TIP120 to "turn off" 5v power to connected sensors?
I have an Arduino Nano with 4 moisture sensors, each sensor has a 5V, ground, and analog connected to the Arduino. Currently the sensors are always on, and there is a reading every 15 minutes.
Instead, I want the Arduino to give power to the sensors, take a reading, then turn the sensors back off (that way I'm not always sending power through soil)
In my research, it seems the easiest way is to have a TIP120 with a resistor in line with (either the 5v or ground?) of the sensors, and is also connected to the digital port to allow for switching on and off.
I'm not too experienced with small electronics and could use some advice on what I should use, and how the wiring would work.
6 Replies
Unknown User•3y ago
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thank you for your response and diagram! if i'm reading this right, you're suggesting putting switches inline with both 5v and ground?
also I wanted to confirm that though your 5v/ground doesn't go anywhere specific, it's fine for me to use the 5v/ground on my arduino? i will look in to these two types of switches
currently i have exactly what you've drawn minus those switches
last question for now; do i need transistors that have specific ratings? (is there a recommended model for arduinos?) i am looking at this pack that does 20A 60V https://www.amazon.ca/10PCS-20N06-N-Channel-MOSFET-Transistor/dp/B07RXLTG6H/
Unknown User•3y ago
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ok, i will be available for a little bit!
also specifically using https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32666789455.html
Unknown User•3y ago
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yeah lets do it