# USB Power Bank KeepAlive DIY Kit

**Type:** Product page · **SKU:** TPH-106134 · **Brand:** [The Pi Hut](https://core-electronics.com.au/brands/the-pi-hut)
**Page:** https://core-electronics.com.au/usb-power-bank-keepalive-diy-kit-pi-hut.html ([markdown](https://core-electronics.com.au/usb-power-bank-keepalive-diy-kit-pi-hut.html.md))

Build your own USB KeepAlive circuit to prevent power banks from auto-shutting off when powering low-current devices like Raspberry Pi Pico or microcontrollers with this DIY soldering kit featuring a 555 timer design.

## Pricing

- **Price:** $12.35 (inc GST) — $11.23 AUD, exc GST
- **Quantity discounts:** 10+ $10.78 (exc GST) · 25+ $10.45 (exc GST)

## Availability & dispatch

- In stock, ships same business day if ordered before 2PM (Australia/Sydney).
- We can dispatch 2 today; more stock is typically available with a 5–8 day lead time.

## Description

The USB Power Bank KeepAlive DIY Kit solves a common challenge when powering microcontrollers and development boards from portable power banks - automatic shutdown due to low current draw. This innovative kit, based on a 555 timer design, maintains power bank operation by generating periodic current pulses while allowing your low-power device to function normally.

#### Key Features

- Prevents power bank auto-shutdown for low-current devices
- Pass-through USB design maintains data line connectivity
- Customisable 555 timer circuit with adjustable components
- Compatible with most USB power banks
- DIY kit format perfect for educational projects and prototyping (Preassembled version available [here](https://core-electronics.com.au/usb-keepalive-smd-power-bank-adapter.html))
- 3D printable case design available
 
#### Technical Specifications

- Input/Output: USB Type A
- Current Draw: ~10mA average with 130mA pulse
- Duty Cycle: 50% (adjustable)
- Circuit Type: 555 Timer Astable Configuration
 
#### How to Use

Assembly of the KeepAlive kit requires basic soldering skills and tools. Once assembled, simply connect the device between your power bank and the device requiring power. The circuit generates periodic current pulses that keep the power bank active while allowing your low-current device to operate normally.

For optimal performance with specific power banks, the resistor values can be modified to adjust the pulse timing and current draw. Calculations for timing adjustments can be made using the 555 timer calculator available in the resources section.

#### What's in the Box

1x Black PCB
1x Male USB Type A Header
1x Female USB Type A Header
2x Capacitors
3x Resistors
1x 555 Timer IC

#### Compatibility

The KeepAlive has been thoroughly tested with ANSMANN power banks and is designed to work with most standard USB power banks. For reliable portable power, consider pairing this kit with a [USB C Power Delivery Battery Bank 10000mAh](https://core-electronics.com.au/usb-c-power-delivery-battery-bank-10000mah.html) or [USB C Power Delivery Battery Bank 20000mAh](https://core-electronics.com.au/usb-c-pd-battery-bank-20000mah.html).

#### Additional Resources

- [KeepAlive Kit Documentation](https://docs.eplop.co.uk/USBKeepAliveKIT.html)
- [Assembly Notes](https://docs.eplop.co.uk/USBKeepAliveKIT.html#assembly-notes)
- [Troubleshooting Guide](https://docs.eplop.co.uk/USBKeepAliveKIT.html#troubleshooting)
- [Thingiverse 3D Printed Case Design](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4557971)
- [Eplop Discord Community](https://discord.gg/J7GnxDRaHj)
- [555 Timer Calculator](https://circuitdigest.com/calculators/555-timer-astable-circuit-calculator)
 
#### About Eplop

Designed by Colin Hickey, Eplop specialises in creating practical solutions for common electronic project challenges. Their KeepAlive series of products demonstrates their commitment to developing innovative tools that enable reliable portable power for development and prototyping applications.

## Images

- [Product image 1](https://core-electronics.com.au/media/catalog/product/T/P/TPH-106134-1_1.jpg)