A Step-by-Step Guide on Choosing the Right Power Supply for Your Raspberry Pi Pico

Learn how to select and use a power supply for your Raspberry Pi Pico with this easy-to-follow guide. …


Updated September 14, 2023

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Learn how to select and use a power supply for your Raspberry Pi Pico with this easy-to-follow guide.

Raspberry Pi Pico is an amazing microcontroller board that can be used for all sorts of projects, from simple circuitry to advanced applications. One of the most important aspects of using any electronic device is ensuring it has a reliable power supply. In this article, we will discuss how to select and use a power supply for your Raspberry Pi Pico.

Power Requirements

Before selecting a power supply for your Raspberry Pi Pico, it’s essential to understand the power requirements of the board. The Pico requires 3.3V power input and can draw up to 150mA when active. This means that you need a power supply that provides a steady 3.3V output with enough current capacity to meet the needs of your project.

Power Supply Options

There are several options available for powering your Raspberry Pi Pico, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

  1. USB Power Delivery (PD) USB PD is a popular choice for powering small electronics devices like the Raspberry Pi Pico. It provides up to 3A of current at up to 20V, making it suitable for most projects. You can use a standard USB-C cable and connect it directly to your computer or a compatible USB PD charger.

  2. Micro USB Power Supply Micro USB power supplies are another common option for powering the Raspberry Pi Pico. They typically provide 5V output, which you’ll need to regulate down to 3.3V using a voltage regulator. These supplies are cheap and easily available but may not provide enough current for more complex projects.

  3. Battery-Operated Solutions If your project requires portability or is intended to run on battery power, you can use rechargeable batteries like LiPo or Li-ion cells. Make sure the voltage output of the battery matches the requirements of your Raspberry Pi Pico and ensure it’s protected with a suitable charging circuit if necessary.

Choosing the Right Power Supply

When selecting a power supply for your Raspberry Pi Pico, consider the following factors:

  • Voltage: Ensure that the power supply can provide 3.3V output.
  • Current capacity: Choose a supply that can deliver at least 150mA of current to ensure reliable operation.
  • Size and weight: A small, lightweight power supply will be more convenient for portable projects.
  • Cost: Budget constraints may require you to choose a lower-cost option, but consider the long-term costs associated with replacement parts or repairs due to inadequate power supplies.

Using Your Chosen Power Supply

Once you’ve selected your power supply, follow these steps to connect it to your Raspberry Pi Pico:

  1. Connect the ground (GND) pin of your power supply to a ground pin on the Pico board.
  2. Connect the positive terminal (3.3V or 5V depending on your supply) to the Vin pin on the Pico board using a voltage regulator if necessary.
  3. If you’re using a battery-powered solution, connect it according to its instructions and ensure the polarity is correct.
  4. Finally, power on your Raspberry Pi Pico by connecting it to your computer or power source.

Remember that excessive current draw can damage your Raspberry Pi Pico, so always choose a power supply with sufficient capacity for your project. With proper attention to these factors, you’ll be able to power your Raspberry Pi Pico safely and efficiently.