IMPORTANT
See the update to this review - http://youtu.be/DsNSigmEwB8. There's a problem with this powerbank - RIPPLE. And I mean ridiculous amounts of ripple at a ridiculous frequency. I cant be sure if it's a fundamental problem with the design or just the unit I bought.
Ultra-compact, light weight, high capacity mobile power bank which also works as a battery charger. Sensible user interface, competent electronics, no gimmicks.
5x 18650 Battery Dual USB LCD Backup Display Mobile Charger Power Bank LED
http://r.ebay.com/GZGWnQ

By Julian

Youtuber, shed dweller, solar charge controller aficionado

15 thoughts on “Review: 5-cell 18650 usb mobile power bank see update”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Debbiebabe69 says:

    Putting voltage across the data pins is not supported anymore?

    I thought this was the standard, if not the only, way of telling a USB socket to output more than half an amp – putting a resistive load across the data pins to tell the charger to pump out more amps through the power pins?

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Sullivan says:

    Ripple problem aside, MAJOR kudos to Qidian for allowing the auto-shutoff function to be disabled. It should be illegal to make power banks that don't provide the option to disable this feature. ;^) (and I wish they'd TELL us in the specs whether or not it has auto-shutoff and whether it can be disabled etc etc) I'm really enjoying all your stuff Julian – thankyou!. Btw have you seen the YZXStudio power bank? My GOD – it's more like a battery powered lab power supply!

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Walkertongdee says:

    The two pos and neg allows for balanced parallel charging.

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Walkertongdee says:

    the instructions say to put your fingernail there

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Walkertongdee says:

    tes 3

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars HifiCentret says:

    Try replacing the electrolytic capacitor. Very likely the issue will go away.

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars thegaunlet says:

    Hi Julian, great reviews you do here! Subscribed!
    The manufacturers now have an adjustable voltage version of this 5 cell powerbank! 5.0V to 13.0V in 0.5V increments. The rest of the functions remain the same except for the DC in, it is now a DC out for outputs 6.0V to 13.0V. I've found it of use with a Li-ion charger I have that runs on 12V.

    I'm not sure about electronics but the units I have never show the dot on its own. The display is always lighted up.

    Also I've found out that charging on 5.0V will not give the highest output current. For some reason my Samsung Note 2 LTE will drop the current after awhile. I find it charges the quickest on 5.5V. Fastest powerbank I've ever used. As fast as the wall wort!

    For the adjustable voltage version I always use 5.5V and I've got 1.6A for my Samsung Note 2 LTE (same as a wall wort via a wired USB doctor). I charge my Asus T100 with it and it does 2.4-2.6A.

    I think you'd love the adjustable voltage version!

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars computersolutions164 says:

    Julian I may have some prototyping work for you for a simple infrared on off device
    but there is no email for you and I am not about to share anything publicly. Is there a way one can actually get in touch with you please. Thank you

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Filip Sky says:

    Hello. Why do we need resetting some cell protection IC after replacing cells? What does that circuit really do, and shouldn't it reset itself, after disconnecting and connecting power again?

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mandragoras says:

    Julian, how do you charge your 18650 batteries? Using the power banks or  dedicated chargers?

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars popraw a says:

    Apple ipod (after 2G) cant be charged without a voltage on data usb pins, this isn't stupid at all.

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars oreubens says:

    How about if you push with your thumbs on the cover just below the arrows to 'unseat' the clicking mechanism. Then, while still applying pressure slide your thumbs down.  that's how to open a couple other (brand name) devices I have at home.

    it's one of those "kiddie locks" which kids can open easily but adults can't 🙂

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jason Price says:

    Oh my!  You said flashlight!  🙂

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars DextersTechLab says:

    Looked like the charge doctor was saying it was only outputting 4.7v @ 0.35A, which does not sound very good especially if it's rated to 2A. i would like to see how it looks on a electronic load. I have tested a few of these types of device and most never perform as rated.

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dan Gunson says:

    You could paint some clear nail polish on that noisy choke.

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