Breaktru Forum

eCigarette Forum => Modding => Topic started by: Breaktru on April 10, 2011, 03:19:00 PM

Title: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 10, 2011, 03:19:00 PM
This is a Box mod with (1) 14500, 3.7v battery and a Booster Regulator with a Variable Voltage output

New Version has a Variable Voltage Range of approximately 3.79v to 6.12v plus or minus a couple of tenths of a volt depending on resistance tolerances. -  If you are looking for the Voltage / Resistance Chart, I have discontinued it in favor of the full range achieved by using the resistors shown in the schematic in the next post. I use a 4.7k and a 15k

I recommend a good quality battery.

I am happy to share info with all that drop by this forum. So dropping a mention when you post your mod elsewhere would be a decent gesture.
Show your support by signing up as a member and please participate by posting.

(http://breaktru.com/temp/44_mini1.jpg) (http://breaktru.com/temp/44_mini3.jpg)(http://breaktru.com/ecig/dms_44s.jpg)



See the better version on this mini mod --> HERE (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,426.0.html)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod
Post by: Breaktru on April 10, 2011, 04:41:28 PM
I used the same PTN04050 booster regulator that I built my copper mod. The difference is that I used a 14500 battery instead of an 18650.
Right now there are no caps in the input and output of the regulator. Awaiting the cap if I can squeeze them in. Works great without them though. This little baby really puts out  ;D

Update: Caps installed. Made a difference. Battery is not drained as fast when holding the fire button.
In the schematic I used a 14500 Trustfire. Do yourself a favor and use a good quality Hi-Drain battery for optimum results.

!!!!!Always read to the end of the thread, as parts/circuitry and results change due to extensive testing and use!!!!!

For the 18650 battery version see: Booster Reg w/ 18650 Battery (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,177.0.html)

Circuit below only visible to logged on members.........
Circuit sa ibaba makikita lamang sa mga naka-log sa mga miyembro
Circuito de abajo sólo son visibles para los miembros conectado
Schaltung unten nur sichtbar für eingeloggte Mitglieder auf
Circuitul de mai jos vizibile numai de catre autentificat pe membrii
Circuit ci-dessous uniquement visible pour les membres connectés

Circuit and photos for .44 mini mod with TOUCH SWITCH HERE (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg1550.html#msg1550)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Avamil on April 13, 2011, 11:32:17 AM
Thank you Sir for the informative details on building this tiny elegant mod. Just love it and have to have one. I am PM'ing you right now.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Aromaz on April 14, 2011, 06:41:23 AM
Super Dave, ya done it again.. Me like-ah
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 15, 2011, 07:18:01 PM
Here's an update on battery life with the (2) 100uf caps.
I was getting about 4 hours with moderate vaping and w/ no caps.
Now I got 6 hours with heavy to moderate use
and 7 1/2 hours with moderate usage.
Been through about 4 or 5 charge cycles.

update:
Built another .44 w/ a touch. Used different Mosfet.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Haileah on April 15, 2011, 07:25:11 PM
7 hours is acceptable. Not bad for the 14500 battery. Good work breaktru. Do you build small ships in bottles also?  ;D
Build me one please! I'm PMing you now.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wwwest on April 22, 2011, 05:36:44 PM
Not bad for the 14500 at 7 hours. I can handle that plus a spare battery on hand just in case.
Make me one breaktru, $$$$$. PM is on it's way.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on April 22, 2011, 08:15:10 PM
Hey breaktru, I see you did it again. Fantastic mod dude. I copied your Copper Mod and now I want to build the .44 mini mod. You made it so easy with all the info here. I don't have a mod that size and need to build one to widen my collection. I guess as a novelty mod. Love the button rim. Got to get to the gun range and find some brass lying around.

Still using your fantastic eJuice Me Up calculator on a daily bases. It's always open on my desktop for quick use. And love the PV Tune tool you added: http://ejuice.breaktru.com (http://ejuice.breaktru.com)

I've read on other forums that people are offering to buy your mods. Keep up the good work and I appreciate and I am sure others appreciate your dedication on helping others get started in the vaping community. If everyone you helped donated 10 cents, I bet you would be a rich man. Bless you for that.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: vapemistress on April 23, 2011, 10:48:37 AM
Holy crap, I love that dang. Got to have one. Pleeeeeeezzze breaktru. Make me one. PM is a commin. Money is no object.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: missyvape on April 27, 2011, 06:06:07 PM
Holy crap, I love that dang. Got to have one. Pleeeeeeezzze breaktru. Make me one. PM is a commin. Money is no object.

meeee tooooo, make me one please Luv, sending PM darling
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: jomurp on April 27, 2011, 06:48:11 PM
Woot, Woot, nice breaktru. I would like to try my hand in building one.
Can I use something like this: http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?site=us&lang=en&mpart=OKR-T%2f3-W12-C (http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?site=us&lang=en&mpart=OKR-T%2f3-W12-C)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on April 27, 2011, 06:57:21 PM
Woot, Woot, nice breaktru. I would like to try my hand in building one.
Can I use something like this: http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?site=us&lang=en&mpart=OKR-T%2f3-W12-C (http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?site=us&lang=en&mpart=OKR-T%2f3-W12-C)

Jo, that chip requires a minimum input voltage of 4.5v. Not in this mod. That chip would need at least two batteries in series. Breaktru used a booster mod that can support the one 3.7v battery.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: vapertina on April 27, 2011, 07:06:55 PM
Got to have one. That's a beauty and it would fit nice in my purse. PM is coming for having one made breaktru. I can deal with 7 hours of vape time. I'm a light vaper and it will last me a lot longer I'm sure.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: yogi on April 28, 2011, 08:47:19 AM
I read that the .44 mod is using small Electrolytic Capacitors. You also say that your can use the Tantalum Caps. Any reason why?
BTW, just love this mod. I'm waiting for the parts to build one. If I don't succeed, I would like to buy one from you ole buddy ole pal of mine. PMing now.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 28, 2011, 05:26:03 PM
I read that the .44 mod is using small Electrolytic Capacitors. You also say that your can use the Tantalum Caps. Any reason why?

Actually yogi, Tantalum is an Electrolytic capacitor. (Wikipedia)
There are two types of electrolytics; aluminum and tantalum.
The tantalum capacitor is a highly reliable type of solid capacitor or electrolytic capacitor. Surface mount tantalum capacitors are increasingly being used in circuit designs because of their volumetric efficiency, basic reliability and process compatibility.

So yogi, to make a long story short, I use tantalum because of their smaller surface size. They are more expensive than the aluminum. If you can find a smaller enough aluminum one, go for it. I found small aluminums in an old motherboard, otherwise I would have used the tantalums in the .44
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Aromaz on April 28, 2011, 07:34:56 PM
Very educational capacitor posting.
I didn't know that tantalum was an electrolytic. :o
I had bought several varieties of aluminum elect. caps and they are way to big to put in to a mod that small. Wish I had some old MBs around to scavenger. Probably go with the tantalums.

BTW I love that .44 vv, it's the bomb dude. ;D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 28, 2011, 07:52:59 PM
I may, I say may just start making these things for sale. Just got laid off, tomorrows my last day. boo hoo. :'(

I should market it in different calibers from:
.22
.32
.380
.40
.44
30-06
16gauge
12gauge
12gauge magnum
Got tons of shells on hand. With gun powder is extra!  :o
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: geothee on April 30, 2011, 08:03:46 PM
Got to have one in 12 gauge, PMing you breaktru
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 30, 2011, 11:03:13 PM
Trying out the Dual Coil on my mods. On my .44 with the booster and small 14500 battery, I have to crank up the voltage to 5.0v. Any lower voltage cuts out the chip. The booster with an 18650 (2400mah) battery works very good with lower voltages with the same Booster circuitry.

Update:
I want to clear up the above statement.

NOTE: The Dual Coil I have is 1.5 ohms. Two 3ohm coils in parallel They are totally different than a 510 LR at 1.5 ohms. They are not hot like LR's. You can use D.C. at almost any voltage and not burn or effect the juice taste IMHO.
I am using the D.C. on the .44 @ 5v right now and it doesn't taste any different than a standard 510 w/ standard voltage (not hot or harsh). Vapor production is VERY good with the D.C.

The capacity of a smaller battery (14500, 900mah) is probably the factor. Pushing a regulator with a low resistance load drops the output down causing the reg not to fire. I also SAID above that it works fine with a 18650 battery at lower voltage.

Update to the Update  :laughing:
The above was with the first .44 mod. Don't know why I had to crank it up to 5v for Dual Coils but the new
3.79v to 6.2v (approx) range can handle the 1.5 ohms w/ NO problems at lower voltages.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: breaktru_software on May 06, 2011, 08:59:13 AM
Recieved this PM:
    Hey breaktru,

    I really like your little buck/boost .44 mod, however I have a question: It looks like you are using a single 14500 (non high drain) battery; didn't you ever run into problems with the protection kicking in at higher voltages? Because I've made some mods with a boost circuit on a 14500, and they seem to work fine at the lower voltages, however above about 4.3 V the battery protection seems to kick in after a few drags. Obviously the 14500 I'm using doesn't like the higher current.

    I think the way to combat this is to use a PWM circuit to "trick" the protection circuitry so it doesn't kick in (kind of like what the eGo does). However it looks like you were able to get the thing to work over the whole range, is that true?

    Nice work on the mod, BTW.


breaktru - Today 08:49 AM - permalink Edit Report
    My Response:
It's not the battery protection that's kicking out but the regulator shutting down when the Max limits are exceeded. The Booster is rated at 12 Watts max. What atty resistance are you using at 4.3v. If you tune your voltages accordingly to the atty resistance, you will be fine. Even the ProVari and the Darwin will shut down when the atty is too low.
I have no problems vaping through ALL the voltage ranges, even at 6 volts as long as you have the right resistance.
Check out my "PV Tune" included in the "eJuice Me Up" Calculator.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on May 27, 2011, 05:09:23 PM
Carrying the .44

(http://breaktru.com/temp/case-1.jpg)(http://breaktru.com/temp/case-2.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: vaporhead on May 28, 2011, 11:12:00 AM
That is a fantastic carry mod. Small, powerful and elegant. Great work friend
and thank you for sharing.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: novoleen on May 28, 2011, 03:46:32 PM
Neat, small and powerful. I would like one in pink please with a lady's caliber. The .44 is a bit much for a girl. How about a .32 cal
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: breaktru_software on May 28, 2011, 04:04:02 PM
Thank you all. Glad you like it
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Silent Soldier on May 31, 2011, 12:19:33 PM
***Several posts of questions on how to build a boost circuit and Digital Potentiometer circuit have been removed by this member.

Copied mods here, selling them and passing them off as his on creation  :no:
Just one of many: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modding-forum/193096-need-some-help-little-math.html#post3408794
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 01, 2011, 05:28:23 PM
Beautiful mod! I will be building on in a few days, using this schematic, AND this one for a touch switch: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/181976-1-aa-touch-modbox.html (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/181976-1-aa-touch-modbox.html)

First time building one this advanced, but Im pretty excited about it.

Actually I do have one question...I have found that my sweet spot is ~4.6v. How much would be changed to eliminate the POT and set it there? I am pretty sure I'd just use 1 resister between Vadj and Vout, but I want to be sure.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: breaktru_software on June 01, 2011, 05:52:55 PM
Beautiful mod! I will be building on in a few days, using this schematic, AND this one for a touch switch: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/181976-1-aa-touch-modbox.html (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/181976-1-aa-touch-modbox.html)

First time building one this advanced, but Im pretty excited about it.

Actually I do have one question...I have found that my sweet spot is ~4.6v. How much would be changed to eliminate the POT and set it there? I am pretty sure I'd just use 1 resister between Vadj and Vout, but I want to be sure.

That's great to hear Dalton. I would think about using a fixed resistor. That will limit you to always using the exact atty resistance. With VV you can adjust to 4.6v with any atty.

The touch mosfet that Alan posted is great. Remember to check the physical size as the space inside the box is small. There are miniture mosfets out there, don't have numbers for you. You can search the ECF forum for Scubatdan's.
I put a touch in my Side by side.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 01, 2011, 06:19:05 PM
That's great to hear Dalton. I would think about using a fixed resistor. That will limit you to always using the exact atty resistance. With VV you can adjust to 4.6v with any atty.

The touch mosfet that Alan posted is great. Remember to check the physical size as the space inside the box is small. There are miniture mosfets out there, don't have numbers for you. You can search the ECF forum for Scubatdan's.
I put a touch in my Side by side.

Haha pointing out what should have been obvious to me...Good argument for the POT. Alan was gracious enough to send me a couple mosfet's, so I am waiting on those, and also the 100uF caps, but I think I can get it to all fit, although it will be tight.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: breaktru_software on June 01, 2011, 06:26:25 PM
Alan was gracious enough to send me a couple mosfet's, so I am waiting on those, and also the 100uF caps, but I think I can get it to all fit, although it will be tight.

Alan has good heart, and his mods are terrific.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 02, 2011, 11:26:03 PM
Okay I almost have all the parts I need for my little project. Think you could check this out and tell me what you think?
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/193486-combine-touch-switch-booster.html (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/193486-combine-touch-switch-booster.html)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 03, 2011, 08:56:04 AM
Okay I almost have all the parts I need for my little project. Think you could check this out and tell me what you think?
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/193486-combine-touch-switch-booster.html (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/193486-combine-touch-switch-booster.html)

Like Alan said, use the first diagram that you drew. You want to break the power feeding the regulator.
You may want to tweak the value of the Gate to Source resistor. Alan said he had trouble turning it on. The original circuit for the 3103 shows a 2-4meg ohm if Alan couldn't turn it on with a 10meg, obviously 2-4meg would not do it. 100meg will work but may be too sensitive. I would set it up in a test board and try values from 20 meg to 100 meg gradually increasing.
An important note is that after coming up with a resistor value that turns your mosfet off and on w/ full voltage, it is necessary to add a load of an atty. I had to bump up the value of the resistor w/ a load although it worked fine w/ no load.

I have used the touch for the TI PTN08100w with a P-Channel. My 100 meg ohm is sensitive and 10 meg won't turn it on. I calculated that 20-22meg would work fine but didn't have one on hand to try.
 See: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,244.msg613.html#msg613


Update:
The touch works very good in the .44 boost mod w/ either an N-Channel or P-Channel.
Just remember when using an N-Channel to route ALL of the negatives through the Mosfet or the DC Converter will remain on.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 03, 2011, 03:18:15 PM
Ok thanks. I have the circuit set up now and I think it will all fit just fine. I have read that the diode before the atty is not required, but I have used a 22k resistor to give it a range of 3.77 - 5.18. If I eliminate the diode, is it safe to assume that that range will be .6v higher at both ends?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 03, 2011, 03:30:11 PM
Ok thanks. I have the circuit set up now and I think it will all fit just fine. I have read that the diode before the atty is not required, but I have used a 22k resistor to give it a range of 3.77 - 5.18. If I eliminate the diode, is it safe to assume that that range will be .6v higher at both ends?

Yes without the diode it will be approximately 0.6 volts higher on both ends.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 03, 2011, 07:22:24 PM
That's what I thought...On that note, is there any particular reason why a diode is used here instead of a resistor?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 03, 2011, 07:51:46 PM
That's what I thought...On that note, is there any particular reason why a diode is used here instead of a resistor?

The diode was added prior to realizing that the resistors can accommodate an acceptable voltage range.
I will alter the table eventually without the diode.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dalton63841 on June 03, 2011, 08:17:01 PM
The diode was added prior to realizing that the resistors can accommodate an acceptable voltage range.
I will alter the table eventually without the diode.

Ahhh the plot thickens...So I can go without the diode but I would need to replace the 22k resistor with something smaller, to get the appropriate range. Looks like I need to sit down and do some math.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on June 03, 2011, 09:45:14 PM
Very interesting discussion!! I don't know if I would leave the diode out. I suspect that it is used as a 1/2 wave rectifier to avboid the circuit from going into oscillation. Of course, I am just guessing but suspect that's why TI put it in the diagram ???

Checked on radioshack.com and you can get 3 amp diodes for a buck and a half.

Like I say, I may be wrong but if TI has it in the diagram, I think I would put it in. Just my 2 cents
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062578 (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062578)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 03, 2011, 09:49:38 PM
Very interesting discussion!! I don't know if I would leave the diode out. I suspect that it is used as a 1/2 wave rectifier to avboid the circuit from going into oscillation. Of course, I am just guessing but suspect that's why TI put it in the diagram ???

Checked on radioshack.com and you can get 3 amp diodes for a buck and a half.

Like I say, I may be wrong but if TI has it in the diagram, I think I would put it in. Just my 2 cents
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062578 (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062578)

Alan, I added the diode just to achieve the voltage range in my preliminary tests. It's only there for voltage reduction and have since removed it because I found a better resistor/pot combo that works great.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on June 09, 2011, 07:30:44 AM
I tried leaving out the diode and used the 15k ohm from your table. And it gave me 0.6volts added to the low and hi end.
So my low end is now 4.2 volts. I really don't need to go any lower so it's perfect. Besides with the load it's a little lower anyway.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on June 09, 2011, 07:49:53 PM
That would be a reasonable voltage range to you use with the 15k resistor and no diode.
I agree
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Brian9523 on June 24, 2011, 04:19:30 PM
I see that Silent Soldier (above posts) made a .44 and posted it over at ECF.
Hey S.S. it would be COURTESY to give recognition to those who help out on mod builds.
I see breaktru giving thanks to several modders over at ECF.

See his mod at ECF: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/196289-mini-booster-box-w-digital-pot.html
He even used your Digital Pot from your Side x Side and VV copper mod. Same D.P. part number. :P
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Haileah on June 24, 2011, 05:24:11 PM
I see that Silent Soldier (above posts) made a .44 and posted it over at ECF.
Hey S.S. it would be COURTESY to give recognition to those who help out on mod builds.
I see breaktru giving thanks to several modders over at ECF.

I believe so as well, credit should be given. Common courtesy applies
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 24, 2011, 05:57:09 PM
Thanks Brian and HiLeah for your support.
It's all good.
It's not the first time and won't be the last.
I get tons of PM questions on HOW to on all my mods.
I've supplied schematic help on wiring and part numbers to many.
 ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: timesarerough on June 25, 2011, 03:47:50 PM
I see that Silent Soldier (above posts) made a .44 and posted it over at ECF.
Hey S.S. it would be COURTESY to give recognition to those who help out on mod builds.
I see breaktru giving thanks to several modders over at ECF.

See his mod at ECF: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modders-forum/196289-mini-booster-box-w-digital-pot.html
He even used your Digital Pot from your Side x Side and VV copper mod. Same D.P. part number. :P

Well his user name is definitely accurate.

But I'd say that S.S. just went AWOL and should be shot with his own .44!!

Traitor....
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: octoman on June 25, 2011, 04:32:49 PM
If it was me building a breaktru mod or anyone else's mod, I would give credit and be very thankful for the info that I received.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on June 25, 2011, 05:02:05 PM
Well, gee whiz guys, this is starting to get a little brutal ... I have very few original designs, mostly modifications of other people's work, often a combo of several different mods, would be hard-pressed to give credit to all of the originators. This whole world of mods is growing so fast it makes my head spin.

I think Breaktru makes wonderful mods and I hope, some day, to be worthy to walk in his shadow. In the meantime, if I stumble upon any cool idea that someone else can use and improve on, they have my blessing to do so.

I hope that you made your feelings known to SS with a PM on ECF, in a diplomatic way. If not, you really should. (boy, that's a lot of acronyms). The same goes for me too .. if I step on someone else's design, by all means let me know the error of my ways, ok?

Can't we all just get along?

(http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/7114/20110620221219887.png)
By asnider123 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/asnider123)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 25, 2011, 05:11:24 PM
I have no hard feelings. I am very flattered that someone uses my designs.
More power to them.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on June 25, 2011, 05:18:44 PM
I am very grateful breaktru for your informative postings and all the help you gave me when I PM'd you with questions for building my .44 booster mod.
Copying is the best form of flattery to the creator.

Alan, It doesn't seem that breaktru is upset, but it seems that some of his mod build followers maybe.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on June 25, 2011, 05:21:04 PM
I agree, I am just hoping that this great community isn't getting all fragmented, we're all in this together  :D ;D ;)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on June 25, 2011, 05:33:22 PM
Right on Brother Al :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Haileah on June 25, 2011, 05:39:43 PM
I remember WillyB posting something once about giving Credit.
I found it at ECF: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/171827-first-vv-mod.html#post2864941 (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/171827-first-vv-mod.html#post2864941)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 25, 2011, 05:46:06 PM
I created this forum to help out others. I try to give as much detail to those wanting to build their own mod.
It's all here for the taking so guys, enjoy.
Alan does the same, he shares with all of us. So, Peace brother modders. Let's all get along and play nice.
Share the wealth!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on June 25, 2011, 06:56:27 PM
Shame on you S.S.  :o
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: timesarerough on June 25, 2011, 10:02:16 PM
I am very grateful breaktru for your informative postings and all the help you gave me when I PM'd you with questions for building my .44 booster mod.
Copying is the best form of flattery to the creator.

Alan, It doesn't seem that breaktru is upset, but it seems that some of his mod build followers maybe.

How ironic, Satan has the same view. (Nothing personal, just an observation.)

It's one thing to build someone's design and make a comment about the success of the build, but its another thing to post that success in another forum away from the eyes of the designer and 'imply' that the design was his own by not giving credit where credit was DUE!

What if someone were to plagiarize the juice me up software and call it their own creation? Maybe even attempt to sell it?

Would I still be too harsh in my judgement?

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: timesarerough on June 25, 2011, 10:30:58 PM
Well, gee whiz guys, this is starting to get a little brutal ... I have very few original designs, mostly modifications of other people's work, often a combo of several different mods, would be hard-pressed to give credit to all of the originators. This whole world of mods is growing so fast it makes my head spin.

I think Breaktru makes wonderful mods and I hope, some day, to be worthy to walk in his shadow. In the meantime, if I stumble upon any cool idea that someone else can use and improve on, they have my blessing to do so.

I hope that you made your feelings known to SS with a PM on ECF, in a diplomatic way. If not, you really should. (boy, that's a lot of acronyms). The same goes for me too .. if I step on someone else's design, by all means let me know the error of my ways, ok?

Can't we all just get along?

(http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/7114/20110620221219887.png)
By asnider123 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/asnider123)

Sorry Alan, but the ECF doesn't agree with point of view....

They said adios to me when I tried to disclose all of the manufacturers contact names, e-mail addresses, and purchasing terms for 'sample' buyers.....FOR FREE! Bypassing every supplier on the ECF and giving everyone a chance to buy direct from the manufacturer!

Yeah, that went well....

