank, but I've read that those will shut off unless they are getting a constant draw of 50ma or something?
Would all of the components I listed, actually give it enough draw to keep it from shutting off? If not, what other options for portable power sources do I have, that would be rechargeable, and last 6+ hours on one charge?
Get a meter (DMM) and measure the current draw while the circuit is working. With that information and the time between battry charges/changes you can know the capacity (mAh) required. Get a battery that has more than required. Manufacturers can kind of fudge their capacity specs.
NeoPixels draw 1 mA even when dark. No matter if using 20, but over 100 it will be noticeable. And if more than ten, you should not be powering them from the USB jack through the UNO, they should connect directly to the 5 V.
NeoPixels draw 1 mA even when dark. No matter if using 20, but over 100 it will be noticeable. And if more than ten, you should not be powering them from the USB jack through the UNO, they should connect directly to the 5 V.
I have 8 neopixel jewels, 2 x 8 LED neopixel sticks, 8 individual neopixels, and I will eventually have a 10 light yellow bar graph as well.
I don't have all of those connected yet, but that will be all of what is connected in the final. I have a USB cable going into the UNO right now, are you saying that I can't use the USB port + power bank to power this at all?
