The guys over at Instructables have put together a handy guide, which will show you how to make your very own DIY Solar iPhone Charger. This project is not only a fun and educational way to spend your weekend but also a great step towards sustainable living by harnessing the power of the sun to charge your devices.
What you will need to make your own solar iPhone charger is, a MintyBoost kit, a solar cell, some Velcro, scissors, a soldering iron, and a rechargeable lithium polymer battery. The MintyBoost kit is a popular DIY USB charger kit that can be easily modified to work with a solar cell, making it an ideal choice for this project.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start, you will need to assemble the MintyBoost kit according to the instructions provided with the kit. This involves soldering the components onto the circuit board, so make sure you have your soldering iron ready and follow the instructions carefully. Once the MintyBoost kit is assembled, you can move on to integrating the solar cell.
The solar cell will be the primary source of power for your charger. You will need to connect the solar cell to the MintyBoost kit. This typically involves soldering the positive and negative leads from the solar cell to the corresponding points on the MintyBoost circuit board. Make sure to check the voltage output of your solar cell to ensure it matches the input requirements of the MintyBoost kit.
Next, you will need to attach the rechargeable lithium polymer battery. This battery will store the energy generated by the solar cell, allowing you to charge your iPhone even when the sun is not shining. Connect the battery to the MintyBoost kit, ensuring that the polarity is correct to avoid any damage to the components.
Final Assembly and Testing
Once all the components are connected, you can use Velcro to secure the solar cell and battery to the MintyBoost kit. This will help keep everything in place and make your DIY solar iPhone charger more portable. Use scissors to trim any excess Velcro and ensure a neat finish.
Now it’s time to test your creation. Place the solar cell in direct sunlight and connect your iPhone to the MintyBoost kit using a USB cable. If everything is connected correctly, your iPhone should start charging. If it doesn’t, double-check all your connections and make sure the solar cell is receiving enough sunlight.
If you want to make your own, head on over to Instructables for full details and instructions on the build. The Instructables guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough with detailed photos and tips to help you successfully complete the project.
This DIY solar iPhone charger is not only a practical device but also a great conversation starter. It showcases your ability to create useful technology from basic components and highlights the importance of renewable energy sources. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
For more innovative DIY projects and tech hacks, check out Lifehacker via Gizmodo. These resources offer a wealth of information and inspiration for anyone interested in DIY electronics and sustainable technology.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
