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

The 18650 Battery Shield V8 by DIYMORE is a versatile battery management system designed to hold and protect 18650 lithium-ion batteries. It provides a convenient platform for charging and discharging while incorporating essential safety features such as overcharge, over-discharge, and short-circuit protection. This shield is ideal for powering portable electronic projects, IoT devices, and DIY applications requiring a reliable and rechargeable power source.

• Power supply for Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontroller projects
• Portable IoT devices and sensors
• DIY power banks and battery-powered gadgets
• 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 for interfacing with external circuits. The table below describes each pin:

1. Insert the Battery: Place a single 18650 lithium-ion battery into the shield, ensuring correct polarity.
2. Connect Power for Charging:
   • Use a Micro-USB or Type-C cable to connect the shield to a 5V power source for charging.
   • Alternatively, connect an external power source to the IN+ and IN- pins.
3. Select Output Voltage:
   • Use the onboard jumper or solder pads to select between 3.3V and 5V output.
4. Connect to Your Circuit:
   • Use the 5V or 3.3V pin to power your external device.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.

• Battery Compatibility: Only use high-quality, protected 18650 lithium-ion batteries to ensure safety and optimal performance.
• Heat Management: Avoid operating the shield in high-temperature environments to prevent overheating.
• Charging Safety: Do not leave the battery charging unattended. Disconnect the power source once the battery is fully charged.
• Load Current: Ensure the connected load does not exceed the maximum output current of 1A to prevent damage to the shield.

The 18650 Battery Shield V8 can be used to power an Arduino UNO. Below is an example of how to connect and use the shield:

1. Connect the 5V pin of the shield to the 5V pin of the Arduino UNO.
2. Connect the GND pin of the shield to the GND pin of the Arduino UNO.
3. Insert a fully charged 18650 battery into the shield.

Here is a simple Arduino sketch to blink an LED while powered by the shield:

// Simple LED Blink Example
// This code blinks an LED connected to pin 13 of the Arduino UNO.
// Ensure the 18650 Battery Shield V8 is properly connected to the Arduino.

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:

   • Ensure the battery is inserted with the correct polarity.
   • Verify the USB cable and power source are functioning properly.
   • Check for any physical damage to the shield or battery.

2. No Output Voltage:

   • Confirm the battery is charged and properly seated in the holder.
   • Verify the output voltage selection (3.3V or 5V) is correctly configured.
   • Check the connections to the OUT+ and OUT- pins.

3. Overheating During Operation:

   • Reduce the load current if it exceeds 1A.
   • Ensure adequate ventilation around the shield.

4. Short Circuit Detected:

   • Disconnect all external connections and inspect for wiring errors.
   • Replace the battery if it is damaged or faulty.

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 lithium-ion battery types?
A: The shield is specifically designed for 18650 batteries. Using other battery types is not recommended.

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

Q: How do I know when the battery is fully charged?
A: The onboard LED indicator will change color (typically from red to green) when the battery is fully charged.

By following this documentation, you can safely and effectively use the 18650 Battery Shield V8 in your projects.