Hello, im using a MEGA 2560 and RAMPS 1.4 for my DIY 3D printer. My power supply outputs 12v which powers the RAMPS, however it does not power the arduino. Upon troubleshooting I notice that my regulator does not output 5v to the arduino. I was told that I can power the RAMPS(power by PSU) and Arduino(power by USB) separately but I have to remove the damaged regulator from the Arduino or the diode from the RAMPS. i WANT TO CONFIRM if this solution is fine. Thank you.
A lot depends on your soldering skills. the Arduino will run fine with out the regulator but it requires 5V eigher from the USB or an external source. If you supply it with just a bit over 5V you probably will have a fried Arduino. As far as the RAMPS I do not have a clue.
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12V on the Vin pin to a Mega puts the onboard reg under a lot of thermal stress (gets HOT!) The Arduinos are not power supplies. They need ~200mA for themselves and thats about all the Vreg can handle at 12V on Vin pin.
You can feed a nice, clean 5v in on the +5V pin to power the mega independently.
The 12V power to the IO devices is independent of the mega's +5, but usually will share a common ground.
You do not have to unsolder anything from your mega.
Only feed the mega from one power source at a time. Unplug it from the power source when using the USB, or put a switch in the RED USB wire like this:
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Thank you!!
Oh I see, I'll try this. Cheers!!
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