How to Use PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad is a versatile and compact electronic component designed to provide a 5V power supply with a maximum output current of 500mA. This component integrates a power boost converter with a USB charging circuit, making it ideal for portable electronics, wearable devices, and DIY projects that require a stable power source from a lower voltage battery, such as a single-cell LiPo (Lithium Polymer) battery. The pad version is particularly suitable for embedding into custom PCB designs, offering a streamlined solution for power management.

• Portable USB chargers
• Battery-powered projects requiring a 5V supply
• Wearable electronics
• DIY electronics projects with space constraints
• Integration into custom PCB designs for compact and efficient power supply

• Input Voltage: 3.7V nominal (suitable for LiPo batteries)
• Output Voltage: 5V fixed
• Maximum Output Current: 500mA
• Efficiency: Up to 90% (varies based on input and output conditions)
• Integrated charging circuit for USB devices
• Low battery indicator output

1. Connect the positive terminal of a charged LiPo battery to the BAT pin.
2. Connect the ground of the battery to the GND pin.
3. The 5V pin will now output a regulated 5V when the EN pin is driven high.
4. To enable the power boost converter, connect the EN pin to a high logic level (e.g., 3.3V or 5V). To disable the converter, connect it to ground.
5. The LBO pin can be connected to an LED or a microcontroller input pin to monitor the battery status.

• Ensure that the battery used is capable of supplying the required current for your application.
• Avoid placing high-power components too close to the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad to prevent heat buildup.
• When integrating into a PCB, provide adequate copper area for heat dissipation.
• Do not exceed the maximum input and output ratings to prevent damage to the component.

• No Output Voltage: Ensure the EN pin is driven high and the battery is properly charged and connected.
• Insufficient Output Current: Check if the battery is capable of supplying the required current. Replace the battery if necessary.
• Overheating: Make sure there is enough space around the component for heat dissipation.

• If the LBO pin is active, recharge the battery to ensure proper operation.
• Double-check all connections, especially the polarity of the battery.
• If the device is not functioning, disconnect the power and inspect the board for any signs of damage or soldering issues.

Q: Can I use the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad with batteries other than LiPo? A: The PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad is optimized for 3.7V LiPo batteries. Using other types of batteries is not recommended and may not provide the desired performance.

Q: What should I do if the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad is not boosting the voltage to 5V? A: Verify that the EN pin is high and that the battery is properly charged. If the issue persists, inspect the component and connections for any faults.

Q: Is it possible to charge the battery through the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad? A: Yes, the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad includes a charging circuit for recharging the connected LiPo battery via a USB connection.

Q: How can I integrate the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad into my custom PCB design? A: The pad version of the PowerBoost 500 Charger Pad is designed for easy integration. Refer to the manufacturer's footprint and layout guidelines when designing your PCB.

Q: Can I connect multiple devices to the 5V output? A: Yes, as long as the total current draw does not exceed 500mA.

The following example demonstrates how to monitor the battery status using an Arduino UNO:

// Define the pin connected to the Low Battery Output (LBO)
const int lowBatteryPin = 2;

void setup() {
  // Set the lowBatteryPin as an input
  pinMode(lowBatteryPin, INPUT);
  
  // Begin serial communication at 9600 baud rate
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the state of the low battery indicator
  int batteryStatus = digitalRead(lowBatteryPin);
  
  // If the LBO pin is LOW, the battery is below the threshold voltage
  if (batteryStatus == LOW) {
    Serial.println("Low battery warning!");
  } else {
    Serial.println("Battery level is OK.");
  }
  
  // Wait for 1 second before checking again
  delay(1000);
}

Remember to keep code comments concise and within the 80 character line length limit.