Add Wireless Charging To Your Meshtastic Node

In this guide, we’ll walk you through adding Wireless Charging to your existing Meshtastic Node.

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Hardware

Now let’s get started with the hardware you need:

Basic Setup

Rak Setup

Assembly

The hardware is all ready and set now to the wiring. For this, we will follow the following Schematics.

Assembly typically starts with a straightforward approach: connecting a charging receiver to the USB port of your board. This setup allows for direct charging via a wired connection. However, when the requirement arises to simultaneously utilize the USB port while integrating wireless charging, the process becomes more complex.

To achieve this, we need to tap into the Battery Management System (BMS) of the board and designate the wireless charging module as an additional input source. This task presents challenges, particularly with boards like T-Beam or Heltec, which feature integrated BMS components in Surface-Mounted Components (SMCs). These compact components add complexity to the process, necessitating a more detailed approach to ensure successful integration.

However, with devices like Rak, the process is streamlined, thanks to Rak’s consideration for external power input by incorporating a solar connector that directly interfaces with the BMS.

To implement wireless charging on Rak devices, such as WisBlock products, you’ll need to follow these detailed steps:

1. Acquire Components:
   Purchase a Qi Wireless Charger DIY kit and a JST ZHR-2 (1.5mm) connector to facilitate the connection between the wireless charging module and the solar connector on the Rak board.
2. Understand Polarity:
   Before proceeding, grasp the importance of polarity in electrical connections. In this context, it’s crucial to note that red signifies positive voltage, while black denotes ground or negative. Ensure that you maintain correct polarity throughout the assembly process to prevent damage to the components.
3. Prepare for Soldering:
   Prior to soldering, double-check the compatibility of the components. Confirm that the wireless charger operates within the specified voltage range of the WisBlock products (ideally 5V or lower) to prevent any potential damage.
4. Soldering Process:
   Take caution during the soldering process to ensure precision and accuracy. Match the red wire from the wireless charging module to the red wire of the JST ZHR-2 connector, signifying positive voltage. Similarly, connect the black wire from the wireless charger to the black wire of the JST ZHR-2 connector, representing ground. Pay close attention to polarity to avoid any errors.
5. Connecting to the Board:
   Once the wires are soldered securely, connect the JST ZHR-2 connector to the solar connector on the Rak board. Ensure a snug fit and verify that the connection is secure to prevent any loose connections that could lead to malfunction or damage.
6. Voltage Considerations:
   Reiterate the importance of confirming the output voltage of the solar panel. It should not exceed 5V to avoid detrimental effects on the WisBlock products. Higher voltages could potentially harm the components, compromising their functionality.

In conclusion, integrating wireless charging into your Meshtastic Node offers a convenient and practical solution for ensuring your device is always ready for action. With wireless charging, you can effortlessly keep your node fully charged without the hassle of constantly plugging and unplugging cables. This not only simplifies the charging process but also ensures that your node remains operational and accessible whenever you need it.

Moreover, wireless charging presents an appealing option for those considering fully sealed nodes for waterproofing purposes. By eliminating the need for exposed charging ports, wireless charging contributes to a more robust and weather-resistant design. This enhances the durability and reliability of your node, making it suitable for outdoor and harsh environments where protection against water and dust is essential.

In essence, incorporating wireless charging into your Meshtastic Node represents a seamless blend of convenience and functionality. Whether you seek uninterrupted communication in remote locations or a durable solution for outdoor deployments, wireless charging offers an elegant and efficient way to power your node while enhancing its versatility and resilience.