I'm working on a cosplay helmet that has an Arduino for controlling LEDs (5V), a voice modulator (4.5-5V), an amplifier (~9V), and some fans (9-12V). Currently, I'm using two USB-C PD dummies to draw 5V and 9V from a power bank, which works great while everything is powered up. However, if I switch off any of the components, the power bank times out and I need to reconnect or press it to get power back. I'm wondering what would be the easiest and most cost-effective solution here. Should I add extra load to keep the power bank awake, switch to a different battery system (I'm unsure how well a classic 9V and 3xAA setup would work), or is there a better method? Thanks for any advice!
2 Answers
If you're looking for a straightforward and reliable option, switching to a dedicated battery pack might be best. Something like a LiPo battery with a boost converter can provide both voltages reliably without the timing out issue. You can also find setups with multiple voltages without too much hassle. Just be mindful of the total usage time based on your components. Mixing battery sizes could be impractical in the long run!
It sounds like you might want to consider how much current your 5V setup draws. If it’s not too high (like under 150mA), a linear regulator from 9V to 5V could work, but it’s less efficient. A buck converter is a good alternative; it can down-convert without wasting as much power. You might also think about adding a small dummy load to keep the power bank active when your other devices are off. Just make sure it doesn't drain the battery you’re trying to conserve!
Totally agree! Keeping a minimal load can help maintain the connection, and a buck converter is definitely the way to go for efficiency.