Hi,
I'm fairly new with the arduino board. I want it to run on 13 Volt power supply (hoping it doesn't get too hot), but I'm not sure where to connect the power? To the little 2mm round connector or to Vin on the power connector? What is the difference between them.
Of course I looked up the text of the arduino board, but the difference between them is a bit unclear. I would prefer the Vin connector (as otherwise I have to find a 2mm connector).
The only significant difference is that the 2.1 mm connector usually has a series diode to prevent damage in case you connect the wrong polarity.
With Vin, you're on your own!
The only different between the external power in connector and the Arduino Vin pin is that the external power first passes through a series diode that protects the board from accidental reverse (negative) voltage. The Vin pin is wired after this diode and goes directly to the on board 5vdc voltage regulator input. So if you are sure that you have the correct voltage polarity you can input the source voltage to the Vin pin. Don't forget the ground for the external DC voltage source, it must wire to a Arduino ground pin.
Lefty
aha, that makes it clear.
thanks a lot guys! 