3.6v regulation

[barkerben]

Ok -I may in fact run most of the circuit off 3.3v, with the GSM off a seperate regulator, as the first section with just GPS and LCD is going to be ready first, and the system is modular.

3.6v seems a really annoying voltage - non standard and a pain to generate :-)
I could use a variable output voltage switching regulator, as you suggested.

Will look into it,

Cheers,

Ben

[barkerben]

Came across: LP2966

Single chip, provides 3.3 and 3.6v outputs, with up to 150mA on each.
This isn't enough for the GSM module, but if I'm only reporting position via GSM every so often, I could possible use the regulator to charge a capacitor, and then the capacitor to drive the module. As long as the module is off a lot more than it is on, this should work...

Ben

[Ron Marcus]

Came across: LP2966

I could possible use the regulator to charge a capacitor, and then the capacitor to drive the module. As long as the module is off a lot more than it is on, this should work...

Ben

Unless that cap is relatively gargantuan, it won't work. If you don't have size issues, get a higher voltage battery pack (8 AA's?), and use a step down adjustable regulator. Set it to 3.5 volts. You will be amazed at the capacity. Many of these gems run at 95% efficiency, so drawing an amp at 3.5 volts will only draw 300 mils at 12 volts. This as opposed to running a linear regulator which will draw an amp, and become a circuit board warmer!

Hope this helps,
Ron