How to Use 18650 Battery Shield V8: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The 18650 Battery Shield V8, manufactured by DIYMORE, is a versatile battery management board designed to hold and protect 18650 lithium-ion batteries. It provides essential features such as overcharge protection, over-discharge protection, and short circuit protection, ensuring the safety and longevity of the battery. Additionally, the shield includes a built-in boost converter to provide a stable 5V output, making it ideal for powering various electronic projects.

• Power supply for Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontroller projects
• Portable power banks for USB-powered devices
• DIY IoT devices and wearable electronics
• Robotics and small motorized systems
• Emergency backup power for small electronics

The following table outlines the key technical details of the 18650 Battery Shield V8:

The 18650 Battery Shield V8 includes several pins and connectors for easy integration into projects. The table below describes each pin and connector:

1. Insert the Battery: Place a single 18650 lithium-ion battery into the holder, ensuring correct polarity (BAT+ and BAT-).
2. Charge the Battery: Connect a 5V power source to the micro-USB port to charge the battery. The charging indicator LED will light up during charging and turn off when fully charged.
3. Connect to a Load: Use the USB-A port or the OUT+ and OUT- pins to power your device. The shield will provide a stable 5V output.
4. Monitor the LEDs: Use the indicator LEDs to check the charging and power status.

• Battery Compatibility: Only use 18650 lithium-ion batteries. Ensure the battery is not damaged or over-discharged before use.
• Heat Management: Avoid using the shield in high-temperature environments, as excessive heat can damage the battery or the shield.
• Current Limitations: Do not exceed the maximum output current of 1A to prevent damage to the shield or connected devices.
• Polarity: Always ensure correct polarity when inserting the battery to avoid short circuits or damage.

The 18650 Battery Shield V8 can be used to power an Arduino UNO via its USB-A port. Below is an example of connecting the shield to an Arduino UNO and running a simple LED blink program:

1. Insert a fully charged 18650 battery into the shield.
2. Connect the USB-A port of the shield to the Arduino UNO's USB port using a USB cable.

// Simple LED Blink Program for Arduino UNO
// This program blinks the built-in LED on pin 13

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output pin
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Battery Not Charging

   • Cause: The battery may be damaged or inserted incorrectly.
   • Solution: Check the battery polarity and ensure it is a compatible 18650 lithium-ion battery. Replace the battery if necessary.

2. No Output Voltage

   • Cause: The battery may be discharged or the shield may be overloaded.
   • Solution: Recharge the battery using the micro-USB port. Ensure the connected load does not exceed 1A.

3. Shield Overheating

   • Cause: Excessive current draw or high ambient temperature.
   • Solution: Reduce the load current and ensure proper ventilation around the shield.

4. LED Indicators Not Working

   • Cause: Faulty LEDs or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Verify the battery charge level and ensure the shield is functioning correctly.

Q: Can I use multiple 18650 batteries with this shield?
A: No, the 18650 Battery Shield V8 is designed to hold and manage a single 18650 battery.

Q: Is the shield compatible with other battery types?
A: No, this shield is specifically designed for 18650 lithium-ion batteries. Using other battery types may damage the shield or cause unsafe conditions.

Q: Can I charge the battery while powering a device?
A: Yes, the shield supports simultaneous charging and discharging, but ensure the total current does not exceed 1A.

Q: What happens if I connect a load that requires more than 1A?
A: The shield may overheat or shut down to protect itself. Always ensure the load current is within the specified limit.