Device drawing more than spec'd current, damage?

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Illuminum3415
 
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Joined: Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:11 pm

Device drawing more than spec'd current, damage?

Post by Illuminum3415 »

In the past [and currently] I have been using a few high powered LEDs to make USB powered lights in an effort to integrate my desk lamp into the computer [the hard way of just buying another current tap]
Several prototypes were made and I'm running this particular one on my minty to drain cr123A cells
Image

Its capable of drawing 500ma and the max756 chips getting pretty warm compared to running single LED at ~200ma. warm, but touchable over a duration of 30 minutes...around the hour it was hot to the touch. the batteries are also pretty warm.

my question: is the current draw of the device pulling too much current from the minty thats causing the excessive heat? And will this extra heat kill the IC or any components over a period of time shortening its life?

adafruit
 
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Joined: Thu Apr 06, 2006 4:21 pm

Post by adafruit »

its certainly not 'good' for chips to run so hot... im pretty sure the max756 efficiency tanks at 500mA. the chip was meant to run at 100-250 or so...id suggest spec'ing a different chip that is happy at such high drains

Illuminum3415
 
Posts: 21
Joined: Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:11 pm

Post by Illuminum3415 »

thanks!

where might be a good place to stat the research?

adafruit
 
Posts: 12151
Joined: Thu Apr 06, 2006 4:21 pm

Post by adafruit »

check out the websites for linear tech, maxim, texas instruments and national.

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