Hello, I am trying to convert a 12V DC input into 5V DC output.
I have a few problems with the current design i have (notably the heat). I would like to try avoid using the LM7805CV regulator as this will be in a complete case with no external fans or heat vents (low power and low heat design).
Are there other simple small circuits i can use to downscale the voltage without building up a lot of heat.
power input: 12V 1A DC
power output 5V 1A DC (up to 5V 2A acceptable).
In a linear supply the heat is generated by the power dissipated in the voltage drop. In this case the drop is 7 volts and the current is 1 to 2 amps. That’s 7 to 14 watts which is a lot of heat. If the voltage drop is a given, then think about how much current you really need. The less current the less power and therefore the less heat.
The alternative would be to use a switching supply. They are much more efficient but at a higher cost and more components. They also generate electrical noise which may or may not be important in your application.
Without more details about what you are doing and what you really need it’s hard so suggest a more specific solution.
I do not work for SparkFun.