So PM'ing S.S. is not in my power, Alan. But S.S. welcome to view my opinion and defend his 'honor' in the very same place that he found the original design for his .44

Cuz if he were to show himself in here, he bombarded by those of us that feel Dave deserves an apology and/or giving him credit for the design.

So if my opinion is too harsh for some and I'm the 'bad guy', so be it.

I call'em like I see'em.

 :-X
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: cccsteel on July 14, 2011, 10:18:58 AM
Let me know when this mod goes up for sale please.
Fantastic work.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Haileah on July 14, 2011, 05:45:39 PM
Sorry Alan, but the ECF doesn't agree with point of view....

They said adios to me when I tried to disclose all of the manufacturers contact names, e-mail addresses, and purchasing terms for 'sample' buyers.....FOR FREE! Bypassing every supplier on the ECF and giving everyone a chance to buy direct from the manufacturer!

Yeah, that went well....

So PM'ing S.S. is not in my power, Alan. But S.S. welcome to view my opinion and defend his 'honor' in the very same place that he found the original design for his .44

Cuz if he were to show himself in here, he bombarded by those of us that feel Dave deserves an apology and/or giving him credit for the design.

So if my opinion is too harsh for some and I'm the 'bad guy', so be it.

I call'em like I see'em.

 :-X

I don't know if you are aware of it but SS is selling them on ECF. I also see he is a member here on breaktru forum. This is where he got the idea.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: timesarerough on July 15, 2011, 02:37:10 AM
I have no hard feelings. I am very flattered that someone uses my designs.
More power to them.

VINDICATED BY HAILEAH!!

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Squance on July 26, 2011, 10:56:19 AM
I ordered the parts to make a .44 mini booster, I have a question about the caps. Do you recommend leaving off the caps?
I also see a member here ask for the parts list and made it and is selling it with a different box mod name at ECF. Didn't see a reference to your mod though.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on July 26, 2011, 11:14:10 AM
hmmmmmm ... always nice to give credit where credit is due
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 26, 2011, 02:52:41 PM
I ordered the parts to make a .44 mini booster, I have a question about the caps. Do you recommend leaving off the caps?
I also see a member here ask for the parts list and made it and is selling it with a different box mod name at ECF. Didn't see a reference to your mod though.

I recommend that you put the caps ON. I've seen a difference with the 14500 batt.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tearocks on August 17, 2011, 01:48:29 AM
A big thanks to Breaktru for sharing his design and instruction on this mod. A few weeks ago I didn't know what a regulator did. I put this together and it's working like a champ. Didn't think I'd be able to solder all the components to the pins so I cut up some strip board and soldered to that. The spacing of the pins won't fit into a single board without a lot of bending, so I used three bits and wired the ground lines together underneath. Managed to fit an LED in the end so I can tell if it's firing correctly.

(http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/26/imag0120a.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/804/imag0120a.jpg/) (http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/5796/imag0123ah.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/27/imag0123ah.jpg/) (http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/8655/imag0126a.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/imag0126a.jpg/)

Not planning on making and selling them as my own.  ::)
The cost of shipping the chips to Australia is too restrictive.  :D

Thanks again.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on August 17, 2011, 08:01:07 AM
Very nicely done tea, good work mate. Enjoy your new mod.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: cccsteel on August 17, 2011, 08:29:42 AM
A big thanks to Breaktru for sharing his design and instruction on this mod. A few weeks ago I didn't know what a regulator did. I put this together and it's working like a champ. Didn't think I'd be able to solder all the components to the pins so I cut up some strip board and soldered to that. The spacing of the pins won't fit into a single board without a lot of bending, so I used three bits and wired the ground lines together underneath. Managed to fit an LED in the end so I can tell if it's firing correctly.

(http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/26/imag0120a.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/804/imag0120a.jpg/) (http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/5796/imag0123ah.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/27/imag0123ah.jpg/) (http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/8655/imag0126a.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/imag0126a.jpg/)

Not planning on making and selling them as my own.  ::)
The cost of shipping the chips to Australia is too restrictive.  :D

Thanks again.

Wow Tearocks, that looks sweet.
Your mod came out fantastic, nice and compact too.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: shirl on August 17, 2011, 09:12:10 AM
A big thanks to Breaktru for sharing his design and instruction on this mod. A few weeks ago I didn't know what a regulator did. I put this together and it's working like a champ. Didn't think I'd be able to solder all the components to the pins so I cut up some strip board and soldered to that. The spacing of the pins won't fit into a single board without a lot of bending, so I used three bits and wired the ground lines together underneath. Managed to fit an LED in the end so I can tell if it's firing correctly.

Thanks again.

Cool mod. Looks great. How does it preform?
What voltage range did you end up with Tearocks?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on August 17, 2011, 12:59:00 PM
Tea... great job .. I am surprised that TI doesn't have retailers in AU .. bet they do .. might take some research or an email to TI sales to find out ...

Or you could always go with National Semiconductors regulators, available on Ebay, check out the "poorvari" schematics .. should be able to build mods with locally or ebay available parts.


http://cgi.ebay.com/10-LM350BT-Adjustable-Voltage-Regulator-3A-LM350T-LM350-/200640383597?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eb7194a6d#ht_927wt_902 (http://cgi.ebay.com/10-LM350BT-Adjustable-Voltage-Regulator-3A-LM350T-LM350-/200640383597?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eb7194a6d#ht_927wt_902)

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tearocks on August 18, 2011, 01:43:07 AM
Thanks guys. It's quickly become my favourite mod. Small enough to take out and about and battery life has been good, so far, with what most vapers would consider light to moderate use. 14500's are small and easy to fit a spare with juice, atty, carto, etc. in a Riva carry case.

I used the 22K bridge resistor as per Breaktru's table. It will wind down to 4.05V and out to 5.5V without load.
I ended up not using the 3A diode because it's large (have to grind the wire to fit into the Vero board or use a flying lead) and I have a simple 3.7V 2AA box mod for the 1.5ohm atty's I have.

Thanks for the tips Alan. I've read a lot of your posts and they're always helpful and informative. We have distributors for TI chips in Aus but they charge a premium and I would be better off placing a large order with Digikey or the like to make postage worthwhile.

I can get the "Poorvari" chips for ~$3 over here. I will try them out soon but have purchased a few UCC283 chips from ebay to make some VV mods for my family and friends.

I'm really digging this DIY thing. I have a Provari as well but it's not something I like to carry and risk losing during a night on the town. Plus, if the home-made mod breaks I can just patch it up with hot melt  ;D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 09, 2011, 09:37:58 PM
See the 3rd posting, Reply #2 for update info and Mosfet Touch Circuit.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 17, 2011, 11:26:50 AM
just a quick question, i'm getting the gist of the mod, in fact planning to build one, but what's nagging me, is that can we remove the diode? and if we do, what's the difference?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: SmokeRings on September 17, 2011, 02:11:36 PM
Ginjo, see the bottom of the post on the 1st page under "Update:" http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg468.html#msg468 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg468.html#msg468)
It says: "UPDATE:
I have removed the Diode and replaced the 100k resistor between Pins 3 & 4 with a 10k
for a voltage range of 4.02v to 5.4v with NO load."

Also there is a Chart for voltage ranges w/ or w/o diode.

I thinks that 4.02v to 5.4v is a pretty good range.  :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: novoleen on September 18, 2011, 11:08:18 AM
I think it's wonderful that breaktru is sharing all of his mod designs.
 :beer-toast:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 18, 2011, 07:03:01 PM
Ginjo, see the bottom of the post on the 1st page under "Update:" http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg468.html#msg468 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg468.html#msg468)
It says: "UPDATE:
I have removed the Diode and replaced the 100k resistor between Pins 3 & 4 with a 10k
for a voltage range of 4.02v to 5.4v with NO load."

Also there is a Chart for voltage ranges w/ or w/o diode.

ok, got it :D

finally figured it out...

can't wait to build this baby :D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 18, 2011, 07:24:09 PM
ok, got it :D

finally figured it out...

can't wait to build this baby :D

Good luck Ginjo, let us know how you make out after the build.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 23, 2011, 11:03:51 AM
Good luck Ginjo, let us know how you make out after the build.

Breaktru, can I ask for a favor? can you send me a schematic diagram without the diode? i mean I think I can just remove the diode, but I just wanna make sure if the schematic would be the same...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 23, 2011, 02:40:25 PM
Just put together another .44 mini booster.
This time with a touch switch and a voltage range that can handle Low resistance Dual Coil cartos.

(http://breaktru.com/ecig/44_mini1_touch.jpg) (http://breaktru.com/ecig/44_mini3_touch.jpg)

I really like this mod and hate to part with it but I maybe selling it so I can buy more parts to make more mods.
I already have many offers for it but have to devise a fare way to pick a suitor. Some one who can take it for walks daily, groom it regularly and give it love and affection....  :laughing2:

UPDATE: not letting this one go. I'm keeping it.

Circuit below w/ N-Ch and P-Ch Mosfet only visible to logged on members.........
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 23, 2011, 03:17:44 PM
Just put together another .44 mini booster.
This time with a touch switch and a voltage range that can handle Low resistance Dual Coil cartos.

(http://breaktru.com/ecig/44_mini1_touch.jpg) (http://breaktru.com/ecig/44_mini3_touch.jpg)

sweet! can handle LR? what resistor did you used?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 23, 2011, 03:37:18 PM
Breaktru, can I ask for a favor? can you send me a schematic diagram without the diode? i mean I think I can just remove the diode, but I just wanna make sure if the schematic would be the same...

Look at Reply #2 in this thread. Use a wire in place of the Diode between Pin #4 and the Atty center pin. Everything is the same. Also look at the table for Voltage/Resistor in the previous posts.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 23, 2011, 03:44:58 PM
Look at Reply #2 in this thread. Use a wire in place of the Diode between Pin #4 and the Atty center pin. Everything is the same. Also look at the table for Voltage/Resistor in the previous posts.

thanks, now I see what you mean... sorry for being a pain :D

noob at modding :D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 23, 2011, 04:07:20 PM
oh, and i've been meaning to ask, will this work with trustfires without any problems?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 23, 2011, 04:51:36 PM
oh, and i've been meaning to ask, will this work with trustfires without any problems?

If look at the photo on the first post you will see that it uses a Trustfire (with the flame)
1 x 14500, 900mah. Imagine it would be even better w/ a high drain batt.

UPDATE: 1/2 amp more wattage with an AW IMR but half the battery run time than the flames.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on September 23, 2011, 05:42:49 PM
If look at the photo on the first post you will see that it uses a Trustfire (with the flame)
1 x 14500, 900mah. Imagine it would be even better w/ a high drain batt.

cool! will start collecting the parts for this little baby :D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ChainVaper on September 24, 2011, 04:51:06 PM
Just put together another .44 mini booster.
This time with a touch switch and a voltage range that can handle Low resistance Dual Coil cartos.

I really like this mod and hate to part with it but I maybe selling it so I can buy more parts to make more mods.
I already have many offers for it but have to devise a fare way to pick a suitor. Some one who can take it for walks daily, groom it regularly and give it love and affection....  :laughing2:

The juice tank is a perfect match for your new .44. Wow. Where did you get it?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 24, 2011, 05:34:59 PM
The juice tank is a perfect match for your new .44. Wow. Where did you get it?

I made it CV. See my tank mod thread.
Also take a look at asnider's CE2 tank mods, they are great too.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: shirl on September 24, 2011, 08:09:26 PM
Yes, I agree that tank looks good with the new modified 44 mini  :banana:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 28, 2011, 09:15:06 AM
I've been vaping a 1.5 DC smoketek.The setup with the resistor across Pin 3 & 4 limits the amperage for use of a max of 2 amps before cutting out.
Using the 1.5 DC at 1.75 to 1.99 amps produces a significant amount of vapor. It sounds low but I find it satisfactory.
Using a standard atty 2.0 -2.2 ohms does NOT drop the output voltage more than 0.1 v.
The attached photo is a quick adapter for setting amperage. Used between the batt connector and the atty/carto w/ the meter leads attached to the studs w/ meter set on 10 amp scale.

To summarize: The best way to adjust the 0450c in my opinion is with AMPERAGE and NOT voltage.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: DRA on September 28, 2011, 10:43:01 AM
This sounds acceptable to me,  :yes"
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on September 28, 2011, 04:21:47 PM
Dave, is it ok if I use your wiring diagram and expertise to build a TI booster mod? Thanks dude! That's awesome!!!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 28, 2011, 04:41:10 PM
Dave, is it ok if I use your wiring diagram and expertise to build a TI booster mod? Thanks dude! That's awesome!!!

Of course Alan my friend.
Hey, I just got in a NEW type DC-DC converter that may put the 04050c out of business. It's half the size.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on September 28, 2011, 04:52:28 PM
Cool!!!! First I better learn how to use the 04050 before I take on something new LOL  :drooling:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 28, 2011, 05:34:13 PM
Cool!!!! First I better learn how to use the 04050 before I take on something new LOL  :drooling:

This is what the DC-DC Converter is:
V.V. 10 amps/50Watt - Input 3-13.8vdc and Output of 0.59-5.1v.
Typically 91% efficient
I have to run some tests to see if I can boost it up with one battery. I read that I can if I wire it differently.
And for now as to what it is.... it's a secret.... Sssssssshhhhhhhhhhh.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 01, 2011, 10:22:21 AM
Okay, my dreams of finding the ULTIMATE booster has been squashed.
I contacted Design Support over at Digikey and was told that this DC-DC converter has been revised and is no longer a boost/buck but just a buck and NO converter can do what I want, except the 04050c.
I was basing my possible design on Rev. 02 and a posting at an electronics forum of a member who successfully used it as a booster. Rev. 03 has limited my intent. Here's what I had used when I bought it.
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/notes_buck_boost.jpg)

This is the latest Rev. 03:
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/notes_buck.jpg)

As Emily Litella (Gilda Radner) would have said..... "Never Mind"
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: 4492011 on October 02, 2011, 11:03:36 AM
HI what would the circut look like if I were to use a small tact switch instead of touch?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 02, 2011, 12:11:41 PM
HI what would the circut look like if I were to use a small tact switch instead of touch?

I've seen many different resistor values for the mosfet using a tact switch.
Some use no resistor on the gate while others use a 1k ohm.
The resistor between Gate and Source has been shown with a resistor ranging from 47k to 2.2 Meg ohm.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Pantera on October 09, 2011, 06:30:09 PM
How are your making out Dave.. did ya making any more?   :drooling:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Haileah on October 09, 2011, 07:05:35 PM
My tongue is hanging out too..  :drooling:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: elzakivis on October 10, 2011, 10:39:37 AM
REMOVED BY ADMIN
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on October 10, 2011, 11:11:59 AM
REMOVED BY ADMIN
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dasen22 on October 10, 2011, 07:02:45 PM
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Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on October 10, 2011, 07:29:15 PM
Sounds like you've got some groupies  :thewave:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: octoman on October 11, 2011, 09:55:25 AM
REMOVED BY ADMIN
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: geothee on October 21, 2011, 07:39:59 AM
What battery do you recommend to use with your .44 boost mod. Need to pick up another battery.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 21, 2011, 08:16:54 AM
That's funny, someone just asked me the same question yesterday.
They said that they used a 3.7v Trustfire 900mah and it worked great in my .44 boost mod.
Good: (http://goo.gl/PfIAL)



They tried an Ultrafire (blue covered) marked as 3.6v and it didn't work.
No Good: (http://goo.gl/skLXF)

I personally only tried the Flame Trustfire 900mah and I get 6 to 7 1/2 hours with them.
There are more expensive batteries that are said to be better but I haven't tried them. Batteries like AW 14500 and IMR 14500 (high drain)

Update:
Purchased an AW IMR 14500. Best performance achieved using this battery due to the higher "C" rating. But shorter run time. Got 0.5 more amps. I would recommend these over the fore-mentioned

(http://www.oveready.com/images/uploads/IMR14500%20(PropertyOfOveready-DoNotCopy).jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on October 21, 2011, 09:25:24 AM
Good question ... flames work fine in my VV mods, but AW's must provide lots more current, have blown 2 CE2's with the AW's during building.

Think the circuit protection in the flames avoid over-heating the coils ??? That's just a guess  :idea:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Tameron on October 23, 2011, 10:23:21 AM
I've also heard that the 14500 ultafires have been a problem.
For the price and performance, the Flame Trustfires are good IMHO.
Can't justify the extra cost for AW's.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: raceengine on October 23, 2011, 12:19:15 PM
Hi breaktru and everyone! I just got all the parts to build myself my first 04050 booster but I can't find the resistor to Vout table with and without diode anymore. I'm sad...  :crying: help anyone? Thanking in advance :begging:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 23, 2011, 01:46:27 PM
Hi breaktru and everyone! I just got all the parts to build myself my first 04050 booster but I can't find the resistor to Vout table with and without diode anymore. I'm sad...  :crying: help anyone? Thanking in advance :begging:

PM sent............
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Anthois on October 26, 2011, 10:22:03 PM
Very nice!! I think Dave deserves a thank you for putting this back up. Just wonder where the heck you find all this time.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 27, 2011, 03:31:30 PM
YouTube Video of TWO .44 Mini Boost Mods with two different voltage ranges..  :thumbsup:


Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 27, 2011, 04:33:15 PM
Click to see FULL size:

(http://breaktru.com/ecig/mods_all.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 28, 2011, 05:47:25 PM
A certain member of ECF doubted the performance of the booster mod with a load attached and wasn't impressed.
Here is a YouTube Video that shows the voltages with and without a load attached............

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: timesarerough on October 28, 2011, 06:40:43 PM
What?

No background VooDoo Child!!??

Common Dave....

We all wanna hear you play VooDoo Child from your Glory Days as a Cult Leader/Lead Guitarist!!

 :rockin smiley:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: vaperkarma on November 02, 2011, 03:47:14 PM
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Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: steamEngine on November 02, 2011, 03:57:15 PM
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Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: octoman on November 03, 2011, 04:41:00 PM
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Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 05, 2011, 11:32:22 PM
Okay, so I broke down and bought an AW IMR 14500. I wanted to see what all the hype was about.
Do they perform better? Cranks out 0.34 more amperage. A little bit noticeable.
Battery life is half of what the Trustfire gives me.
My Trustfire flames are 900mah. (7 hour vape time)
The AW IMR is 600mah. (4 hour vape time) Wish they came w/ more mahs.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Gmoney on November 06, 2011, 12:02:45 AM
Okay, so I broke down and bought an AW IMR 14500. I wanted to see what all the hype was about.
Do they perform better? Cranks out 0.34 more amperage. Not really noticable.
Battery life is half of what the Trustfire gives me.
My Trustfire flames are 900mah.
The AW IMR is 600mah. Wish they came w/ more mahs.

Most of the xxxxFire batteries tend to overrate there mAh ratings. I also think the IMR's are a bit over hyped from what I have read.

You should try the AW ICR (black w/silver label and red stripe). Although I do find the Trusfire flames to be a decent battery my 3 year old AW ICR's outperform them and are capable of supplying more current.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on November 08, 2011, 05:48:13 PM
please pm me the new resistor -voltage range table, please? can't find it on the post
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: elzakivis on November 10, 2011, 09:33:33 AM
I find the high drain battery is a better choice. I notice that a lot of the boost mods shown on vendor sites recommend using the high drains. The down side is the battery time is less that the Trustfires.
I had problems with the UltraFires cutting out. I wouldn't be surprised if they where knock offs under the wrapper.
I recommend the AW IMR 14500, 600mah. SuperT has them for $6.69 with a $1.35 shipping fee.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: shirl on November 11, 2011, 11:32:19 AM
REMOVED BY ADMIN
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: columbusbk on November 11, 2011, 05:56:14 PM
REMOVED BY ADMIN
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 16, 2011, 03:48:17 PM
Sorry about the edits
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: djamwolfe on November 25, 2011, 12:10:41 PM
Not sure what im missing -- im sure its here somewhere but I cant find the resistor chart. Can someone kindly point me in the right direction.

Thanks, Devon
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 25, 2011, 09:02:48 PM
Tolerance of resistors and trimmer will effect your Voltage Range Results
Use the parts shown in image below for an OUTPUT voltage range of approximatly 3.79v to 6.2v ... circuit visible to members only........
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: raceengine on November 26, 2011, 01:52:36 PM
 :thankyou: breaktru! That's a really nice find. Will it still put out max 2.4amps?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: djamwolfe on November 26, 2011, 01:55:47 PM
Thanks Breaktru -- Now I just need to figure out how to stuff all of this in my tube mod. I dont want to walk around with a foot of pvc in my hand :no:

Devon
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 26, 2011, 02:17:16 PM
Thanks Breaktru -- Now I just need to figure out how to stuff all of this in my tube mod. I dont want to walk around with a foot of pvc in my hand :no:

Devon

Devon, did you see how I stuffed this circuit w/ a digital pot circuit in a tube? "Vari Volt Booster Regulator w/ Digital Pot - Copper Mod"
check out the thread in the modding section.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: raceengine on November 26, 2011, 03:19:56 PM
That's what inspired me to shrink my modules huhuhu. Oh... SMD components really helps with real estate issues...

my latest @16mm tall, 18mm diameter
(http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/8246/dsc00133gy.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/507/dsc00133gy.jpg/)

It's not a 4050C booster though...  but just here as an inspiration as I was inspired with breaktru's  :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: djamwolfe on November 26, 2011, 03:27:42 PM
Wow race -- that is kinda what im going for. I'm using 3/4 inch pipe for irrigation, kinda ugly but its easy to work with.
Breaktru, ill take a look your post to see how you got it in there, BTW im using 18650 batteries, I have bumloads from laptops.

Devon
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 26, 2011, 03:37:38 PM
That's what inspired me to shrink my modules huhuhu. Oh... SMD components really helps with real estate issues...

my latest @16mm tall, 18mm diameter
(http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/8246/dsc00133gy.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/507/dsc00133gy.jpg/)

It's not a 4050C booster though...  but just here as an inspiration as I was inspired with breaktru's  :thankyou:

Very nicely compacted should solve the height problem. Nice work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Alamor on December 03, 2011, 10:21:23 PM
Nice mod
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bamsbbq on December 04, 2011, 09:00:57 AM
i have been looking at your .44 mod for awhile now...very nice job.

i have no skills when it comes to working with electronics, i have never soldered anything successfully..lol

i am more interested in how you actually made the .44 casing work.

I have a Rocket BM http://www.vapeatron.com/rocket-passes-bm-6206/ with a 18650 battery in it.

the only thing that i am not fond of is the big blue button as i want to make some cosmetic mods and the color doesnt go with the theme i have planned.


