Keeps your power bank active when powering low power devices/projects

Power Bank Keep-Alive based on 555 Timer (SMD)

Sold by Colin Hickey

$8.50

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Stock available: 187
Volume discount
5+ items
$8.08
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What is it?

This product is identical to our popular Keep Alive Kit but this version uses SMD components so is now smaller.

When I'm working on small projects, I like to power them off of a power-bank or a similar item. Sometimes, the device draws such a small amount of power that it shuts down the power to the USB port as it thinks the device is off.

What does it do?

This device that I've designed will stay on by pulsing the power line to ensure that it doesn't shutdown. It utilizes the 555 timer in an Astable circuit. With the configured resistors and capacitor there is a 50% duty cycle which equates in roughly a 10mA draw with a pulse of approx 130mA. Combined with the draw of the device, this shall be enough to keep the powerbank active. The data lines are directly connected and unaffected.

What is included?

  • Assembled PCB

  • Case ( OPTIONAL )

If you wish to modify the output for a different duty cycle (Warning tricky with the components being SMD, I would recommend the KIT for modding), the timing can be calculated using the following website:

https://circuitdigest.com/calculators/555-timer-astable-circuit-calculator

This is provided as an assembled unit with an optional case please select the appropriate option.

I have designed a 3d printed case that has been designed to be screwless and snaps together with a snug fit.
Thingiverse Case Download

Stock and different options

If you are looking to buy more than I have listed, or if one particular option that you are looking for is out of stock, please contact me and I should be able to arrange listing it for you!

Compatibility

The pass through should work with all devices as the data lines are unaffected. With the resistor values chosen on its own, it should not keep most powerbanks alive but combined with a very low power device it should be enough to stop the powerbank from powering off.

Links to code and documentation

No additional links provided for this product.

Shipping policy

We will try to ship in-stock products within two to three business days.

"Untracked" shipping methods are stated in the checkout. These are not insured or trackable and is at buyer's responsibility. There is always a tracked option available with insurance and tracking included.

The seller

Colin Hickey

Ashington, Northumberland, UK
35 orders since Mar 31, 2022
Eplop LTD is a small company which was setup to sell our own creations as well as some 3D printer accessories. We are also trying to expand into selling other makers products which shall increase over time.