How To Build A Fast Charge USB Battery Bank
Imagine this scenario: you're on a camping trip, miles away from any power outlet, when your smartphone's battery starts to dwindle. You reach into your backpack and pull out a sleek USB battery bank. Within moments, your phone is charging, and you can continue capturing the breathtaking scenery and navigating your route without worry. This simple device, often taken for granted, underscores the importance of portable power solutions in our tech-dependent lives. Now imagine making one of those! How cool would that be?!
In this article we will show you how to build a fast charging USB battery bank based on the IP5328P USB Battery Fast Charge Module.
Why The IP5328P Dual USB Battery Fast Charge Module Is So Great
The IP5328P Dual USB Battery Fast Charge Module is a truly great board. It can boost a single cell's voltage to 5V, 9V, or 12V, delivering up to 18 watts of power. It's an ideal tool for tech enthusiasts and DIYers aiming to build a dependable, fast-charging USB battery bank. Here are a few reasons why we think the IP5328P Fast Charge Module is the ideal solution for building a DIY fast charging USB Battery Bank:
Ease of Assembly
Historically, creating a fast-charging USB battery bank was complex, often requiring multiple cells, a Battery Management System (BMS), and intricate wiring. The IP5328P simplifies this process dramatically. You can use a single cell or multiple cells in parallel, connect them to the board, and you’re set. This simplicity not only makes it accessible but also significantly reduces the risk of imbalance and damage.
Bi-Directional USB-C Port
One of the standout features of the IP5328P is its bi-directional USB-C port. This highly sought-after feature allows for both charging and discharging through the same port, significantly enhancing convenience and efficiency. Whether you're replenishing the battery bank or powering a device like a phone or tablet, the USB-C port ensures you achieve the fastest charging speeds available. While the USB-A ports on the side are useful, they do not support 20-watt fast charging. However, they are perfect for discharging the battery bank and charging other devices at standard speeds.
User-Friendly Indicators
The IP5328P makes it easy to monitor your battery's status with its four red LED indicators, which provide a clear, real-time display of the remaining battery capacity. For instance, when the battery is between 75% and 100% charged, the first three LEDs will be solid, and the fourth will flash. During discharging, the last LED will flash when the battery is nearly empty, giving you ample warning to recharge.
In addition to these indicators, the charger board includes a blue LED that lights up whenever fast charging is detected, whether you're charging the battery bank or using it to power another device. This blue light activates whenever the voltage exceeds 5V, offering a straightforward signal that fast charging is in progress.
Versatility in Powering Devices
The IP5328P isn’t just for charging phones and tablets. Its robust design allows it to power various devices like routers, small fans, and lights. While pushing the board to its limits may cause occasional power drops, it performs admirably within its intended range, making it an excellent choice for multiple applications.
Reliable Performance with a Few Considerations
The IP5328P is designed for reliability and performs admirably in most situations. Users have reported that the board does not overheat or suffer damage under normal use, particularly when fast charging devices up to its 18-watt capacity.
However, when the board is used as a power supply for devices rather than a charger, it’s best to keep the power draw under 10 watts. Drawing more than 10 watts continuously might cause the board to temporarily lower the output voltage to maintain stability and prevent overheating. This safeguard is a testament to the board’s thoughtful design, ensuring both longevity and reliable performance.
Incredible Value
At an astonishing price of $13 for two boards, the IP5328P offers incredible value. For just $6.50 each, you get a high-quality, fast-charging module with three ports, easy-to-read status indicators, and exceptional reliability. Its flat bottom design makes it easy to integrate into custom cases, further expanding its usability.
Specifications and Performance
The IP5328P can deliver up to:
- 3.1 amps at 5V
- 2.4 amps at 7V
- 2 amps at 9V
- 1.5 amps at 12V
While it doesn’t support 15V or 20V outputs, its performance within the 5V to 12V range is impressive and more than sufficient for most fast-charging needs.
How To Build A Fast Charge USB Battery Bank
Building Your Own Fast-Charging USB Battery Bank
Actually building a USB battery bank with the IP5328P Dual USB Battery Fast Charge Module could not be easier. All you have to do literally is connect positive on the board to the positive of your cells and negative on the cells to negative on the board. You don't even need a BMS because there are no cell groups to balance, so you don't have to worry about balancing.
The only concerns are over-discharge protection, over-current protection, and over-charge protection, and this board handles all of that. The board has a built-in BMS that does everything but balancing, which isn't needed when you have only one cell group. So it's very easy to build.
The problem is you need a case for it. You could always just shrink wrap it together or tape it up really nicely and it will work well. You can pad it and cut little holes for the ports to make yourself a nice little USB battery bank. But if you want it to be really nice, solid, and professional looking, then you're going to need an enclosure.
We have found a really great case for the IP5328P USB Charge Module, making building battery banks with it extremely easy. Using this case you can easily make your very own sturdy, and professional looking USB fast charge battery bank. For some reference, if you use 3.2Ah cells, that would result in a 22,400 mAh battery bank!
Materials Needed
- IP5328P Dual USB Battery Fast Charge Module
- Lithium-ion battery (18650 cell or similar)
- Wires (preferably 18 AWG)
- Soldering iron and solder
- Multimeter
- 3D Printed casing
- Nickel strips
- Spot welder
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Step-by-Step Guide
Insert the Battery Cells: Place the lithium-ion battery into the bank bank core. Ensure the polarity is correct.
Some Things To Consider
Upon first connecting the board, it needs an initial charge to activate. This can be done via a USB port or power supply. Once activated, all three ports can be used simultaneously, even while charging the battery bank. However, it’s important to note that using the USB-A ports will kick the USB-C port out of fast charging mode.
Conclusion
The IP5328P Dual USB Battery Fast Charge Module is a remarkable tool for anyone looking to build a reliable and efficient USB battery bank. Its bi-directional USB-C port, user-friendly indicators, and robust performance make it a standout choice. Whether you're powering everyday devices or exploring more complex projects, this board provides the power and flexibility you need. With its ease of use and unbeatable price, the IP5328P is an excellent investment for your tech arsenal.