(http://i44.tinypic.com/4ijy3b.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tek on December 04, 2011, 07:52:23 PM
You are lucky for a rocket mod, but if you want a stainless or nickel button, go to http://www.themonkeyboxx.com/category_s/54.htm (http://www.themonkeyboxx.com/category_s/54.htm).. i do..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bamsbbq on December 04, 2011, 08:09:41 PM
thanks for this link.. stainless or nickel look cool but the green one fits my needs  :thumbsup:

and yes i am lucky to have a rocket mod...

gotta send it back to him to check out the battery on it though..the battery is not taking a full charge...it uses a modded ego charger and when you connect it, it always shows the green light never a red light like it use to.(not the charger as i put an ego battery on it and the led went from green to red for charging)  :crying: will have to get him to change the button on it while its open  :)

its not from overuse because as soon as i bought it, it was used very little as i stopped vaping for a few weeks and went back to analogs.

i am going to give it one more charge and let it sit on the charger to see if anything changes.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tek on December 04, 2011, 09:00:27 PM
maby you need to run it down bam, to get it rocking again..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 01:41:40 AM
 :thankyou: Thanks for the awesome mod instructions. I made one this weekend, a .45 caliber. I used a 10k pot from Radio Shack and connected the center post to the negative post of the pot like the diagram shows and I am not getting any adjustment when I turn the dial. It is a single turn pot and I used 10k resistors in the circuit so I should have a pretty good range. Did I do wrong by making the connection between the two legs of the pot? Or maybe the pot is bad? It vapes great no adjustment.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 08, 2011, 07:53:17 AM
:thankyou: Thanks for the awesome mod instructions. I made one this weekend, a .45 caliber. I used a 10k pot from Radio Shack and connected the center post to the negative post of the pot like the diagram shows and I am not getting any adjustment when I turn the dial. It is a single turn pot and I used 10k resistors in the circuit so I should have a pretty good range. Did I do wrong by making the connection between the two legs of the pot? Or maybe the pot is bad? It vapes great no adjustment.
Can you post a close-up photo at different angles so I can see the wiring?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 08:34:08 AM
I already took it apart, but here is a diagram of how it was wired. Well....I can't figure out how to insert an image stored on my computer so I will try to explain. 3 legs on the pot, left, center and right. left is to circuit ground, right is to the 10k resistor that goes to post 3 on the regulator and center is connected to left post on the pot (the one that is wired to the ground). I thought this would allow it to work as a variable resistor.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 08, 2011, 09:29:12 AM
I already took it apart, but here is a diagram of how it was wired. Well....I can't figure out how to insert an image stored on my computer so I will try to explain. 3 legs on the pot, left, center and right. left is to circuit ground, right is to the 10k resistor that goes to post 3 on the regulator and center is connected to left post on the pot (the one that is wired to the ground). I thought this would allow it to work as a variable resistor.

When you click "REPLY", you will see "Additional Options" below the text box. Then "Attach .... browse.

Sounds like you connected it like the schematic/diagram. Try using one outside leg and just the middle leg of the pot and let's see what happens.
Not that you wired it wrong.

Another note: I have used countless 04050c converters in the past and never had a problem until recently. The latest batch of 04050c's, at least the last 3 of them, I had the same problem not being able to vary the voltage. All I got was battery voltage out. Even removing all the caps and leaving Pin 3 empty w/ no resistor across Pin 3 & 4. It should have given me 5.0v out but instead I only saw battery voltage. This suggests that the convert is at fault and not the additional components.
If you can't get it working, try removing all as I described above, leaving just the circuitry for battery Input Pin 2 to Batt (+), Pin 1 to Batt (-) and measure voltage at Pin 4 (+) to Pin 1 (-)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 09:38:42 AM
Thanks I am trying the center and one other leg now.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 09:48:12 AM
Looks like I toasted the resistor to the pot (power in one side nothing out.). Will have another one in in a minute.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 08, 2011, 09:51:23 AM
Looks like I toasted the resistor to the pot (power in one side nothing out.). Will have another one in in a minute.

I'm stepping out for a few hours, will check back later.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 10:11:30 AM
Thanks, the new resistor is working but still no vape so I will try your other suggestion. If that does not work I will step back from the work bench and take a break before I end up with a mod sized hole in the wall. LOL.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 08, 2011, 11:02:00 AM
Yup the regulator is definitely bad I am only getting 2 volts from pin 1 to pin 4. Battery voltage is 4.2 unloaded. Well it was a free sample so no money lost. Thanks for all the help. Got to go haul my middle aged butt to school for finals. I can't wait to start circuits 1 in the spring and get access to real tools.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 08, 2011, 02:33:27 PM
Just be careful wiring up your next converter to avoid a possible short.
Could be there is a large number of bad 04050c being produced lately.
Two of mine were bad from the start and one worked for a week and then crapped out.
My converters came from two different sources.

ANY ONE else have this happen on a recently acquired 04050c?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tek on December 08, 2011, 09:25:44 PM
shoot, that means i have to open up all my pritty static bags and check.. huh.. i guess in time lol.. i have alil collection of em right now, thanks t i
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on December 09, 2011, 09:06:12 AM
I've got one more 4050. Is there a way to check it before wiring it up.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 09, 2011, 10:21:12 AM
I've got one more 4050. Is there a way to check it before wiring it up.

Look at Reply #137
Just the battery and a meter.

"battery Input Pin 2 to Batt (+), Pin 1 to Batt (-) and measure voltage at Pin 4 (+) to Pin 1 (-)"
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: raceengine on December 09, 2011, 01:28:20 PM
Here's my finished 4050C. goes from 3.8v to 6.3v. huhuhu

(http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/5057/imag0030c.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/imag0030c.jpg/)(http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/826/imag0020bq.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/210/imag0020bq.jpg/)(http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/682/imag0024jj.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/18/imag0024jj.jpg/)

Credit goes to breaktru for his beautiful schematics and guide!  :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 09, 2011, 01:49:06 PM
Here's my finished 4050C. goes from 3.8v to 6.3v. huhuhu
Credit goes to breaktru for his beautiful schematics and guide!  :thankyou:

Very nicely laid out. And very compact. Did you cut out the cover to show the meter and is there an on/off for the DM?   :rockin smiley:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: raceengine on December 09, 2011, 01:57:02 PM
Very nicely laid out. And very compact. Did you cut out the cover to show the meter and is there an on/off for the DM?   :rockin smiley:

I have 2 covers. one with a transparent window (materials are from old transparent tape casing LOL) and another without. I use the original on/off switch but one side runs with meter turned on and the other runs without for full stealth vape.  :laughing:

blue thing is the pot. fire button is micro switch right beside it (the one with 2 red wires going in). below the 4050C and an n-channel fet so that I can use the microswitch without disintegrating it.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: L18 on December 19, 2011, 01:19:10 AM
Hello Breaktru, you have very very nice mods here!
I just wanted to ask about this mod, that have you measured current that is drawn from the battery?
I thought that trustfire flames have a current limit at 1.5C, which on 900mAh batteries would give us max. continuous current of 1.35A? And when it is booster, it should pull more from battery than that 2.4 amps which goes to atty right? Is there something I'm missing?  :laughing2:

Great mod, it inspired me to build my own boostermod, in the past i've only made step-down mods.  :)
I'm just confused how much current can those batteries give.

If you don't understand something, just ask. I'm not sure if that text is clear, since my motherlanguage isn't english...  ;)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: irco on December 19, 2011, 08:43:44 AM
Hi. Please where can I find the table for what resistors to fit for desired voltage output ranges. Thanks.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 19, 2011, 11:57:44 AM
Hello Breaktru, you have very very nice mods here!
I just wanted to ask about this mod, that have you measured current that is drawn from the battery?
I thought that trustfire flames have a current limit at 1.5C, which on 900mAh batteries would give us max. continuous current of 1.35A? And when it is booster, it should pull more from battery than that 2.4 amps which goes to atty right? Is there something I'm missing?  :laughing2:

Great mod, it inspired me to build my own booste rmod, in the past i've only made step-down mods.  :)
I'm just confused how much current can those batteries give.

If you don't understand something, just ask. I'm not sure if that text is clear, since my mother language isn't English...  ;)

Hi L18, Welcome to the forum.
Thank you, glad I have inspired you.  :laughing:

Yes if you do the math for "C" ratings, a 900mah should provide 1.35A. But............ if you do actual testing, it is much higher.
After reading your post, you inspired me,  :laughing2: to test a real live situation.
Now this is not gospel, this is my test. You may get different results depending on your battery. As Craig pointed out once, no two batteries are a like. At least I think that's what he said.  :laughing:

Here goes:

14500 Trustfire Black & Red, 900mah - (4.03v)
Using a 04050c set at 3.79v w/ a 2.0 ohm atty measures 2.96 amps at the battery input to regulator.

AW IMR 14500 - 600mah (4.16v)
Same setup as the Trustfire measures 2.15 amps at battery input to reg.

It looks like the Trustfire did better than the AW IMR Low Drain.
But.... the AW IMR did better with the DC-DC Converter output amperage being 0.05 amps higher than the Black & Red Trustfire.

P.S.
You English is very good.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: L18 on December 19, 2011, 01:09:06 PM
Hi L18, Welcome to the forum.
Thank you, glad I have inspired you.  :laughing:

Yes if you do the math for "C" ratings, a 900mah should provide 1.35A. But............ if you do actual testing, it is much higher.
After reading your post, you inspired me,  :laughing2: to test a real live situation.
Now this is not gospel, this is my test. You may get different results depending on your battery. As Craig pointed out once, no two batteries are a like. At least I think that's what he said.  :laughing:

Here goes:

14500 Trustfire Black & Red, 900mah - (4.03v)
Using a 04050c set at 3.79v w/ a 2.0 ohm atty measures 2.96 amps at the battery input to regulator.

AW IMR 14500 - 600mah (4.16v)
Same setup as the Trustfire measures 2.15 amps at battery input to reg.

It looks like the Trustfire did better than the AW IMR Low Drain.

P.S.
You English is very good.

 :begging: Wow, those little batteries perform really well! I think maximum continuous discharge current is 1.5C, this might be the answer? Because vaping usually isn't that constant, well for some people it is but...  :laughing2:

I have couple of those batteries at home, I guess i'll have to come up with some kind of "stress test" for them to see what they can output.
But this is great news, I was struggling to find a box that I could fit 18650 batteries, but it is pretty impossible to put them on a box that would be small enough for my taste. That is of course quite obvious, because they're so big.  :)

But thanks to you, now I know that it could be possible to use those little ones, thank you for that.
And now when I found this forum, I'm quite sure I'll continue following it.  ;)

Oh yeah, I already ordered free sample from TI...  :yes"
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 19, 2011, 01:25:10 PM
Your output through the 04050c will not produce that kind of amperage. With the right atty / voltage combo, your lucky to get 2.4 amps max output. Typical amperage is 1.5 to 1.9 amps.
At least that's what I have experienced.

Update:
Something I remembered on a previous output load test.
The AW IMR puts out 0.5 amps more than the Trustfire on output/load amps
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: L18 on December 19, 2011, 02:18:48 PM
Yes, I realized that.  :) But almost 3 amps from the battery is very good in my opinion, when we are talking about 14500 batteries.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 19, 2011, 02:30:45 PM
Yes, I realized that.  :) But almost 3 amps from the battery is very good in my opinion, when we are talking about 14500 batteries.

Sounds unbelievable but that's what I came up with on testing.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 19, 2011, 05:16:06 PM
Hi. Please where can I find the table for what resistors to fit for desired voltage output ranges. Thanks.

With the new resistors shown in my schematic diagram, I feel that the Resistor / Table is no longer needed because
the new voltage range is now something like 3.78v to 6.2v.
See posting: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: irco on December 19, 2011, 06:23:17 PM
Thanks for that. I'm going to give it a go with 2 x 18650's in parallel for a longer lasting smile.

 :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on December 19, 2011, 06:56:07 PM
Thanks for that. I'm going to give it a go with 2 x 18650's in parallel for a longer lasting smile.

 :thankyou:

Now this is only my opinion... If you are going to put 2 x 18650's in a mod, why not go with a 08100w or OKR.
I feel that the boost converter is a convenience for small mods because you only need a single battery.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: irco on December 19, 2011, 07:16:43 PM
I know nothing about electronic gizmos but can look at a schematic and solder. An explanation and schematic would help. Now if you have an MGB needing tuned up I can understand that. Now you know. I am a mechanic.

 :wave:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on December 19, 2011, 07:33:52 PM
I know nothing about electronic gizmos but can look at a schematic and solder. An explanation and schematic would help. Now if you have an MGB needing tuned up I can understand that. Now you know. I am a mechanic.

 :wave:

Or make yourself a Moby Poorvari, a Moby ___ with the poorvari circuit instead of the 5v regulator. It will hold 2-18500's and vape like mad. Of course, it uses a linear, rather than switching, regulator but the price is right    LOL

Moby ___ Mod:
http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,282.msg937.html (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,282.msg937.html)

Poorvari circuit:
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/189320-my-poorvari-mod.html (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/189320-my-poorvari-mod.html)

(http://img810.imageshack.us/img810/1906/kong4.png)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: L18 on December 22, 2011, 11:05:44 AM
Ok, I received my booster today, and had to make a quick test with it.  :)
I didn't put any adjustment pot in it, so it was working on 5 volts.

There was attached CE3 Smokymizer, with was measured and it's resistance is 2.8 ohms. At atty, it kept constant 5 volts, and current was 1.66A.
From battery, under load voltage dropped from 4.15 volts to 3.6 volts, and current was about 3.6A.
Booster circuit takes pretty much power, I calculated it took 4.6 watts? Well, I think I'll try low ESR capasitors at input and output.

But anyway, I like that booster very much, and I'm happy how well those 14500 flames perform.  :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: herbsman05 on January 01, 2012, 05:11:17 AM
whats the difference of the output with the different resistors between pin 3 and 4? thanks!!!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tangocharlie on January 02, 2012, 09:45:04 PM
Dear Sir,
can i replace the 100uF caps with smaller caps : 10uF 0r 22uF ?
will it effect the performance ?
Thank you very much Sir
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 03, 2012, 08:14:13 AM
Follow the components DATASHEET page 10, Table 3:


Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 06, 2012, 07:39:53 PM
I have also made this mod with the 0405c booster and 2 x18650 so 4.2 off the charger voltage range 3.94-5.4, batteries are 3200 ultrafire. but as soon as i put an atty on it reduces the max output to 4.2v with a 2 ohm atty on and 4.4v with a 1.5ohm dual coil atty.......wierd. I am going to dismantle tomorrow as i suspect the output capacitor may be failing.
Any ideas to throw in the hat would be great....... :help:
Let you know what i find after replacing output cap....if i can take it apart without breaking anything else :(
cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 06, 2012, 07:49:18 PM
Hi nice mod what size resisters did use and trimmer to acheive that high an output i used a 20k, 10k and a 100k trimmer and i get 3.94-5.4v
cheers
Styl3r


Here's my finished 4050C. goes from 3.8v to 6.3v. huhuhu

(http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/5057/imag0030c.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/imag0030c.jpg/)(http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/826/imag0020bq.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/210/imag0020bq.jpg/)(http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/682/imag0024jj.th.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/18/imag0024jj.jpg/)

Credit goes to breaktru for his beautiful schematics and guide!  :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 06, 2012, 08:12:04 PM
I have also made this mod with the 0405c booster and 2 x18650 so 4.2 off the charger voltage range 3.94-5.4, batteries are 3200 ultrafire. but as soon as i put an atty on it reduces the max output to 4.2v with a 2 ohm atty on and 4.4v with a 1.5ohm dual coil atty.......wierd. I am going to dismantle tomorrow as i suspect the output capacitor may be failing.
Any ideas to throw in the hat would be great....... :help:
Let you know what i find after replacing output cap....if i can take it apart without breaking anything else :(
cheers
Styl3r

One thing I was going to mention is the battery but since you are using TWO 18650's in parallel we can eliminate a suspect battery.

Measure the 2 ohm atty and make sure it is 2 ohms.

Have you tried starting your tests from the lowest voltage output and gradually work up and record the voltage drop difference.

Another thing to look at is a cold solder connection,

Remove the caps would be the next step if no cold solder was found.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 06, 2012, 08:26:16 PM
My soldering is not the best for sure, will look at that. You posted about different resistors between pins 3 and 4 how does that work the higher the resistance between 3-4 gives higher yield ???
have you a list of what resistors give certain output
i.e
20k 5.4 max
10k ?
15k ?

Cheers Dave,
 off to bed it's 01:25 am here and i am  knackered.

Kevin aka Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 06, 2012, 08:35:44 PM
My soldering is not the best for sure, will look at that. You posted about different resistors between pins 3 and 4 how does that work the higher the resistance between 3-4 gives higher yield ???
have you a list of what resistors give certain output
i.e
20k 5.4 max
10k ?
15k ?

Cheers Dave,
 off to bed it's 01:25 am here and i am  knackered.

Kevin aka Styl3r


See post #122: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 12, 2012, 12:53:07 PM
took the unit apart and tested the 04050c with just positive and negative pins 1 &2 and tested at pin 4 and get 5v but as soon as i attach a 2 ohm load drops to 3.8v is this because there is no capacors on input and output or is the module duff?????
Have some new low esr capacitors on order so will breadboard when they arrive and test again.
Cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 12, 2012, 04:00:58 PM
took the unit apart and tested the 04050c with just positive and negative pins 1 &2 and tested at pin 4 and get 5v but as soon as i attach a 2 ohm load drops to 3.8v is this because there is no capacors on input and output or is the module duff?????
Have some new low esr capacitors on order so will breadboard when they arrive and test again.
Cheers
Styl3r

Kevin, With two 18650's in parallel, you should not see any noticeable difference in voltage drop without the caps. I've performed the same test w/ a single 14500 and seen maybe the most, a 0.2v drop.
It's possible the 04050c has been damaged.

This 2 ohm atty, have you tried a different 2 ohm atty? Somethings sounds not quite right. You're voltage drop w/ the 2 ohm is higher than w/ a 1.5 ohm.
Or it still can be the 04050c. Logical results goes out the window w/ a damaged board..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 12, 2012, 04:26:16 PM
Yeah tell me about it, i have tried a different atyy and same result they are dual coil if that makes any difference. ! and another one i have is dropping off voltage. I have just received some new boards so will be testing those tomorrow fingers crossed they will be alright. Bought some new capacitors as well with low esr. so will report back as soon as i have tested.
Thanks dor help Dave you are a star
regards
Kevin aka Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 12, 2012, 04:36:15 PM
just found these capacitors as well look good and the next size up are in the ti data list http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300565558330?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 12, 2012, 05:35:51 PM
I have been looking at ESR values in Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors datasheet and find that they do not list them.
I found this information that might help.

E.S.R. can be obtained from
the following formula:

E.S.R = tan /2 .f.C.
Where: f = measurement frequency in Hz
C = measurement capacitance value in F

I have no idea if this is correct or if the ESR is in mOhms. Any help would be appreciated.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 12, 2012, 06:06:06 PM
Me neither, The only way i know is hopefully i can find a data sheet referencing the capacitor. As far as i can make out it'in ohms just found the data sheet of  one of the type i just bought 100uf 16v nichicon http://www.nichicon.co.jp/english/products/pdfs/e-pj.pdf

i also found this
If the dissipation factor (DF) is given, you can calculate the ESR from
 .
 ESR = (DF) (Xc)
 .
 Where
 . Xc = capacitive reactance = 1/(2Pi X f X C).
 .
 Remember that this calculation is only valid for the frequency at which the DF is specified.
and this

It may not work for electrolytics and hi-k ceramics, but for other types
of cap you can calculate ESR from the tan [delta] figure usually given
in data sheets. BUT it may only be valid around the frequency at which
tan delta was measured.

tan [delta] = ESR/Xc = ESR/(2[pi]fC)
But that only finds the frequency and it says further on that the esr cannot be calculated correctly and only by using the data sheet of the respective capacitor

ESL is about 1.6 nH per millimetre of distance between the points where
the cap connects to the rest of the circuit. If, and only if, the cap is
well-designed.

Looks like to equate esr gives you it's frequency
and
esl gives you the inductance

But if you were to leave the legs of the capacitor longer when soldered this would change slighly so really the only way to be sure is to use the data sheet for a particular capacitor.
Starting to get a bit in depth here.

Then i found this look further down the page and it gives you the equations
http://wiki.xtronics.com/index.php/Capacitors_and_ESR
Cheers Dave
regards
Kevin
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 12, 2012, 06:34:21 PM
to answer your first point they only seem to list the ESR  if it is classed a s a low impenance (ESR) capacitor like audio grade, motherboards and more high end products, unichem, panasonic, sanyo....list theres
cheers
styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 12, 2012, 07:20:17 PM
I'm getting a headache......
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 12, 2012, 07:38:23 PM
Careful not to over-think it. 

Typically, ESR is rated at 100kHz.  It varies with part number, but aluminum electrolytics are usually in the 50-100m Ohm range.  MLCC caps are typically around 10m Ohm and tantalums are typically 150-200m Ohm.

If the data sheet says you can use electrolytics or tantalums then any should be fine unless the ESR is unusually high or low.  That can happen for caps with very low or very high voltage ratings which you wouldn't be using. 

