3.3v line

jeroen · Post by **jeroen** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 6:42 am

Last night I came with a idea for 3.3v for the 3.3v line on the n64. I don't know if it would work but.. Ok heres the idea get a 5v regulator and resistor(s). Get the 5v regulator 7v or someting higer exc. Then use a resistor to get it to 3.3v. Don't know if it would work. So don't sue me for just giving an idea.

Edit:
Made a litlle diagram:

Whoot! My 80 post.

cowsgoquack101 · Post by **cowsgoquack101** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 9:53 am

I'd say just get a DC-DC converter from Texas Instruments. They have free samples. Instructions are in the topic FREE DC-DC CONVERTERS!!

jeroen · Post by **jeroen** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 10:00 am

I know but my quistion is wil this work?

Post by **marshallh** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 10:04 am

No. Resistors don't change voltage, they limit current.
The current draw of the n64 varies widely (Super Mario 64 may not draw much but Perfect Dark will) and therefore output voltage of the resistor will fluctuate.

Plus, the 7805-types are linear regulators, which are inefficient. The voltage difference between Vin and Vout is dissipated as heat.

Switching regulators on the other hand, are very efficient and don't waste much current. They are more expensive and harder to set up but they will work fine.
Take a look at National part # LM2670, and you can see how simple the circuit is.

EDIT: Yay my post count equals a 555 timer!

daguuy · Post by **daguuy** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 10:06 am

some people have done it but it has 2 main problems

1. it's extremely innefficient

2. the voltage fluctuates depending on how much current the N64's drawing

i'd say just get a dc-dc convertor. they're stable and very efficient

jeroen · Post by **jeroen** » Sun Jan 08, 2006 10:15 am

Ok thanks for the info.