Suitable Battery Setup

1

Hi

I want to run an Arduino Nano, a 5/6V solenoid and this quad alphanumeric display ( ADA1911, on very low light) off a battery pack where I can replace the batteries. My thoughts are 4 AA batteries in a battery holder. Are there any limitations I’m not thinking of? It is something that’ll be used where common AA’s will be utilized.

Thanks for the help.

2

Hey Jake,

The problem is that the logic of the Arduino won’t supply enough current, or voltage to be able to drive your solenoid. You’ve got a few options for what you can use to control it, but a dual H bridge such as a L298 is usually the best way to go and can also regulate your power supply down to 5V for any other breakout boards.

Bryce
Core Electronics | Support

3

If I use a transistor for switching power from the battery to the solenoid that would also work?

4

Hey Jake,

Yes, as long as the ratings are high enough to match the voltage and current requirements.

Bryce
Core Electronics | Support

5

Looking at this one:

With a 4 AA battery pack to do it all.

6

Hey Jake,

Yes, if your transistor can handle 5V at 1.1A you should be good to go, make sure to overcompensate a little so that if there are shorts you don’t have any issues.

Bryce
Core Electronics | Support

7

Awesome thanks for the help. Now off to get work to buy the parts :wink:

1 Like
8

Hey Jake,

Sounds like a plan, have a great day!

Bryce
Core Electronics | Support