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Q: My AC Power Cell rectified through the Power Management Board can generate a
DC voltage but the device I’m trying to power won’t start up; why?
A: On initial power up, many devices draw much more current than when they are in typical
operation. This is may be due to decoupling caps and other components charging up from an
empty state. To ensure the device can power up, add enough charge storage (e.g. capacitance,
rechargeable battery) to get through the initial power hungry state. Some chips require rapid
voltage turn-on to trigger a “power-on-reset”. If this is the case, you can allow the storage
capacitors on the power management board to charge up, then manually connect the device of
interest.
Q: My device uses too much power and drains my storage device too quickly; what
can be done about this?
A: If your device uses a microprocessor remember to disable all unnecessary functions such as
unused timers. Using an efficient operating strategy is also key. If you’re using a device that
transmits RF, transmit only when necessary since the transmission uses the most power. Also
remember to use electronic components with low leakage currents.
Q: My LTC3330 Power Management Board doesn’t appear to be harvesting, what’s
wrong?
A: The LTC3330 is designed to allow the user to select the appropriate input harvesting voltage
(application dependent). Ensure the UVLO jumpers are properly configured. Please see the
Linear Technology LTC3330 datasheet for more information about the voltage ranges and their
respective settings.
Q: The output voltage of my LTC3330 Power Management Board isn’t what I
expected it to be, why?
A: The LTC3330 is designed to allow the user to select the output voltage. Ensure the VOUT
jumpers are properly configured. Please see the Linear Technology LTC3330 datasheet for more
information about configuring the output voltage. Please note that the LTC3330 is designed
only for bucking mode, meaning the input voltage must always be higher than the output
voltage. The boosting capability is not available when using an energy harvester as an input
voltage source.
Q: I want to connect to connector P8 (Molex PicoBlade™), what are the part
numbers for the contacts and housing?
A: The housing part number is Molex 51021-0200. The crimp terminals are Molex 50079-8100
for 26-28 AWG.
Q: I have two AC Power Cells. Can I connect both to one Power Management Board
to increase my power output?
A: Yes, two AC Power Cells can be connected to one Power Management Board, follow the
instructions in the Connection Two Power Cells section (page 12). The negative line of each unit
should be tied together and connected to the Ground line of the Power Management Board.
Attach one of the positive lines to one of the Power Management Board AC inputs, then attach
the remaining positive line to the remaining AC input. Now each AC Power Cell is sharing half of
the diode bridge it is attached to.
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