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Test/review of Valueline USB AC charger VLMP11955B

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Valueline USB AC charger VLMP11955B

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Official specifications:


  • Input Power: AC 100-240V 50/60Hz
  • Output Power: DC 5V-2.1A


DSC_5773

I got it in a plastic bag.

DSC_5789DSC_5790DSC_5791DSC_5792

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Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.1 watt
  • Usb output is coded as Apple 2.1A
  • Weight: 49.6g
  • Size: 71.5 × 39.0 × 39.0mm


Valueline%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP11955B%20230V%20load%20sweep

This small adapter can deliver the rated current and a bit more (the overload protection looks fine).

Valueline%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP11955B%20120V%20load%20sweep

It works about the same on 120VAC

Valueline%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP11955B%20230V%20load%20test

No problems running one hour at 1A.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp3418

M1: 64,6°C, HS1: 78,8°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp3419

M1: 54,9°C, M2: 55,6°C, HS1: 60,6°C

Temp3420

M1: 57,4°C, HS1: 64,8°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp3421

M1: 61,3°C, HS1: 67,5°C


10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is 36mV rms and 384mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 40mV rms and 317mVpp.

2.5ohm

At 2A the noise is 56mV rms and 410mVpp.


Tear down

DSC_7557

My vice and a mallet could open it.

DSC_7559

The plastic shield inside the box is used for isolation between mains and low volt side.

DSC_7560

At the mains input there is a fuse and a blue safety capacitor. Between the two capacitors is an inductor with shrink wrap around. The mains switcher transistor (Q1) is next to the transformer. The transformer has wires to the low volt side, where the rectifier diode is placed.

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The fuse (F1) is next to the mains input wire.

DSC_7563

Here the inductor between the two mains capacitors can be seen. One of the capacitors has shrink wrap on top of the plastic isolation.

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From this side the rectifier diode and the transformer can be seen.

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One of the capacitors is mounted on top of the usb connector and has heat shrink on its legs.

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This side contains a bridge rectifier (DB1) and the mains switcher controller. There is four resistor for coding the usb output (R15..R18).


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DSC_7568

Safety distance looks good.

Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

Generally this small charger looks well designed and with good performance, the noise is slightly high.



Notes

Charger was supplied by Pro backup (probackup.nl)

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/


RD Tech USB 3.0 tester, lets you see what your USB devices are actually doing

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Ok, this is a quick review of the RD tech USB 3.0 USB tester

This was sent to me for review by RD tech.

So basically this is a multimeter for your USB port. Pretty simple and basic. It allows you to see the voltage and current passing through the USB port at any given time. Good for diagnosing charging issues or seeing if your chargers are telling the truth.

It also includes a charge “counter” that keeps track of how much total power has been consumed. This will not be precise due to losses in the charger but it is a nice feature.

No real complaints while using it besides the sreen times out after about 10 seconds and you have to wake it back up.

The graph modes are nice for seeing what it does over time. For example you can see when the constant current charge ends and the constant voltage begins.

It seems to be pretty accurate, although I don’t really have anything to compare it to, it matched my multimeter pretty well.

Now for some pictures:










The Second Amendment is in place in case the politicians ignore the others.

Government is the great fiction, through which everybody endeavors to live at the expense of everybody else. -- Frederic Bastiat , French economist(1801-1850)

Texas Avenger Driver Series

My LED Test series - XP-L2 V5  - Nichia 219C 90+ CRILatticebright "XM-L"XHP35 & PWM efficiency - XHP50 - XP-L V5 - XM-L2 U2 - XP-G3 S5  - XP-L HI V2 - Oslon Square & direct comparison to Djozz tests - Nichia 319A - Nichia 219B 9080 CRI - Nichia 219C D320 - Nichia 229AT

How I made a True integrating PVC sphere with no math involved

Test/review of Daiso USB 200 Charger no 2

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Daiso USB 200 Charger no 2

DSC_6850

Official specifications:


  • Input Power: AC 100-240V 50/60Hz
  • Output Power: DC 5V-1.0A
  • Size W26.5mm x L26.5mm x H28mm

I got it from a reader that bought it from a store in Japan.

DSC_6841DSC_6842

I got it in a blister pack with lots of colors, it only contained the charger, no manual or usb cable.

DSC_6851DSC_6852

DSC_6853DSC_6854




Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.07 watt
  • USB output is coded as Apple 1A
  • Weight: 20.0g
  • Size: 44.6 × 26.3 × 26.7mm



Daiso%20USB%20200%20Charger%20no%202%20120V%20load%20sweep

The overload protection trips slightly above 1A, this is fine.

Daiso%20USB%20200%20Charger%20no%202%20230V%20load%20sweep

It works the same way with 230VAC mains.

Daiso%20USB%20200%20Charger%20no%202%20120V%20load%20test

No problems running one hour at 1A.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp3698

M1: 45,7°C, HS1: 59,8°C

Temp3699

M1: 48,5°C, HS1: 63,8°C
HS1 is the switcher transistor.

Temp3700

HS1: 71,9°C
Here HS1 is the recrtifier diode.

Temp3701

M1: 47,6°C, HS1: 51,7°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp3702

M1: 47,3°C, HS1: 59,6°C


10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is 62mV rms and 697mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 77mV rms and 750mVpp.



Tear down

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A bit of pressure from my vice and it popped open.

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The construction is in two layers with two layers of yellow tape between. The output leads from the transformer goes to the low volt circuit board.

DSC_9116

The fuse is placed where the brown wire is connected to the circuit board and next to the fuse is the switcher transistor.
On the other (Low volt) circuit board is the safety capacitor connected with a white whire to the primary.

DSC_9119

The white wire for the safety capacitor is in front here.

DSC_9120

On this side the switcher transistor and the fuse is in front.

DSC_9121DSC_9122

DSC_9117

On this side of the circuit board is the bridge rectifier and the switcher controller (U1), the rectifier diode (D4) is on the other circuit board), together with the usb coding resistors.

DSC_9118


DSC_9140

Safety distance around the safety capacitors looks good. Between the two boards the yellow tape handles the isolation.

Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

The build is very compact and also looks safe, but I could have wished for lower noise, more current and a more modern coding.



Notes

Charger was supplied by a reader from Japan

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of inCharge 2USB Wall Power Outlet

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inCharge 2USB Wall Power Outlet

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Official specifications:


  • No. of outputs: 2
  • Output: 5 VDC 2.1A 10.5W
  • Maximum voltage: AC 250VAC 50Hz 16A
  • Connection wire: Single core, max 2.5mm2


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I got it in a cardboard box with specification on it.

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The box included the socket and a instruction sheet with mounting instruction.

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Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.15 watt
  • USB output is auto coding with Apple 2.1A as maximum.
  • The two output ports are in parallel.
  • Earth is not connected to usb shield
  • Need 48mm deep hole.
  • Extend 11mm out.


inCharge%202USB%20Wall%20Power%20Outlet%20%231%20230V%20load%20sweep

It can deliver about 2.6A on one output.

inCharge%202USB%20Wall%20Power%20Outlet%20%232%20230V%20load%20sweep

And also on the other output.

inCharge%202USB%20Wall%20Power%20Outlet%20120V%20load%20sweep

Running two in parallel will still deliver 2.6A, here at 120VAC

inCharge%202USB%20Wall%20Power%20Outlet%20230V%20load%20sweep

And here at 230VAC.

inCharge%202USB%20Wall%20Power%20Outlet%20230V%20load%20test

Running one hour at rated load is no problem.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp3995

M1: 48,3°C, HS1: 89,4°C

Temp3996

M1: 45,5°C, HS1: 82,4°C

Temp3997

M1: 73,1°C, HS1: 74,4°C
HS1 is the mains switcher or some of the surrounding parts. M1 is the rectifier diode.

Temp3998

M1: 71,6°C, M2: 56,9°C, HS1: 81,9°C


Temp3999

M1: 32,0°C, M2: 35,5°C, HS1: 72,4°C
HS1 is the rectifier diode.

10ohm

Noise at 0.5A load is: 14mV rms and 309mVpp

5ohm

Noise at 1A load is: 12mV rms and 476mVpp.

2ohm

Noise at 2.5A load is: 19mV rms and 648mVpp.






Tear down

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One screw removed the frontplate, this is required for mounting the socket and for connecting the earth wire, note that the mains carrying parts are partial isolated (nice).

DSC_8563

Four screws later and the back is open.

DSC_8562DSC_8577

The supply wires for the usb circuit is soldered to the outlet and has an extra layer of isolation.

DSC_8565

At the mains input is a fuse, there is also a common mode coil and a inductor. The mains switcher is a PL3326. Beside the transformer is a safety capacitor.
The low volt side of the transfor uses flying leads, they are connection to the circuit board, but all the electronic for the low volt side is on the other circuit board.

DSC_8568

The circuit board with the low volt electronic has two capacitors and a inductor on this side.

DSC_8570DSC_8571

On the first image the fuse (T1) can be seen, there is also the switcher IC. The second image shows the inductor (L2) and the common mode coil.

DSC_8572

On this side the safety capacitor (Y2) with all its approval markings can be seen.
There is some black isolation paper between the transformer and the metal can of a capacitor (nice).

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On the other side of the mains input circuit board is the bridge rectifier (DB1).

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The low volt circuit board has a rectifier diode (D9), a dual auto coding IC (U2) and some ferrite beads to reduce noise.

