Power Bank Shield for 18650 Lithium Batteries

The shield has two voltage outputs: 3V/1A and 5V/2.2A. The 5V output is rated at 2.2A and can take a maximum of 3A (overloading it is not advised, as it could damage the module and shorten its life). The output current depends on the type of 18650 batteries used.

To charge the two 18650 lithium cells, connect a 5V USB power supply (1A min) to the USB input of the board. The charging current through the Micro USB port runs between 600mA and 800mA. The module takes up to two 18650 batteries and using two is advised for longer running time.

The output voltage is available on several contacts on both sides of the module, as well as on a standard USB-A port.

Besides the switch, the shield has a slide selector for choosing between two operating modes:

• In NORMAL mode, the built-in DC-DC converter switches off after about 10 seconds if the output current falls below 30mA.
• In HOLD mode, the output stays live as long as something is drawing current, even below 30mA. With no load the device switches off after a few seconds.