From a design standpoint, lower ESR provides less ripple and more effective filtering or smoothing, but can destabilize a regulator if it's too low.  The only ones that I've run into problems with personally are  MLCC (multi-layer cermic chip) capacitors.  Though the performance is excellent with them in terms of clean output due to their very low ESR and ESL (equivalent series inductance).
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: gknowes on January 12, 2012, 08:59:49 PM
awesome mod :thumbsup: thanks for ejuice me up they were awesome vape :thankyou:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bamsbbq on January 12, 2012, 10:40:48 PM
and all this stuff gives me brain mod overload..lol

i have the 8100 and the 4050...eventually i will build a VV mod with these(while collection more TI parts and others)...

i personally dont know/care how the stuff works inside of the PV just that it works... i follow the K.I.S.S. rule...i can follow others diagrams and will learn to solder better..

until that time, i will keep reading and putting money aside for a good soldering station before i play and get frustrated with a cheap one. if i find someone to build one for me, i am good with that as well..lol
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 03:36:34 AM
This is certainly getting us all thinking, the data sheet for both the Ti 04050c and the 08100w both call for capactiors with a low esr rating. I have built several of these with cheap electrolytic caps and seem to get a very high volt drop, now this could be due to faulty modules but i am leaning towards cpas. I have some low esr caps on order and will be making my next mods with these and see if the results are more stable. I still have some of the caps i used originally so will breadboard using both and report findings on here, just to prove a point to myself really and may be given others guides to go by. I decided to take a look at my other components, resistors were next tested about 70 of my 10k and only 1 was actually 10k well 10.04 about a dozen were 9.92 and most were between 9.72-9.87. So have ordered 1% tolerance resistors and will hand pick what i use so i can make as close to what the schematic says will actually be fitted.
Good morning from the Uk a nice bright frosty Friday.....
cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 04:45:53 AM
We could then look at the mArms of the capacitors as this is critical with this Ti module, just to make your brains throb even more..... :laughing2:
Which i must admit i forgot to look at when ordering my low esr capacitors, but just looked at the data sheet for my cpacitors and i'm ok it's 175 mArms @120hz....phew
cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 04:57:39 AM
Who do you get your Ti modules from and how much do you pay for them????
On my sample order from Ti it says prices are
ptn04050c      @ $10
ptr08100wvd  @ $8
but every stockist i have seen, they are priced
ptn04050c      @ $20
ptr08100wvd  @ $16
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bamsbbq on January 13, 2012, 06:19:14 AM
you get them right from TI... you sign up to make an account..verify your account.... find your samples..add them to your sample cart..check out...not sure where you are or where they ship to though

(http://i39.tinypic.com/95xxg1.jpg)
Who do you get your Ti modules from and how much do you pay for them????
On my sample order from Ti it says prices are
ptn04050c      @ $10
ptr08100wvd  @ $8
but every stockist i have seen, they are priced
ptn04050c      @ $20
ptr08100wvd  @ $16
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 07:07:42 AM
yeah i know i have had quite a few samples but now when i try for samples it says " you seem to have had alot of samples recently please justify why you need more"
I've managed to get a few more as i said i had faulty ones in the last batch. How long would they wear ordering samples all the time.......just looked at your sample invioce and i order exactly the same is there any other modules of theirs we can use will have to go look through....
cheers
Styl3r

oh yeah i live in the UK
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 13, 2012, 04:49:52 PM
The sample programs chip makers make available are really intended for OEM manufacturers that build products resulting in volume sales.  It's actually an abuse of the system to acquire them for personal use.

Not that I'm trying to come off like the sample police or anything, but, it does affect everyone.  When people abuse the program, makers stop stop sending samples completely.

There have been people that obtain samples then turn around and sell them on eBay.  Microchip recently suspended their sample system because of that.  Though, what they usually do is shut it down for a few months then start it back up.

My feeling is that it's fine to order a few of something here and there for personal use, but don't make a nuisance of yourself.  Keep it the sample ordering very moderate.  If you get to the point where you are not allowed any more samples, that's too much.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 05:26:18 PM
Yeah true, i am wondering if i can order directly from them as there invioced amount is alot cheaper than there outlets like digikey. I have found a stockest in the Uk...FArnell, and will be orddering directly from there as the PTR081000wvd is my favoured chip.Texas instruments sample program has allowed me find a product that  meets my reqirements so using the sample service is a great idea as the company benefit in the long run.
cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 13, 2012, 06:10:01 PM
The sample programs chip makers make available are really intended for OEM manufacturers that build products resulting in volume sales.  It's actually an abuse of the system to acquire them for personal use.

Not that I'm trying to come off like the sample police or anything, but, it does affect everyone.  When people abuse the program, makers stop stop sending samples completely.

There have been people that obtain samples then turn around and sell them on eBay.  Microchip recently suspended their sample system because of that.  Though, what they usually do is shut it down for a few months then start it back up.

My feeling is that it's fine to order a few of something here and there for personal use, but don't make a nuisance of yourself.  Keep it the sample ordering very moderate.  If you get to the point where you are not allowed any more samples, that's too much.

I totally agree Craig. The Golden Goose will eventually dry up with the amount of samples I see ECF posters ordering.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 06:17:30 PM
am i missing something, did we all not order samples at one time or another!!!! and now testing complete we can either go with a local stockest or if not happy with the product go with a differnet manufaturer........ is that not the way it works
cheers
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 13, 2012, 06:21:35 PM
Well, if you sample then turn around and buy from them, you're doing exactly what the sample program is intended to do.  Though they're looking for buys with volumes in the 1000's, but at least they're getting something back from you.

Some makers offer direct online purchase in small quantities and some don't.  In some cases, it's cheaper to buy direct from the maker if they offer it.  Sometimes it's cheaper to go through one of the big vendors.  I don't have a particular preference, it's mainly what's cheapest and most convenient.  Sometimes it's simply a mater of who's got stock at the time.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 13, 2012, 06:29:11 PM
I've gotten my share of sample but also buy. I've been buying the 04050c from Arrow at 15 bucks a pop. Digikey has them for 20 bucks.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 07:00:23 PM
just ordered from Farnell uk 08100w great price as well £11.64 and the ptn04050cad for £13.93 and i am glad i did as i think i have realised why my last test unit did not perform as i expected. Let me explain the sample i had was the ptn0405caz and that one only has an output of 6w as apposed to the 04050cad which is 12w. So thats why when a 2 ohm load was put on the voltage lowered. I thought they were all the same output, i think Dave you were under that impression as well as stated in an earlier post. Sweet i am so chuffed i ordered from farnell it shows each module with a brief description and it's right there...happy days. I have spent days trying to sort this problem out so calculated it 5.5v x 6w = 0.9090 deffenatly not enough for a 2 ohm load. I've changed capacitor, resistors, several times thought it could be my soldering technique...it's always the simple things we overlook.
thanks to all for all the help in this, if nothing else we have certantly opened our eyes to so many different aspects of electronics on this journey.
cheers
Kev aka Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 07:27:39 PM
I still think i will eventually just go with the ptr08100wvd as i think it is a better chip the only down side is you have to have a 2 battery set up unless there is a small 8-9v battery that is reasonably priced. The advantage of the 04050c is you can have a single battery setup so size is smaller and a lighter finished product. I have got 1 of each at the moment and i much prefer the 08100 just my personal preferance, might not be everbodies favourite but hey thats why there are so many options out there.
Styl3r

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 13, 2012, 07:31:50 PM
Welcome to electronics design, you can just never have it all.  There's always some kind of trade-off.  In this case, it's convenience and compact size versus output power and performance.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 07:35:52 PM
heres where i found info on the output of the 04050caz
http://uk.farnell.com/jsp/search/browse.jsp;jsessionid=U1HBBO1W1KIG4CQLCIRJN4Q?N=0&Ntk=gensearch&Ntt=ptn04050c&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&suggestions=false&ref=globalsearch&_requestid=760229
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 13, 2012, 07:42:32 PM
just ordered from Farnell uk 08100w great price as well £11.64 and the ptn04050cad for £13.93 and i am glad i did as i think i have realised why my last test unit did not perform as i expected. Let me explain the sample i had was the ptn0405caz and that one only has an output of 6w as apposed to the 04050cad which is 12w. So thats why when a 2 ohm load was put on the voltage lowered. I thought they were all the same output, i think Dave you were under that impression as well as stated in an earlier post. Sweet i am so chuffed i ordered from farnell it shows each module with a brief description and it's right there...happy days. I have spent days trying to sort this problem out so calculated it 5.5v x 6w = 0.9090 deffenatly not enough for a 2 ohm load. I've changed capacitor, resistors, several times thought it could be my soldering technique...it's always the simple things we overlook.
thanks to all for all the help in this, if nothing else we have certantly opened our eyes to so many different aspects of electronics on this journey.
cheers
Kev aka Styl3r

Kevin,
I think you mean you had the PTN04050A which is 6 watts. The CAZ and CAD are exactly alike. Both are 12 watts. Only the CAZ is a surface mount as the CAD is a through-hole mount.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 13, 2012, 07:44:14 PM
I think Farrel is not correct. As opposed to Digikey, TI and Mouser

The horses mouth:
http://www.ti.com/product/ptn04050c
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 07:55:21 PM
umm just recalculted so 6w output @5.5v gives 1.09090r to keep the supply @5.5v and a 2 ohm load you would need 2.75a or 15w i think that is right. If that is correct then the ptr08100wvd is deffinatly the better chioce as it outputs 10a so plenty.
Styl3r
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 13, 2012, 08:15:36 PM
I had an email from a friend on UKV and he uses this module when i told him the problem he said a couplke of the 04050c range have a lower output.
Thanks for all help will assemble my new modules as soon as they arrive and report finding back here so we can analyse findings. Hey guys if nothing else it gets us thinking  :applaude:
cheers guys off to bed 01:15
Kev
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 15, 2012, 12:25:33 PM
I had an email from a friend on UKV and he uses this module when i told him the problem he said a couplke of the 04050c range have a lower output.
Thanks for all help will assemble my new modules as soon as they arrive and report finding back here so we can analyse findings. Hey guys if nothing else it gets us thinking  :applaude:
cheers guys off to bed 01:15
Kev


Kev,
It's the 04050a series that are ALL 6 Watts. The 04050c series are ALL 12 Watts.
Look at the previous post link to TI.com for the data details.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on January 15, 2012, 10:47:39 PM
Ummm .. I may be completely wet, but if you were to demand that kind of current from your LiIon batts, the protection circuitry would kick in. We have certainly beat that horse to death already, but it could be another possible problem unless you plan on using a 5a wall wort. IMHO
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 16, 2012, 04:28:51 AM
A protected 18650 can handle around 5A output, that's about 18W.  Though, the problem is not the continuous current, but inrush current on start-up.  It can trip the protection.  I've read that some protected 18650s work okay with a booster.  Guess it depends on the specific protection circuitry.

2C for a a protected 14500 is 1.5A, but I think you can get 2A out of them before the protection tips.  That's way too low for a booster, but you can run two in parallel and possibly get by as long as the protection doesn't trip. 

Of course, the best thing to use is a high drain cell like an IMR 18650 or LiPo flat cell.  An IMR 14500 is good for around 6A so one of those should be fine for most settings.  The hobby LiPos are great because they have really high drain rates.  There's never any issue with those.  The charge density for a high drain LiPo (in terms of volume) is pretty much the same as an IMR round cell, but they they can put out way more current.

I'm using a 20C 2200mAh LiPo cell for the mod I'm currently working on (gettting PCBs next week, yay).  It has a drain limit of 44A.   The 20C 1000mAh (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__18557__Turnigy_1000mAh_1S_20C_Lipoly_Single_Cell_.html) hobby LiPos are super cheap and fairly compact.  They have a drain limit of 20A
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: L18 on January 17, 2012, 04:26:42 AM

2C for a a protected 14500 is 1.5A, but I think you can get 2A out of them before the protection tips.  That's way too low for a booster, but you can run two in parallel and possibly get by as long as the protection doesn't trip. 

I tested 14500 Trustfire flame with this booster circuit, it gave about 3 amps of current?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 17, 2012, 09:12:08 AM
See previous post on Battery amperage:
http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2403.html#msg2403
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: styl3r on January 17, 2012, 09:32:57 AM
Haven't been able to look at anything yet had to have a new roof and internal ceilings on my workshop....what a nightmare!!!!!
cheers
Kev

Kev,
It's the 04050a series that are ALL 6 Watts. The 04050c series are ALL 12 Watts.
Look at the previous post link to TI.com for the data details.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on January 17, 2012, 07:15:00 PM
In
See previous post on Battery amperage:http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2403.html#msg2403

Interesting, so you can get 3A out of a protected 14500 and the protection doesn't trip?  Didn't know you could get that much out of one.  I've only used the IMR 14500s myself.

It's actually the IMR 14500 that did better than the protected 14500.  You get lower current with the IMR cell because there's less voltage drop due to lower internal battery resistance. 

For any DC converter you have to think in terms of of power, not just current.  Since voltage is higher, current is lower.  Output power doesn't change and input power has to equal output power plus inefficiency.

Even though charge capacity is lower for the IMR cell, it's wasting less power internally.  The charge is used more efficiently and you get better mileage off the charge it carries.  Don't know if it makes up for a difference of 300mAh, but it helps at least.

It's fairly safe to take a protected cell to the drain limit since the protection will just disconnect the cell, but for an IMR cell you'd have to load test in a fire and explosion safe container (or just on a bench with a pair of goggles if you're feeling brave, which I've done).  The IMRs will vent them if you overload them.  Should take quite a bit more than 6A to do it though.  IMR round cells are typically 8C on their safe discharge limit.

I did a load test on a couple of the 1000mAh round cells you find in a eGo and it took 20A to vent them.  Those cells are actually pretty tough even though the cycle life is crap for them.  Be interesting to hear what it takes to vent a protected 14500 cell, less the protection of course.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: AlleyKat on January 18, 2012, 12:55:53 AM
new to e-cigs in Nov 2011 & just getting ready to try my 1st mod build....so glad I found this site & all the great info/builds you've posted! if I fail at building my own mod, I may have to see about getting one made by you...yours are amazing!  thanks for posting & for the e-juice calculator app too!!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 18, 2012, 08:41:50 AM
new to e-cigs in Nov 2011 & just getting ready to try my 1st mod build....so glad I found this site & all the great info/builds you've posted! if I fail at building my own mod, I may have to see about getting one made by you...yours are amazing!  thanks for posting & for the e-juice calculator app too!!

Thank you AlleyKat. Congrats and welcome to the forum. Good luck building your first mod, I'm sure with the info posted on the site that you will be successful on building a mod.
The site is finally blossoming w/ member contributions. If you run in to trouble or have a question, post it in the Modders Section.

If the question is related to an existing thread then post your question there. Otherwise start your own New Thread.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Chaos on February 14, 2012, 02:19:03 AM
Forgive me for being such a newb, but am I reading this thread right that a 15K resistor will give me a fixed output of 4.2v?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 14, 2012, 10:17:54 AM
Forgive me for being such a newb, but am I reading this thread right that a 15K resistor will give me a fixed output of 4.2v?

Hey Chaos, welcome to the forum. I don't believe that it was discussed on this forum. Perhaps it was at ECF.
I found a post at ECF by proax9. He said he used a 90k between Vout and Adj. Leave Adj to Gnd empty.
You may have to tweak the 90k value due to tolerance differences.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Chaos on February 14, 2012, 12:27:35 PM
Excellent. Thank you very much!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Blakd on February 18, 2012, 09:21:35 PM
Edit

I have found new information that makes this easier for me to understand.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on February 24, 2012, 07:37:38 PM
i got a bunch of silicon in and am ready to start building but i have one question about touch switch
what parameters do i need to stay within on the specs IE (30v .028 ohm 24A)
i would like to know a solid range of which i could work with
and breaktru if you could send me a copy of the new resistor -voltage range table i would greatly appreciate it
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 25, 2012, 09:44:21 AM
i got a bunch of silicon in and am ready to start building but i have one question about touch switch
what parameters do i need to stay within on the specs IE (30v .028 ohm 24A)
i would like to know a solid range of which i could work with
and breaktru if you could send me a copy of the new resistor -voltage range table i would greatly appreciate it


Craig is the expert and has talked about Mosfets in great detail on a couple of forums.
Here is one: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modding-forum/240079-touch-switch-4050c-booster-chip.html#post4590049 (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modding-forum/240079-touch-switch-4050c-booster-chip.html#post4590049)
Read thru the postings for pitfalls.

I can only tell you what worked for me through trial and error.

Resistor Question: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2410.html#msg2410
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on February 25, 2012, 11:45:28 AM
aaaaaaahhh i see i must have overlooked that resister statement
thank you for both answers
much appreciated
 
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Jacce on March 13, 2012, 10:49:18 AM
With the new resistors shown in my schematic diagram, I feel that the Resistor / Table is no longer needed because
the new voltage range is now something like 3.78v to 6.2v.
See posting: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg2061.html#msg2061)

Where could I find this old Resistor table?
I would like to get the voltage range lower than 3,78v.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 13, 2012, 11:41:49 AM
The table was never revised but increasing the value of the fixed resistor between the Output and Adj pins (3 &4) will decrease the voltages, both low and high end. A 100k ohm between 3 & 4 and a 10k in series w/ a 100k pot from pin 3 to gnd will give you approximately 3.5v to.... I think it was 5.5v. If you play with the 10k and go lower in value, you should be able to bring up the high end of the range.
As I said a few times before.... voltage range will vary depending on the resistor tolerance value. Go with 1% resistors, 1/8 watt.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Jacce on March 13, 2012, 05:22:48 PM
Okey. The output voltage behaves like that with this chip. Thanks for guidance.

I never use resistors which have precision value above 1%. It's always a little challenge to solder small thin or thick film resistors but in the end solution is much smaller.  :)

I have been looking for some other booster regs to use in vv mods but I haven't found the "perfect" one. I have some potentional candidates. Anyone else found a different kind of single battery suitable booster regulator than ptn04050c?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: R00k on March 27, 2012, 07:24:15 PM
The TI website has about 8 different PTN 4050C models.  Which one are people using?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: R00k on March 27, 2012, 07:24:58 PM
And do you get that package shown in the pictures or do you get just the chip?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on March 27, 2012, 09:08:23 PM
The TI website has about 8 different PTN 4050C models.  Which one are people using?

There are two through-hole: CAD and CAH. They have posts which are easier to solder to.
The other two are surface mounts which are a bit harder to solder to.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: R00k on March 27, 2012, 10:32:33 PM
does it matter if I use CAD or CAH?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 11, 2012, 10:33:02 AM
  Hey Breaktru, I'm new to the forum. I've been looking for a small stealth mod for some time, and this bad boy sure caught my eye! I've breadboarded the whole circuit as per your p-channel touch switch schematic, but I have a couple questions:

1) My 100K potentiometer (single turn) seems to want to stay at 3.99 volts until you turn it half way, so you only have a half-turn to adjust from 3.99 to 6.3 volts. It is really touchy and sensitive, although you can indeed adjust through the range with careful fine adjustments. Have you encountered this?

2) I'm using the same p-channel mosfet as in your diagram (the dpak), and I can turn it on by touching only the lead from the gate (with either a 10M, 15M, 22M, or 30M resistor). I haven't tested it out with an atty yet, I'm just using one of those voltage testers for 1s-6s li-po batteries. I'm wondering what the purpose of the 1k resistor to ground is as the second contact in the touch sensor?

3) I'm planning on sticking all this into a 3AA battery box (with on/off switch) and internally mounting the atomizer connecter (hoping to hide most of my carto and muffle the sound of it firing). I'm wondering if that little switch will be alright at the voltage the box will be handling, and also if I should have it breaking the ground wire, or the positive wire coming from the battery?

  Thanks for all this great info, I'll be sure to post some images if / when I get this thing working!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 11, 2012, 11:13:59 AM
  Hey Breaktru, I'm new to the forum. I've been looking for a small stealth mod for some time, and this bad boy sure caught my eye! I've breadboarded the whole circuit as per your p-channel touch switch schematic, but I have a couple questions:

1) My 100K potentiometer (single turn) seems to want to stay at 3.99 volts until you turn it half way, so you only have a half-turn to adjust from 3.99 to 6.3 volts. It is really touchy and sensitive, although you can indeed adjust through the range with careful fine adjustments. Have you encountered this?

2) I'm using the same p-channel mosfet as in your diagram (the dpak), and I can turn it on by touching only the lead from the gate (with either a 10M, 15M, 22M, or 30M resistor). I haven't tested it out with an atty yet, I'm just using one of those voltage testers for 1s-6s li-po batteries. I'm wondering what the purpose of the 1k resistor to ground is as the second contact in the touch sensor?

3) I'm planning on sticking all this into a 3AA battery box (with on/off switch) and internally mounting the atomizer connecter (hoping to hide most of my carto and muffle the sound of it firing). I'm wondering if that little switch will be alright at the voltage the box will be handling, and also if I should have it breaking the ground wire, or the positive wire coming from the battery?

  Thanks for all this great info, I'll be sure to post some images if / when I get this thing working!

Welcome to the forum ddubois, glad this forum and it's members can aid you in your mod building.

1) Some pot are not so linear (single turn) and yes I have experience the crappy adjustments. Some better than others. A multi turn trimmer would be better. I've used a 25 turn trimmer but didn't like it much. Takes many turns to see the slightest voltage change. Perhaps a 12 or less turn trimmer would be ideal.

2) There maybe a big difference when using the touch mosfet with and without a load attached. Most of the time I have to up the D to S resistor w/ a load attached.
With a P-Channel it is really NOT necessary to use the 1k gate resistor. The battery polarity is protected by the Drain to Source high resistor.
However I would differently use it for an N-Channel being that there is the battery Negative on one side of the contact point and the battery Positive on the other. If the contacts touch together like some loose change or keys in your pocket, BAM, a dead short of the battery.

3) I usually replace the low current slide (on/off) switch w/ a 3 amp. The 50ma switch that comes w/ the boxes will work as long as you don't switch it on and off with a load (arcing will destroy the switch). Also, the 50ma switches have a much higher internal resistance that will be seen as a voltage drop.
See for your self by comparing the voltage on both sides of the switch. I have done this and have seen a noticeable difference.
Breaking either Neg or Pos doesn't matter. But in a box mod the switch is below the neg of the batt so it is a lot easier to break the neg side. Also replace the thin wire off the slide switch to the neg contact with a heavier one.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 11, 2012, 11:29:16 AM
does it matter if I use CAD or CAH?

Either one will do R00k

Sorry for the late reply
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 11, 2012, 11:48:43 AM
Awesome, thanks for the clarification! I'll swap out that tiny switch with a 3A, and play around with how the MOSFET behaves when an atomizer load is attached. About the touch switch though, does this mean I don't need both touch contacts? I can just (for example) put a screw through the box and solder the gate / high resistor to that? I don't know a lot about electronics, but lately I've been reading everything I can, and it seems a bit strange that I can activate it by only touching my finger to the one lead coming from the gate / high resistor.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 11, 2012, 12:57:50 PM
Awesome, thanks for the clarification! I'll swap out that tiny switch with a 3A, and play around with how the MOSFET behaves when an atomizer load is attached. About the touch switch though, does this mean I don't need both touch contacts? I can just (for example) put a screw through the box and solder the gate / high resistor to that? I don't know a lot about electronics, but lately I've been reading everything I can, and it seems a bit strange that I can activate it by only touching my finger to the one lead coming from the gate / high resistor.

The circuit requires TWO contact points. W/ or W/O the 1k.
You maybe confusing this with a Capacitance Touch Sensor. It can't be used for high current so perhaps to control the inhibit/Remote pin.
Something like this: http://search.digikey.com/us/en/products/AT42QT1012-TSHR/AT42QT1012-TSHRCT-ND/2268875
or this: http://parts.digikey.com/1/parts/1875473-ic-touch-sensor-1key-sot23-6-at42qt1010-tshr-qs446.html
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 11, 2012, 01:07:32 PM
Looking at the pictures I took on my phone last night when I called it a night, I realize I had it wired a little funny. I'll have to get back to you tomorrow when I correct the wiring. I am using the STD30PF03L p channel mosfet (dpak), but I had the high resistor in the wrong hole, somehow making it so that only touching the gate lead is required to activate it. Wierd, but then again, I don't really know what the hell I'm doing lol!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 11, 2012, 03:35:28 PM
  Wait a second - now I'm feeling REALLY dumb.... I just realized this:

  I didn't have a battery holder ready to go, so when I tested the circuit, I was holding the positive and negative battery leads to an 18650 trustfire flamer with my right hand, and I was turning on the MOSFET by touching only the gate lead with my left hand.... I do believe the ground is required now, unless of course you have one finger on the negative battery terminal at all times.... Wow.