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DSC_8576

The circuit board has large slots to improve safety, the actual distance is about 6mm between mains and low volt side.


Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

The construction, output current, coding and safety looks fine. I could have wished for slightly lower idle power.

I will rate this as a good mains output and usb charger.



Notes

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of UGreen Dual USB Power Adapter CD104

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UGreen Dual USB Power Adapter CD104

DSC_8153

Official specifications:


  • Model no: CD104
  • Product name: Dual USB charger
  • Input: 100-240VAC 50/60Hz, max 600mA
  • Output: 5V/2.4A + 5V/1A
  • Material: ABS+ PC fireproof


DSC_8137DSC_8138

I got it in a white cardboard box.

DSC_8152

DSC_8154DSC_8155

DSC_8156DSC_8157DSC_8158






Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.08 watt
  • USB output top is auto coding with Apple 1A.
  • USB output bottom is auto coding with Apple 2.4A as max.
  • The two outputs are in parallel.


UGreen%20Dual%20USB%20Power%20Adapter%20top%20230V%20load%20sweep

The top output may only be rated for 1A, but it can deliver a bit above 4.5A, this is a bit high for the usb connector.

UGreen%20Dual%20USB%20Power%20Adapter%20bottom%20230V%20load%20sweep

Same with the bottom output.

UGreen%20Dual%20USB%20Power%20Adapter%20120V%20load%20sweep

And it is no surprise that running them in parallel, the output current is the same, both at 120VAC

UGreen%20Dual%20USB%20Power%20Adapter%20230V%20load%20sweep

And 230VAC

UGreen%20Dual%20USB%20Power%20Adapter%20230V%20load%20test

Rated output is 3.4A and it can deliver that for at least one hour.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp4092

M1: 61,2°C, HS1: 70,6°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp4093

M1: 44,5°C, M2: 52,9°C, HS1: 60,2°C
HS1 is the rectifier diode, is is also the reason for the warm usb connector.

Temp4094

M1: 57,7°C, M2: 54,4°C, HS1: 61,8°C
HS1 is again the rectifier diode. M1 is the switcher transistor or something close to it.

Temp4095

M1: 47,7°C, HS1: 57,3°C
HS1 is the switcher transistor or something close to it.

Temp4096

M1: 62,0°C, HS1: 77,3°C
M1 is the transformer and HS1 is due to the rectifier diode.

10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is 13mV rms and 331mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 16mV rms and 305mVpp.

2ohm

At 2.5A the noise is 18mV rms and 273mVpp.



Tear down

DSC_9006

The glue was very strong on this one, I had to cut and break it open.

DSC_9007

On the input side is a fuse (Red block), a common mode coil and an inductor. The switcher transistor can also be seen.
The transfor has flying leads to improve isolation,below the transformer is a safety capacitor.

DSC_9009DSC_9010

On the first picture the common mode could and the safety capacitor with all its approvals can be seen. The metal is a heatsink for the rectifier diode. On the second picture the fuse with the inductor behind it and the common mode coil can be seen.

DSC_9011DSC_9012

On the first picture the switcher transistor sits before the transformer. On the second picuture the recifier diode can be seen inside the heatsink. The heatsink also helps move current to the capacitors.

DSC_9008

On this side is the bridge rectifier (BD1), the switcher controller (U1), the opto feedback (U2), the reference (U3:431) and two chips for auto coding (U4, U5).

DSC_9013

DSC_9014

The slot in the circuit board is great for safety, this means very good distance between mains and low volt side.
Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

This power supply can deliver rated current, has auto coding, noise is acceptable, there is overload protection (It is a bit high, but not enough to be a serious problem), the safety looks good.

I will call it a good power supply.



Notes

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of USB meter: RD Tech USB 3.0 tester USB-3.0-H

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USB meter: RD Tech USB 3.0 tester USB-3.0-H

DSC_9342

Official specifications:


  • Voltage measurement range: DC 04.00-24.00V
  • Current measurement range: DC 0.0000-3.0000A
  • Capacity accumulation range: 0.0000-9.9999-99.999Ah
  • Energy accumulation range: 0.0000-9.9999Wh-999.99Wh
  • Voltage measurement accuracy: ± (0.2% + 1digit)
  • Current measurement accuracy: ± (0.1% + 4 digits)
  • Time measurement range: 0-99h59min59s
  • Temperature measurement range: -10??65?
  • Temperature measurement error:±2?
  • Screen brightness setting: 1-7 level
  • Delay closing screen time: 1-9 mins
  • Voltage curve range: 04.0-24.0V
  • Current curve range:0.00-3.00A
  • Update rate: 2Hz
  • Protection function: OVP (over-voltage protection), UVP (under-voltage protection), OTP (over-temperature protection), OCP (Over-
  • current protection) and UCP (Under-current delay time protection).
  • Charging mode: Direct Mode, Quick Charge Mode, Disconnected Mode.
  • Other functions: Screen rotation Shunt-down screen
  • Quiescent current: about 10mA
  • Product weight: 14g (package 46g)
  • Product size: 64.0mm*21.6mm*11.2mm (L*W*H)
  • Port mode: compatibility USB 2.0 USB 3.0
  • Display screen: 0.91” 128*32 lattice OLED screen

I got this unit from “RD official store” on Aliexpress




How does it look

DSC_9336

The meter is delivered in a metal can.

DSC_9337

It includes the meter, a instruction sheet with 8 pages in English and a lanyard.

DSC_9338

He “key” is a button, pressing on it is time sensitive in 3 steps: short press, medium press and long press, a red led on the front can be used for timing the presses.

DSC_9339

There is a cap on one of the usb connectors.

DSC_9384

The display is a OLED display with many modes. Below the display is a red led that is used to time the presses on the button.

DSC_9340DSC_9341

The two connectors with usb 3 support. The only thing that usb 3 does it running the signals through, it do not affect the measurements.

DSC_9373

This is the main measuring display
The meter has 10 memories, these can be selected by a long press. Memory #0 is auto reset, the other requires a manual reset.
The auto reset function works fairly well: Connect the meter to power without any load connected and the last value can be read. Start drawing current and it will reset to zero.

DSC_9374

This display shows the runtime and internal temperature. It is possible to adjust the display brightness and the display off time.

DSC_9380

Voltage curve, it will only record a curve when visible and it will be lost when power goes off or another screen is selected.

DSC_9381

Current curve, it will only record a curve when visible and it will be lost when power goes off or another screen is selected.
The scale will not change, but move up/down as needed.

DSC_9375

The limit settings, this can be used to turn the output off on over/under voltage, over/under current and if the meter gets hot. The “m” setting is a delay for under current.
These values are rather difficult to adjust. It is possible to reset these setting by powerering up the meter with the button held down.

DSC_9376

This sceen is used to select usb mode, the above symbol is standard where the data pins are connected from input to output.

DSC_9377DSC_9378

The two other modes are: Data pins unconnected and battery charging mode (Meter will auto code output with Apple 2.4A as maximum, ignoring any coding on the input).

DSC_9379

Adjustment of display orientation.

DSC_9550

I only needed a (sharp) spudger to open it.

DSC_9557

Display is hiding most of the electronic here, only a transistor and a voltage regulator is visible.

DSC_9559

The processor is a STM32F030F4P6, the 5 pin chip besides it (U7: marked M28A) may be some sort of memory.

DSC_9560

There is one more chip hidden below the flat cable to the OLED display. Again I will have to guess, maybe it is the chip that disconnects the data pins (Closeup of the chip).

DSC_9558

The current shunt is a piece of wire, but there is space for a resistor below it. Across the shunt a ADC (U4:Marked CA34) is measuring the voltage. The 8 pin chip is a a mos fet transistor that handles the connect/disconnect of the output. Besides it is a 5 pin usb coding chip (888F2).

DSC_9553
DSC_9554
DSC_9555
DSC_9556



Measurements

Test

This device needs nearly 4 volt before it will work, even with the undervoltage protection adjustet to zero.


  • Own current consumption is 13mA with display on and 6mA with display off.
  • Internal resistance is about 0.11ohm including connection resistance.
  • Remembers Wh and Ah when power is off
  • Voltage display is within 0.03 volt in the 4.0 to 20.0 volt range.
  • Current display is within 0.03 ampere in the 0 to 3.0 ampere range.
  • USB data works fine.


Temp4194

M1: 50,0°C, M2: 41,2°C, HS1: 51,1°C

Temp4195

M1: 44,8°C, HS1: 48,5°C

Temp4196

M1: 43,0°C, M2: 42,8°C, HS1: 52,1°C

Temp4197

M1: 53,5°C, HS1: 57,3°C
M1 is the power mos transistor that handles disconnect on faults.



Conclusion

With the ability to remember Ah and Wh this device can be used to check capacity of power banks. The safety cutoff can also be useful, but is a pita to adjust.

The internal resistance is acceptable, but as usual I could with for a lower resistance.

The ability to disable usb data connections and optimize charging can be useful sometimes, but has to be carefully used (i.e. do not optimize charge on a weak power supply).

It is a good usb meter.



Notes

The meter was supplied by RD tech for a review.

How do I make the test

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of Tomo Power bank M2

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Tomo Power bank M2

DSC_9279

Official specifications:


  • Input: 5.0V/ 1A
  • Output: Dual USB: 5V/ 1A; 5V/ 2A
  • 2-in-1: 18650 Battery Charger + Smart Power Bank
  • Compatible Battery: 2 × 18650 battery (Not included)
  • Weight: 68g
  • Size: 130mm x 49mm x 25mm

I got it from Banggood

How does it look

DSC_9218DSC_9219

The power bank is delivered in a cardboard box with a window and some specifications on the back.

