The device I have designed right now is powered by 5V. Of course arduino has a large range of inputs for Vin, but there are other factors in my device (like current-limiting resistors for LEDs) that rely on a 5V input.
I would like my device to sort-of "blindly" receive this voltage supply and convert it to 5V. BUT, a 5V power supply is a possibility in that range-- so, I've tried using the standard LM7805, but given a 5V input, it is underpowered and doesn't really produce a 5V output. Very frustrating. So besides a LM7805 what else can I use to get this done?
Try searching eBay for '5v USB step down'.
I have used a few of these in my Raspberry Pi wildlife camera projects:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DC-7V-24V-To-5V-3A-Step-Down-KIS3R33S-Module-5V-USB-Output-Converter-MI/142866289976?hash=item21437e9538:g:c9gAAOSw2yNbSNe5
I have some reels of cable for security cameras and 12v power supplies. When I put the Pi Cameras out in the garden, I can run a long cable and not worry about power drop because these will drop down to a steady 5v.
Boost - buck converter with a 5v output and in input range that includes the range of voltages you need.
A regulator like the 7805 can only reduce the voltage and needs a certain overhead to work, so with 5v in you can't get 5v out.
A buck converter reduces voltage and also needs an overhead to work.
A boost converter increases voltage.
A boost - buck converter can increase or decrease voltage so it doesn't matter if the input is below, at or above the required output it will deliver the voltage you need.