You can now develop CR2032 or CR2016 powered devices without having to use an actual coin cell thanks to Peter Misenko’s (Bobricius) “coin cell battery emulator CR2016/CR2032”.
The USB board contains a rounded part that is compatible with CR2016 or CR2032 coin cell batteries and allows you to power your target board via USB. The board also includes holes for alligator clips to measure the current, and by extension the power consumption.
Coincell battery emulator CR2016/CR2032 specifications:
- Power Supply
- 5V via Micro USB port
- 3V regulator
- 3V + GND pins for incompatible holders
- Power measurement – 2x alligator clip holes for Amperemeter mode (the onboard solder jumper must be open)
- Dimensions – Designed for a CR2016 battery (1.6 mm thick), but an adapter can be soldered for a CR2032 battery (3.2mm thick)
It’s not a size fit all solution since it will only work with a specific type of battery holder, but it can also serve as a 3V power adapter thanks to the 3V and GND pins on the board. The board ships in one piece with both CR2016 and CR2032 ending, and you’ll need to clip/cut the CR2032 part before using it as a CR2016 battery, or solder the CR2032 part on top to use the thicker type of coin cell battery. You’ll understand better after watching the short video below.
The board is sold on Tindie for $19.99, but it’s currently out of stock.
Via Hackster.io
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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It’s a great idea. It will not fit a number of boards where the battery holder is surrounded by taller components, and might benefit from a detachable part to place the coin cell there, that would be connected via wires. A few times already I’ve used a square piece of PCB with two wires for this purpose, as well as for measuring battery current by inserting it between the battery and the holder. Anyway that’s definitely a great starting point!
Brilliant!
The ampermeter mode is also nicely thought.
Best,
Bobricus is a legend where I come from.