In this project, we'll take a look at building a portable Qi charger. This universal standard works with many devices and can still charge non Qi enabled devices via the USB port on the side.

 

In a previous project we built a 3d printed stand to hold our charging transmitter but in this project we'll make it portable with a PowerBoost 1000C and a beefy 6600mAh battery! 

 

 

Maximum output is around 5W which is good for most smart phones, basically 1000mA charge at 5V on the other side of the wireless connection.  It has a charging distance of 2-8mm!

 

We've built smaller portable wireless Qi chargers for wearables like the Apple Watch and have found it useful enough to leave behind one less cable while traveling. 

 

You can also just connect to a 5v power supply - through a micro USB port. If you want to 'share' the microUSB power connection, you can also connect directly to the USB-A port. 

Prerequisite Guides

Check out the following guide below to get a better understanding of the Powerboost 1000C pin outs.

PowerBoost 1000C

 

Parts, Tool & Supplies

If you don't have access to a 3D printer, you can send the files to a service or check with your local hackerspace/library.

Angled shot of Universal Qi Wireless Charging Transmitter.
If you have a modern smart phone you may have noticed that it comes with built in wireless charging capability called 'Qi charging.' 
$26.95
In Stock
Angled shot of PowerBoost 1000 Charger.
PowerBoost 1000C is the perfect power supply for your portable project! With a built-in load-sharing battery charger circuit, you'll be able to keep your power-hungry...
Out of Stock
Lithium Ion Battery Pack with three round cells 3.7V 6600mAh with JST PH connector
Need a massive battery for your project? This lithium-ion pack is made of 3 balanced 2200mAh cells for a total of 6600mA capacity! The cells are connected in parallel and spot-welded...
$24.50
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Angled shot of an assembled USB DIY Connector Shell with a Type Micro-B Plug. The male plug faces the camera at an angle.
Make your own USB connections without slicing apart a USB cable and soldering those thin wires inside. These DIY "USB shells" are available in
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5V 2.5A Switching Power Supply with 20AWG MicroUSB Cable
Our all-in-one 5V 2.5 Amp + MicroUSB cable power adapter is the perfect choice for powering single-board computers like Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone, or anything else that's...
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Filament for 3D printers in various colors and types stacked together.
Having a 3D printer without filament is sort of like having a regular printer without paper or ink.  And while a lot of printers come with some filament there's a good chance...
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This guide was first published on Oct 11, 2017. It was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

This page (Overview) was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

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