Maximum current over Vin

Other Hardware Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
1

There is an old (read only) thread from 2010 about the maximum current over Vin and a 1A diode is mentioned:

http://arduino.cc/forum/index.php/topic,27480.0.html

Yes, the 12 volts will be avaible at the Vin pin. However the maximum current draw from this pin is limited by the series polarity protection diode on the board, which is generally a one amp diode.

Is this still the case in 2013 with an Arduino Uno (R3) or can I use more current--I need up to 1.5A.

2

Clemens:
There is an old (read only) thread from 2010 about the maximum current over Vin and a 1A diode is mentioned:

http://arduino.cc/forum/index.php/topic,27480.0.html

Yes, the 12 volts will be avaible at the Vin pin. However the maximum current draw from this pin is limited by the series polarity protection diode on the board, which is generally a one amp diode.

Is this still the case in 2013 with an Arduino Uno (R3) or can I use more current--I need up to 1.5A.

Still the case. You options are:

  1. Solder a jumper wire across the on-board diode, this will eliminate the current limit and polarity protection the diode gives. However it will work fine and I do this on some of my arduino boards when I want to use a 2 cell lipo battery.
  2. Use it as is at 1.5 amps as most diodes with 1 amp max continuous rating is at all voltage and temperature limits and most likely will operate at 1.5 amps. But of course you assume some risk when you do exceed a manufactures maximum specification ratings, so while I won't say you should do it, I would say you could do it, if you get my drift. :wink:
  3. Replace the diode with a 3 amp one.

Lefty

3

Thanks a lot for your answer and the elaborated alternatives to handle high current. I will try the "as is" approach and will measure my real current. 1.5 A is at paper so I think it will be worth a try. :wink: