Notecarrier B: LiPo charging from Solar?

Hardware Notecarrier B
1

Hi,

I’m currently on the Notecarrier B. I see it has both a LiPo connector (for something like 5,000 mAh LiPo Battery – Blues Wireless) and a charging LED. Can it charge from solar or is it only USB charging?

Do I need something like Adafruit Universal USB / DC / Solar Lithium Ion/Polymer charger [bq24074] : ID 4755 : $14.95 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits in between? I think I saw the charging chip name somewhere here as well so might be the same you are using.

I am concerned about whether the charger / LiPo setup can supply enough current.

Regards, Gaute

2

Hi @gauteh,

Unfortunately, no, the Notecarrier-B is not suitable for charging a LiPo via solar. The Notecarrier-B uses an MCP73831 which is not suited to the nature of solar panels, which generate extremely weak levels of charge current. The SOLAR input of the Notecarrier-A is designed for this purpose, using a BQ24210.

Thanks,
Rob

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