Power over USB whilst communicating with Xbee on Rx/Tx

I have an arduino micro linked to an Xbee Pro S2B via a 5V->3.3V regulator board. I am using this setup to prototype a wireless temperature node.

I was wondering if there is any way I can use a USB connection to my laptop for power whilst communicating with the Xbee over the Rx/Tx pins on the arduino? I am aware that serial communication would normally default to using the USB connection however I only want this for power, not for serial communication.

Is there any way to achieve this? If not I can just disconnect the USB and power via battery so it's not the end of the world!

Many thanks for your help :slight_smile:

Robin

It's fine. It's just power.

So I don't need to worry about clashes between serial ports?

Cheers

If you only use it for power, you are not using it for serial communication, hence no clash. Needless to say, it is wise to disconnect whatever is lurking on the serial pins when you upload the programme and debug it.