If your smartphone is always running out of juice while out and about, this great DIY handcrank charging hack can keep your device juiced up whenever you need.
Its a great weekend project that uses an easily available hand crank from a wind-up torch. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
Benjamin Heckendorn has created a great little hack that will charge any smartphone that uses a USB charger and 5 volts. The video shows it charging an HTC EVO, but the crank hack should work with practically any smartphone.
Materials and Tools Needed
To get started on this DIY project, you will need a few basic materials and tools. The primary component is a hand crank mechanism, which you can salvage from an old wind-up torch. Additionally, you will need a USB charging circuit, some wires, a soldering iron, and a multimeter to ensure proper connections. These items are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most electronics stores or online.
The hand crank mechanism works by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. When you turn the crank, it generates electricity that can be used to charge your smartphone. This is particularly useful in emergency situations where you might not have access to a power outlet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Disassemble the Wind-Up Torch: Carefully open the wind-up torch to extract the hand crank mechanism. Be cautious not to damage any of the internal components.
2. Prepare the USB Charging Circuit: Connect the hand crank mechanism to the USB charging circuit. This will typically involve soldering wires from the crank to the input terminals of the USB circuit. Make sure to double-check the polarity to avoid any short circuits.
3. Test the Connections: Use a multimeter to test the connections and ensure that the hand crank is generating the correct voltage. The target is 5 volts, which is standard for USB charging.
4. Enclose the Components: Once everything is connected and tested, you can enclose the components in a small, portable case. This will protect the circuitry and make the hand crank charger easy to carry around.
5. Charge Your Smartphone: Plug your smartphone into the USB port and start cranking! You should see your device begin to charge. The amount of time you need to crank will depend on your phone’s battery capacity and the efficiency of your hand crank mechanism.
This DIY hand crank charger is not only a fun project but also a practical solution for keeping your devices charged in situations where traditional power sources are unavailable. Whether you’re camping, traveling, or facing a power outage, this hand crank charger can be a lifesaver.
Moreover, this project is a great way to learn more about basic electronics and renewable energy. By understanding how mechanical energy can be converted into electrical energy, you can explore other similar projects and even come up with your own innovative solutions.
Read more about Ben and his projects at BenHeck.com or visit his YouTube channel at Benheckdotcom
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