DSC_9274

It contains the power bank, a usb cable and a “instruction sheet”.

DSC_9278

All connectors is placed at one end

  • Micro usb: Charge input.
  • 1A and 2A usb output.
  • Power on button.


DSC_9277

On the other end of the box is a display.

DSC_9569

There is no doubt when the power bank is turned on.

DSC_9570

This is the power status display,

DSC_9571

When charging a mains cord is shown to the left and the bars in the batteries are animated.

DSC_9565

When current is drawn the display will show voltage and current for each slot. The display will not indicate charging.

DSC_9280
DSC_9282
DSC_9281
DSC_9283

The box do not include any batteries, it is up to the user to supply one or two batteries.
The length of the batteries can be from about 58mm to 69mm.



Measurements


  • Usb output 1A is coded as usb charger (DCP)
  • Usb output 2A is coded as Apple 2.1A
  • Power consumption from battery when off is 2.2mA
  • Power consumption from battery when on is 16mA
  • Power consumption from battery at 1.9V is 0.7mA
  • Limit for detecting current draw or not is about 45mA load on 2A usb and 60mA on 1A usb output.
  • The two battery slots are independent, i.e. no problem mixing full and empty batteries.
  • It is possible to use both outputs simultaneous, but the total current is only 2A, this is enforced.
  • Can be used as UPS
  • Size: 100 × 48.0 × 26.4mm
  • Weight: 52g (Accessories and batteries not included)



Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%201A%20load%20sweep

The specification sheet says the box can deliver 1.5A on the 1A output, this is a bit optimistic, overload trips at 1.4A

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%202A%20load%20sweep

The 2A output is rated for 2.2A, but again the overload protection kick in a bit early at 2A and also a bit early for a 2.1A coding.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%202A%20charging%20load%20sweep

The output looks the same with connected charge power.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20load%20sweep

Running both outputs in parallel gives slightly more current, but the current limit also works here.

Current

The current display is not a precision meter, but it will easily show if the connected device is charging and give a very good idea on how fast charging is.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20usb%20out%202A%2010ohm%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

Nice stable output voltage until the battery is about empty.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20usb%20out%202A%205ohm%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

AT higher current the output voltage is a bit lower, but again very stable until the battery is empty.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20usb%20out%202A%2010ohm%20%282xSA18650-33%29

Two batteries gives about double time.
Note: I am only measuring current and voltage on one battery.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20usb%20out%202A%205ohm%20%282xSA18650-33%29

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20usb%20out%202A%202.5ohm%20%282xSA18650-33%29

At 2A the output voltage is fairly low, but stays stable until the batteries are empty.

10ohm

Noise is 8mV rms and 76mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 11mV rms and 85mVpp

2.5ohm

Noise is 16mV rms and 129mVpp, all noise values are very low.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

It uses a nice CC/CV charge algorithm, but do not really stop charging, instead it will pulse the current when the voltage drops slightly.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%20%282xSA18650-33%29

The box will draw nearly 1A from usb when charging two batteries, this means about 0.4A for each battery.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M2%200.5ohm%20%282xSA18650-33%29

A 0.5ohm resistor in series with the usb supply to simulate a weak power supply or long cable do not prevent the box from charging at about the same speed.




Conclusion

This power bank has many good details:

  • Long battery slot, i.e. can handle some protected batteries.
  • Can be used as UPS
  • Independent slots
  • The display with current on each port
  • Fairly low noise
  • Over load protection
  • Easy battery replacement, i.e. this makes it possible carry spare batteries or use it as 18650 charger.

But the standby current is a bit on the high side, i.e. the batteries has to be charged every few months even when not using it. I would also have like a bit more current on the 2A port and auto coding.

I will rate it as fairly good.



Notes

The power bank was supplied by Banggood for a review.

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of TENOZEK USB Power Bank 4000mAh

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TENOZEK USB Power Bank 4000mAh

DSC_9716

Official specifications:


  • Material: Alloy
  • Output: Dual Output Connections
  • Output: 5V 2.1A
  • Type: Emergency/Portable
  • Battery Type: Polymer Battery
  • Color: Silver
  • Dimensions: (4.72 × 2.36 × 0.39)” / (12 × 6 × 1)cm (L x W x H)
  • Weight: 4.41oz / 125g
  • Input: DC 5V 1A
  • Battery Capacity(mAh): 4000

I got it from tmart.com

How does it look

DSC_9490DSC_9491DSC_9492DSC_9493

The power bank is delivered in a clam shell, this looks to be a fairly universal box, that is used for multiple models.

DSC_9509

Contents was the charger and a usb cable, no instruction sheet.

DSC_9510
DSC_9514

A micro usb cable is stored in the charger.

DSC_9512

DSC_9511DSC_9513

The micro usb connector is store in one end of the charger, the other end has a normal usb output, a micro usb charging input, a power gauge with a button to activate the gauge.

DSC_9516DSC_9517





Measurements


  • Both Usb output is coded as usb charger (DCP)
  • Both outputs are in parallel.
  • Output is always on, except when charging.
  • Size: 115 × 59.4 × 10.5mm
  • Weight: 122g (Accessories not included)


TENOZEK%20USB%20Power%20Bank%204000mAh%20usb%20load%20sweep

The box can deliver 1.2A before the output starts to drop and at about 1.5A the overload protection kicks in.

TENOZEK%20USB%20Power%20Bank%204000mAh%20micro%20load%20sweep

The micro usb looks the same, but the voltage is slightly lower due to the cable.

TENOZEK%20USB%20Power%20Bank%204000mAh%20load%20sweep

Running the two outputs in parallel gives the same result, but with a bit more voltage, due to the parallel connections.

TENOZEK%204000mAh%20usb%20out%2010ohm

The capacity at 5V is about 2800mAh, this is very good for a 4000mAh battery bank. At this load the voltage looks fine.

TENOZEK%204000mAh%20usb%20out%205ohm

Increasing the load to 1A shows that the boost converter do not have any spare capacity. It can handle 1A, but is at the limit of its capacity when the batteries are about empty (The voltage drop during the last few minutes).
It can deliver 1A for 15 minutes less than 3 hours.

TENOZEK%204000mAh%20usb%20out%201.2A

Using a 1.2A load shows clearly that the converter cannot handle more than 1A.
Note: This test was not done on a full pack.

10ohm

Noise is 15mV rms and 115mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 25mV rms and 153mVpp, this is low values.

TENOZEK%204000mAh%20charging

Charge current is a bit below 1A and it looks like the charger uses a CC/CV charge algorithm.

TENOZEK%204000mAh%200.5ohm%20charging

A 0.5ohm resistor in series with the usb supply to simulate a weak power supply or long cable makes the charging slower.




Conclusion

The power bank is a nice small one and can deliver the rated capacity, has low noise, but the specifications on it is a bit too optimistic, it is not a 2.1A device, but a 1A device.
The build in micro usb cable works nicely and means that there always is a cable available.

I will rate it fairly good.


Notes

The power bank was supplied by tmart for a review.

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/


Test/review of Konig Mini USB charger PSUP-GSM02

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Konig Mini USB charger PSUP-GSM02

DSC_5693

Official specifications:


  • Voltage Required: AC 100-240 V
  • Input Connector(s): Power
  • Voltage Provided: 5 V
  • Output Connector(s): Mini-USB Type B
  • Power Provided: 5 Watt 2000mA is 10W
  • Max Electric Current: 2000 mA


DSC_5668DSC_5669

DSC_5692

The box contains the charger and multi device instruction/data sheet without any useful information.

DSC_5694DSC_5695DSC_5698

DSC_5696DSC_5697



Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.17 watt
  • Usb output is mini usb connector.
  • Usb output coded as usb charger (DCP).
  • Weight: 77g including cable.
  • Size: 82 × 72 × 29mm (Wire not include, but strain relief is).


Konig%20Mini%20USB%20charger%20PSUP-GSM02%20230V%20load%20sweep

The charger can easily deliver the rated 2A, over current protection is at about 2.6A

Konig%20Mini%20USB%20charger%20PSUP-GSM02%20120V%20load%20sweep

Or slightly higher when running 120VAC.

Konig%20Mini%20USB%20charger%20PSUP-GSM02%20230V%20load%20test

It can run for one hour at full rated load without problems.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp3475

M1: 48,0°C, HS1: 63,1°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp3476

HS1: 68,1°C

Temp3477

M1: 48,7°C, HS1: 70,4°C

Temp3478

M1: 35,7°C, HS1: 44,3°C
The cable gets slightly warm at full current.

10ohm

Noise at 0.5A load is: 9mV rms and 330mVpp.

5ohm

Noise at 1A load is: 9mV rms and 305mVpp.



Tear down

DSC_7443

Pressing the bottom part with my vice and giving a few wack to the top broke it open.

DSC_7445

It has a fuse at the mains input (F1) and a common mode coil between the two capacitors. Below the transformer is a safety capacitor and a inductor on the low volt side, above the transformer is the rectifier diode and a opto coupler

DSC_7446

In the center is the common mode coil (L1).

DSC_7447

The fuse, the safety capacitor (With markings) and the low voltage inductor is here.

