Hi,
I just want some confirmation that I can use Nano ESP32 to power an external IMU that requires 3.3V at 44mA.
Thinking of powering the Nano Esp32 via USB-C which is 5V. Then connect 3.3V pin to the IMU. It would be great if I can get some confirmation whether if this is a good practice.
Thanks
That is fine if the on board 3.3V regulator can easily handle the added load. Check the product specifications to see how much current you are allowed to draw from the 3.3V output.
According to the Nano ESP32 datasheet. I only found info about 3.3V Output pin in section 11.5:
"The 3.3 V pin is connected to the 3.3 V rail which is connected to the output of the MP2322GQH step down converter. This pin is primarily used to power external components."
Section 11.6:
"The GPIOs on the Nano ESP32 can handle source currents up to 40 mA, and sink currents up to 28 mA. Never connect devices that draw higher current directly to a GPIO"
Not sure whether if 11.6 is related to the current draw of the 3.3V output pin.
No, that is a limitation of the output pin, and you should avoid even approaching those absolute maximum limits.
I suspect that it is OK to draw around 50 mA from the regulator (but probably, not much more), and suggest to try connecting the IMU to the 3.3V pin.
If the regulator package does not become hot to touch, or shut down from thermal overload, it should be fine. The regulator is specified for 1 Ampere total output, absolute maximum, and the on board circuitry might draw about half of that.
It would be a great idea to press the Arduino company to publish these limitations. Their product documentation is lately getting worse and worse, as they prematurely push unfinished products into the market place.
Got it. Thank you for the thorough advices!
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