I've installed a 433MHz door sensor in my car to automate my home door locks. The sensor specifically requires 12V to function, but it's super sensitive. If my car's system delivers more than 12.5V, it risks breaking, and in the winter, my car battery can dip down to 11V, which also damages the sensor. How can I reliably provide it with a steady 12 to 12.5V DC?
3 Answers
You might want to think about using a buck-boost converter. This device can adjust the voltage to keep it steady at 12V, regardless of variations that might come from your car's electrical system. Pololu has some good options, like this one: https://www.pololu.com/product/4984.
Another route could be to switch to a lower voltage sensor that operates on 9V, 5V, or even 3.3V. You can use a 3-terminal regulator chip to keep the voltage steady at the required level.
Just a heads-up, many DIY wireless systems and voltage regulators can drain your car battery if the transmitter stays on while the ignition is off. It could last anywhere from a few days to several weeks based on power draw.
No worries—this sensor only draws power when the door is opened. I explained it in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6lQkBuww6o.
Amazing! Thank you for the suggestion.