Hi, Can the NanoPi NEO Air be powered from an external 5V PSU via the GPIO connectors? For example, supply power via pin 4 (VDD_5) & pin 6 (GND) instead of via the USB port. Looking at the schematic seems to imply that it should be possible but I just want some confirmation. Regards, Matt
I power the NanoPi (original) externally. However, I have a 1A fast blow fuse, a power supply that will not put out more than 5.0V and an external 5V6 power Zener to ground. The NanoPi also has an on-board 5V6 Zener on the VDD_5V line. And a fuse in series with the microUSB power. However, the schematic for the NEO AIR (page 8 and around the Q1 area) does not show the "on-board 5V6 Zener" or anywhere else on the VDD_5V line. I don't see how the NEO AIR provides any protection for over-voltage. Perhaps, they rely on microUSB voltages never being more then spec. The RaspberryPi Model B+ is similar to the NanoPi so you will find comments about external powering on their site.
should have said ... the RaspberryPi Model B+ microUSB to VDD_5V circuitry is very similar ...
Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. BTW: I'm looking to power the NEO AIR using a LiPo and an Adafruit PowerBoost 1000C via the GPIO port so I still have the USB OTG port available to control a USB device, which is its self powered separately. Thanks again, Matt
Hi, I would try something similar but whithout a PowerBoost. As the card seems to work with 3.3V, someone knows which could be the lowest usable voltage on 5V pin ? To use directly with Lipo or 3xNiMh cells if possible Thanks Mike
Ah, ok, will give that a go. Thanks Mike. Regards, Matt