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I have a variable power source(5V, 6V, 9V, 12V, etc...) with a usb plug which I had powering my pi 3B a few months ago, but one day (a few months ago) I accidently had the power source set on 6V(it might have been 6.5V, I forget). The pi was running normally, but I noticed it was running extra hot. Probably about twenty minutes later, I noticed my mistake, immediately shut the pi down and set the power source back to 5V. Since then, the pi has worked perfectly(as far as I can tell), without any noticeable problems. My question is,

1.) Would this have reduced the longevity and lifespan of my pi?, and

2.) What overvoltage protection parts(if any) does the pi have? Does it have an onboard voltage regulator/monitor?

Benjamin Ashbaugh
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1 Answers1

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Powering the Pi from 6V is unlikely to damage it, permanently or otherwise.

I would not recommend it, and this is close to the upper limit.

If you want information on the Pi protection see Raspberry Pi Power Limitations.

Milliways
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  • I'm generally fairly casual but I'd still keep the voltage below 6V. If I remember correctly the highest I have risked is just over 5.8V. Remember it's not just the Pi - it's also any connected USB or HDMI etc. – joan Apr 25 '18 at 07:22
  • @joan I must admit I have never put 6V on my Pi, even though I have done a lot of stress testing, but provided you do not trigger the Transient Protection diode, and don't draw too much current 6V is within the max range of the components. – Milliways Apr 26 '18 at 00:01