The datasheet located includes two different input voltages for the balenaFin. I just want to verify that both are correct and that there are no mistakes before designing a power system. Currently it lists the Phoenix connector as 6-30V and the Barrel connector as 6-24V; however, the same document also lists a maximum of 24V in the General Specifications table.
As my power supply will include the extra couple of volts to maintain a 24v SLA battery system, it is important to verify whether the balenaFin powered by the Phoenix connector can indeed handle up to 30V.
Secondly, is the value of the input voltage going into the balenaFin’s power module accessible in software anywhere? It’d be nice to be able to log it.
There was indeed a typo on the Phoenix connector. The Fin certified voltage range is 6-24V for sustained power input. It has been now corrected and updated.
In case of lead acid batteries, since they exceed 24v temporarily, they will work with the current setup.
There is currently no support for software voltage readings. There are some available ADC HATS that can be used for that purpose.
Thanks, unfortunately I would not characterize the higher voltage as temporary. Since the battery will mostly be in a constant state of full charge, the voltage will be around 26V most of the time and only delve below 24V when the AC has been disconnected and the battery is discharged. For now I will place a DC converter on it to drop to 12V.
I’d recommend considering that for future iterations, much of the “industrial” 24V equipment is rated up to 30V.
Hello @arri@Astoneng to provide a little more context, we designed the power module of the balenaFin to support up to 30V input voltage. But due to a misunderstanding in the certification process, it was rated up to 24V. We are currently working to amend the certification and rate it up to 30V.
Once the process is completed we will update the datasheet and let you guys know. In the meanwhile, a 12V converter is recommended.
Hi @aferm, we are working with a lab as we speak to increase the rating and we’ve already sent out devices to tests. I expect to have news in the next week or two. In the meantime it’s still recommended to use a 12V converter.
Hi @aferm, we were a bit slow with responses during the last weeks because of traveling to balena global summit. But @ntzovanis will update the thread soon.
Hi there, we’re still working with the lab to update the voltage rating. Unfortunately, it also required a full re-testing of the RF components, which takes more time than we originally planned.
I’ll get back with more news in the next week or two.
Regarding this input voltage range and value, can you please tell me what is the maximum voltage I can use as an input into balenaFin CM3 GPIO pins? Will a 6v input damage the board? Or maybe I can use 6v on the built in GPIO of balenaFin without damaging anything?
Hi there @sicabboy, the Fin follows the standard Raspberry Pi HAT specification, which means the GPIOs are 3.3V logic. Any connections to the 5V power rail via the 40-pin header should be 5V maximum as shown in the datasheet (section 6, page 13).
Hi Everybody. We’ve just finished all the tests for FCC (USA) certification up to 30V input range. We are now ready to file it to the corresponding entity and, after final approval, post the final certification document on our website. We estimate this to 7-10 days.
In case of CE (Europe), we’re also almost done with the required tests. I’ll post an update soon on this end.