  I don't think I could be the only person who's done this, or maybe that's just wishful thinking. At any rate, I hope this post keeps anyone else from making the same mistake!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 12, 2012, 12:56:21 PM
I got it all working now, but I noticed something a bit funny. Everything works great on a full charge, but after an hour or two of use, the touch switch does not seem to fully open the MOSFET (unstable voltage drops). I'm running the negative contact to ground with a 1k resistor, and using a 22M as the high resistor on the MOSFET. The voltage seems to drop and not stay stable, but if I lick my finger or use a piece of metal on the touch switch, I get a fully opened gate. Would replacing the 22M resistor with a higher (say 30M, or add a 10M for 32M total) resistance, or removing the 1k ground resistor solve this?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 12, 2012, 01:17:45 PM
I got it all working now, but I noticed something a bit funny. Everything works great on a full charge, but after an hour or two of use, the touch switch does not seem to fully open the MOSFET (unstable voltage drops). I'm running the negative contact to ground with a 1k resistor, and using a 22M as the high resistor on the MOSFET. The voltage seems to drop and not stay stable, but if I lick my finger or use a piece of metal on the touch switch, I get a fully opened gate. Would replacing the 22M resistor with a higher (say 30M, or add a 10M for 32M total) resistance, or removing the 1k ground resistor solve this?

You need to go higher with your Drain to Source resistor. Although some say it is too high, 99% of my touch builds use a 100 Meg.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 12, 2012, 05:13:47 PM
That's what I figured, I think I'm starting to grasp the way this thing works. I don't have a 100M resistor on hand, I will try wiring up a 30M in series with the 22M tonight and see if that remedies it. I'm hoping it doesn't require much more resistance than that, although I have a few 27M, 24M, 20M, and 15M I could bump it up with, but it's already cramped in there lol.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 12, 2012, 05:22:29 PM
Even using the 100 meg ohm does not guarantee smooth operation 100% of the time Occasionally but not often I have to find a soft meaty part of the finger to operate it. On rare occasions, wet finger.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on April 13, 2012, 07:57:54 AM
In dry weather I sometimes need to lick my finger to get my touchies to fire. Dont forget to wash your hands :)   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 13, 2012, 10:09:19 AM
I am realizing this now lol. I now have 52M of resistance, and it works for longer, but it still starts to only partially open the gate before the battery is dead. I'm using an atomizer connector as a touch switch, which works great, except for one thing I discovered this morning. If you have an actually "wet" finger (after rinsing my coffee filter), the air hole and groove around the centre positive pin are a perfect moisture trap. The unit will stay on with water in there, and it takes quite a while to try it out lol.

I'm wondering if you could use the same circuit replacing the touch switch with a small 50mA tactile switch, do you think that there would still be too much current going through it? I have 2 more 4050 boards, and in the near future I plan to build 2 more 3xAA box mods. This build is mostly a prototype build for me to figure out the layout and type of components I prefer, plus I threw it together rather quickly so it's not as pretty as most I've seen lol.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on April 13, 2012, 01:10:24 PM
I am realizing this now lol. I now have 52M of resistance, and it works for longer, but it still starts to only partially open the gate before the battery is dead. I'm using an atomizer connector as a touch switch, which works great, except for one thing I discovered this morning. If you have an actually "wet" finger (after rinsing my coffee filter), the air hole and groove around the centre positive pin are a perfect moisture trap. The unit will stay on with water in there, and it takes quite a while to try it out lol.

I'm wondering if you could use the same circuit replacing the touch switch with a small 50mA tactile switch, do you think that there would still be too much current going through it? I have 2 more 4050 boards, and in the near future I plan to build 2 more 3xAA box mods. This build is mostly a prototype build for me to figure out the layout and type of components I prefer, plus I threw it together rather quickly so it's not as pretty as most I've seen lol.
A small tac switch in series with a resistor (prob 1-2k) to limit current should replace the touchpad just fine. at 3.7v, the 1k resistor will limit current thru the switch to about 4ma .. the switch should last forever.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ddubois27 on April 13, 2012, 03:09:04 PM
That gives me an idea. Could you eliminate the need for a large 3A on/off switch and just use the small 50mA on/off switch built into the 3xAA battery box if you used it to break the ground wire (with a 1k resistor) coming off the MOSFET gate going to battery negative? I'm wondering if the MOSFET would be consuming any power, it'd be more of a switch to turn the touch switch on and off, rather than the whole box, but in effect, it does turn off the whole box. Basically, the touch switch circuit would remain the same, but that little 50mA on/off switch would break it's 1k ground, and the 3A on/off switch I'm using wouldn't need to be in there taking up space.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 15, 2012, 10:28:13 AM
I am realizing this now lol. I now have 52M of resistance, and it works for longer, but it still starts to only partially open the gate before the battery is dead. I'm using an atomizer connector as a touch switch, which works great, except for one thing I discovered this morning. If you have an actually "wet" finger (after rinsing my coffee filter), the air hole and groove around the centre positive pin are a perfect moisture trap. The unit will stay on with water in there, and it takes quite a while to try it out lol.

I use these four touch switch mods ALL the time w/ relatively NO problem:

(http://breaktru.com/ecig/touch_sw_mods.jpg)

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: poorboy on May 01, 2012, 05:51:27 AM
To breakthru,
Man i really love building this kind of mod but i only have a little knowledge about electronics i wish you can post  pictures step by step on how you built this sweet little baby!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Dznutz on May 26, 2012, 08:18:26 PM
I made one of these today and wanted to say thank you break for posting all the info to make it possible  :begging: not worthy
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on May 26, 2012, 09:00:49 PM
I made one of these today and wanted to say thank you break for posting all the info to make it possible  :begging: not worthy

Great to here it. Congrats on your build.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on May 26, 2012, 10:58:22 PM
ok whatif im wanting to go digital pot with touch for adjust anyone got a drawing (schematics)  for that one
 :help:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: yogi on May 27, 2012, 08:53:41 AM
ok whatif im wanting to go digital pot with touch for adjust anyone got a drawing (schematics)  for that one
 :help:

I don't see why not. That would be cool.
Fitting both in a .44 mini AA box would be some feat. You would have to use the smallest package size of the mosfet and the dig pot. and try to squeeze in the tact switches or switch where the pot would go.
The schematic's are in this forum. Just combine the two. One in this thread at: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg1550.html#msg1550 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg1550.html#msg1550)
and the other: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,177.msg1956.html#msg1956 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,177.msg1956.html#msg1956)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 03, 2012, 04:41:14 PM
When you click "REPLY", you will see "Additional Options" below the text box. Then "Attach .... browse.

Sounds like you connected it like the schematic/diagram. Try using one outside leg and just the middle leg of the pot and let's see what happens.
Not that you wired it wrong.

Another note: I have used countless 04050c converters in the past and never had a problem until recently. The latest batch of 04050c's, at least the last 3 of them, I had the same problem not being able to vary the voltage. All I got was battery voltage out. Even removing all the caps and leaving Pin 3 empty w/ no resistor across Pin 3 & 4. It should have given me 5.0v out but instead I only saw battery voltage. This suggests that the convert is at fault and not the additional components.
If you can't get it working, try removing all as I described above, leaving just the circuitry for battery Input Pin 2 to Batt (+), Pin 1 to Batt (-) and measure voltage at Pin 4 (+) to Pin 1 (-)

I think I have the same problem with what I built with the help of a friend... i'll have to check the chipboard I used to mount it though, coz I think it got cracked... 6V don't feel like 6V, instead, I think I just get battery voltage
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 03, 2012, 07:40:04 PM
I think I have the same problem with what I built with the help of a friend... i'll have to check the chipboard I used to mount it though, coz I think it got cracked... 6V don't feel like 6V, instead, I think I just get battery voltage

A multimeter would be handy for trouble shooting or you will never know what your output is. Also you can use it to see if there is a break in your board.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on July 05, 2012, 09:31:58 PM
I don't see why not. That would be cool.
Fitting both in a .44 mini AA box would be some feat. You would have to use the smallest package size of the mosfet and the dig pot. and try to squeeze in the tact switches or switch where the pot would go.
The schematic's are in this forum. Just combine the two. One in this thread at: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg1550.html#msg1550 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg1550.html#msg1550)
and the other: http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,177.msg1956.html#msg1956 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,177.msg1956.html#msg1956)
well i was thinking 2mm brass contacts x4 1 common 1 up 1 down and 1 detonate touch com and one of the others to adjust or fire up 
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 10, 2012, 03:34:56 PM
A multimeter would be handy for trouble shooting or you will never know what your output is. Also you can use it to see if there is a break in your board.

checked it a few days ago, and it's indeed battery voltage... i'll see if we can rebuild it... gonna try to get rid of the chipboard totally... will try testing the regulator as well
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 10, 2012, 05:39:39 PM
checked it a few days ago, and it's indeed battery voltage... i'll see if we can rebuild it... gonna try to get rid of the chipboard totally... will try testing the regulator as well

I hope the module is not blown. Had a few like that.  :'(
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 11, 2012, 11:46:54 AM
I hope the module is not blown. Had a few like that.  :'(

I hope so too.. how do you check if the module is working again, without soldering?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 12, 2012, 09:20:28 PM
.. how do you check if the module is working again, without soldering?

Ya gotta solder something. With no caps, no resistors and no load you should get 5v out
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 14, 2012, 03:05:23 PM
Ya gotta solder something. With no caps, no resistors and no load you should get 5v out

did that with 2 modules, one that I used and one unused, I got 3v only... :( that's a bad batch, huh?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 14, 2012, 03:44:19 PM
did that with 2 modules, one that I used and one unused, I got 3v only... :( that's a bad batch, huh?

They are differently bad
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 14, 2012, 03:52:22 PM
They are differently bad

since they're not thouroughly busted.. just wont give the correct output  :wallbash: :wallbash:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 14, 2012, 04:20:21 PM
since they're not thouroughly busted.. just wont give the correct output  :wallbash: :wallbash:

So you are putting a Li-ion battery (+) to pin 2 and batt (-) to pin 1 and measuring Pin 4 to Pin 1,  3v ?
Or are you using a pwr supply voltage in?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 14, 2012, 04:22:48 PM
So you are putting a Li-ion battery (+) to pin 2 and batt (-) to pin 1 and measuring Pin 4 to Pin 1,  3v ?
Or are you using a pwr supply voltage in?

I did use a 14500 as my power input, same way as you described, and I got a 3v output... haven't tried it with a brand new batt, though.. i'll try it once I get a new set
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 14, 2012, 04:32:16 PM
I did use a 14500 as my power input, same way as you described, and I got a 3v output... haven't tried it with a brand new batt, though.. i'll try it once I get a new set

You know what? Let's then not jump to the conclusion that the module is bad. Maybe it is the battery.
What make battery and how old is it?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Ginjo on July 14, 2012, 04:36:40 PM
You know what? Let's then not jump to the conclusion that the module is bad. Maybe it is the battery.
What make battery and how old is it?

it's a TF Flames 14500 batt... around a year old...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on July 22, 2012, 10:37:05 PM
anyone know where to get an automatic switch
i want to work on a .44 automatic  ;hubba;
ooohhhh that would be sweat specially a buck boosted auto where you switch the ground so you will only have a 3.7v circuit on the switch
(considered cannibalization of a 510 auto to do it but if i can find the switch else ware....... great)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: vaperkarma on July 26, 2012, 11:56:21 AM
anyone know where to get an automatic switch
i want to work on a .44 automatic  ;hubba;
ooohhhh that would be sweat specially a buck boosted auto where you switch the ground so you will only have a 3.7v circuit on the switch
(considered cannibalization of a 510 auto to do it but if i can find the switch else ware....... great)

If my memory serves me right, I believe I've seen them on a couple of supplier sites a while back and one of them was Madvapes. I just looked for them but can't seem to find them.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: dasazo on August 21, 2012, 03:15:45 PM
What boxes you are using breaktru?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on August 21, 2012, 03:26:38 PM
What boxes you are using breaktru?

For the 14500 I use 2 X AA battery boxes sold on eBay or Madvapes
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: PoppaVic60 on August 28, 2012, 04:38:17 PM
Ray:

MadVapes listed them last week, ordered two - I'll be building the VV Regular board today and it will go in a projectbox from Radshack. The autoswitch seems a decent idea, and I'll tack one of those in as well. It'll be dual 18350 powered - I bought two pair for the Ovale V8, and the damned V8 refused to send juice out the 510.. Returned the V8, but those silly batteries look useful!

BTW, I'm puffing on the MadVapes 3.7v Mosefet box right now - with a silly CE6 I wanted to test ;-) It won't replace my own Puck, but it's so small and cute and useful that I plan to mail this to the nephew next week - maybe he'll stop trying to smoke and thinking he fools my sister.

I'm starting to think I need to crank a page of Needed Parts with links to sources, but we really need a few central-points and - I am really, really tired of trying to find project-boxes for this stuff. *sigh*
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: RAYMONDROOT on August 29, 2012, 07:23:25 PM
thanks for the info
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: go-burn on September 12, 2012, 10:20:29 PM
WOW....AWSOME... THANKS BRO..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: digicom on September 16, 2012, 09:16:42 AM
dear friends vapers .. maybe I made the discovery of hot water ... but I want to share with you is 'what I tested ... I assembled the circuit in question ... you know' that the potentiometer 100k DRIMMER not 'nothing but a resistor with variable value ... so after connecting the potentiometer as shown in the diagram ... I put another in place of the 15k resistor that' what is' placed on pins 3 and 4 ... this resistance and 'one which handles the range ... then connecting the DRIMMER in its place you have the chance' to have the adjustable range ... I tried x seconds maximum range is not under load and my tester marked something like 13 \ 14 volts .... I hope to be helpful
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: greyv on September 20, 2012, 08:04:14 PM
Just finished my booster clone

(http://imageshack.us/a/img9/9858/img20120920195204.jpg)


(http://imageshack.us/a/img521/9035/img20120920195142.jpg)


thanks breaktru for the plans
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 20, 2012, 08:19:25 PM
Just finished my booster clone

thanks breaktru for the plans

Congrats on your build. Looks good.  :beer-toast:
How do you like it?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: greyv on September 20, 2012, 08:53:53 PM
it works great.  the range is 4.00v  -  6.22v. 

had to use 2 chips though..  i think i fried the first one because i got a crappy 15w  soldering iron and had trouble soldering to the posts.
  gotta get a better one.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: gknowes on September 20, 2012, 09:18:29 PM
nice work!!!  ;cheers; i junked all me solder irons and got a solder station a cheap one on ebay KENDAC 937D i love it!!!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 09, 2012, 04:41:57 PM
I apologize. My question was answered in the thread.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 09, 2012, 04:56:18 PM
Yay! Got the parts to make it, getting ready to solder.

Quick question -- can I use electrolytic capacitors? I have a vague memory of them behaving differently from non-electrolytic ones.

Thank you for any information!

Good news Commie.
 
Electrolytes are the ONLY caps that you should be using on the 04050c.
There are two types: Aluminum and Tantalum.
The first several boost mods where made with Tantalum (more expensive) but have switch to Aluminum. Don't use cheap ebay specials. You want to use LOW ESR rated if possible.
Page 10 of the Datasheet shows recommended Caps or do searching of your own for low ESR 100uF caps.
http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/ptn04050c.pdf (http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/ptn04050c.pdf)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 21, 2012, 10:36:02 PM
Just put together another .44 mini booster.
This time with a touch switch and a voltage range that can handle Low resistance Dual Coil cartos.


I really like this mod and hate to part with it but I maybe selling it so I can buy more parts to make more mods.
I already have many offers for it but have to devise a fare way to pick a suitor. Some one who can take it for walks daily, groom it regularly and give it love and affection....  :laughing2:

UPDATE: not letting this one go. I'm keeping it.

Circuit below w/ N-Ch and P-Ch Mosfet only visible to logged on members.........

Hmm, I'm working on this one, with the touch switch. So far seems to work with my ghetto breadboard (some twist wires and the future mod's box for base).
Trying it with the IRL3103, which I think is N-channel, second diagram. In some variations of this setup, people seem to use a 1k resistor between gate and touch point, but it seems to work fine without, just like in Breaktru's version.

Before I solder and glue it, what is the purpose of that 1k resistor?

Oh, and here's a link to the variation that Asnider used, with the resistor: http://nu-vapor.com/forum/battery-mods-pvs/5513-my-5-touch-switch-modbox.html

Thank you!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 22, 2012, 10:00:29 AM
The IRL3103 is an N-Ch. N-Channel.
I like the  IRLU3114ZPBF because it is a smaller size (TO-251) compared to the TO-220. Also it is Rds On (Max) 4.9mOhms compared to 12mOhms.

You mention that I didn't use the 1K resistor. A P-Channel requires the resistor and an N-Ch does not.
With a P-Channel: If the both contact points get shorted by something other than your finger (metal), you are putting a direct short between the battery Negative and Positive... boom! The 1k resistor would be for protection.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wwwest on October 23, 2012, 08:29:27 PM
With all the new mods coming out, I still find the .44 mod to be a desirable build. Thanks so much breaktru for sharing  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 23, 2012, 09:36:42 PM
Yay!

Done with my mod. Unfortunately, due to the design, all the electronics had to be isolated with electric tape and (oh no!) JB Steelstik. I kept testing it with just a built-in voltmeter, without carto.

Now that the glue dried, it works a bit strangely. Without load, voltage ranges from 3.78 to 6.3. Great, considering that all I need is between 3.8 and 5. Sometimes, out of nowhere, it decides to spike to 14.7 volt  >:( I dug the connector between 4.7k resistor and the pot, and the 14.7v madness stopped.

Then I tested it with load. The highest resistance carto I have is a 2.4 Ohm. I set it to 4v without load, connected carto and tried. Voltmeter shows 3.4v but vapor feels pretty good. Definitely doesn't feel like 3.4v. Cranked it up to 4v under load, now it feels too hot, almost burny.

So, any guesses as to what in the world did I do wrong? The voltmeter is the little display from Madvapes, connected parallel to the carto.

Thank you, and pictures are coming :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 23, 2012, 10:23:15 PM
Yay!

Done with my mod. Unfortunately, due to the design, all the electronics had to be isolated with electric tape and (oh no!) JB Steelstik. I kept testing it with just a built-in voltmeter, without carto.

Now that the glue dried, it works a bit strangely. Without load, voltage ranges from 3.78 to 6.3. Great, considering that all I need is between 3.8 and 5. Sometimes, out of nowhere, it decides to spike to 14.7 volt  >:( I dug the connector between 4.7k resistor and the pot, and the 14.7v madness stopped.

Then I tested it with load. The highest resistance carto I have is a 2.4 Ohm. I set it to 4v without load, connected carto and tried. Voltmeter shows 3.4v but vapor feels pretty good. Definitely doesn't feel like 3.4v. Cranked it up to 4v under load, now it feels too hot, almost burny.

So, any guesses as to what in the world did I do wrong? The voltmeter is the little display from Madvapes, connected parallel to the carto.

Thank you, and pictures are coming :)

You forgot to mention the most important part...... What battery are you using.
Also check all you wiring for a bad solder connection.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 24, 2012, 12:11:21 AM
Thank you for a quick reply, Breaktru!

The batteries I've tried are 18650ies -- a protected Panasonic 3100mAh and an EH IMR 2000mAh. Unfortunately, I can't test the wiring :( I kept testing it while assembling and soldering, but the final step was covering it in JB putty. It wouldn't stay in place otherwise. I did insulate solder points from the metal case though, and the 14.7v insanity doesn't seem to happen any more (probably after the putty fully cured.

Voltage still drops down severely when under load though. But here's a strange thing -- I set it to 3.7v with no load, it drops down to 3.2v with load, but I still get a very noticeable nic buzz. More so than with a fully charged 18650 battery in a mechanical mod.

Attaching pictures too:
Inside are a voltmeter, on-off safety switch next to it, magnet to hold the lid shut under it, lots-of-turns pot, and a touch switch recessed in a plastic grommet. Carto or tank are also recessed for stealth and durability. Very happy with it overall, and thank you again for the design/diagram/advices.

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 24, 2012, 08:29:46 AM
Wonderful job Commie. Neat looking too  :rockin smiley:

This is not meant as criticism but to help find the problem.
It's not a good idea to completely encase the electronics in glue/weld. Air is our friend. The components need it for cooling.
Most likely, like you said, the wet JBWeld was shorting out a component.

A 2.4 ohm carto should not be dropping your output voltage to anything too noticeable. Put an ohm meter on the carto and measure.
What Caps did you use on your input and output?
Make sure that the spring tension on your battery is sufficient to avoid a resistant path. Measure the voltage from the battery at the points furthest from the battery. In other words, at the end of the battery spring and contact post. Not right across the battery. Do this while firing also.

I have never used the battery types you have so I can't comment on them.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: jomurp on October 24, 2012, 03:15:38 PM
The EH IMR18650 2000mAh is a 12C rated LiMn battery which should be great in a boost mod. As long as connections are good and fully charged.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 24, 2012, 04:44:42 PM
Huh, thank you! Now that I think about it, my battery spring really is looser than in my other mods. I'll have to try a few spacers there and report back:-)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Commie on October 29, 2012, 07:40:43 PM
Found my problem. Great advice on not gluing it shut, Breaktru, but it was too late :) The problem lies in a 10m resistor on the mosfet. It doesn't fully open unless my finger is slightly wet. If it is, the mod works great.

Too late to replace the resistor, or to replace the touch switch with anything else. Live and learn
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: crash957 on November 03, 2012, 06:35:55 PM
I have a .44 mini 18500  for over a year now it works perfect threw away my other mods love to get one of your dm vary volt with a meter for home I take the mini everywhere
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: R00k on November 08, 2012, 12:12:03 AM
I cant believe no one has asked this.  Whats the music in the video?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on November 08, 2012, 08:07:09 AM
I cant believe no one has asked this.  Whats the music in the video?

