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If using servos, a separate 5V power source needs to be connected to this connector. Though servos typically operate on 5V, they cannot be operated off the same supply as the 5V logic due to the electrical noise that they create which can create erratic behavior of the logic circuits. There is a separate screw terminal labeled ‘ Servo PWR‘ for connecting power to any servos that are being used with the board. The 5V power is also fed to a 3.3V linear regulator to provide 3.3V to the XBee connector and 3.3V general purpose output header. This provides clean power for connecting sensors to the A0 – A5 inputs. The 5V from the DC-DC converter is also made available on the 3-pin headers next to the analog inputs along with ground connections. The DC-DC converter provides the important function of creating electrical isolation between the electrically noisy motors and the noise sensitive logic circuits. The VIN input is also fed into a DC-DC converter circuit that drops it to 5V to supply power to the logic circuits on the board. This is typically in the 6 – 9V range if using batteries. The VIN power is applied directly to the L298 motor controller for driving DC and stepper motors so the VIN voltage is normally tailored to whatever is required to drive the DC motors. There is nothing in the circuit that would indicate this is an actual issue and we have tested the board to 20V input with a USB cable connected without noting any problem. You will see warnings on some websites that if you are using a VIN voltage greater than 12V that you must ensure you turn this switch off before connecting a USB cable to avoid damaging the Romeo board. That was Skynets big mistake – forgetting to include an ON/OFF switch This is handy for killing power to save on battery power or in the event of a robot that is trying to take over the world. When switched OFF, this disconnects the VIN input from the rest of the board. The board has a main power ON/OFF slide switch next to the VIN terminals. Ensure you have the polarity correct before applying power. Note: There is no reverse polarity protection on this connection. Power on this connector can range from 6V to 20V and can be provided using batteries or an external power supply. The main board and DC motor power typically comes in on a screw terminal labeled 6-20V VIN. To use the board with motors, an external power supply must be connected to the VIN terminal input. When using USB power, the board logic circuits are powered up and it can be programmed and debugging can occur, but the motors cannot be driven. Use some care when plugging and unplugging the cable to not pull up on the connector to avoid possible damage.
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This board uses the small micro USB connector so ensure you have one on-hand. Board PowerĪs with any Arduino, power can be supplied via the USB connector.
#Arduino leonardo board software
To make things easier, we download and test using the software below and leave it in the board when you get it. Be sure to pay particular attention when hooking up power. It can be a handy platform, but also a bit overwhelming if you are new to Arduino. This platform packs a lot into a small space. It is based on the Arduino Leonardo ATmega32U4 chip and should be programmed using the Arduino Leonardo board selection in the IDE. The board provides an all-in-one solution for driving motors and handling sensors.
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This board is a clone of the DFRobot Romeo V2.2 board. 6-20V input power or powered via USB connection.
#Arduino leonardo board plus
#Arduino leonardo board serial
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