Question

Can Arduino take 12V input?

Answer 1

Yes, an Arduino can accept a 12V input, but there are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Voltage Regulation: Most Arduino boards, like the Arduino Uno, have a built-in voltage regulator that allows them to safely take a 12V input through the "Vin" pin or the barrel jack. The regulator will convert the 12V down to the 5V needed to power the board.
   

1. Powering the Board: If you're using a 12V power source, connect it to the barrel jack or the "Vin" pin. The Arduino will automatically regulate the voltage to 5V for its operations.
   

1. Heat Dissipation: If you're using a 12V power supply, the onboard voltage regulator can get hot, especially if you're powering other components from the Arduino (like motors, sensors, etc.). If the regulator overheats, it could shut down or damage the board. To prevent overheating, you might want to use a 9V supply or use an external power regulator.
   

1. External Power: If you're running components that need a lot of current or high power, you might want to power the Arduino separately and not rely on the onboard regulator.
   

In summary, a 12V input is fine for an Arduino, but keep in mind the potential heat and current limitations.