Asked
Multi-Voltage Power Adapter Options
Hello Roboteers,
I've been thinking about the power supply options for our projects, and it would be beneficial to have a power adapter capable of providing multiple voltage outputs, such as 6V, 8V, and 12V. This flexibility would be particularly useful since many servos operate at 6 volts.
In the past what I've done to get different voltages is to simply feed the robot with the highest voltage it will use with most of its devices. Then I'll use a DC to DC buck converter to lower the voltage to the other devices needed a different voltage.
For example, I have mainly ac to 12vdc power converters feeding my robot. Then I'll use buck converters to bring the 12vdc DC voltage down to what the other devices need. They make nice adjustable converters. Some even have a LCD screen so you can watch the voltage as you dial it in. Here's one example of something I'd consider using:
DC Adjustable Step Up Down Buck Boost Power Supply Voltage Regulator LCD Module