How to Use DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V is a compact and efficient solar power management module designed to regulate and manage solar energy. It provides a stable 5V output, making it ideal for powering low-power devices and charging lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. This module is specifically engineered to maximize the efficiency of solar energy harvesting while ensuring safe and reliable operation.

• Solar-powered IoT devices
• Outdoor environmental monitoring systems
• Remote sensing and data logging
• Portable solar charging stations
• DIY solar energy projects

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V:

The DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V features several input/output pins and connectors. The table below describes each pin:

1. Connect the Solar Panel: Attach a solar panel (4.4V to 6V) to the Solar Input connector. Ensure the panel's polarity matches the connector.
2. Connect the Battery: Plug a single-cell Li-ion or LiPo battery into the Battery Connector. The module will automatically manage charging.
3. Power External Devices: Use the 5V Output connector to power your device. Ensure the connected device does not exceed the 1A output current limit.
4. Optional USB Input: If solar power is unavailable, connect a 5V USB power source to the USB Input port to charge the battery or power devices.

• Battery Selection: Use only single-cell Li-ion or LiPo batteries with a nominal voltage of 3.7V and a maximum charging voltage of 4.2V.
• MPPT Adjustment: Use the onboard potentiometer to fine-tune the MPPT for your specific solar panel. This ensures maximum energy harvesting efficiency.
• Heat Dissipation: Avoid placing the module in direct sunlight or enclosed spaces without ventilation, as it may overheat during operation.
• Load Current: Ensure the total current drawn by connected devices does not exceed 1A to prevent damage to the module.

The DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V can be used to power an Arduino UNO. Below is an example setup:

1. Connect the 5V Output of the module to the 5V pin of the Arduino UNO.
2. Connect the GND pin of the module to the GND pin of the Arduino UNO.
3. Ensure the solar panel and battery are properly connected to the module.

Here is a simple Arduino sketch to blink an LED while powered by the Solar Power Manager:

// Simple LED Blink Example
// This code blinks an LED connected to pin 13 of the Arduino UNO.
// Ensure the Arduino is powered via the DFRobot Solar Power Manager 5V.

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. The module does not power the connected device:

   • Ensure the solar panel or USB input is providing sufficient voltage (4.4V to 6V).
   • Check the battery connection and ensure the battery is not over-discharged.
   • Verify that the connected device does not exceed the 1A output current limit.

2. The battery is not charging:

   • Confirm that the solar panel is receiving adequate sunlight.
   • Check the polarity of the battery connection.
   • Adjust the MPPT potentiometer to match the solar panel's characteristics.

3. The module overheats:

   • Ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing the module in direct sunlight.
   • Reduce the load current if it exceeds the module's capacity.

Q: Can I use a higher voltage solar panel with this module?
A: No, the input voltage range is limited to 4.4V to 6V. Using a higher voltage panel may damage the module.

Q: Can I use this module without a battery?
A: Yes, the module can operate without a battery, but it is recommended to use a battery for stable operation and energy storage.

Q: How do I adjust the MPPT for my solar panel?
A: Use the onboard potentiometer to fine-tune the MPPT. Rotate the potentiometer while monitoring the output voltage and current to achieve maximum efficiency.

Q: Is the module waterproof?
A: No, the module is not waterproof. It should be used in a dry environment or enclosed in a waterproof case for outdoor applications.