Batteries

Ultimate performance is not required so I'm using 12V deep-discharge batteries for the motor power and control systems. These are electrically isolated to ensure sensing and control long after the mobility has gone.

Battery charging is achieved using the intelligent charger I bought for my kit car .

Regulated 12V

The main processor is going to run off of a seperate battery, so that it can still work if the motors discharge the drive battery. Typically a 12V battery puts out more than 12V so it would be good to use a low drop-out 12V voltage regulator circuit but, it has to sink quite a lot of current. There are circuits specifically designed to drive mini-ITX PC's from car batteries.

Regulated 9V

I need a regulated 9V power supply to drive the audio amplifierand my serial radio link.

Regulated 5V

I need a regulated 5V power supply to power the I/O board board.