Can Arduino Nano Be Powered by 3.3V
Yes, Arduino Nano can be powered up with 3.3V supply, BUT we cannot directly apply 3.3V at 3V3 pin of Arduino Nano. This is because the working voltage of Arduino Nano is 5V just like its big brother Arduino Uno.
However, there are still a couple of ways to power the Arduino Nano with 3.3V using the external DC-DC converter. There are multiple lithium polymer batteries available that have a rated voltage of 3.3V and provide a constant voltage for a longer period. Using the boost converter with 3.3V supply we can get a constant 5V.
Note: Here is a list of Arduino Nano boards that can work directly using the 3.3V without any need of converter:
- Nano 33 BLE
- Nano 33 BLE Sense
- Nano 33 BLE Sense Rev2
- Nano RP2040 Connect
But before that lets first understand the Arduino Nano power sources and what are the two on board voltage regulators.
Arduino Nano Power Sources
Arduino Nano can be powered up using following onboard source (Pins):
- USB Port
- VIN Pin
- 5V Pin
1: USB Mini Cable
USB provides a constant 5V that equals Arduino Nano working voltage so we can directly connect Arduino Nano with any USB port that outputs 5V.
2: VIN Pin
Next is a VIN pin that can take a maximum voltage of up to 16V and provide a great range of power for Arduino Nano. VIN works in dual mode as an input as well as output for Arduino Nano. We can apply a 3.3V voltage to this pin after passing it from the boost converter.
Don’t give more than 16V at this pin as it may cause overheating of Arduino Nano.
3: 5V PIN
The Arduino Nano 5V pin can also be used for powering Arduino Nano from a 3.3V battery supply. But first we have to make the 3.3V equal to 5V which is the working voltage for our Nano board.
This pin bypasses the voltage regulator so does not apply more than 5V at this pin.
How to Power Arduino Nano with 3.3V
To power Arduino Nano directly with 3.3V first we need to use a DC-DC boost converter. This boost converter will take input from 3.3V supply and convert it to constant 5V. This 5V supply can be given to either 5V pin or the VIN pin on Arduino Nano.
Here is an Arduino Nano power tree that guide you about Arduino Nano power sources:
Benefits of Using 3.3V Power Source
One of the benefits of using a 3.3V power source for the Arduino Nano is that it reduces the power consumption of the board. When powered at 3.3V, the board operates at a lower voltage, which results in a lower current draw. This can be particularly useful in battery-powered projects, where reducing power consumption can significantly extend the battery life.
In addition to reducing power consumption, using a 3.3V power source can also provide improved performance in certain applications. For example, some digital sensors and other devices that interface with the Arduino Nano require a 3.3V power source for optimal performance. By powering the board at 3.3V, the user can ensure that these components operate at their maximum capabilities.
For more details on Arduino Nano power sources and working you can read following guides:
- 3 Different ways to power up the Arduino nano
- Can We Power Arduino Nano Using a Smartphone Charger
- Can Arduino Nano Run on Battery
- Maximum Voltage Arduino Nano Can Take
Conclusion
Arduino Nano can be powered by a 3.3V power source. This can provide benefits such as reduced power consumption and improved performance in certain applications. However, it is important to use the boost converter with 3.3V supply as Arduino Nano working voltages are 5V which means minimum voltage required for Nano board is 5V.