The Group is:  Parov Stelar
The Song is: Libella Swing
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: audiophile_user on January 21, 2013, 01:09:03 AM
@Breaktru

im building one this week. i tried building one on a breadboard. since i don't have low ESR caps as of this time. i will be using the cheap ones for now. My question is now that the voltage drop is so intense. any recommendations?

thanks
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: audiophile_user on January 21, 2013, 01:11:52 AM
i getting through the posts made by other members what would be the best? i removed the resistors. i was thinking to get the pots or trimmers from bourns. i used the cheapy one just for prototyping.i really love you work. i appreciate it
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 21, 2013, 08:06:15 AM
@Breaktru

im building one this week. i tried building one on a breadboard. since i don't have low ESR caps as of this time. i will be using the cheap ones for now. My question is now that the voltage drop is so intense. any recommendations?

thanks

Could be a few things that causes a significant voltage drop.
Battery - is it a quality battery?
Caps - Need low ESR
Connections on breadboard - battery and output wires should be at least 20 gauge, short and soldered directly. Not on breadboard.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 21, 2013, 08:08:59 AM
i getting through the posts made by other members what would be the best? i removed the resistors. i was thinking to get the pots or trimmers from bourns. i used the cheapy one just for prototyping.i really love you work. i appreciate it

Not sure if I'm following what you mean here.
cheap pot won't effect voltage drop.
removing resistors won't help for voltage drop but will change your voltage adjustment range
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: sovran on January 26, 2013, 06:16:19 PM

Electrolytes are the ONLY caps that you should be using on the 04050c.
There are two types: Aluminum and Tantalum.
The first several boost mods where made with Tantalum (more expensive) but have switch to Aluminum. Don't use cheap ebay specials. You want to use LOW ESR rated if possible.
Page 10 of the Datasheet shows recommended Caps or do searching of your own for low ESR 100uF caps.
http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/ptn04050c.pdf (http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/ptn04050c.pdf)

Breakthru, I want to give this mod a try. About the caps, I read or tried to read the datasheet but got confused on what value is considered low ESR. I also remeber seeing something about using 1% resistors. As confusing as the above is my eyes glaze and mind fogs when trying to pick parts out from digikey catalog. Do you have a BOM for someone that wants to build it exactly as you would suggest? I dont want meters or gadgets, just the basics with trim pot. Here is the board that I have  http://www.ebay.com/itm/230895284358?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
BTW my flash welder is working pretty good but still waiting on the enclosure to make it pretty.  ;bow;
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 26, 2013, 07:06:10 PM
Breakthru, I want to give this mod a try. About the caps, I read or tried to read the datasheet but got confused on what value is considered low ESR. I also remeber seeing something about using 1% resistors. As confusing as the above is my eyes glaze and mind fogs when trying to pick parts out from digikey catalog. Do you have a BOM for someone that wants to build it exactly as you would suggest? I dont want meters or gadgets, just the basics with trim pot. Here is the board that I have  http://www.ebay.com/itm/230895284358?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
BTW my flash welder is working pretty good but still waiting on the enclosure to make it pretty.  ;bow;

Low ESR caps: 100uF, 10V (http://www.mouser.com/Passive-Components/Capacitors/Aluminum-Electrolytic-Capacitors/Aluminum-Electrolytic-Capacitors-Leaded/_/N-75hqwZscv7?P=1z0wrkmZ1z0yp75Z1z0z7l5Z1z0x81eZ1z0x8hf)
1% +/- tolerance resistors. Example, if you buy a 1% 10K resistor. It will be in a range 1% less to 1% higher. A 10.1K to 9.9K. If you bought a cheap 10K 20% tolerance resistor it can be 12K to 8K which would be significant in achieving your voltage range.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: sovran on January 26, 2013, 07:44:45 PM
Thanks for that link. I am still having problems with the resistors and trim pot. When I search the resistors, it narrows down to 1 resistor that looks nothing like what I know( 2 wires sticking out of a peice of ceramic? with colored bands on them) It resembles more like a IC chip. I looked through the post looking for a pic of the resistors but found none. The trim pot search left me with thousands of results because I dont know what the important values to search for are. I can follow directions and simple wire diagrams but no almost nothing about the parts themselves to choose the correct ones. Please a little more help.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: sovran on January 26, 2013, 08:04:46 PM
found the 15k resistor, and 4.7k. too many variables on the pot, unless this is it. 594-64W104
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 26, 2013, 08:05:59 PM
Thanks for that link. I am still having problems with the resistors and trim pot. When I search the resistors, it narrows down to 1 resistor that looks nothing like what I know( 2 wires sticking out of a peice of ceramic? with colored bands on them) It resembles more like a IC chip. I looked through the post looking for a pic of the resistors but found none. The trim pot search left me with thousands of results because I dont know what the important values to search for are. I can follow directions and simple wire diagrams but no almost nothing about the parts themselves to choose the correct ones. Please a little more help.

There are many trimmers that you can choose from, It's a matter of what you like.
What value resistors are you looking for? the ones that I used? a 15K and a 4.7K ?

15K (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/RNF18FTD15K0/RNF18FTD15K0CT-ND/2022669)
4.7K (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/RNMF14FTC4K70/S4.7KCACT-ND/2617510)
The trimmers are higher tolerance
100K, 25% (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/EVM-AASA00B15/AAS15CT-ND/258618)
100K, 30% (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/EVN-DJAA03B15/DJA15CT-ND/274653)
100K, 25% (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/3306F-1-104/3306F-104-ND/84705)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: sovran on January 26, 2013, 08:40:31 PM
A modder and a gentleman. Woot! I can begin my modding adventures.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 14, 2013, 05:23:00 PM
Anyone can propose a good sized box for using 18490?
Right now I have a box for 14500 and I'm eager to test it, even for a proof of concept, until I find some better box...

(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster_02.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster_01.jpg)

here without the MOSFET switch part. For the test box I'll use just a big switch. For the bigger box I'll go probably for the MOSFET - and then maybe something more?  :)

That's a hell of a great module, thanks for your finding  :rockin smiley:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 14, 2013, 06:41:11 PM
Anyone can propose a good sized box for using 18490?
Right now I have a box for 14500 and I'm eager to test it, even for a proof of concept, until I find some better box...

here without the MOSFET switch part. For the test box I'll use just a big switch. For the bigger box I'll go probably for the MOSFET - and then maybe something more?  :)

That's a hell of a great module, thanks for your finding  :rockin smiley:

Very nice work. Nice and compact. Congrats on your build.
Have you used those mufti-turn trimmer pots before?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 14, 2013, 08:16:57 PM
Have you used those mufti-turn trimmer pots before?

Yes, I have it in my LM2596 down-step installation.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 15, 2013, 06:43:51 AM
Yes, I have it in my LM2596 down-step installation.

All though precise output voltage adjustment is obtainable w/ the multi-turn trimmer, do you find it a pain to have to turn the adjust screw so many times to adjust.
I have used a 20 turn trimmer and removed it after 10 min of use.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 15, 2013, 07:45:59 AM
Well, indeed it makes you a "screw-guy"  8)   but in some way I got used to it.
Anyway, when I will move to some bigger box, I'll make it probably with a digi-pot.

Can you suggest some box for housing 18490? I saw you've made one...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 15, 2013, 08:16:13 AM

Can you suggest some box for housing 18490? I saw you've made one...

Well that all depends on what size you are looking for.

My smallest is a 9v battery box (sold everywhere)  but not much room left for a D.P.
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/44plus_18500_2.jpg)


Then for an ABS a bit bigger is the PacTek box - CNL-0029
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/zmax02.jpg)


For aluminum and about the size of a pack of smokes is the Hammond 1455C801 or Evatron - EVA1544C801C
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/mcu_nokia_04.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 16, 2013, 10:33:30 AM
Well, it's working! :)  And it works surprisingly well. Now, off to some bigger one - and feature richier :)
Thanks BreakTru!

(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-01-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-01.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-02-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-02.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-03-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-03.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-04-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-04.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-05-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-05.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-06-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-06.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-07-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-07.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-08-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-08.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-09-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-09.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-10-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-10.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Sorin003 on February 16, 2013, 01:17:56 PM

For aluminum and about the size of a pack of smokes is the Hammond 1455C801 or Evatron - EVA1544C801C
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/mcu_nokia_04.jpg)

Really like Evatron!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 16, 2013, 01:25:22 PM
Well, it's working! :)  And it works surprisingly well. Now, off to some bigger one - and feature richier :)
Thanks BreakTru!


Cool. Glad it worked well.
Do you worry about short circuits with the exposed bare wiring?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 16, 2013, 02:33:37 PM
Wiring is not "bare". It's a coil winding wire, having a quite tough coating - but transparent. I'm using this wire for few years, it's really good, as it's temperature resistant - taking this coating off is done with your soldering tool ;)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 16, 2013, 03:36:24 PM
Wiring is not "bare". It's a coil winding wire, having a quite tough coating - but transparent. I'm using this wire for few years, it's really good, as it's temperature resistant - taking this coating off is done with your soldering tool ;)

Gotcha, it looked like bare wire  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: jeandbean on February 16, 2013, 03:40:18 PM
Wiring is not "bare". It's a coil winding wire, having a quite tough coating - but transparent. I'm using this wire for few years, it's really good, as it's temperature resistant - taking this coating off is done with your soldering tool ;)

yes it did look like uninsulated wire. I too thought so  :facepalm:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 16, 2013, 04:20:07 PM
I'm shocked: after 8 hours of vaping 2.2 Ohm coil on 4.3V, my TrustFire has 3.58V in it!  :thumbsup:
However, this is the old TF cell, bought looong time ago, before the world got spammed with no-so-original ones... I was lucky to buy a whole bunch of them ca. 2 years ago...

Anyway: it exceeded my expectations  :rockin smiley:  It's a quite high efficiency.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 16, 2013, 04:51:41 PM
I'm shocked: after 8 hours of vaping 2.2 Ohm coil on 4.3V, my TrustFire has 3.58V in it!  :thumbsup:
However, this is the old TF cell, bought looong time ago, before the world got spammed with no-so-original ones... I was lucky to buy a whole bunch of them ca. 2 years ago...

Anyway: it exceeded my expectations  :rockin smiley:  It's a quite high efficiency.

Very good. I was getting 7 1/2 hrs on my TF flames and only 4 hrs on my AW IMR.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on February 20, 2013, 04:22:47 AM
Got my new sample ptn04050cad, h, and z samples today. I am going to give this mod another try Friday. Hopefully these samples won't be bad like the last 2. Good thing I just took a surface mount soldering class.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 20, 2013, 07:52:42 AM
Got my new sample ptn04050cad, h, and z samples today. I am going to give this mod another try Friday. Hopefully these samples won't be bad like the last 2. Good thing I just took a surface mount soldering class.

Hope you have better luck with these.

Just to point out some obvious tips that I may have mentioned before:
Avoid excessive heat/time when soldering the board pins.
Be careful of solder flow around board posts. Tiny components are mounted close to solder points.
Before powering up, double/triple check wiring correctness.
Avoid using very low atty/carto resistance.
Avoid powering with no load as per datasheet. It doesn't mention what a load is but a meter may do.
Take note of capacitor polarity
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: audiophile_user on February 21, 2013, 01:42:38 AM
@breaktru

i've made myself a booster mod using Panasonic CGR High Drain battery 18650 :)

i've burned it and tested in on various atty's i tried and tested it on .6ohm atty. it burned the regulator just for my curiosity.

it seems the best Low Resistance Build on an Rebuildable atomizer is 1.4 ohms. the ideal based on my observations. looks good on a vivi nova mini tank :)

question i substituted the resistors on pin 3 and pin 4 using 10k 1/2 watt instead of 1/4 watt and 4.7k 1/4 watt.  Can i use the 1/2 watt instead of 1/4 watt? does it make a difference? Please let me know. likewise i used this potentiometer

(http://www.synthrotek.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/IMG_2386.jpg)

just to confirm my assumptions if there is a difference using that

like you mentioned on the other booster thread lower resistor "The higher the resistance the lower the voltage. And Vice-a Verse-a"

thank you so much for the guide

i will post photos of my creation soon Just to get something off my shopping lists
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 21, 2013, 02:30:17 AM
Can i use the 1/2 watt instead of 1/4 watt? does it make a difference? Please let me know.

Yes, you can. You shouldn't change it the opposite way... this value says how much power it can dissipate. The only drawback for you is the size, which is bigger.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 21, 2013, 09:13:19 AM
@breaktru

i've made myself a booster mod using Panasonic CGR High Drain battery 18650 :)

i've burned it and tested in on various atty's i tried and tested it on .6ohm atty. it burned the regulator just for my curiosity.

it seems the best Low Resistance Build on an Rebuildable atomizer is 1.4 ohms. the ideal based on my observations. looks good on a vivi nova mini tank :)

question i substituted the resistors on pin 3 and pin 4 using 10k 1/2 watt instead of 1/4 watt and 4.7k 1/4 watt.  Can i use the 1/2 watt instead of 1/4 watt? does it make a difference? Please let me know. likewise i used this potentiometer

just to confirm my assumptions if there is a difference using that

like you mentioned on the other booster thread lower resistor "The higher the resistance the lower the voltage. And Vice-a Verse-a"

thank you so much for the guide

i will post photos of my creation soon Just to get something off my shopping lists

The CGR is a great battery to use w/ this boost module especially because boost circuit amperage is higher on the input than on the output so a capable battery is necessary.

The reason I said to avoid low resistance atty/cartos is because this Boost-topology switching regulator is not short-circuit protected.
I found with using less capable batteries like the 14500 TF battery, it performs much better w/ load resistances of 2.0 and above.
I have used 0.5 ohm loads w/ Li-Po 20C batteries and worked really super exceeding over 30watts. But I wouldn't make that a regular practice for fear of damaging the module.

Something I would like to point out is that this PTN04050C was design to work with an output voltage of NO LESS THAN 5 volts. We are hacking the design to accommodate our ranges of output lower than the 5v. What I am saying is we are stressing out the module.

Utak3r is correct with saying that yes you can go higher w/ the wattage rating. You can always safely go higher in any type of circuit. It's just the physical size factor you have to deal with.
A 0.05 Watt (1/20 w) rated resistor is the min recommended size (or higher). 1% tolerance is also recommended.

By using the 10K instead of the 4.7K, you increase the bottom and top end of the output range.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: audiophile_user on February 21, 2013, 10:18:46 AM
thanks for the quick reply everyone :)

the voltage without load is 5.4 to 4.2 with load is 5v to 3.4 i have to verify the voltage output again later on after the mod that i have created :) thanks everyone again for the input i appreciate it :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: audiophile_user on February 21, 2013, 10:21:24 AM
Yes, you can. You shouldn't change it the opposite way... this value says how much power it can dissipate. The only drawback for you is the size, which is bigger.


utak3r thank you so much for your advise as well. i will build it this weekend with ease since i just got my surface mount pots just today and bought resistors from a local electronics shop. 10k 1/2 watt :)

PS: rebuilding that is :D
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on February 21, 2013, 03:30:16 PM
Thanks for the tips. I am going to test the regs before use this time, with a 1k resistor for a load just to be sure. It will be nice to have a single battery small mod. All my others use the Dimension swadj3 reg and have to use two batteries for the correct input voltage.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 21, 2013, 07:39:41 PM
My smallest is a 9v battery box (sold everywhere)  but not much room left for a D.P.
(http://breaktru.com/ecig/44plus_18500_2.jpg)

Damn, my 9V box is 1mm too thin!  :wallbash:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 21, 2013, 08:51:31 PM
Damn, my 9V box is 1mm too thin!  :wallbash:

Explain.
Too thin for what? battery or for D.P.?

For battery:
See Photo (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,426.msg4499.html#msg4499)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 22, 2013, 02:22:13 AM
For battery:
See Photo (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,426.msg4499.html#msg4499)

Ok, that solves the problem  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: jbs on February 23, 2013, 09:47:41 AM
Hello.

I have been lurking here for a long time and never had a time or patience to take couple of pictures and share with you for what i am sorry.

Since the topic is not dead and i own you at least that much, here are pictures of my take on .44 mini mod as a token of appreciation.

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/147590959/e-cig/ptn/ptn_01.JPG) (http://dl.dropbox.com/u/147590959/e-cig/ptn/ptn_02.JPG)(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/147590959/e-cig/ptn/ptn_03.JPG)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 23, 2013, 10:00:43 AM
Hello.

I have been lurking here for a long time and never had a time or patience to take couple of pictures and share with you for what i am sorry.

Since the topic is not dead and i own you at least that much, here are pictures of my take on .44 mini mod as a token of appreciation.


https://www.dropbox.com/sh/f9vf2g0aw4m6sno/jTk_1P6s2M

The posting of your build is much appreciated.  :thankyou: I wish more members who have benefited from this forum would do the same.

It came out great and the inside looks neat and tidy. Good work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: jbs on February 23, 2013, 10:06:42 AM
No no dear Sir  :thankyou:

Btw. I have another mod waiting to be published. Same box and same battery but this time its dna 12. I just love that box.

Right now i am trying to figure out how to use dropbox links lol.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: utak3r on February 26, 2013, 05:40:28 PM
Just to hide some holes... a piece of "carbon" foil did the job :)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-11-tmb.jpg) (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/20190717/ecigs/booster14500/booster14500-11.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 26, 2013, 06:32:28 PM
Just to hide some holes... a piece of "carbon" foil did the job :)

Looks good w/ the carbon  :rockin smiley:
I have some sheet of it but have yet to use it.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 05, 2013, 04:56:14 PM
howdie folks, i a newb here and kind of new to the vaping word. that said, i'd really like to build one of these mods. i looked through the thread but didnt see an actual parts list and where parts can be sourced. i'm sorry if it was posted and i missed it, any direction would be awesome, i want to try and get one of these going soon
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on March 06, 2013, 01:25:06 AM
Welcome to the board. Check the 2nd post in this topic, parts and values are in the diagram. You can get the regulator free as a sample from TI.com. The rest of the parts can be gotten from Jameco, digikey or mouser. The 510 atty connector is at madvapes.com. Good luck with your project.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 06, 2013, 01:36:37 AM
Welcome to the board. Check the 2nd post in this topic, parts and values are in the diagram. You can get the regulator free as a sample from TI.com. The rest of the parts can be gotten from Jameco, digikey or mouser. The 510 atty connector is at madvapes.com. Good luck with your project.

thank you sir!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 06, 2013, 02:06:12 AM
well for some reason i can not change the quantity on the sample order to anything other than "0" on the TI website. maybe they are out or not giving samples any longer, even though it says in stock?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on March 06, 2013, 04:54:01 AM
If you just registered it may take a while for your account to be confirmed. I have found that if I go six months between sample orders they will allow me another 5. Give it another try tomorrow. I can't remember if they send a confirmation e mail or not.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 06, 2013, 09:36:36 AM
howdie folks, i a newb here and kind of new to the vaping word. that said, i'd really like to build one of these mods. i looked through the thread but didnt see an actual parts list and where parts can be sourced. i'm sorry if it was posted and i missed it, any direction would be awesome, i want to try and get one of these going soon

Welcome to the forum @kilo.
Also take a look at the .44++ mini boost mod (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,426.0.html).
Consider the advantages with using an AW IC18500 and/or AW IMR18490
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 06, 2013, 06:36:21 PM
Welcome to the forum @kilo.
Also take a look at the .44++ mini boost mod (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,426.0.html).
Consider the advantages with using an AW IC18500 and/or AW IMR18490

thank you, now i am even more excited. still need to get passed ordering the samples. seems i still can not order anything? oh well light just try a local parts store.

Breaktru, where did you get the bullet case switches? or do you custom make those?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 06, 2013, 07:07:29 PM
thank you, now i am even more excited. still need to get passed ordering the samples. seems i still can not order anything? oh well light just try a local parts store.

Breaktru, where did you get the bullet case switches? or do you custom make those?

I cut the rims from a .44 bullet case, drilled and tapped the primer pocket to a 4/40 thread to fit the C&K 8551MZQE2 (http://www.digikey.com/scripts/dksearch/dksus.dll?vendor=0&keywords=8551MZQE2)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 06, 2013, 07:19:57 PM
I cut the rims from a .44 bullet case, drilled and tapped the primer pocket to a 4/40 thread to fit the C&K 8551MZQE2 (http://www.digikey.com/scripts/dksearch/dksus.dll?vendor=0&keywords=8551MZQE2)

Do you sell the switches as an assembly?

I wish the forum had a Tapatalk account, using my phone is so difficult 
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 06, 2013, 07:38:57 PM
Do you sell the switches as an assembly?

I wish the forum had a Tapatalk account, using my phone is so difficult 

Sorry Kilo but I do not.
Also sorry about the phone difficulties.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 06, 2013, 07:43:33 PM
Maybe you should?? I have a DE 44 Magnum and would be the perfect tie in piece.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on March 08, 2013, 12:52:59 AM
Well I screwed up the first one. Checked out good before I started. I think too high a temp while soldering. I took Craig's and your advice and got a Hakko 888 soldering station, I love it. Tossed the old weller iron in the drawer, think I will get a blade tip for it and use it for cutting plastic. I will try another regulator tomorrow. Do you have a recommended temperature for soldering the 04050 regs?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on March 08, 2013, 06:41:51 AM
Well I screwed up the first one. Checked out good before I started. I think too high a temp while soldering. I took Craig's and your advice and got a Hakko 888 soldering station, I love it. Tossed the old weller iron in the drawer, think I will get a blade tip for it and use it for cutting plastic. I will try another regulator tomorrow. Do you have a recommended temperature for soldering the 04050 regs?