DSC_7448

It looks like this model can also be made with a normal usb connector mounted on the circuit board.

DSC_7449

The switcher IC is hidden below a capacitor.

DSC_7444

On this side the bridge rectifer (BD1) can be found and the voltage reference (IC2). There is also two more rectifier diodes (D3 & D5). As can be seen on the circuit board this design is fairly old.

DSC_7450

DSC_7451

The safety distance is good.

The charger failed testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt, I was very surprised about that, the design looks good enough.



Conclusion

The charger looks good, but mini usb us a bit old and the due to the failed high voltage test I will not recommend it.



Notes

Charger was supplied by Pro backup (probackup.nl)

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of TENOZEK Dual USB Power Bank 13000mAh

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TENOZEK Dual USB Power Bank 13000mAh

DSC_9500

Official specifications:


  • Material: PC & ABS
  • Color: White
  • Output Interface: Dual USB
  • Output: 1:5V 1A, 2:5V 2A
  • Battery Type: Lithium Battery
  • Dimensions: (5.51 × 2.56 × 0.98)” / (14 × 6.5 × 2.5)cm (L x W x H)
  • Weight: 9.88oz / 280g
  • Input: DC 5V 1A/2A
  • Type: Emergency/Portable
  • Battery Capacity(mAh): 13000


I got it from tmart.com

How does it look

DSC_9486DSC_9487DSC_9488DSC_9489

The power bank is delivered in a clam shell, this looks to be a fairly universal box, that is used for multiple models.

DSC_9499

Contents was the charger and a usb cable, no instruction sheet.

DSC_9501

DSC_9507

On this end is the two usb output connectors, they are marked A and B

DSC_9508

On top of the power bank is the fuel gauge, it is 4 blue leds.

DSC_9506

The micro usb charging input and the fuel gauge on button is placed on the side.

DSC_9502DSC_9503DSC_9504DSC_9505





Measurements


  • Both Usb output is coded as usb charger (DCP)
  • Both outputs are in parallel.
  • Output is always on, except when charging.
  • The gauge turns on when output is loaded.
  • Size: 140 × 63.6 × 22.5mm
  • Weight: 280g (Accessories not included)



TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20A%20load%20sweep
TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20B%20load%20sweep

Both outputs can deliver about 1.4A, not 1A and 2A as the specifications on the bottom says.

TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20load%20sweep

Running the two output in paralle do not show more power.

TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20usb%20out%2010ohm

Nice stable voltage when running at low load.

TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20usb%20out%205ohm

At 1A the voltage starts to drop the last few minutes, this means the power bank will not be able to provide much more power.

10ohm

Noise is 13mV rms and 106mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 20mV rms and 246mVpp, this is low values.

TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20charge

Charging requires a lot of patience, it takes about 18 hours! The good thing is that it will work with a fairly weak (1A) usb power supply.

TENOZEK%2013000mAh%20charge%200.5ohm

A 0.5ohm resistor in series with the usb supply to simulate a weak power supply or long cable do not prevent the box from charging. It even chargers a bit faster.



Tear down

This power bank stopped working exactly when I was finished with testing, the reason is probably a faulty chip and not something with the power bank.

Temp4210

HS1: 62,8
The first I noticed was that I could not turn the power bank on, but when I touched it there was some heat. I opened it and as can be seen the chip is generating heat, and the power bank is not connected to anything. A clamp meter showed about 100mA was used from the batteries.

DSC_9717

The batteries are 2600mAh, but do not have any brand names on them.

DSC_9718

The circuit uses a single chip designed for power bank usage, it can either charger or discharge the batteries

DSC_9719

DSC_9720

DSC_9721DSC_9723

DSC_9722

DSC_9724



Conclusion

The power bank has lots of capacity, low noise and can deliver about 1A. With this large power bank I would have liked the rated 2A or even 2.5A.
Due to the lower capacity batteries used, the power bank is a bit on the heavy side compared to capacity.

Assuming the break down was a freak accident, I will rate it as fairly good.



Notes

The power bank was supplied by tmart for a review.

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of Tomo Power bank M4

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Tomo Power bank M4

DSC_9522DSC_9523

Official specifications:


  • Input: 5V / 1.2A
  • Output: 5V / 1A, 2A
  • 2-in-1: 18650 Battery Charger + Smart Power Bank
  • Compatible Battery: 4 × 18650 battery (Not included)
  • Weight: 86g
  • Size: 10.00 × 8.40 × 2.70 cm / 3.94 × 3.31 × 1.06 inches

I got it from Gearbest

How does it look

DSC_9495DSC_9496DSC_9497DSC_9498

The power bank is delivered in a cardboard box with a window and some specifications on the back.

DSC_9521DSC_9526

It exist in black and in white.

DSC_9518

It contains the power bank, a usb cable and a “instruction sheet”.

DSC_9525

All connectors is placed at one end

  • Micro usb: Charge input.
  • 1A and 2A usb output.
  • Power on button.


DSC_9576

On the other end of the box is a display.

DSC_9578

When current is drawn the display will show voltage and current for each slot. The display will not indicate charging.

DSC_9579

When charging a mains cord is shown to the left and the bars in the batteries are animated.

DSC_9528

DSC_9529

The box do not include any batteries, it is up to the user to supply them.
The length of the batteries can be from about 58mm to 69mm.



Measurements


  • Usb output 1A is coded as usb charger (DCP)
  • Usb output 2A is coded as Apple 2.1A
  • Power consumption from battery when off is 3.5mA
  • Power consumption from battery when on is 21mA
  • Power consumption from battery at 1.9V is 1.5mA
  • Limit for detecting current draw or not is about 65mA load on 2A usb and 65mA on 1A usb output.
  • The four battery slots are independent, i.e. no problem mixing full and empty batteries.
  • It is possible to use both outputs simultaneous, but the total current is only 2A, this is enforced.
  • Can be used as UPS
  • Size: 100 × 83.6 × 26.4mm
  • Weight: 87.7g (Accessories and batteries not included)


Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%201A%20load%20sweep

The 1A output can deliver nearly 1.4A before shutting down.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%202A%20load%20sweep

The 2A output can deliver 2A, but not the coded 2.1A

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%202A%20charging%20load%20sweep

The current limit is not changed when charging.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%201A%2010ohm%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

At 0.5A load on the 1A output with a single cell in the power bank the curve looks fine.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%201A%205ohm%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

Same with a 1A load.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%202A%205ohm%20%28SA18650-33%29%20%231

The 2A output with a 1A load from a single cell.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%201A%2010ohm%20%284xSA18650-33%29

With 4 cell the runtime is more than 4 times longer, here at 0.5A load.
Note: Current measurement is only for one cell.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%202A%205ohm%20%284xSA18650-33%29

And at 1A load.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20usb%20out%202A%202.5ohm%20%284xSA18650-33%29

At 2A load the boost converter has trouble when the batteries are about empty. This killed the power bank.

Current

The current display is not a precision meter, but it will easily show if the connected device is charging and give a very good idea on how fast charging is.

10ohm

Noise is 16mV rms and 159mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 24mV rms and 227mVpp

2.5ohm

Noise is 26mV rms and 335mVpp, all noise values are fairly very low.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20charging%20%284xSA18650-33%29

Charging is with a CC/CV voltage charge curve.
Note: Current measurement is only for one cell.

Tomo%20Power%20Bank%20M4%20charging%200.5ohm%20%284xSA18650-33%29

A 0.5ohm in series with the power supply to simulate a long cable or weak power supply will slow down the charging, but not that much.


Tear down

With the power bank dead I decided to take a look inside.

DSC_9823

The box was clipped together and could be opened without too much trouble.

DSC_9824

There is a lot of electronic inside, lets take a closer look at it.
On each side of the display is a dual mosfet (Q3 & Q4) together with dual comparators (U9 & U10: LM393), this is the circuit that is used to select what battery that has to deliver power onto the internal power bus. This power bus can also get power from the usb input via a diode (D2), i.e. if the usb input voltage is a diode drop higher than battery voltage it will supply the boost converter.
Close to the display flat cable connection is a transistor (Q2) to control the backlight .
There is four linear charge ic’s (U1, U2, U3, U4), one for each battery.
In the center of the board is the microcontroller (U8:PIC16F1933), it has build-in LCD controller, ADC and lot of other stuff. The display must have a build in controller, the controller in the mcu is too small for this display.
The boost converter is one IC with rectification build in (U6: G5177C) and a inductor (L1).
Near the usb connectors is a dual transistor (Q5) to shut down the outputs and two resistors for current measurements (R41 0.05ohm & R42 0.1ohm). It looks like the ADC (Inside the microcontroller) has lowest range at 1V and I cannot see any amplification, this means the current measurement is only using 10% of the ADC range.

DSC_9825

Only usb connectors, switch and battery connections on this side of the circuit board.

DSC_9826

DSC_9827

DSC_9828

The LCD is controlled directly from the microprocessor, the red and black wires are used for a backlight module mounted on the back of the display.




Conclusion

This power bank has many good details:

  • Long battery slot, i.e. can handle some protected batteries.
  • Can be used as UPS
  • Independent slots
  • The display with current for each port
  • Overload protection
  • Easy battery replacement, this makes it possible carry spare batteries or use it as 18650 charger.

But the standby current is a bit on the high side, i.e. the batteries has to be charged every few months even when not using it. I would also have like a bit more current on the 2A port and auto coding.

