What is it?

The XIAO PowerBread is a cool breadboard power supply designed to meet the needs of makers by providing reliable, real-time monitoring of voltage, current, and power consumption. It offers two power outputs (3.3V and 5V) and integrates an INA3221 multi-channel current sensor, allowing users to monitor their breadboard circuits’ performance in real-time through a built-in LCD display. This makes it easier to know what’s going on when prototyping on a breadboard.

Why did you make it?

I created the XIAO PowerBread to address the lack of simple, affordable power supplies with real-time monitoring for breadboard projects. Many existing options either lacked sufficient power output, were difficult to integrate with breadboards, or didn’t provide any way to measure and monitor power consumption in real-time. I wanted to build a tool that not only supplies stable power but also gives makers valuable insight into their circuits, ultimately improving the prototyping experience.

What makes it special?

The XIAO PowerBread stands out because it combines ease of use with advanced functionality in a compact, breadboard-friendly design. With real-time power monitoring through the INA3221 sensor and a clear LCD display, makers can quickly see the voltage, current, and power consumption of their circuits. Additionally, the open-source nature of the project encourages further customization, while future plans for USB-serial communication and PWM generation make it a tool that will grow with users’ needs. It’s an essential companion for anyone looking to streamline their prototyping process.

Key Features

1. Real-Time Monitoring: View essential power metrics at a glance—no multimeter needed. The built-in display shows real-time voltage, current, and power data.
2. High-Current Output: Deliver up to 1.5A of stable 3.3V power, ideal for most breadboard-based electronics projects.
3. Built-in LCD Display: Stay informed with real-time feedback—critical power data is displayed clearly on the integrated LCD.
4. Plug-and-Play Design: Compatible with standard breadboards, simply plug in, power up, and start prototyping without extra setup.
5. Open-Source and RP2040 Powered: Powered by the RP2040, this open-source design provides flexibility for future extensions like USB-serial communication and PWM control.
6. Dual-Channel Voltage and Current Sensing: Equipped with the INA3221 sensor for dual-channel voltage and current monitoring—know what’s happening with every aspect of your power supply.
7. Compact Powerhouse: This compact design delivers both 3.3V and 5V outputs, optimizing your breadboard space without compromising on power.

Hardware Specifications

• Input Voltage: Powered via USB-C through the XIAO.
• Output Voltages: Provides 5V and 3.3V outputs, with a maximum current of 1.5A for the 3.3V rail.
• Current Sensing: The built-in INA3221 sensor measures voltage, current, and power for real-time display.
• Microcontroller: Driven by the RP2040, handling sensor data, display control, and enabling future features like USB-serial communication and PWM generation.
• Display: LCD screen for real-time power monitoring.
• PCB Dimensions: Designed for seamless integration with standard breadboards while minimizing space usage.

New Feature update!

1. Data monitor Mode, Line-Chart Mode, Statistic Mode
2. Configurable scale and data refresh rate

What's included

1. XIAO-PowerBread board x1
2. SeeedStudio XIAO - RP2040 x1
3. Pin headers

> Since we don't have a gold finger on this board, the PCB will use tin plating by default.