I just looked over the datasheet and found this under:

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS(1)

Leaded temperature (H suffix) 5 seconds 260°C (2) - This would be the PTN04050CAH
Solder reflow temperature (S suffix) Surface temperature of module body or pins 235°C - This would be the PTN04050CAS
Solder reflow temperature (Z suffix)(3) Surface temperature of module body or pins 260°C(3) - This would be the PTN04050CAZ

(1) Stresses beyond those listed under absolute maximum ratings may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings
      only, and functional operation of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated under recommended operating
      conditions is not implied. Exposure to absolute-maximum-rated conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
(2) This model is NOT compatible with surface-mount reflow solder process.
(3) Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) Rating Level-3-260C-168HR

Conversion: 260°C = 500°F and 235°C = 455°F
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: pnguin on March 08, 2013, 08:00:11 AM
Thanks for the info, FlameOut. I looked up the temp on the 40 watt Weller iron I was using...900 deg F. Way to much. I was quick but the high temp probably did it in. Now I can set the Hakko temp correctly. I always wear my ground strap and keep the regulators in their antistatic bags until I need them so that pretty much rules out ESD. Triple check the wiring, and use solder sparingly, test with a 1K load and use a 2.4 ohm atty. So it must be the heat. I think I will use 360 deg F, so far that temp works well with the 60/40 solder. Thanks again for the help.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: cccsteel on March 08, 2013, 08:43:21 AM
I just looked over the datasheet and found this under:

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS(1)


Nice find FlameOut. Now we know how not to damage the Informous module.  :thankyou:

@pnguin, you are using good safety precautions.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 09, 2013, 01:55:26 PM
Welcome to the board. Check the 2nd post in this topic, parts and values are in the diagram. You can get the regulator free as a sample from TI.com. The rest of the parts can be gotten from Jameco, digikey or mouser. The 510 atty connector is at madvapes.com. Good luck with your project.

would you happen to have a part number for the battery box? i havent been able to order any samples from TI yet so i guess i might just purchase one if possible. but i found the 510 connector, still havent found a switch. i am just used to a parts lists and dont want to purchase something that wont work or will short out cause issues. thanks guys
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 09, 2013, 03:02:14 PM
would you happen to have a part number for the battery box? i havent been able to order any samples from TI yet so i guess i might just purchase one if possible. but i found the 510 connector, still havent found a switch. i am just used to a parts lists and dont want to purchase something that wont work or will short out cause issues. thanks guys

This thread is the .44 mini mod for use with a 14500 battery. The box is a AA battery box. cheapest AA batt box (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Plastic-Battery-Storage-Case-Box-Holder-For-AA-With-Wire-Leads-Switch-/170884282887?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item27c97f3a07)
However if you are to build a mod like the .44+ an 18350 battery is used. The .44++ uses an 18500/18490 battery. Both mods use a 9v battery box is used. Modifications are necessary. cheapest 9v batt box (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-X-9V-Battery-Holder-Box-DC-Case-With-Wire-Lead-ON-OFF-Switch-Cover-Hotsell-EA-/230942787428?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35c5434764)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: kilo68 on March 09, 2013, 03:10:47 PM
This thread is the .44 mini mod for use with a 14500 battery. The box is a AA battery box. cheapest AA batt box (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Plastic-Battery-Storage-Case-Box-Holder-For-AA-With-Wire-Leads-Switch-/170884282887?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item27c97f3a07)
However if you are to build a mod like the .44+ an 18350 battery is used. The .44++ uses an 18500/18490 battery. Both mods use a 9v battery box is used. Modifications are necessary. cheapest 9v batt box (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-X-9V-Battery-Holder-Box-DC-Case-With-Wire-Lead-ON-OFF-Switch-Cover-Hotsell-EA-/230942787428?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35c5434764)

Tha k you kind sir. That is exactly what I needed. I'm going to try the ++ if I can ever order the circuit.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: ChainVaper on March 27, 2013, 08:46:11 AM
Thanks for the links break
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: TuxAir on June 06, 2013, 06:47:00 AM
Just built another one using your circuit. This time using a 18650 Battery for longer life. It works but I do have one problem. It is stuck at 5VDC (No Load). The pot has no effect on output at all. I've been going over this thing for a few hours and cannot find the problem. It's the 3rd one I've built. Any suggestions as to why this one is stuck at 5 Volts?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 06, 2013, 07:15:39 AM
Just built another one using your circuit. This time using a 18650 Battery for longer life. It works but I do have one problem. It is stuck at 5VDC (No Load). The pot has no effect on output at all. I've been going over this thing for a few hours and cannot find the problem. It's the 3rd one I've built. Any suggestions as to why this one is stuck at 5 Volts?

If your wiring, parts and solder connections are good. I would bet that the converter is damaged.
Here are some tips to review: Damaged Board (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,215.msg6547.html#msg6547)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: TuxAir on June 07, 2013, 03:51:07 AM
Pin 3 on the board was not soldered in. There was no bias input on pin 3  but the circuit rang out fine.. Reattached carefully and all is well. Thanks!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 07, 2013, 07:54:43 AM
Pin 3 on the board was not soldered in. There was no bias input on pin 3  but the circuit rang out fine.. Reattached carefully and all is well. Thanks!
Good to hear it wasn't a bad board.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: energeticrain on July 12, 2013, 12:45:53 PM
hi there, got most of the parts to  make this mod just wondered what voltages are the caps you have used cheers....love this mod...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: FlameOut on July 12, 2013, 01:29:18 PM
hi there, got most of the parts to  make this mod just wondered what voltages are the caps you have used cheers....love this mod...

You want to consider the maximum voltage the cap would be charged at and allow a margin of safety. A  10v or 12v cap would do. You can also go higher but the cap would physically be larger.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: energeticrain on July 12, 2013, 02:12:48 PM
cheers for that.......
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Phestr on July 15, 2013, 08:24:31 PM
Are there any other PChan mosfets you guys would recommend?  I'm reading spec sheets, and it's making my head hurt trying to balance the one depicted vs the ones at http://www.onlinecomponents.com/
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 15, 2013, 09:13:34 PM
Are there any other PChan mosfets you guys would recommend?  I'm reading spec sheets, and it's making my head hurt trying to balance the one depicted vs the ones at http://www.onlinecomponents.com/

http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,616.0.html (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,616.0.html)

http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,470.msg2357.html#msg2357 (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,470.msg2357.html#msg2357)

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Phestr on July 15, 2013, 11:05:16 PM
I think I'm reading this right, but please run a sanity check for me: http://www.onlinecomponents.com/datasheet/si9434dy.aspx?p=12421764&Resource=1 .  It looks like the values are right based on all the info above.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 16, 2013, 08:43:51 AM
I think I'm reading this right, but please run a sanity check for me: http://www.onlinecomponents.com/datasheet/si9434dy.aspx?p=12421764&Resource=1 .  It looks like the values are right based on all the info above.

The specs looks very similar to the FDS6576 that Craig recommended HERE (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,616.msg4156.html#msg4156).  :thumbsup:

The ON resistance RDS(on) is higher for your mosfet than the FDS6576.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Phestr on July 16, 2013, 10:13:46 AM
So that should equate to a lesser pull up resistor, right? I'm starting to feel like im too old to be learning this fast.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 16, 2013, 10:52:55 AM
So that should equate to a lesser pull up resistor, right? I'm starting to feel like im too old to be learning this fast.

Less Lossy
Lossy: causing appreciable loss or dissipation of energy
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Phestr on July 16, 2013, 10:10:46 PM
Okay, ordered my stuff.  I'll have all the parts for several mods once it comes in.  I'm still trying to figure out what I'm going to use for the actual switch components, but I have a bit to think about it.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: mick8844 on August 21, 2013, 07:54:57 PM
Well, have read everthing on his thread andI feel like I have a good grasp of what to do. I have just one question that I need hel[ with. I would like to use one of those metal switches that have a led circle in them. someone called it a tron switch. I don't know where but I did see one somewhere but it was rates at 2 amps. If I canfind i again will it work and if not does anyone know where to find one.

Thanks Mick 8844
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on August 21, 2013, 08:46:35 PM
Well, have read everthing on his thread andI feel like I have a good grasp of what to do. I have just one question that I need hel[ with. I would like to use one of those metal switches that have a led circle in them. someone called it a tron switch. I don't know where but I did see one somewhere but it was rates at 2 amps. If I canfind i again will it work and if not does anyone know where to find one.

Thanks Mick 8844

Like this?

(http://www.adafruit.com/images/medium/metalbutton16mmblue_MED.jpg)

It's too large for a AA battery box. Comes in different colors. See --> HERE (http://www.adafruit.com/products/915#Technical%20Details)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on August 22, 2013, 09:02:02 PM
Really cool switch!!!!!  ;cheers;
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: energeticrain on August 30, 2013, 07:45:55 PM
Thanks breakthru followed  u guide works a treat.....my vv emergency booster box range 3.5v to 5.5 v
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on August 30, 2013, 08:07:26 PM
Thanks breakthru followed  u guide works a treat.....my vv emergency booster box range 3.5v to 5.5 v

Nice work!!  Isn't it great to Vape with something yourself?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on August 30, 2013, 08:13:25 PM
Thanks breakthru followed  u guide works a treat.....my vv emergency booster box range 3.5v to 5.5 v

Well done  ;cheers;
Looks good in that box. I think a have one or two of the same box somewhere. I stock pile stuff and forget where things are  :facepalm:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on August 30, 2013, 08:48:29 PM
I stock pile stuff and forget where things are  :facepalm:

Been there, Still do that.  LMAO :laughing2:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: gknowes on August 30, 2013, 09:08:46 PM
I've uses that box before, looks great!!! if you trim the tabs down on the box, the cover slides on & off easier  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: energeticrain on August 30, 2013, 10:13:09 PM
Cheers im looking for a box to use for a booster vv using a 18650 next any ideas
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: asnider123 on September 02, 2013, 08:59:40 PM
I used the same emergency power supply (only in white), but I am "old school" so I used 2 batteries and an LM350 linear regulator. The adjustment screw is behind that little hole. The USB is still functional, did away with the light.

Shown here with an EVOD tank. Oldie but goodie, still works great. Like yours a lot better!!! Clean build. Is the toggle spring-loaded?

Forgive the crummy picture, never been any good with photos, but you get the idea.

(http://img607.imageshack.us/img607/7892/h2p9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/607/h2p9.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 03, 2013, 09:09:17 AM
I used the same emergency power supply (only in white), but I am "old school" so I used 2 batteries and an LM350 linear regulator. The adjustment screw is behind that little hole. The USB is still functional, did away with the light.

Shown here with an EVOD tank. Oldie but goodie, still works great. Like yours a lot better!!! Clean build. Is the toggle spring-loaded?

Forgive the crummy picture, never been any good with photos, but you get the idea.

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Hey Alan  :wave: I remember that mod that you made back HERE (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,293.msg1007.html#msg1007). Nice to hear it's still working good  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Avamil on September 03, 2013, 10:10:59 AM
I used the same emergency power supply (only in white), but I am "old school" so I used 2 batteries and an LM350 linear regulator. The adjustment screw is behind that little hole. The USB is still functional, did away with the light.

Welcome back Alan. Great mod  :rockin smiley:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: MidnighToker on September 04, 2013, 07:28:41 PM
Like this?

(http://www.adafruit.com/images/medium/metalbutton16mmblue_MED.jpg)

It's too large for a AA battery box. Comes in different colors. See --> HERE (http://www.adafruit.com/products/915#Technical%20Details)
That looks EXACTLY like the E-switch, but without the price tag.....nice find.

I've also found that the round tactile switches fit perfectly in the primer hole for a 45 ACP, so will most definitely be using that in a future mod.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: energeticrain on September 05, 2013, 03:15:27 PM
nice box alan my switch is spring loaded if thats what u mean like the white box  might ave to get one of those but want to use a switching reg from texas instruments i have a couple  of these ready just have to wait for some more deliverys from good old china...........
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 05:01:09 AM
Great job Breaktru!! this is an awesome mod. I want to thank you for all the hard work you put into designing your mods AND THEN taking the time to run this forum and share your inventions and your knowledge. (that goes to all the contributors of the forum as well) It takes a lot to make the mods but you go even further and help everyone else too. WAY TO GO!!!

This mod has all the features i wanted to incorporate when i found this forum. At that time i was just going to put a vamo board into a box but this seems like it will be much more satisfying. Ive read through this and a few of your other topics related to variable volt mods and I think I'm ready to order parts but before I do I wanted to double check a couple things. (normally I would just buy parts but I'm unemployed at the moment and trying not to spend too much on unneeded or wrong parts)

Unfortunately I wasn't able to get the ptn04050c sample from TI.  That's OK, Arrow has em for $12-$13 ea.
I also wasn't able to find the digital pot you referenced and was hoping i could get your guys expertise on this one
http://www.analog.com/static/imported-files/data_sheets/AD5228.pdf (http://www.analog.com/static/imported-files/data_sheets/AD5228.pdf)
and double check to make sure my wiring of it is correct.

(http://i.imgur.com/GL0Jj9e.jpg)
http://i.imgur.com/GL0Jj9e.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/GL0Jj9e.jpg)

I really don't like that its connected straight to the battery before the mosfet but according to the data sheet (pg 17) it needs to be or wont retain wiper setting  :no:

Also, do you think that 1 to 10uF loesr cap is absolutely necessary? Hate to have to cram another one of those in there.

Parts list
resistors - 270 series http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/351/XC-600046-204245.pdf (http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/351/XC-600046-204245.pdf)
100uF caps - http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/88/SXR-9343.pdf (http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/88/SXR-9343.pdf)
1uF caps - http://product.tdk.com/capacitor/leadmlcc/en/documents/leadmlcc_commercial_midvoltage_en.pdf (http://product.tdk.com/capacitor/leadmlcc/en/documents/leadmlcc_commercial_midvoltage_en.pdf)
mosfet - recommended by you in another post so you're familiar
digital pot - http://www.analog.com/static/imported-files/data_sheets/AD5228.pdf (http://www.analog.com/static/imported-files/data_sheets/AD5228.pdf)

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 08:43:57 AM
Looks like you have a well thought out mod going there Bob. I'm not the best person to comment on the schematic but it looks correct to me. That pot is a unknown to me.
As for the DS1809 I found then at Digi Key. http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/DS1809-100%2B/DS1809-100%2B-ND/1197191
Hope that helps
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 09:15:34 AM
Looks like you have a well thought out mod going there Bob. I'm not the best person to comment on the schematic but it looks correct to me. That pot is a unknown to me.
As for the DS1809 I found then at Digi Key. http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/DS1809-100%2B/DS1809-100%2B-ND/1197191
Hope that helps

Breaktru thought it all out, i'm just gonna try to stuff it all in a box .
yep there it is,  thank you.  i think i skipped searching digikey because the ptn04050c was so much more expensive there and i didn't want to pay separate shipping fees.  or maybe i was searching for the wrong part number because mouser has that one too. 

EDIT : I was searching for the ds1869 which is 3v, the ds1809 is a 5v operating voltage

After I posted that i read through all the sample parts posts, so i think i'll be filling a few of those requests out today, maybe one of those suppliers will have digital pots.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 08, 2013, 09:53:34 AM
Great job Breaktru!! this is an awesome mod. I want to thank you for all the hard work you put into designing your mods AND THEN taking the time to run this forum and share your inventions and your knowledge. (that goes to all the contributors of the forum as well) It takes a lot to make the mods but you go even further and help everyone else too. WAY TO GO!!!

This mod has all the features i wanted to incorporate when i found this forum. At that time i was just going to put a vamo board into a box but this seems like it will be much more satisfying. Ive read through this and a few of your other topics related to variable volt mods and I think I'm ready to order parts but before I do I wanted to double check a couple things. (normally I would just buy parts but I'm unemployed at the moment and trying not to spend too much on unneeded or wrong parts)

Unfortunately I wasn't able to get the ptn04050c sample from TI.  That's OK, Arrow has em for $12-$13 ea.
I also wasn't able to find the digital pot you referenced and was hoping i could get your guys expertise on this one
and double check to make sure my wiring of it is correct.

I really don't like that its connected straight to the battery before the mosfet but according to the data sheet (pg 17) it needs to be or wont retain wiper setting  :no:

Also, do you think that 1 to 10uF loesr cap is absolutely necessary? Hate to have to cram another one of those in there.

Thanks boba. Glad to help.

Call Arrow before ordering. I have ordered 0450c's from them and was charged 14 bucks for shipping. Maybe my locale. Some users have paid only 5 bucks.

Yes to retain the wiper settings it must be powered all the time. Note: if you are removing the battery for charging, with the Pre pin 7 to gnd it will set the wiper to mid position when re-installing the battery. I do not see a problem with leaving the AD5228 powered as it only draws 1ma while idle. Or, you can use a built-in USB charger and not remove the battery.
The DS1869-100 that I used has a wiper memory but they are now obsolete. If you have a lot of money, you can get 5,000 of them from Digikey  :laughing: See --> HERE (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/DS1869-100/DS1869-100-ND/445085)

I believe you can fore-go the 1 to 10uF caps. They are needed for filtering ripple of a power supply. We are using straight battery voltage so it should not be a concern.

I would like to suggest not using a 14500 battery. Much better results are had with a high drain 18500, 18490, 18650 or Li-Po 20C battery.

The parts list look good. I wouldn't recommend the tactile switches you linked to though.
1% resistors are great. You can use 1/8 watt. They are half as big as the 1/4 watt. You don't have to use metal. You can use carbon as well.
The mosfet source to gate resistor. 15k will most likely not work. It depends on your skin moisture and humidity. I have found that 100 meg ohm works for me. You can start at 10 meg ohm and work up as needed. You want the mosfet to completely turn on and completely shut off a volt meter on the Drain to Ground will let you know that. Also when testing use a coil/atty as a load when determining what size resistor works best.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 10:21:26 AM
Quote
I have ordered 0450c's from them and was charged 14 bucks for shipping.
WOW. i will def. make sure that isn't the case.
I think I will work on a new e-mail address today and try TI again later.

Quote
I believe you can fore-go the 1 to 10uF caps. They are needed for filtering ripple of a power supply. We are using straight battery voltage so it should not be a concern.
Thats what I thought too but wanted to make sure, they are so big.

Quote
I would like to suggest not using a 14500 battery. Much better results are had with a high drain 18500, 18490, 18650 or Li-Po 20C battery.
My original idea was to use cell phone batteries. I have a couple Li-ion 1700mah that I planned on running in parallel. Then adding an internal charging circuit. I've searched everywhere to try to find data sheets on them to find a C rating to no avail. I don't imagine the 1 battery could handle it but I think 2 in parallel would make it and i could still fit the batteries and all the circuitry into a 3xAA box. My main intent is to keep it small. (i know...  why not series then the step down regulator? charging would be a pain in the ass, removing them or integrating a circuit to parallel them for charging to keep them balanced...   ehhh)

how do i find out the actual C rating of a certain battery without having the data sheet for it? Is there a simple bench test without pushing it to its limit and blowing up a spare one? they are protected so i guess i wouldn't have to blow one up.

i think VV mod with 3400mah in a 3xAA box w/recessed cartomizer would be awesome

Quote
The mosfet source to gate resistor. 15k will most likely not work. It depends on your skin moisture and humidity.
I'm not planning on using a touch sensor, just a tactile switch to save room.

why wouldn't you recommend those tactile switches?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 08, 2013, 10:45:38 AM
how do i find out the actual C rating of a certain battery without having the data sheet for it? Is there a simple bench test without pushing it to its limit and blowing up a spare one? they are protected so i guess i wouldn't have to blow one up.

i think VV mod with 3400mah in a 3xAA box w/recessed cartomizer would be awesome
I'm not planning on using a touch sensor, just a tactile switch to save room.

why wouldn't you recommend those tactile switches?

A cell phone battery has a low C rating and will not handle the demand of an atty coil. I think it's like 2C.
To calculate the C rating you would need to know the battery internal resistance. See --> HERE (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1608752)

Okay then on the 15K with a tact. Tweaking will be required.

Tacts for up/down. Don't like the plunger. You need something that protrudes through the box like a standard tact. Looks like you would have to use a pointed object to poke thru the box to engage the tact.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 11:00:50 AM
Quote
A cell phone battery has a low C rating and will not handle the demand of an atty coil. I think it's like 2C.
To calculate the C rating you would need to know the battery internal resistance
2C is actually higher than i guessed. If they are 2C then ....   paralleled 1700mah = 3400mah     3.4Ah x 2C = 6.8Amps   Thats gotta be more than what a 14500 trustfire is putting out, no?

I wish I had one of those high end chargers to check IR

Quote
You need something that protrudes through the box like a standard tact.
I planned on using rubber buttons that i have from devices I have torn apart but I probably could find a low profile tactile that has a protruding actuator, probably be easier.

thanks again for the advice, helps a lot!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 08, 2013, 11:07:27 AM
2C is actually higher than i guessed. If they are 2C then ....   paralleled 1700mah = 3400mah     3.4Ah x 2C = 6.8Amps   Thats gotta be more than what a 14500 trustfire is putting out, no?

thanks again for the advice, helps a lot!

The 2C was just a wild guess. Not sure what they really are.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 11:20:07 AM
The cell phone batteries were just an idea that I plan on doing some experimenting with.

 I'm not a real heavy vaper. I've been vaping for about 3 yrs but until a little while ago I've been satisfied with an ego kit (600-900mah batts and standard cartomizers) The main reason I've stuck with those for so long is the price and the size. Never wanted to carry around a huge tube mod but now that a Vamo is only $24 I might get one just for home use.

I built my first NicoStik and have the modding bug now so I will definitely let ya'll know what I come up with
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on September 08, 2013, 12:55:12 PM
DC-DC converters create a lot of ripple and noise.  The capacitor is needed to keep the supply voltage stable for the pot.  Took me a while to figure out what you meant by "loesr", but now I see that's "low ESR".  The best capacitor to use for that purpose is an MLCC cap.  Use a 1uF.  They are small, inexpensive, and have the lowest ESR of any general purpose capacitor.

The capacitor needs to be connected as close as possible to the pot leads, both power and ground which are pins 8 and 4 on the pot in your drawing.  You may or may not have a problem without one, but it's standard practice to add a .1 to 1uF cap at the power and ground pins for any chip that uses digital logic. 

Cell phone batteries are typically 1C.  They are probably the most hazardous batteries you could use to power an atomizer except maybe those 3.2V CR2 Li-Ions, those are horrible too.  They're not designed for the drain currents you would see with an atomizer.  I've seen lots of people talk about using cell phone batteries and even actually attempt it.  If you use a flat LiPo cell, it should be at least 10C and must at least have short circuit protection.  Just use an IMR cell.  Those are the safest ones for our purposes.

Digital inputs from tactile switches typically need to be "debounced".  I don't know about that chip, it may have debouncing already built into the switch inputs, but that's normally something that needs to be considered.  Switch contacts make a lot of noise when opening and closing that digital inputs mistake for multiple switch activations.  You usually have the option of debouncing in software or hardware with MCUs, but with that one, you can only hardware debounce.

You can try it as wired in the diagram, but if the pot jumps around on you, that's what's causing it.  Hardware debouncing is usually not a big deal, just a matter of two resistors and a capacitor, but since you are trying to minimize part count and it's already known to work without it, should be okay.  Just bringing up the issue of switch debouncing as a matter of practice.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 08, 2013, 02:07:43 PM
Thanks craig for the heads up on the filter. Since the datasheet mentioned filtering of a power supply, I assumed it was not needed.

The AD5228 does have a built in de-bounce circuit.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 08:11:23 PM
Ok I have my 4050 mocked up on the bench. I'm using the DS1809-100 with 2 tach switches. When I test fire it its at 3.8 volts on the meter. I tried to adjust the pot and nothing  :wallbash:
I followed the org post but used a tach switch to fire (that seems to be working)  all is good except the DP  here is the set up I used

Any help would be awesome. After 2 hours I'm Outta ideas  :(
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 08, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Ok I have my 4050 mocked up on the bench. I'm using the DS1809-100 with 2 tach switches. When I test fire it its at 3.8 volts on the meter. I tried to adjust the pot and nothing  :wallbash:
I followed the org post but used a tach switch to fire (that seems to be working)  all is good except the DP  here is the set up I used

Any help would be awesome. After 2 hours I'm Outta ideas  :(

Here is a hint................
The DS1809 Operating Supply Voltage:    4.5 V to 5.5 V
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 08:30:04 PM
Ahhhh so it won't work with 3.7-4.2  Doh: is there any way with a cap to get it to work or should I try and find a different chip for a DP?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 09:13:03 PM
Ok. I think I found a work around for this ID10T move I made. LoL. I was looking for a small step up to get 5v from my 3.7 and I came across this http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/2115
It looks like it will fit the bill and be small enough. Any feedback would be appreciated  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 09:40:28 PM
DC-DC converters create a lot of ripple and noise.  The capacitor is needed to keep the supply voltage stable for the pot.  Took me a while to figure out what you meant by "loesr", but now I see that's "low ESR".  The best capacitor to use for that purpose is an MLCC cap.  Use a 1uF.  They are small, inexpensive, and have the lowest ESR of any general purpose capacitor.

