USB-PD 2.0/3.0 to 5V 5A Converter for RaspberryPi 5 - Tutorial

Welcome to our comprehensive tutorial on using the Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter for Raspberry Pi 5! Whether you’re a hobbyist, maker, or professional, this guide will help you unlock the full potential of our converter board for Raspberry Pi 5 with our versatile and eco-friendly converter. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step setup, explore various power options including USB-C PD adapters, lithium-ion batteries, and DC inputs, Raspberry Pi configurations and provide troubleshooting tips to ensure seamless integration. Get ready to optimize your projects with the Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter and experience the future of Raspberry Pi power solutions!

Inputs

The Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter for Raspberry Pi 5 is designed to offer a wide range of input options, providing you with the flexibility to choose the best power source for your needs. Here’s a detailed look at the various input options available:

1. USB-C PD Adapters (9V/12V/15V/20V)

One of the key features of our converter board is its compatibility with USB Power Delivery (PD) adapters. The board is compatible with USB-PD 2.0/3.0 standards, which are widely used. These adapters are commonly used for charging laptops, tablets, and smartphones, and comes with voltage changing capabilities to 9V/12V/15V/20V depending on the requirement. With our converter, you can easily repurpose these adapters to power your Raspberry Pi 5. The board has a built-in USB-PD communication IC and accepts inputs of 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V, converting them to a stable 5V 5A output. This makes it incredibly convenient to use the same charger for multiple devices, reducing the need for additional power supplies.

2. Lithium-Ion Batteries (2S-4S)

For portable and off-grid projects, lithium-ion batteries are an excellent choice. The Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter supports 2S to 4S lithium-ion battery packs, providing a reliable power source when you’re on the go. Whether you’re working on a mobile project or setting up in a location without access to mains power, lithium-ion batteries offer a versatile and efficient solution. This option also opens up possibilities for using rechargeable battery packs, contributing to an eco-friendly setup. You can use any battery pack that can give 6V-20V inputs. 2S-4S Li-ion configurations usually work in these range of voltages.

3. DC Inputs (6V-20V)

The converter board also supports direct current (DC) inputs ranging from 6V to 20V. This broad range allows for compatibility with various power supplies, including those used in automotive and industrial applications. Whether you’re drawing power from a bench power supply, a solar panel, or any other DC source, our converter can handle it. This flexibility is particularly useful for experimental setups and custom power solutions. A higher voltage input will keep the board cooler when high amperage is taken

Input Selection Tips
  • Choose USB-C PD Adapters for a convenient, widely available power source, especially if you already own compatible chargers.
  • Opt for Lithium-Ion Batteries when portability and off-grid operation are important, ideal for mobile or remote projects.
  • Use DC Inputs for custom setups or when leveraging power from solar panels or other specific DC sources.

By offering multiple input options, the Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter ensures that you can power your Raspberry Pi 5 in the most efficient and flexible way possible. Whether you’re repurposing existing adapters, utilizing battery power, or tapping into custom DC sources, this converter has you covered.

Exploring the Input Ports

The Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter for Raspberry Pi 5 is designed with simplicity and versatility in mind. While it primarily features a USB-C PD input, it also includes soldering pads for DC or lithium-ion battery inputs. Here’s a closer look at these input options and how to utilize them:

1. USB-C PD Input Port

The USB-C PD input port is the primary and most convenient option for powering your Raspberry Pi 5. This port supports USB Power Delivery (PD) adapters, accommodating voltages of 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V. Utilizing the USB-C PD input allows you to repurpose chargers from other devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Simply plug your USB-C PD adapter into this port, and the converter will provide a stable 5V 5A output to your Raspberry Pi 5.

Key Features:

  • Compatibility: Works with USB-C PD adapters (9V/12V/15V/20V)
  • Ease of Use: Plug-and-play functionality
  • Convenience: Widely available power source
2. Soldering Pads for DC and Lithium-Ion Battery Inputs

For those who prefer using DC power sources or lithium-ion batteries, the converter board includes soldering pads. These pads allow you to directly solder your battery packs or DC power connectors, providing a secure and customizable power input option.

