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I am trying to power my Arduino mini (which is connected to IR receiver and a relay board) . The idea is to hide the entire setup behind the electrical board including the power supply. I have hacked more than a few power adapters (ranging from Mobile chargers 5-7V to 12 V adapters)

This is what I understand from what I have read so far about arduino mini power supply.

1. I can power directly using Vcc pin if I supply 5V DC regulated.(not recommended)

2. I can power Raw pin by using 5-12V DC and the onboard regulator will take care of converting it. 12V is the maximum, I should not use 12V it can fry the regular if used for a long period as the on-board regulator is a linear one, so alot of heat.

This is what I understand from what i have tried so far about arduino mini power supply:

1. Dont connect power supply EVER to Vcc, it will harm the board. ALWAYS use Raw.
2. 12 V supply = puff. instantaneously. No more on-board regulator. Now that arduino mini only works if I connect it using Vcc. (the charger was rated 12V 500mA)
3. Connecting 5V DC (300mA) is heating the regulator alot.

I have connected the Relay and IR receiver directly to the Arduino mini. Pin 10-14 are used for the relays Ins and PWD 3 for IR output.

The mini works with these 5V mobile chargers but the amount it heats up scares me.
Any suggestions on what I should do.?

Also how much current consumption would be needed. I have tried using a 5V 300mA charger and 5V 700mA charger. Both work almost the same. Why?

I am a computer Engineer. And very new to Arduino and its magical world. Apologies for sounding like a noob.

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