Marigold-5 Overview & Safety
Marigold-5 corner view
The Marigold-5 is a synchronous step-down (buck) DC-DC converter module that provides a regulated 5.1V rail for FIRST Robotics Competition applications. It accepts a 6V–18V input compatible with FRC lead-acid battery systems and provides power through a high-current USB-C receptacle and an auxiliary output.
Built around the Texas Instruments TPS56A37, the Marigold-5 provides stable 5.1V power to co-processors such as Raspberry Pi and Orange Pi boards, even when the robot battery voltage sags.
Key features
Section titled “Key features”- High-current output: 5–6A recommended combined load for continuous operation, with a validated continuous output of 7A under the documented test conditions
- Type-C current advertisement: Standard 10 kΩ CC pull-up resistors advertise 3A capability to non-PD sink devices
- Brownout protection: Maintains stable 5.1V output down to 6V input
- Secure mounting: Attaches to 1×2-inch aluminum extrusion with #4-40 hardware or through integrated zip-tie points
- Built-in protection: Reverse polarity, input voltage spikes, thermal shutdown, and overcurrent limiting
FRC use
Section titled “FRC use”This device is designed for use in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Before each competition, verify all requirements against the current season’s official game manual.
Continue
Section titled “Continue”Start with installation and wiring, then review operation and troubleshooting.