How to Use DUAL USB 5V 1A 2.1A 18650 battery charger PCB power module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DUAL USB 5V 1A 2.1A 18650 Battery Charger PCB Power Module is a compact and efficient solution for charging and powering USB devices. This module is designed to convert the energy stored in 18650 lithium-ion batteries into a stable 5V output, suitable for charging or powering devices such as smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered electronics. It features dual USB output ports, with one port providing 1A and the other 2.1A, making it ideal for simultaneously charging devices with different power requirements.

• Portable power banks
• DIY battery-powered USB chargers
• Emergency backup power supplies
• Prototyping and educational projects involving USB-powered devices

1. Connect the Battery:
   • Attach the positive terminal of the 18650 battery to the B+ pin and the negative terminal to the B- pin. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damage.
2. Connect USB Devices:
   • Plug your USB-powered devices into the appropriate USB ports. Use the 1A port for low-power devices and the 2.1A port for high-power devices.
3. Monitor Status:
   • Observe the indicator LEDs to check the charging status and power output.

• Battery Selection: Use only high-quality 18650 lithium-ion batteries with built-in protection circuits to ensure safety.
• Heat Management: Avoid prolonged use at maximum current output to prevent overheating. Ensure adequate ventilation around the module.
• Polarity Check: Double-check the battery polarity before connecting to the module to prevent damage.
• Load Balancing: Avoid connecting devices that exceed the rated current of each USB port.

While this module is not directly programmable, it can be used to power an Arduino UNO via its USB port. Below is an example of powering an Arduino UNO using this module:

/* Example: Powering Arduino UNO with the DUAL USB 5V 1A 2.1A Module
   - Connect the module's 2.1A USB port to the Arduino UNO's USB input.
   - Ensure the 18650 battery is properly connected to the module.
   - This example demonstrates a simple LED blink program. */

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

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. No Output Voltage:

   • Cause: Incorrect battery polarity or discharged battery.
   • Solution: Verify the battery polarity and ensure the battery is charged.

2. Overheating:

   • Cause: Prolonged use at maximum current output or poor ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the load or improve ventilation around the module.

3. Device Not Charging:

   • Cause: Device requires more current than the port can provide.
   • Solution: Use the 2.1A port for high-power devices.

4. LED Indicators Not Working:

   • Cause: Faulty module or disconnected battery.
   • Solution: Check the battery connection and replace the module if necessary.

• Can I use other types of batteries with this module?

  • No, this module is specifically designed for 18650 lithium-ion batteries.

• What happens if I connect devices that exceed the current rating?

  • The module's protection features will activate, shutting down the output to prevent damage.

• Can I charge the 18650 battery while powering devices?

  • No, this module does not support simultaneous charging and discharging.

• Is it safe to leave the module connected to the battery for extended periods?

  • Yes, as long as the battery has a built-in protection circuit and the module is not overheating.