This is my first project. I have purchased a LED sign that uses a C-Power10 control card and has 485 signal line (A, B, GND). I also have a RockBLOCK Switch/Sense which I wish to control this sign in a remote location where I can only get a satellite signal. I also have a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B.
I’m making sure I get all the items I need. Gemini (AI) is suggesting I use a Bidirectional Logic Level Shifter for the RockBLOCK connection to the Raspberry Pi. The critical point here is the voltage mismatch (5V vs 3.3V) for the serial data lines.
It is also suggesting a DC-DC Buck Converter but I was going to just insert into the 5V converter in the sign. Any help would be appreciated.
You may need a logic level shifter, just confirm that the RockBLOCK is ouputting on 5V as AI can guess voltage outputs without actually checking. If you do need a shifter, than something like this would be suitable Bi-Directional Logic Level Converter.
If your LED sign provides a stable 5V supply with at least 3A current capacity, you may be able to power the Raspberry Pi directly from it. However, Pi 4s can draw significant current, and voltage dips during communication with the RockBLOCK could cause crashes or data corruption. If you have a 12V power source available, this buck converter is a suitable option