It looks like this type of power bank has problems with delivering full power for long time: they die.

I will rate it as acceptable.



Notes

The power bank was supplied by Gearbest for a review.

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of Valueline Micro USB AC charger VLMP60891B10

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Valueline Micro USB AC charger VLMP60891B10

DSC_5794

Official specifications:


  • Input Power: AC 100-240V 50/60Hz
  • Output Power: DC 5V-2.1A
  • Connector: Micro usb


DSC_5772

I got it in a plastic bag.

DSC_5795DSC_5796DSC_5797

DSC_5798

DSC_5799





Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.1 watt
  • Usb output is coded as Samsung
  • Weight: 64.6g
  • Size: 71.7 × 48.0 × 39.0mm



Valueline%20Micro%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP60891B10%20230V%20load%20sweep

Thus small adapter can deliver the rated current and a bit more (the overload protection looks fine). The dropping voltage is probably due to the cable.

Valueline%20Micro%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP60891B10%20120V%20load%20sweep

It will also work at 120VAC.

Valueline%20Micro%20USB%20AC%20charger%20VLMP60891B10%20230V%20load%20test

No problems running one hour at 2.1A.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp3469

M1: 35,4°C
The cable gets sligtly warm.

Temp3470

M1: 58,8°C, HS1: 70,8°C
HS1 is the transformer.

Temp3471

M1: 62,6°C, HS1: 74,1°C
HS1 is again the transformer.

Temp3472

M1: 61,8°C, M2: 52,8°C, HS1: 63,5°C
This time HS1 is the rectifier diode.

Temp3473

HS1: 69,2°C
And the rectifier diode again.

Temp3474

HS1: 74,6°C

10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is 32mV rms and 303mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 34mV rms and 275mVpp.

2.5ohm

At 2A the noise is 44mV rms and 273mVpp.


Tear down

DSC_7569

My vice and a mallet could open it.

DSC_7570

The plastic shield inside the box is used for isolation between mains and low volt side.

DSC_7571

At the mains input there is a fuse and a blue safety capacitor. Between the two capacitors is an inductor with shrink wrap around. The mains switcher transistor (Q1) is next to the transformer. The transformer has wires to the low volt side, where the rectifier diode is placed.

DSC_7573

From this side the rectifier diode and the transformer can be seen.

DSC_7574

Here the inductor between the two mains capacitors can be seen. One of the capacitors has shrink wrap on top of the plastic isolation.

DSC_7575

The fuse (F1) is next to the mains input wire.

DSC_7576

The circuit board is made for a usb connector, but this time 3 wires are connected instead.
The 3 wires are plus, minus and both data in one wire, this is used for coding the usb output.

DSC_7572

This side contains a bridge rectifier (DB1) and the mains switcher controller. There is two resistor for coding the usb output (R15, R16).

DSC_7578



DSC_7580

Safety distance looks good.

The charger failed testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt, I was very surprised about that, the design looks good enough.



Conclusion

Generally this small charger looks well designed and with good performance, but due to the isolation fault it will not recommend it.



Notes

Charger was supplied by Pro backup (probackup.nl)

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of USB battery box mi Power bank 10000mAh PLM02ZM

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USB battery box mi Power bank 10000mAh PLM02ZM

DSC_9268

The power bank can use quick charge both for input and output, the energy storage is based on a Lithium Polymer pack.
The specifications are:


  • Brand: Xiaomi
  • Model: PLM02ZM
  • Material: Aluminium Alloy
  • Capacity: 10000mAh 3.85V ( 38.5Wh )
  • Product weight: 0.250 kg
  • Dimensions: 130 * 71 * 14.1mm
  • Battery Type: Lithium polymer batteries
  • Input: 5.0V2.0A, 9V/12V18W
  • Output: 5.1V2.4A 9V/12V15W MAX
  • Unique Tech: Quick Charge 2.0

I got it from Banggood


How does it look

DSC_9224DSC_9225

The power bank is delivered in a white cardboard box.

DSC_9265

It contains the power bank, a usb cable and a manual in Chinese (I believe).

DSC_9269

All connectors and some indicators are placed on one side of the box.

  • 4 led strip for power gauge
  • A button to activate the power gauge and turn the output on (Usual it will turn on automatic when loaded).
  • Micro usb: Charge input.
  • Usb output.


DSC_9270

The specifications are on the back of the power bank, I believe the text is in Chinese.

DSC_9271

DSC_9272DSC_9273



Measurements


  • Usb output is auto coding with Apple 2.1 and QC
  • Usb output will usual turn on automatic when loaded.
  • Output will turn off about 100 seconds after the load goes below 60mA
  • Output will turn off when input power is connected
  • Charge indicator will flash when output is on.
  • Size: 130 × 71 × 13.9mm
  • Weight: 215g (Accessories not included)

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20load%20sweep

The 5V output can deliver about 2.6A before the overload protection trips, this is fine for a 2.4A rated output.

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20QC9V%20load%20sweep

The QC output is rated for 15W, not for any current, as can be seen it can deliver about 20W and 2.2A at 9V

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20QC12V%20load%20sweep

And about 1.6A at 12V (Check the runtime test below, it cannot sustain this power level).

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20usb%20out%2010ohm

The output looks very nice at 0.5A

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20usb%20out%205ohm

At 1A the power banks is rated to give 6900mAh at 5.1V, it can easily do that.

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20usb%20out%202ohm

At 2.5A, i.e. absolute maximum load the power bank can deliver slightly less.

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20usb%20out%2010ohm%20QC

Here I am running at 12V output with 1.2A load, it works for two hours, then the boost converter has trouble delivering enough power. In my opinion it would be better to disable QC when the power bank is near empty.
It delivers about 29Wh, before the output starts jumping up and down (Total energy is around 37Wh).

10ohm

Noise is 4mV rms and 50mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 8mV rms and 81mVpp

2ohm

Noise is 3mV rms and 59mVpp, all values are very low.

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20charging

Charge current is about 2A, but the power bank stops and starts all the time, is this on purpose?

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20charging%20QC

It works the same with Quick Charge, it also looks like my charger drops out of QC mode a few time, but the power bank puts it back again.

mi%20Power%20bank%2010000mAh%20PLM02ZM%20charging%200.5ohm

Simulating a long cable or a weak power supply, shows that the power bank will reduce charge speed very significantly (It takes more than 3 times as long).

ChargeStart5V

When starting a charge the power bank will ramp up the current in steps. I expect this is done to detect voltage drops on the usb power supply and then limit the maximum current draw.

ChargeStartQC

Quick charge works the same way.

ChargingPower5V

The pauses looks very regular, i.e. they must be on purpose.



Conclusion

This power bank looks fairly good, it has low noise, can deliver rated capacity and current, has quick charge. With a good charger, it will charge fairly fast (4 hours) for its capacity.

I only see one small detail, the QC output cannot deliver full power when the power bank is near empty.



Notes

There has been some rumor that this charger has damaged phones. The only questionable behavior I can see is when the power bank is nearly empty during a quick charger and the voltage jumps up/down. I do not know if this can be the reason, but I would not expect it.

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of Rasberry Pi 2.5A (Stontronics DSA-13PFC-05)

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Rasberry Pi 2.5A (Stontronics DSA-13PFC-05)

DSC_9836

Official specifications:


  • USB POWER SUPPLY, 5V 2.5A
  • Input Voltage VAC: 90-264V
  • Plug Type: UK / Euro
  • Micro USB cable 1.5mtr
  • ErP Level 5 Efficiency Rating


DSC_9830

I got it in a white card board box.

DSC_9831

It contained the charger and two different mains plugs.

DSC_9832DSC_9833DSC_9834

DSC_9835DSC_9836

DSC_9838



Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.03 watt
  • usb power is not coded?
  • Weight: 118g including EU plug.
  • Size: 78 × 73 × 45mm
  • Cable is 145cm long with micro usb connector

Rasberry%20Pi%202.5A%20%28Stontronics%20DSA-13PFC-05%29%20230V%20load%20sweep

The charger can deliver about 3.4A at 230VAC. The output voltage starts fairly high and will drop with load current, that is no surprise, the cable is the reason for much of the drop.

Rasberry%20Pi%202.5A%20%28Stontronics%20DSA-13PFC-05%29%20120V%20load%20sweep

At 120VAC the current is slightly less.

Rasberry%20Pi%202.5A%20%28Stontronics%20DSA-13PFC-05%29%20direct%20230V%20load%20sweep

For this curve I measured the voltage inside the charger at the output terminals and as can be seen the voltage is very stable.

Rasberry%20Pi%202.5A%20%28Stontronics%20DSA-13PFC-05%29%20230V%20load%20test

No problems running one hour at 2.5A.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp4231

M1: 50,5°C, HS1: 58,9°C
HS1 is the rectifier diode and the area with M1 is the transformer.

Temp4232

HS1: 47,5°C

Temp4233

M1: 43,2°C, M2: 38,8°C, HS1: 44,6°C

Temp4235

HS1: 60,8°C
HS1 is the rectifier diode.

Temp4234

M1: 41,3°C, HS1: 50,3°C
HS1 is the rectifier diode.

10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is mV 15rms and 122mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is mV 24rms and 110mVpp.

2ohm

At 2.5A the noise is 64mV rms and 120mVpp, all noise values are very low.



Tear down

DSC_0030

With help from my vice and a screwdriver I could break it open, but it was difficult.

