I'm thinking to use several arduinos in a string of LIfePo4 3.6VDC cells connected in series. Each Arduino would be individually powered from each cell and dedicated to monitor the voltage of that battery cell.
Is there a way to communicate between the units either using I2C or SPI or will I have to go the long route and communicate wirelessly?
My concern is that the fact that the batteries are connected in series with each other will drive a current along the hardwired communication wires.
IR is also wireless! Other connections mean one or more of the Arduino grounds will touch another Arduino ground and you will have smoke. No matter what you do communication wise, you must ensure only one device transmits at a time.
This is what I was thinking as well, but don't know the inner workings of weather or not any of the communication means is potential free so to speak.
I think I'll go bluetooth or wifi in that case with the Arduino being powered by the battery itself. It's very large capacity cells so it will not be an issue.
I think this is great! My issue is that I'm stronger on the programming side and piecing together finished IC cards than making this schematic. I'm hoping I can find a few components to combine in a slick way to make it work.
