00:00Need cheap power for Arduino?
00:02Most voltage regulators cost too much or burn out quick.
00:06Tested top 5 adjustable regulator lots online.
00:10Found solid options near 40 cents per chip.
00:14First pick, LM338T in 2-2-20 package.
00:18Pack of 10 costs $4.61, around 46 cents each.
00:23Pushes massive 5 amps.
00:25Perfect for driving heavy servos, motors, or big LED strips.
00:29Arduino pins cannot power directly.
00:32Easy heatsink mount.
00:34Linear design means clean power without switching noise.
00:38Second, TPS 54 30 buck converter chip.
00:4210-pack runs $4.29, about 43 cents per unit.
00:47High efficiency step-down switching regulator.
00:50Handles up to 3 amps from inputs as high as 36 volts.
00:55Run Arduino off 12-volt or 24-volt supply without thermal shutdown.
01:00Great pick if you design custom PCBs.
01:03Third, mixed regulator lot featuring LN317, LN337, LN338, and LN350 variants.
01:11Pack costs $10.72, just over $1 per chip.
01:16Higher entry price, but gives versatility on workbench.
01:19Build split rail supplies for analog sensor circuits, op-amps, or microcontrollers.
01:26Worth having when one project needs negative rail and next needs 3 amps.
01:31Fourth, LM317 D2T surface mount pack.
01:3510 chips run $4.17, roughly 42 cents each.
01:39Classic workhorse LM317 regulator in D2PAK footprint.
01:44Handles 1.5 amps with two external resistors setting target voltage.
01:50Best balance for compact DIY shields or permanent breadboard power modules where space is tight.
01:56Fifth, SX1308 step-up boost module.
02:0010 boards cost $5.51, 55 cents each.
02:04Fully assembled board with trim pot and inductors, not bare IC.
02:09Steps low single-cell lithium battery power up to 5, 9, or 12 volts for Arduino and peripherals.
02:15Ready out-of-box without designing PCB.
02:19Links for parts in description below.
02:22Hit like if guide helped project.
02:25Subscribe for more bench testing.