DSC_0032

At the mains input is a fuse (F1: T2A), a common mode coil and the switcher IC (Q1:GR9230HK). Beside the transformer is a safety capacitor and on the other side a opto coupler.
On the low volt side is a rectifier diode and a common mode coil.

DSC_0035

From this side the rectifier diode, the safety capacitors and the mains common mode coil can be seen.

DSC_0036DSC_0038

The first picture shows the output common mode coil and the rectifier diode on a small heatsink.
On the second picture is the mains common mode coil and the fuse (Wrapped in shrink wrap).

DSC_0037

The fuse and the opto coupler is here, there is a slot in the circuit board under the opto coupler to improve isolation.

DSC_0033

On this this is the bridge rectifier (BD1) and the reference (U4)

DSC_0034

DSC_0039

Safety distance looks good.

Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

This charger is not designed to charge phones or tablets and are missing the coding, but it works fine for instead it is designed to drive small usb powered computers. Depending on the computer and attached stuff it may mean 24/7 at high load. Running close to maximum load will cost lifetime on this power supply, there is a capacitor very close to the hot rectifier diode.

It is a good and safe power supply for the intended purpose, but it is not a fast charger for phones and tablet.



Notes

The charger was supplied by a reader for review.

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/review of Chuwi Hi-Dock 4 usb desktop charger W-100

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Chuwi Hi-Dock 4 usb desktop charger W-100

DSC_0095

Official specifications:


  • Dimensions 81*81*28mm/3.19*3.19*1.1in
  • Weight 147g
  • Input AC 100-240V 50/60Hz 0.85A(MAX)
  • Output 1: QC3.0 3.6-6.5V/3A,6.5V-9V/2A,9V-12V/1.5A
  • Output 2: USB*3 5V/2.4A,(5V/3.4A MAX)
  • Total output power: 35W
  • Working temperature: -10° ~ 40°C


DSC_0092DSC_0093

I got it in a white cardboard box with the main specifications on the back.

DSC_0094

Inside the box was the power supply, the mains cable and a instruction sheet.

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DSC_0103DSC_0105





Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.08 watt
  • Usb output is auto coding with Apple 2.4A as maximum.
  • Orange usb output is Quick Charge 3.0 and can also support Apple 2.4A
  • The 3 standard usb ports are in parallel.
  • QC shared ground/0V with the other ports.
  • Minimum QC3 output is 3.68V
  • Weight: 147g (without accessories)
  • Size: 80.1 × 80.0 × 29.2mm



Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20%231%20load%20sweep

The charger can deliver about 4.2A before the overload protection kicks in, it is a bit on the high side for a single usb port, but not a serious issue.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20%233%20load%20sweep

This port can deliver exactly the same.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20%231-3%20load%20sweep

Running all ports in parallel is also the same, this is a low for 3 ports.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20QC5V%20load%20sweep

The QC output is different, it can deliver 3.8A and the voltage will increase when loaded (This can compensate for cable loses).
Another detail is the efficiency, it is better than standard usb outputs.
The increasing output voltage is a bit strange, usual it is supplies without opto feedback that do it, but this is a QC port and nee opto feedback to control the QC voltage. There must be some extra electronic for it.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20QC9V%20load%20sweep

At 9V the output is also 3.8A before overload protection kicks in.
When charger drops out of 9V or 12V quickcharge the voltage drops to zero, I have removed this from the chart to make it look a bit cleaner.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20QC12V%20load%20sweep

At 12V the current is down to 2.5A

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20120V%20%231-3%2BQC%20load%20sweep

In this sweep I had a 3A load on the QC output, it do not affect the other usb outputs.
The efficiency is very low because I did not include the 15W from the QC output into the calculations. Correctly calculated it is very good.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20%231-3%2BQC%20load%20sweep

Output is the same at 230VAC.
The efficiency is very low because I did not include the 15W from the QC output into the calculations. Correctly calculated it is very good.

Chuwi%20Hi-Dock%204%20usb%20desktop%20charger%20230V%20load%20test

Here I loaded the QC output with 9V 2A and the other ports with a total of 3.4A, i.e. the rated power.
There was no problem running for 1 hour.

The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp4353

M1: 61,1°C, HS1: 74,7°C
HS1 is most likely from the rectifier transistor, M1 is from the QC transformer.

Temp4354

HS1: 63,0°C
Again HS1 is from the rectifier transistor.

Temp4355

M1: 43,9°C, HS1: 73,5°C
The two transformers are clearly visible in the heat pattern.

10ohm

At 1A the noise is 12mV rms and 260mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 15mV rms and 304mVpp.

2ohm

At 2.5A the noise is 21mV rms and 331mVpp.

1.5ohm

At 3.3A the noise is 24mV rms and 591mVpp.

10ohmQC5V

At 0.5A the noise is 17mV rms and 126mVpp.

2ohmQC5V

At 2.5A the noise is mV 9rms and 133mVpp.

10ohmQC9V

At 0.9A the noise is 17mV rms and 133mVpp.

10ohmQC12V

At 1.2A the noise is 27mV rms and 157mVpp.



Tear down

DSC_0111

A screwdriver below the flaps could break it open.

DSC_0112DSC_0114

There is a black piece of paper/plastic to isolate the usb connectors from the mains parts, I have removed that on the second picture.
The mains fuse (F1 T2A) is in some black heat shrink tube, on the opposite side of the mains connectors is a common mode coil, between the two mains capacitors is a inductor. Below the white glue the blue color of a safety capacitor can be seen.
On the low volt side is the rectifier transistor (Q3) for synchronous rectification, there is also auto coding chips for the 3 normal usb outputs (U5 & U9 marked 2634 / 640).

DSC_0116

Between the two usb connectors U5 the auto coding chip can be seen.

DSC_0117DSC_0119

On the first image the fuse is next to the power input, on the second picture the rectifier transistor is next to the usb connector.

DSC_0118

Between the two usb connectors U9 the auto coding chip can be seen with a inductor behind it.
The common mode coil is next to the yellow capacitor.

DSC_0113DSC_0115

The isolation paper can also be seen on the bottom, there is some foam below the usb connectors to press them up.
This is a dual power supply, that only share the rectification part and the big capacitors. The mains bridge rectifier is made from four diodes (DB1A, DB1B, DB1C and DB1D).
For the QC supply: Mains switcher controller (U1 FAN602), a switcher transistor (Q2), opto feedback (U3), quick charge and synchronous rectification controller (U2 FAN6290QH) and synchronous rectification transistor (Q1). There is a current sense resistor (R4 0.025ohm) this makes it possible for U2 to measure the current and increase voltage during load. The circuit is probably very close to the typical schematic in the datasheet for the FAN6290.
The 3 other usb outputs uses another mains switcher controller (U6 FAN602) with a mains switcher transistor (Q4), opto feedback (U4). The synchronous rectification controller (U7 marked ACDDA) and a reference (U8 431). The rectification transistor is on the other side.

DSC_0120

DSC_0121

Safety distance looks very good.

DSC_0122

Here the distance is low, but because the slot is filled with the isolation paper/plastic it is completely safe.


Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

The dual supply design is interesting, it will increase the idle power a bit, but even with that the idle power is very low for this charger and the efficiency is very good.
The auto coding and QC3 makes the charge very universal, safety do also look good.
The output current available for the 3 normal usb outputs are a bit on the low side, the charger cannot handle more than two high current devices at a time (One in QC and one in a normal port) and two low current devices.

I will call it a good usb charger.



Notes

Charger was supplied by a Chuwi for review.

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/


Xiaomi Mi 2 Powerbank 20,000mAh Review - New 20Ah King?

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Xiaomi Mi 2 Power Bank 20,000mAh Quick Charge 3.0 Portable Charger

Unit supplied by banggood for review and testing, product link (aff?): https://www.banggood.com/Original-Xiaomi-20000mAh-Polymer-Power-Bank-2-D...

This is the new version of the 20,000mAh Xiaomi Powerbank, and even though it shares a lot of similarities on the outside with the old one, it’s been completely revamped on the inside. I have already reviewed their new 10,000mAh model and was surprised by the performance, so much that I would say with confidence it is the best powerbank in its class and price range. Will the bigger brother live up to its hype? Let’s see…

Specs from Xiaomi:
Battery Capacity: 20000mAh 3.85V ( 77Wh )
Battery Core: Polymer
Interface: Micro USB(input), USB(output)
Input: DC 5V/2A, 9V/2A, 12V/1.5A
Output: 2* DC 5.1V/2.4A, 9V/2A 12V/1.5A (18W Max)
Size: 135.5 × 67.6 × 23.9 mm
Weight: ~400g

One of the reasons I love Xiaomi power banks is because they state all the numbers in the spec, including the energy rating which is useful to measure efficiency. This version uses a 3.85V battery which gives it a slight advantage in energy as compared to 3.6V and 3.7V chemistry. Higher nominal voltage and an extremely efficient conversion module gives the Xiaomi 2 the almost unbelievable results in the discharge tests (See below).

Unboxing:
Typical Xiaomi powerbank box that comes with a short USB cable and a brief instruction manual in Chinese (not pictured)

Some info in the back of the box

Build quality and interface:

The Xiaomi Power Bank 2 has great built quality just the like original, even though the casing is fully made of plastic it feels really solid on hand.

Close up of the finish and logo. It has a smooth polished finish with small dots over front and back sides. White plastic gets dirty quick!

