Machine27
Thought I'd post this just to help out.
Recently I was working with two Pololu 18/7 simple motor controllers and the EZ-B. After some configuration with the Pololu software I got the controllers working with the EZ-B.
I decided to try to calibrate the left controller as it didn't feel like the right while I tested it in the servo panel. After getting it calibrated again, I plugged it back in to D12 while the power was still applied to both the motor controller and the EZ-B. Simple, or so I thought. I missed the pin orientation on the servo (Motor controller) plug and shorted positive to negative. The 5a I/O regulator let out a pop and a cloud of smoke. No more 5vdc at the servo pins. The included fuse didn't blow first.
I unsoldered the LM1084 regulator and without paying close attention, order replacements. Here's what I learned: The regulator is availabe in several forms all bearing the LM1084 prefix. If this happens to you, make sure you order the LM1084-5. I ordered 10 of the LM1084-adj. Big mistake!
The versions:
LM1084-3.3
LM1084-5
LM1084-12
LM1084-adj
I had to reorder the correct -5 designation so my bot sits and waits again.
I hope this helps someone out there if they have the same problem.
Cheers!
Sorry to hear about your "smoked" experiance and then double bad about ordering the incorrect regulator......but thank you so much to post the caveats! an incorrect number ..or letter can make for a bad day what did the "adj" mean? and why wouldn't work?
The suffix "adj" stands for adjustable voltage and the circuit for this version is just a bit different. This has been a learning experience for sure!
The voltage output is variable based on the collector pin voltage I believe.