From a DIY Enthusiast’s Garage: The Making of a Custom Power Bank with Real-Time Information

In the realm of DIY electronics, Toby Chui, an Instructables user, embarked on a mission to create a custom power bank that not only delivers a powerful 60W output but also boasts a real-time information display. Join us as we delve into the journey of this remarkable project, a testament to human ingenuity and the joy of creation.

The Powerhouse Within: Unveiling the Core Components

At the heart of this DIY power bank lies a LiPo battery, the energy reservoir that breathes life into the device. A 60W PD module takes center stage, orchestrating the delicate dance of negotiations between devices, ensuring seamless power transfer. And to keep you informed, a UART HMI display serves as the eyes and ears of the power bank, presenting vital battery information at a glance.

Bridging the Information Gap: Sensing and Displaying Power Dynamics

To bridge the gap between the power bank’s inner workings and the user’s curious eyes, a small piece of perfboard, meticulously soldered and glued to the back of the display, plays a crucial role. This intricate circuit houses a buck converter, a voltage divider, and an ACS712 current sensor, acting as the sentinels of power flow. They tirelessly monitor voltage and current, relaying this vital information to the iRobota Nano, the brains behind the operation.

The Maestro of Data: iRobota Nano Takes the Stage

The iRobota Nano, a compact yet capable microcontroller, assumes the role of data maestro. It orchestrates the symphony of information, receiving voltage and current readings from the sensors and transmitting them to the display. Additionally, it keeps a watchful eye on the voltage delivered over the USB-C cable and calculates the total power consumption, ensuring you’re always in the know.

Encasing the Creation: A 3D-Printed Haven

To provide a secure haven for the power bank’s components, Toby Chui, with the precision of a sculptor, designed and 3D-printed a sleek case. This protective shell not only houses the battery, switch, and display but also lends an air of sophistication to the device, transforming it from a mere collection of components into a cohesive masterpiece.

Delve Deeper into the Project’s Intricacies

For those eager to embark on their own DIY power bank adventure, Toby Chui’s Instructables page beckons you. Dive into the wealth of knowledge shared there, where detailed instructions, schematics, and insights await. Let curiosity be your guide as you navigate the intricacies of this project, crafting your own custom power bank, a testament to your creativity and technical prowess.

Bonus: The world of DIY electronics beckons with countless possibilities. Unleash your imagination and explore the realm of custom creations. From smart home gadgets that automate your daily routine to unique audio amplifiers that elevate your music experience, the possibilities are boundless. Embrace the spirit of innovation and embark on your own DIY journey, transforming ideas into tangible realities.

As you embark on this creative odyssey, remember the words of the great inventor Thomas Edison: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Let perseverance be your compass, and let the joy of creation fuel your passion. The world awaits your ingenuity.


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