Vs. the older version, about 1CM shorter and narrower. A tad thicker but hardly noticeable. Weight comes in at 326gr (new) and 339gr (old).

Vs. another typically sized, 6× 18650 powerbank.

Xiaomi powerbank family

Obligatory size comparison with a S2+

Close-up of the top: button, 4 LEDs to show capacity, micro USB for input and 2x USB out. The matte finish can be easily scratched, but not very noticeable because it is white.

Lots of technical info underneath

In action

Compared to the older model, key differences are:
-No longer uses 6× 3.7V 3,350mAh 18650 batteries, now it has 2× 10,000Mah 3.85V Lithium Polymer cell.
-Quick Charge 3.0 supported for both input and output. (only input for old version)
-Faster recharging, thanks to the reduced CV phase of the new battery.
-Variable output voltage added
-Smaller size, rounder edges
-Low current mode added

Operation and performance:
-It has auto start when a device is connected
-Will automatically turn off after 30 seconds if a load is not detected
-One single button operates the power bank, it will turn on the output or restart it when pressed.
-Double click activates a low current mode, designed to charge/power low power devices such as bluetooth headset, USB lamp, keychain flashlights, etc. These devices draws very small amount of current and in normal mode would not keep the power on.
-Pass-through charge is possible but QC is disabled for both input and output.

Variable output voltage: Just like the 10,000mAh powerbank 2, this one has a variable output voltage. When the connected load is above exactly 1.5A the voltage gets bumped from 5.0V to 5.2V. This is extremely useful to compensate for cable losses and helps to maintain a healthy charge current. I would have preferred a permanent 5.3V output voltage like some modern smartphone chargers, since there is really no reason for manufacturers to stick to exactly 5.0V anymore. A 5.0V output reaches the device at 4.5~4.8V after cable losses and most -if not all modern 5V devices can safely receive up to 5.5V,

The included USB cable is the same that comes with all xiaomi products, a flat type cable that measured 0.09 Ohm resistance at 5V 2A. This is good compared to my other short cables.

Charge test:
-Maximum input using a QC3.0 adapter was 12V/1.5A
-From empty to full it only took 6hr 11min, impressively fast.
-103Wh required to fully charge with an efficiency of 75%
-After being fully charged it draws ~40mA while idle

Discharge tests:

5V/1A: output was completely flat, and it achieved the highest efficiency I’ve ever seen in a powerbank at 98%.

5V/2A: nice and flat output like in 1A test, slightly lower energy.

9V/1.5A: output remained above 9V the whole discharge test.

12V/1.5A: output voltage was sustained above 12V the whole discharge test.

The complete chart, even at 18W output the efficiency remains above 85%. Why don’t we have a flashlight driver like that? Big Smile

Notes:
-I got 975mAh more output capacity than the spec, and unbelievably high efficiency at 98% (Spec’d 93% Shocked ). I wonder if that’s due to capacity being underrated? Either way, it’s a good thing. Same happened with the 10,000mAh version. Lets hope that Xiaomi don’t ever realize this and go cheap on their products.
-Compared to the older Xiaomi 20,000mAh (pictured above), I’m getting roughly 15Wh more at 5V/2A which is a dramatic 25% increase. This is enough to give an extra full charge to a smartphone with a ~3000mAh battery.
-The internal battery is a High density lithium polymer with a nominal voltage of 3.85V, so compared to a common 3.7V 18650 based power bank of the same capacity there is a considerable energy increase. Keep this in mind when shopping power banks.

Compared to other 20,000mAh powerbanks: All tests done at standard 5V 2A discharge rate and charged with a QC 3.0 capable adapter
-Xiaomi 2: 74.4Wh, 6hr 11min to recharge
-Xiaomi 1: 59.3Wh, 6hr 45min to recharge
-Ravpower “porsche design” (pictured): 63Wh
-Vinsic: 62.4Wh, 5hr 10min to recharge (short recharge time thanks to highly efficient input converter)

Final words…
The new king of 20,000mAh? ABSOLUTELY. Most users don’t realize how much better this Mi 2 powerbank performs compared to others, but just look at the numbers! Crown If you liked the 10Ah powerbank 2, you’ll love this one. As always, I put my power banks under heavy use for some time before reviewing and everything was flawless.

What I like:
-Compact size and great build quality.
-Extremely high efficiency, out-performs most higher capacity and more expensive power banks.
-Strong output charges the most power hungry devices. Recharges very quickly as well.
-Has low current output mode and variable output voltage, which are not offered in most power banks.
-Budget price! At the current price of $30.99, it easily beats other brand name products such as Anker, Ravpower, Aukey.

What I don’t like:
-Plastic construction is solid, but for some people it might look cheap compared to other products of the xiaomi line-up. I’m totally in for an aluminum case version.

Thanks for reading and I hope this review has been useful to you. Big Smile

Test/review of power bank Ravpower RP-PB33

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Ravpower RP-PB33

DSC_3609

This is a simple and fairly small power bank.

The specifications are:


  • Input: DC 5V/1A
  • Output: DC 5V/1A max
  • Capacity: 3350mAh 12.4Wh

I got it from ebay dealer: eshop4deal.worldwide


How does it look

DSC_3564DSC_3606
DSC_3565

The power bank is delivered in a white cardboard box.

DSC_3607

It contained the power bank, a usb cable and a instruction sheet.

DSC_3613

At one end is the two connectors: usb A for output and mini usb for charging input.

DSC_3610

The power button and led gauge is on the side of the power bank.

DSC_3612

The specifications are on the back of the power bank.



Measurements


  • Usb output is coded as Apple 1A
  • Output will turn off about 30 seconds after the load goes below 60mA
  • Power bank cannot be used as UPS, when charging voltage is removed output will turn off.
  • Switch must be pressed to turn output on.
  • Size: 102 × 23mm
  • Weight: 72g (Accessories not included)

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20load%20sweep

The power bank can deliver about 1.2A, but the overload protection do not really work.

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20charge%20load%20sweep

When connected to power there is even less over current protection.

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20usb%20out%2010ohm

It can deliver 0.5A for nearly 4 hours. The 2000mAh output capacity matches fairly well with a 3350mAh battery

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20usb%20out%205ohm

At higher current the output capacity will be slightly lower. The voltage is stable until the power bank is empty (nice).

10ohm

Noise is 4mV rms and 83mVpp

5ohm

Noise is 15mV rms and 92mVpp, this is very good results.

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20charge

The power bank uses 0.9A when charging and it takes about 5 hours.

Ravpower%20RP-PB33%20charge%200.5ohm

Simulating a weak charger or long cable will slow down the charging, but not that much. Here it takes 6 hours.


Conclusion

This power bank fairly looks good, it has low noise, can deliver rated capacity and current. I would have prefered a DCD coding, instead of Apple coding and a better overload protection.



Notes

Read more about how I test USB power supplies and chargers

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Thrunite C2 Review - Portable 18650 Charger/Powerbank

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Review for the Thrunite C2, portable 18650 charger/powerbank device. Please note that current units being sold are the newest version (v3?) and my review unit is the v2. The main improvement is the ability to power up devices that draws as low as 100mA.

Unit sent by Thrunite for review and testing, product link: http://www.thrunite.com/thrunite-c2-3400-mah-compact-portable-charger/

The Thrunite C2 is designed to be a portable and fastest solution for 18650 charging + USB power delivery on the market. There is currently no other product this size that allows the user to charge a removable 3.7v 18650 battery at 2A rate, leave alone being able to supply USB power as well. I was a little skeptic at first when I saw the specs but the I’m glad to inform the C2 performs as expected and comes in very handy for a flashaholic.

Specs from Thrunite
-Input: DC 5V, Max 2.4A
-Output: DC 5V, Max 3A
-Material: AL T6061 aircraft aluminum body
-Applicable Battery: ThruNite 3400mAh 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery
-Working Temperature: -20℃-40℃.
-Size: 92.8mm(Length)*25mm(Width)

Unboxing:
A simple thrunite style cardboard box that contains little information on the outside

Inside the box we find the C2, protected 3,400mAh 18650 cell, a mesh pouch, short USB cable and user manual.

Build quality and interface:
The C2 is built from aluminium with a silver anodizing finish, the body has ~2mm thickness and overall build quality is high and on par with their flashlights. Weight comes in at 36.3gr w/o battery and 86.8 w/battery.

Single button on the top controls the device, a microUSB input and USB output.

Once we unscrew the tailcap we can access the battery. There is a gold coated spring and threads are square cut, ironically better threads than many expensive flashlights.

Close-up of the front PCB, also with a gold plated spring.

Size compared:

Inside the mesh pouch

Operation and performance:
-A single click of the button turns on the USB power
-The C2 does not have automatic turn on when a load is connected
-When no load is detected it turns off after 3secs
-Minimal load to maintain power is about 100mA on the current version.
-An LED on the front side shows battery status,
When charging: blue for 4.2V, Flashing blue for 3.65-4.2V, flashing purple for 3-3.65V and red for <3V
When discharhing: flashing blue for 3.65-4.2V, flashing purple for 3-3.65V, flashing red for 2.8-3V and solid red for <2.8V

Charge test:
The included 18650 3,400mAh measured 3,210mAh in my MC3000 for about 11.9Wh energy.

Recharging using a 5V 2.4A adapter:

Thrunite battery Took 2:05, requiring 14.1Wh to bring the battery to a full charge. In the graph you can see that most of the charge curve belong to the CV phase, which I can only assume the battery is based on the Panasonic NCR18650B. The charge time can be reduced by using a higher quality cell.

