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Review on ⚡ Ultimate Power Solution: Introducing Pi-UpTime 2.0 UPS for Pi-4, Pi-3, and Other SBCs by Darion Wooten

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Improved for Pi 4

I've been using Pi-UpTime boards for several years, several generations of Raspberry Pi Model B (3B, 3B+ and now 4B) and Zero W. This version of the Pi-UpTime board was designed to deliver higher current that is needed for the Pi 4B has worked well so far. This is a welcome and timely improvement as I found that the previous version of the Pi UpTime board could not provide enough power to reliably boot a lightly loaded Pi 3B+ on battery power. A suggestion for improvement would be to use slightly longer battery holders. I know the protection circuitry on the board eliminates the need to purchase 18650 Li-ion cells with protection circuitry built in (which makes the cells a bit longer), but these were the cells I was able to buy locally (batteries are an issue) . shipped in accordance with shipping guidelines), I rotate my cells between applications where built-in protection circuitry is required, and I see nothing wrong with the extra layer of protection designed by the battery manufacturer. Inserting protected cells in Pi-UpTime is a difficult task. I also suggest that people consider other power options for the Raspberry Pi, including the latest USB batteries that can handle high enough voltage and provide enough current, and the wide Uugear Zero2Go. a power management board that can power the Pi 4B with three standard AA batteries. The Pi UpTime board is perfect for stationary and stealth applications, but you'll encounter a lot of suspicions if you're trying to fly with a board that contains 18650 cells, or even if you've taken it to power your Pi in a cafe to use. For portable and visible applications, a solution that works with standard AA batteries is preferred.

Pros
  • Onboard ADC allows control of Vin, Vout, Battery V and Temperature over I2C. Sample Python code can be downloaded for use from the Alchemy Power website.
Cons
  • Miscellaneous Miscellaneous