UNIHIKER M10 Power Supply Solutions for DIY Projects
The UNIHIKER M10, a single-board computer with an integrated Linux system and rich I/O interfaces, requires a well-planned power supply to ensure system stability and project scalability. In this article, we explore five mainstream power solutions—ranging from basic debugging and mobile applications to wireless charging and advanced expansions—while also highlighting common power pitfalls you should avoid.
1. Type-C Power Supply
For lightweight tasks such as basic debugging or desktop development, simply power the UNIHIKER M10 through its onboard USB Type-C port. You can connect UNIHKER M10 to your computer USB port, a 5V power bank or a 5V power adapter for extended power supply.
Hardware Required:
- Power Bank or PC or Power Adapter
Power Bank Powered Case:
1 Desktop Radiation Monitoring Device (Geiger Counter)
2. Lithium Battery + Boost Charger Module
For compact projects requiring portability, a lithium battery paired with a charge-and-boost module will be a good power solution. When using lithium batteries, the two main technical challenges are voltage boosting and charging. This Power Booster & Charger Module module can efficiently boost 3.7V to 5V and also support battery charging. —perfect for portable DIY projects. This makes it an ideal power solution for portable DIY projects like space-constrained portable monitors, handheld gaming devices, etc.
Hardware Required:
- MP2636 Power Booster & Charger Module
Lithium Battery + Boost Charger Module Cases:
1 Rick and Morty-Inspired Handheld Temperature Gun
3. Wireless Charging Solution
Wireless charging transfers energy via magnetic resonance coupling without physical cables. It involves a transmitter and a receiver working in sync.
In our use case, the transmitter is built around a 5V/2A Wireless Charging Module, soldered with a Type-C extension cable. The transmitter coil is embedded in a 3D-printed housing and aligned using magnetic screws.
The receiver, mounted on the UNIHIKER M10. Before soldering, always check the coil output with a multimeter to ensure it’s within 4.8V–5.3V. Before assembly, ensure that the back of the receiver's PCB is covered with insulating tape to prevent short circuits.
This solution is best suited for desktop applications and demonstration projects that require plug-and-charge convenience. Please note that the transmission distance is short and the coil alignment requirements are precise.
Hardware Required:
- Wireless Charging Module 5V/2A
- Type-C L-Shaped Male to Female Extension Cable
- M3 Magnetic Screws
Wireless Charging Case
4. Battery Expansion Board
Our Chinese store has now launched the M10 battery expansion board. This expansion board has a built-in 800mAh lithium battery and supports charging and discharging functions. Similar to the Wireless Charging Solution, it powers the UNIHIKER M10 via power test points, and achieves this through the onboard lithium battery charging circuit, a power indicator light, and a 3.7V-to-5V boost converter. This expansion board is ideal for mobile devices, handheld devices, and projects with space constraints, particularly applications that prioritise portability.
Important Notice:
Due to international shipping restrictions on lithium batteries, this board is currently unavailable through USA/Global stores. Please contact us for regional availability inquiries.
*Critical Alert:
Responding to user inquiries - the edge connector (gold fingers) on UNIHIKER M10's bottom is designed for expansion OUTPUT only. Attempting to power the device through these contacts will cause hardware damage.
Conclusion
Each solution addresses distinct project requirements from basic to advanced implementations. Users should select appropriate configurations based on portability needs, runtime duration, and form factor constraints while adhering to safety guidelines.
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