Sanyo 18650 GA:
In progress

Sont VTC6:
In progress

*****
Thrunite claims an input current of 2.4A but does not specify the charge current. I got a peak input current of 2.1A and 2.35A to the battery during the CC stage. Whether it is ideal or not to charge a battery at this high current is up for endless discussion just like whether you should store lithium batteries fully charged for long periods of time. Technically speaking its not the best way to charge a battery all the time, but it is still way less than 1C and we are yet to prove that it does significant extra damage to the cell on top of regular usage and wear.

I for one like to charge all my 3-3.5Ah cells at 0.5C, but would gladly put my cells into the C2 if I ever needed a quick charging.
*****

Discharge tests:

Current/Voltage test: There is no doubt the C2 has very high current output capabilities, the specs showed up to 3A and my unit managed to put out up to 2.5A load, maintaining 5.1V+ which is excellent.

Test #1 was to measure the highest possible efficiency by applying a very small load of 0.5A. It yielded 10.45Wh at 88% efficiency, which is good for its size and battery configuration. At the last 10 minutes the voltage dropped out of regulation and started to decrease until LVP kicked in.

Test #2 has a much higher load, at 1.5A I measured 8.54Wh, which translated to 78% efficiency. Same as above the output voltage dropped below 5V in the last 10 minutes.

Test #3 is the most important one: this time I connected my iPhone 7 Plus which takes 2A on the input side. The C2 delivered the required current and maintained a very stable output voltage, charging the phone from 5% to 78%. Same as above the voltage dropped below 5V during the last 10 minutes of charge. For this test I used a Sanyo GA but will test again with the Thrunite cell.

So you may ask… how does this compares to a dedicated powerbank? Well, normally with my iPhone 7+ I can get 2 full charges from a standard 10,000mAh powerbank eg, Xiaomi 10,000mAh v1 with 3×18650. I’m getting ~70% from the C1 with only one cell, so the performance is more than fair considering one cell is used at a time.

Notes:
-Do expect some heat when drawing high currents, but the aluminum housing did a great job dissipating the heat.
-Swapping cells with the C2 connected to power is possible and will automatically continue with the charging process.
-Parasitic drain is negligible at 0.012A
-Battery measured 2.83V after taken out of the unit right after LVP kicked in.
-Overload protection limits the output to 2.5A
-Charge current too high? Just connect it to a 1A or 1.5A current controlled adapter such as the Apple 5V1A charger.

Veredict: The Thrunite C2 is small in size, but deals huge numbers when it comes to power delivery. This is the most powerful single cell powerbank I’ve tested, and certainly the fastest USB powered charger. There is no other product that offers the same level of performance and convenience on the market. I’m happy with the performance and will be keeping one in the “bug out” kit.

What it is good for:
-To be used as the main charger of a portable flashlight kit, at 2A+ charge rate it cuts the charge time in half compared to standard 1A chargers.
-Much better USB output capabilities compared to similar products such as Nitecore F1 and Liitokala Lii-100. On par or even better than other dedicated 1-cell powerbanks.
-Quick-swapping 18650 cells means that this is the perfect USB power supplying device for those who have many spare 18650 cells. The 90% of BLF’ers maybe? Wink
-Enclosed battery design allows to be carried anywhere without worrying about loose batteries.

Points to consider:
-Battery life might be affected if high charge rate is used all the time, but can be countered using lower current USB sources.

Thanks for reading and I hope this review has been useful to you. Big Smile

Test/review of Bluetooth Audio Receiver and usb charger

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Bluetooth Audio Receiver

DSC_8160

Official specifications:


  • Bluetooth version: bluetooth V3.0 + EDR
  • Supported bluetoothprofiles: A2DP
  • Operational range: up to 10m/33ft
  • Input: AC 100V-240V
  • USB output: DC 5V/1A
  • Dimension: 39 × 39 × 31mm

It is from aliexpress dealer: Tomsale CO., Ltd

DSC_8139DSC_8140DSC_8141DSC_8142

I got it in a card board box with specifications on the back.

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It included the charger, a mini jack cable and an instruction sheet.

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Measurements tests

Powering it up and pairing it with the phone was easy enough, it is called BTR108 and my HTC phone can easily use it for sound output device.
But for nearly reliable connection the phone must be within 0.5 meter of the receiver, at longer distances there will be break-ups in the music. How often will depend on the distance (A couple of meters and it is rather bad).
The music sounds fine to my untrained ears.

SoundSinus0.4k

It is digital data transfer most of the way, how well do it handle the high and low frequencies?
Compare the size of this curve to the ones below, all curves includes both left and right channel, that is difficult to see because they match perfectly.

SoundSinus0.02k
SoundSinus3k
SoundSinus10k
SoundSinus15k
SoundSinus20k

From 20Hz to 15kHz is sound level is constant, at 20kHz is dropped about 3dB, this is better than the ear.

SoundSweep20-20k

Another way to look at it, here I programmed the frequency generator on the phone to do a sweep and then recorded it on the scope. It looks like the output starts dropping at 17kHz
The spikes are some high frequency noise, that I filtered out on the other curves with a 40kHz filter.

SoundSinus0.4k%2B3k

Another test, I uses two different frequencies in the two channels and looks for any harmonics or sum/differences of the two frequencies, none can be seen.

SoundScopeOnly

But there is some noise, in the above I shorted my scope inputs (Connected the probe ground lead to the probe tip).
I did run my scope in 15 bit mode for the above spectrums.

SoundLowLevel1k

Here I reduced the sound level on my phone. On my stereo there is some hiss when running at very low levels.



Measurements


  • Power consumption when idle is 0.08 watt
  • Power consumption when playing is 0.5 watt
  • USb output is coded as usb charger (DCP)
  • Weight: 37.0g (Without accessories).
  • Size: 66.2 × 38.7 × 38.5mm


Bluetooth%20Audio%20Receiver%20230V%20load%20sweep

It can easily deliver the rated 1A, overload first kicks in at 1.7A. Efficiency is not not that great.

Bluetooth%20Audio%20Receiver%20120V%20load%20sweep

It works the same way at 120VAC

Bluetooth%20Audio%20Receiver%20230V%20load%20test

No problems running one hour at 1A.
The temperature photos below are taken between 30 minutes and 60 minutes into the one hour test.

Temp4107

M1: 49,4°C, HS1: 61,1°C

Temp4108

M1: 35,4°C, HS1: 49,2°C

Temp4109

M1: 49,3°C, HS1: 58,3°C
Here HS1 is the rectifier diode.

Temp4110

M1: 56,9°C, M2: 36,3°C, HS1: 62,0°C

Temp4111

HS1: 59,9°C

10ohm

At 0.5A the noise is 107mV rms and 1500mVpp.

5ohm

At 1A the noise is 300mV rms and 3200mVpp, a bad result.

5ohmShielded

The above looks extremely bad and I decided to try my shielded setup. This eliminates any radiated noise, usual this will give about the same RMS value and on some power supplies a lower peak value.
At 1A the noise is 100mV rms and 947mVpp, this is still very bad and it looks like the supply radiates a lot of noise.



Tear down

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This looked like something I could press a little and the lid would pop off, but that was not the case. Then I tried cutting and could see that there where pillars for screws. By removing a very well glued front I could remove the screws and the circuit board could easily be taken out.

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Notice the black foam on top of the large capacitor, that is what keeps the two circuit board separated, i.e. keep mains away from the low volt stuff.

DSC_0629

The audio board uses a RDA5851SX chip. I did not find the data sheet for that chip only the RDA5851S (The X may be an upgrade from Bluetooth 2.1+EDR to 3+EDR). The chip has a 16 bit stereo DAC with up to 48kHz sample rate. In addition to the chip there is a crystal (26MHz), a led and the antenna.
The other circuit board is the power supply with a fusible resistor and a bridge rectifier at the input and a rectifier diode with two capacitors at the output.

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The above was not enough for a power supply, the parts are hidden below the capacitor. The switcher is a CX7161, the data sheet shows a couple of filtering components that is missing in this design.

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From this side it is obvious that the safety capacitor (CY1) is missing, it is used to reduce noise.

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On the power supply board the big capacitor with everything under it is in front. On the audio board the Bluetooth antenna is in front.

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On the power supply board the fusible resistor and the bridge rectifier is in front. On the audio board the crystal.

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Nothing on this side. Notice there is no copper under the Bluetooth antenna or it would not have worked.

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Safety distance is slightly on the low side, I am more worried about the foam between the two circuit boards.

Testing with 2830 volt and 4242 volt between mains and low volt side, did not show any safety problems.



Conclusion

Bluetooth receivers are fairly cheap and by combining it with a usb power supply it is possible to charge the phone while it is playing. I have been using it on my stereo that do not have Bluetooth. It works fairly well, but the phone must be rather close.
As a usb charger it can easily deliver the rated current, but I am not impressed with the noise.

All in all I will call it an acceptable solution, but not a good one.



Notes

I connected the Bluetooth module to another usb power supply, it worked as before, i.e. same problem with range and break-ups.

Index of all tested USB power supplies/chargers
Read more about how I test USB power supplies/charger
How does a usb charger work?

My website with reviews of many chargers and batteries (More than 1000): http://lygte-info.dk/

Test/Review index of all tested usb chargers, any comments?

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