Key Features:

  • Versatility: Supports DC inputs (6V-20V), Solar (6V-20V) and 2S to 4S lithium-ion battery packs
  • Customization: Allows for direct soldering of battery packs or DC connectors
  • Flexibility: Ideal for portable and off-grid projects

How to Use the Soldering Pads:

  1. Prepare Your Power Source: Whether you’re using a DC power source or a lithium-ion battery pack, ensure the wires are stripped and ready for soldering. Before you solder, ensure polarity is correct.
  2. Soldering: Carefully solder the positive and negative wires to the corresponding soldering pads on the converter board. Ensure a secure connection to prevent any power issues.
  3. Connection: Once soldered, double-check the connections to ensure they are firm and correctly placed. This setup allows you to use custom power sources tailored to your specific project needs.
Choosing the Right Input Method
  • USB-C PD Input Port: Ideal for using existing USB-C chargers, providing a convenient and widely available power source.
  • Soldering Pads: Perfect for custom power solutions, allowing you to use DC power or lithium-ion battery packs by soldering connectors directly to the board.

By offering both a USB-C PD input port and soldering pads for additional power options, the Pichondria USB 5V 5A Converter provides maximum flexibility for powering your Raspberry Pi 5. Whether you’re using a standard USB-C PD adapter or custom battery packs, this converter ensures a reliable and efficient power supply for all your projects.

Exploring the Output Ports

USB-C Output Port

The USB-C output port on the Pichondria 5V 5A board provides a standard interface for connecting the board to the RaspberryPi 5 using USB-C cables. It delivers a stable 5V output at up to 5 amps, ensuring efficient power delivery to your Raspberry Pi 5 or other compatible devices. The USB-C port is designed to be versatile and convenient, offering a reversible connector and compatibility with a wide range of USB-C cables. The cable and connector of the USB-C will drop voltage proportional to the current draw of the Pi. In case the voltage drop across the USB-C cable is creating issues, upgrade to a better USB-C cable (thick and short, with 5A or better rated connector) or use the soldering pad on the board.

Soldering Pad Output Port

The soldering pad output port on the Pichondria board is specifically designed for applications requiring higher current outputs, aimed at minimizing voltage drops over extended cable lengths. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where the USB-C cable length might cause significant voltage losses, impacting the performance of connected devices. By utilizing the soldering pad output port, users can directly solder thicker gauge wires or connectors, ensuring robust power delivery without compromising performance. Ensure proper polarity before plugging the Raspberry Pi.

Note: When using the soldering pad output port, ensure proper insulation and secure soldering to maintain electrical integrity and safety.

Adjustments in RaspberryPi 5

Adjusting Power Settings on Raspberry Pi 5

To ensure proper operation of the Pichondria 5V 5A board with your Raspberry Pi 5, you’ll need to adjust the power settings. Follow these steps to configure the Raspberry Pi:

config.txt
    • config.txt is located at /boot/firmware/config.txt for the new RaspberryPi OS.
    • Edit the config.txt and add usb_max_current_enable=1 to the file. If it is set to 0, change it to 1.
    • This sets the maximum USB current to high, and enables boot from USB
RaspberryPi 5 bootloader configuration
    • Before editing the bootloader configuration, update your system to get the latest version of the rpi-eeprom package.

    • To view the current EEPROM configuration, run the following command:
      rpi-eeprom-config

    • To edit the current EEPROM configuration and apply the updates to latest EEPROM release, run the following command:
      sudo -E rpi-eeprom-config –edit

    • Set the value of PSU_MAX_CURRENT to 5000 by appending or changing the line.
      PSU_MAX_CURRENT=5000
    • If set, this property instructions the firmware to skip USB power-delivery negotiation and assume that it is connected to a power supply with the given current rating. (Taken from RaspberryPi documentation)

Things to take care of

    • Ensure polarities are correctly connected. It could burn your Pi or the board otherwise.
    • Ensure that the board and connected devices are in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Avoid placing the board in enclosed spaces without adequate airflow. Since the board is switching high currents, it will heat up at higher loads.
    • When using the soldering pad output port, use appropriately thick gauge wires to handle the higher current. Ensure all connections are secure and well-insulated to prevent short circuits and potential fire hazards. Thicker wires have lower voltage drops. The soldering pad is designed to the wide to increase soldering area and reduce the drop.
    • Use a high-quality, reliable power supply capable of delivering a consistent 27W or better for 5V 5A output. An inadequate power supply can lead to instability and potential damage to your devices, including data corruption
    • Handle the board with care, avoiding static discharge, which can damage electronic components. Use antistatic wrist straps or mats when handling the board.
    • Be familiar with the procedure to quickly shut down power in case of an emergency. This includes knowing how to disconnect the power supply safely and quickly.

... and that is all. Have a great experience building great things that you love!

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