Installing Arduino outdoors (enclosed, covered area) that will be powered all the time and wanted to see if the powering with the voltage regulator was a good idea (I have number of other options but this seemed an elegant solution because I have 12v supply already right next to it):
Power requirements: Arduino, transistors, and TFT 2.8" (screen few hours at a time but mostly just a transistor or two). So, power consumption will be minimal. The location is in Atlanta, GA where it can get up to 100f (35c) during the summer but will have heat sink.
Question: Would it be OK to use voltage regulator (L7805CV with heat sink) from 12v as a permanent power source be OK or are there any other considerations?
I would use a switching mode DC DC converter (buck converter) to drop 12V to 5V. The linear 7805 regulator must drop 7V and dissipate that power as heat (hence a heat sink). The buck converter is much more efficient.
The 7805 may be a better choice, only, if an analog to digital converter is used and the switch mode supply adds noise. Otherwise, I would always choose the buck converter.
Thank you! I also have a regular outlet nearby. Would it be better to use the USB charger from good manufacturer (I would still just pull the wires and connect directly to 5v on Arduino (don't have space for USB plug).
Would a quality USB wall charger provider "better quality" 5v vs. buck converter?