One thing I do quite a bit of is testing and development on both the Arduino micro-controller and Raspberry Pi micro-computer. I have a few different test environments and they all use some sort of breadboard. When I’m using multiple controllers/computers, sensors and input devices, I need the breadboards to be powered. This can, and will, reduce the power burden on all the devices being used.
For example, when I testing an ESP8266/NodeMCU I need to power it and don’t want to over burden the circuits on my Arduino UNO board. I still have my Arduino UNO powered via the USB or separate supply in addition to the powered breadboard.
There are many places to order the same breadboard power supply I use. The actual brand you purchase doesn’t really matter. Just make certain to know the maximum current draw. Personally, I use the YwRobot 545043 power supply. I’ve never had one fail and you can get 5 of them for less than $10.
The YwRobot power supply accepts up to 12v input power. I use an AC to 12v DC power cable, rated at 2 amps. You can select 5v or 3.3v for each powerrail on your breadboard. This is especially handy because there are many devices (example – ESP chips and breakout boards) that only run on 3.3v.
Some Do’s and Don’ts
- Always make certain all of your devices are grounded together. Don’t mistake this for “all devices powered together”; you don’t want to do this or will damage your Aruino, sensors and/or input devices.
If you look closely you will see Raspberry/Arduino (bottom left) is powered by a separate power supply and the Arduino (upper left) with the DRDUINO test board atop also has its own separate power supply. There are two ESP8266/NodeMCU boards; one atop the (upper left) Arduino UNO and the other (on the breadboard) are powered by the 3.3v supply from the breadboard power supply.
- Most of these breadboard power supplies can only handle about 700ma current draw. Adjust and use multiple breadboards and power supplies if needed.
| MANU | DESCRIPTION | INPUT VDC | OUTPUT VDC | CURR DRAW | PRICE | FROM |
| JBtek | JBtek Breadboard Power Supply Module 3.3V/5V for Arduino Board Solderless Breadboard | 6.5 to12 | 3.3v and 5v | 700ma | $7.00 | Amazon |
| HiLetGo | HiLetgo 5pcs 3.3V 5V Power Supply Module for MB102 102 Prototype Board Breadboard | 6.5 to 9v | 3.3v and 5v | 700ma | $1.50 | Amazon |
Until next time!