The capacitor needs to be connected as close as possible to the pot leads, both power and ground which are pins 8 and 4 on the pot in your drawing.  You may or may not have a problem without one, but it's standard practice to add a .1 to 1uF cap at the power and ground pins for any chip that uses digital logic. 

Cell phone batteries are typically 1C.  They are probably the most hazardous batteries you could use to power an atomizer except maybe those 3.2V CR2 Li-Ions, those are horrible too.  They're not designed for the drain currents you would see with an atomizer.  I've seen lots of people talk about using cell phone batteries and even actually attempt it.  If you use a flat LiPo cell, it should be at least 10C and must at least have short circuit protection.  Just use an IMR cell.  Those are the safest ones for our purposes.

Digital inputs from tactile switches typically need to be "debounced".  I don't know about that chip, it may have debouncing already built into the switch inputs, but that's normally something that needs to be considered.  Switch contacts make a lot of noise when opening and closing that digital inputs mistake for multiple switch activations.  You usually have the option of debouncing in software or hardware with MCUs, but with that one, you can only hardware debounce.

You can try it as wired in the diagram, but if the pot jumps around on you, that's what's causing it.  Hardware debouncing is usually not a big deal, just a matter of two resistors and a capacitor, but since you are trying to minimize part count and it's already known to work without it, should be okay.  Just bringing up the issue of switch debouncing as a matter of practice.

thanks for your input Craig, i changed my order and switched out the 1 cap i had for a smaller 1uf MLCC and switched out the 271 series 1/4w resistors for smaller 270 series 1/8w.
and like breaktru already posted that chip does have built in debounce

next thing i'll need to do is figure out a new enclosure plan, since i'll be going with a bigger battery.  :(    i've looked at so many different options and i'm not happy with any of them.

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 09:45:06 PM
Ok. I think I found a work around for this ID10T move I made. LoL. I was looking for a small step up to get 5v from my 3.7 and I came across this http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/211
It looks like it will fit the bill and be small enough. Any feedback would be appreciated  :thumbsup:

i think you link got cut off,  got a page not found error

i think instead of adding more circuitry ( keep it as simple as possible) your best bet would be to get a different digital pot that has 3v operating voltage.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 10:11:56 PM
i think you link got cut off,  got a page not found error

i think instead of adding more circuitry ( keep it as simple as possible) your best bet would be to get a different digital pot that has 3v operating voltage.

Your probably right there. I jumped the gun and ordered the 1809's .  I might have to order the one you are looking at. 

P.S.  I edited the link so it works now.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 08, 2013, 10:18:24 PM
Your probably right there. I jumped the gun and ordered the 1809's .  I might have to order the one you are looking at.

$1.07  @ mouser http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=AD5228BUJZ100-RL7virtualkey58430000virtualkey584-AD5228BUJZ100-R7 (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=AD5228BUJZ100-RL7virtualkey58430000virtualkey584-AD5228BUJZ100-R7)

dont forget to get that 1uF MLCC capacitor to go with it
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 08, 2013, 11:11:54 PM
Ordered the new DP's and few other things I needed. I've got 1uf caps from older projects so good there. Thanks for the help guys. I really need to look before I leap on some stuff. LMAO
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 09, 2013, 09:30:57 AM
DC-DC converters create a lot of ripple and noise.  The capacitor is needed to keep the supply voltage stable for the pot.  Took me a while to figure out what you meant by "loesr", but now I see that's "low ESR".  The best capacitor to use for that purpose is an MLCC cap.  Use a 1uF.  They are small, inexpensive, and have the lowest ESR of any general purpose capacitor.

Question:
The datasheet for the AD5228 calls for a 1uF to 10uF Electrolytic or Tantalum capacitor. The MLCC cap it a MultiLayer Ceramic Cap. Would that be a problem?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on September 09, 2013, 12:43:13 PM
Shouldn't be.  Usually it's only linear regulators that require the use of a tantalum since output stability depends on the high ESR of one.  For bypass or decoupling as required on the power supply for digital chips, MLCC caps do the best job there.

That may be an old part.  Inexpensive high value MLCC caps are a fairly a new innovation and probably were not around when that data sheet was written.  A single 1uF MLCC cap will do a better job of filtering power than the configuration shown in that data sheet.  I typically use a .1uF MLCC cap and sometimes a .47uF MLCC cap, but as noisy as a converter is, you'll want the higher value.

In terms of actual ESR values, a 1uF MLCC cap typically has about 20 mOhms ESR at 100kHz.  A 10uF electrolytic has about 100 mOhms and a 1uF tantalum has about 3 Ohms ESR.  The lower ESR is more significant in smoothing high frequency ripple than the higher capacitance.  However, higher capacitances are sometimes required if you need a tank capacitor to cover low frequency, high magnitude power irregularities.

Sounds weird but both ESR and capacitance value come into play when filtering power supplies.  if you input a 100kHz square wave on a RC circuit using a good circuit simulator that accounts for ESR, you'll see a lower ESR does a better job at higher frequencies even with lower values of capacitance.  High capacitance does a better job with with lower frequency and higher magnitude ripple.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 09, 2013, 02:01:08 PM
Thanks buddy. The info was great.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 19, 2013, 08:45:08 PM
I've been tring to solider up the AD5228 and this chip is just way to small!!!! Is there any other chips still in production that will work for a DP for us? Sorry to be a PITA but I'm hell bent that this mod will have a DP...lol
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 20, 2013, 09:40:53 AM
I've been tring to solider up the AD5228 and this chip is just way to small!!!! Is there any other chips still in production that will work for a DP for us? Sorry to be a PITA but I'm hell bent that this mod will have a DP...lol

Yes the the AD5228 is tiny. It's a TSOIC foot print. It is also a 32 step.
I searched long and hard for a replacement for the DS1869 and finally found an OnSemi PDIP-8 that looks like it will work.
Part number is CAT5113LI-00-G. Has 100 steps, supply current 100uA, 2.5v to 6v supply, PDIP-8 foot print and retains wiper memory.

Also a DS1804-100 is about the same except the supply current is 400uA
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 20, 2013, 12:28:26 PM
Yes the the AD5228 is tiny. It's a TSOIC foot print. It is also a 32 step.
I searched long and hard for a replacement for the DS1869 and finally found an OnSemi PDIP-8 that looks like it will work.
Part number is CAT5113LI-00-G. Has 100 steps, supply current 100uA, 2.5v to 6v supply, PDIP-8 foot print and retains wiper memory.

Also a DS1804-100 is about the same except the supply current is 400uA

i looked at both of those and several like those. my concern with those was simple operation. appeared to me that you need a signal input via microprocessor instead of just simple tact switches. how do you get around that?

you don't think 100 steps to get from 3.5 - 6 volts is too many?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 20, 2013, 01:48:41 PM
i looked at both of those and several like those. my concern with those was simple operation. appeared to me that you need a signal input via microprocessor instead of just simple tact switches. how do you get around that?

you don't think 100 steps to get from 3.5 - 6 volts is too many?

The more steps the better. Ideally a 256 step would do. Finer voltage output tuning w/ more steps. You don't have to press the PB a hundred times. Just hold it depress to cycle through.
The pins and nomenclature are the same for the image DP in the attached......
Note: these DP's do not have a debounce circuit. It is added in the circuit below.....
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: bobaganoosh on September 20, 2013, 02:10:06 PM
The more steps the better. Ideally a 256 step would do. Finer voltage output tuning w/ more steps. You don't have to press the PB a hundred times. Just hold it depress to cycle through.
The pins and nomenclature are the same for the image DP in the attached......
Note: these DP's do not have a debounce circuit. It is added in the circuit below.....

32 step works fine for me, i don't need to increment in hundredths of volts.

So you can operate those without a signal, you just need to push and hold 1 button while pushing the other button to change wiper direction towards the high end.  instead of just 1 button for up and 1 button for down.

hard to believe they phased out the 1869's as there doesnt seem to be a direct replacement for them, what a shame.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on September 20, 2013, 02:23:09 PM
To use a part in an SOIC or MSOP package, you would need to use a breakout board like this (http://www.adafruit.com/products/1212).  It is possible to solder components by hand with packages that small if you have the right tools and supplies.  You would use a fine tip, fine wire solder, and some good magnification.  There's some soldering tutorials that have been posted here that show how to do it.  You can also do it easily using reflow soldering.

That's a less common debouncer configuration in the diagram, but that would work too.  Attached is a debouncer I would typically use with a 3V supply, for a 5V supply I'd use 47K resistors, but it's not critical, just determines current loading, I like to keep it around 100uA.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 20, 2013, 04:30:22 PM
To use a part in an SOIC or MSOP package, you would need to use a breakout board like this (http://www.adafruit.com/products/1212).  It is possible to solder components by hand with packages that small if you have the right tools and supplies.  You would use a fine tip, fine wire solder, and some good magnification.  There's some soldering tutorials that have been posted here that show how to do it.  You can also do it easily using reflow soldering.

That's a less common debouncer configuration in the diagram, but that would work too.  Attached is a debouncer I would typically use with a 3V supply, for a 5V supply I'd use 47K resistors, but it's not critical, just determines current loading, I like to keep it around 100uA.

Yeah the breakout boards are great. I have several in different format conversion styles in my parts bin.

I agree that the debounce circuit is less common. I have seen many like you show. The one I posted was from a Maxim engineer which was used with the Max5160 D.P.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: methos on September 20, 2013, 09:09:23 PM
Awesome!!!! TY Craig! That's exactly what I needed!  Great site btw. It has lots of toys:-)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on October 25, 2013, 07:28:58 PM
Break is popularity with this boost mod

Seems they have your original config for this chip..
It is a sweet mod..
What is the voltage range with the 100k   10kset  100ktrim?   

http://blog.naver.com/PostView.nhn?blogId=kingkong4235&logNo=80137147070&redirect=Dlog&widgetTypeCall=true
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 25, 2013, 07:39:02 PM
Break is popularity with this boost mod

Seems they have your original config for this chip..
It is a sweet mod..
What is the voltage range with the 100k   10kset  100ktrim?   

http://blog.naver.com/PostView.nhn?blogId=kingkong4235&logNo=80137147070&redirect=Dlog&widgetTypeCall=true

Wow nice find Visus. They have the very old schematics with the diode. Wonder where they found that old schematic.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on October 25, 2013, 07:56:54 PM
I google image the chip to see how it was packaged by different people and that popped up I thought it was back here, nope---.
Break do you remember the voltage range with that set up?  Radio shack is limited and carry the 100k and 10k not the 15k  or the 4.7.   I have the chips and the slow boat from china will be slow..   :laughing2: 

I am on the Table 2. PTN04050C Output Voltage Set-Point Resistor Values but your custom hack has me  :wallbash: trying to figure the Vout.


Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 25, 2013, 09:05:55 PM
I can't recall what it was. The schematic says 3.2v to >6v but that can't be right.
You can get the resistors in 3 days, at least to NY it was 3 days, from digikey. I just place an order for more 4.7k and 15k resistors. 10 of each. Plus other junk. Shipping was only $2.94
15K part # RNF18FTD15K0CT-ND (10 cents)
4.7k part # S4.7KCACT-ND (9 cents)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on October 25, 2013, 09:43:43 PM
has anyone ever told you your awesome.
well you would be if you built my boxes and held and pushed the button
 so your the only semi driving cool..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: doobedoobedo on January 01, 2014, 09:04:42 PM
This is a great little mod Breaktru :).

I was looking for a small variable voltage circuit and I chose this one, complete with touch switch, for it's size and simplicity.

I've managed to cram everything into a tiny space by using tantalum SMT caps on a 7 hole x 4 strips piece of strip board.

Oh, and thanks also to TI for the sample :D

My version isn't as small as yours, but I'm using 3x750 mAh LiPos in parallel and a USB charger board. It's not quite done yet as I still have to finish off shaping the bottom cover and I'm waiting on some little magnets to arrive to use to fix the cover in place.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 01, 2014, 09:25:28 PM
Great doobe. Glad your going w/ more battery power. It will make a big difference.
Can't wait to see it done.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: doobedoobedo on January 02, 2014, 07:52:55 AM
Me either :). I have quite a few pics of the build.

I made a vamo v3 board based mod before. It lasts me 2 1/2 to 3 days on a charge with 3 x 1000 mAh LiPos.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on January 02, 2014, 09:14:08 AM
Me either :). I have quite a few pics of the build.

I made a vamo v3 board based mod before. It lasts me 2 1/2 to 3 days on a charge with 3 x 1000 mAh LiPos.

If you are interested in displaying your mod, create a new topic in the Modding category.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: doobedoobedo on January 02, 2014, 12:46:45 PM
OK will do
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on February 26, 2014, 05:31:20 AM
I've just been looking on farnell for this chip, there appears to be quite a few variants: PTN04050CAD, PTN04050CAZ, PTN04050AAD, PTN04050AAZ...

Which would be the best for our application?

Thanks :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 26, 2014, 06:54:13 AM
I've just been looking on farnell for this chip, there appears to be quite a few variants: PTN04050CAD, PTN04050CAZ, PTN04050AAD, PTN04050AAZ...

Which would be the best for our application?

Thanks :)

Stay away from the "A" version. It's only rated at 1 Amp. (4050Axx)
The CAZ and the CAS are surface mounts and the CAD and CAH are Through hole mount. These are the same just different mountings.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on February 26, 2014, 06:59:58 AM
Great stuff. Thanks very much Breaktru :)

Another daft question... I'm struggling to find suitable caps on farnell.

Would these do the job? http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/100f-100v-105c-radial-electrolytic-capacitor-n85kf
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 26, 2014, 07:56:36 AM
Those caps are rather large.
Check these out Panasonic Low ESR (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/100UF-10V-Panasonic-LOW-ESR-Radial-105c-Pack-of-5pcs-/290812163384) and SMD by AVX (http://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/tantalum-capacitors/2508269241/)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on February 26, 2014, 10:07:17 AM
Thanks :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on February 28, 2014, 05:44:35 AM
Sorry for the double post...

Just finished my booster mod. Many thanks for the help via PM Dave :)

(http://i.imgur.com/GAKaCoH.jpg?1)

(http://i.imgur.com/WtbOeWA.jpg?1)

One question. I've noticed that when the battery voltage gets low, something inside the mod is making a squeeking noise. Is this something to be concerned with?

I think I'm going to try and squeeze one of your low voltage indicators inside it too.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on February 28, 2014, 07:01:06 AM
Very nice and small. You did a great job squeezing it all in.
The squealing is an indication that the converter is under powered (low input voltage).
The low voltage indicator would fit nicely. Doesn't take up much room.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on February 28, 2014, 07:09:54 AM
The battery read 3.2v when it started squealing. I still got a good 6-7 hours vaping from it at 4.2v though :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: doobedoobedo on February 28, 2014, 07:40:00 AM
That's lovely and small. I like the contrast of the wooden lid on the metal case too.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on February 28, 2014, 10:40:49 AM
Nice compact mod stealth

I recommend a lipo for Break 4050c  it really wakes it up.

What is amazing is the vdrop is not found under load
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: rhay80 on March 07, 2014, 04:05:53 PM
Hello guys, I have just read this topic from start to finish, my brain is fried lol.

I have a project in mind.... Was looking for advice and suggestions, I have a bottom feeder box mod, which runs off an 18500 battery, just a tactile switch no vv... As yet.

Basically if I could fit 2x14500, sort of above the circuitry would this be safe and possible?

If you want any pics of the inside and measurements I would be happy to provide them. But as this would be my very first attempt at this kind of build any advice would be appreciated. BTW I have no problem with ripping out the internals of this mod.

Thanks in advance Russell

PS I posted in this thread as this is the chip set that I would be interested in using. :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on March 07, 2014, 04:27:30 PM
Basically if I could fit 2x14500, sort of above the circuitry would this be safe and possible?

It's a booster so you're talking parallel removable cells which carries some safety concerns for unprotected batteries.  You'd need to run a fuse on each cell to provide protection for reverse polarity or excessive equalization currents that can occur if installed with a charge mismatch.  Protected cells can resolve the isssue, but protected cells that small may trip when running higher outputs.  Other than that, there's no issue using parallel 14500s.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: rhay80 on March 07, 2014, 04:34:58 PM
It's a booster so you're talking parallel removable cells which carries some safety concerns for unprotected batteries.  You'd need to run a fuse on each cell to provide protection for reverse polarity or excessive equalization currents that can occur if installed with a charge mismatch.  Protected cells can resolve the isssue, but protected cells that small may trip when running higher outputs.  Other than that, there's no issue using parallel 14500s.

Hi Craig I would use two protected 14500 (trustfires) thanks for replying
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Mandro on March 07, 2014, 04:38:04 PM
Hi Russel.
I'm just posting to say that it's good to see you on the breaktru forum. I don't think that I am experienced enough yet to give any advice. I can build them, using the info on here but I'm still not totally sure how they work.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 07, 2014, 05:00:18 PM
Hello guys, I have just read this topic from start to finish, my brain is fried lol.

I have a project in mind.... Was looking for advice and suggestions, I have a bottom feeder box mod, which runs off an 18500 battery, just a tactile switch no vv... As yet.

Basically if I could fit 2x14500, sort of above the circuitry would this be safe and possible?

If you want any pics of the inside and measurements I would be happy to provide them. But as this would be my very first attempt at this kind of build any advice would be appreciated. BTW I have no problem with ripping out the internals of this mod.

Thanks in advance Russell

PS I posted in this thread as this is the chip set that I would be interested in using. :)

Russ!

If it's your bogger you're thinking of converting, then why not make it single 18350 and fit the booster above or below the battery? There should be just about enought room...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on March 07, 2014, 05:03:07 PM
It's a booster so you're talking parallel removable cells which carries some safety concerns for unprotected batteries.  You'd need to run a fuse on each cell to provide protection for reverse polarity or excessive equalization currents that can occur if installed with a charge mismatch.  Protected cells can resolve the isssue, but protected cells that small may trip when running higher outputs.  Other than that, there's no issue using parallel 14500s.

The main reason I will use lipo's on any mod I make from here on out running parallel with big mah, they make it easier IMO.  To many variables @ our current demands after used across a few months/years with parallel li ion cells. 
The 4050 really likes lipo too it vhispered it to me -- "yeah thats the good stuff.."
Using the right recommended single(AW) li ion is awesome for small form mods with this module..

Your gonna love it Rhay..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on March 07, 2014, 05:18:34 PM
Still need a fuse between the battery and the board for short circuit protection, though for parallel non-removable cells, you don't need a fuse on each cell since there's no concern about reverse polarity or charge mismatch.  Again, a protected battery eliminates this concern provided the battery can handle the load without tripping.  Boosters increase current demand on the battery so it can be an issue.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: rhay80 on March 07, 2014, 05:32:28 PM
Russ!

If it's your bogger you're thinking of converting, then why not make it single 18350 and fit the booster above or below the battery? There should be just about enought room...

 :rockin smiley: thats something worth thinking about. There would be more than enough room with an 18350.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: rhay80 on March 08, 2014, 03:28:21 AM
Couple of questions about resistors, what ratings should I look for there are .25w, 8w etc, are there much difference between brands?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on March 08, 2014, 05:41:22 PM
Resistors are probably the most generic component in electronics.  There's really no difference between one brand and another.  There's a few different types such as metal foil or thick film, but it doesn't really matter for general use.  It only comes down to ratings, things like tolerance, power, temperature coefficient, etc.

For the ones you use on the pot and other low current parts of the circuit, really any resistor will do, but better to use the 1% tolerance ones.  There's virtually no difference in price between those and the 5% ones.  You can use any power rating you want, but in terms of the leaded type, 1/8W or 1/4W is fine and they're pretty small.

If you need to use capacitors, that's entirely different.  Those are the opposite of resistors in terms of the options to choose from.  There's a bunch of different types and they all have their pluses and minuses.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 24, 2014, 03:23:05 PM
I've been trying to get my head round what spec fuse to use with this chip...

I couldn't see a max input current on the data sheet, so I used Craig's equation and came out with 4.88A

12W max output with 80% effecieny = 14.4W
minimum input voltage = 2.95V

14.4 / 2.95 = 4.88

So, I should be using a 5A fuse? And 16V would be fine.

Sorry for the long winded question, I really want to understand what I'm doing, rather than than just following someone else's instructions.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on March 27, 2014, 06:12:35 PM
Should reasonable. 5A hold and 16V should be fine.  Though the TI booster can be driven harder than the 12W specification.  I know Breaktru has no trouble getting 20W out of his and has one that can go even higher than that.  Can you confirm that Dave?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 27, 2014, 06:55:23 PM
Yes I have pushed the PTN04050c beyond it's spec data of 12W, 2.4A to a wee bit over 30 Watts.
Here is a photo of 25.44 Watts, 4.67 Amps using a 1.16 ohm load
This was done w/ only a single 20C, 1000mah li-po.

I'm not sure which fuse I used. It's heat shrank. May have used a 6A or 7A PTC

(http://breaktru.com/ecig/mcu_nokia_amps2.jpg)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 28, 2014, 07:33:57 AM
Interesting... that said, I've been using a 1.1ohm coil on mine wiuthout a fuse at 4.2V, which is about 16watts.

I might go for 2 x 3A in parallel, as I have loads of them here. Unless anyone can see any issues?

that should allow me to run a 1.1ohm coil at 4.2V pretty comfortably.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on March 28, 2014, 07:52:40 AM
I see issue with it, your at a measly 16 watts crank that mofo up to 37 watts and then report back.   :yes"  :thumbsup:   freaked_out:

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 28, 2014, 08:22:47 AM
Interesting... that said, I've been using a 1.1ohm coil on mine wiuthout a fuse at 4.2V, which is about 16watts.

I might go for 2 x 3A in parallel, as I have loads of them here. Unless anyone can see any issues?

that should allow me to run a 1.1ohm coil at 4.2V pretty comfortably.

2 x 3A is good. Go for it
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 28, 2014, 08:30:38 AM
Thanks for the advice again guys  :beer-toast:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 30, 2014, 07:47:57 AM
I've just wired up my second box, but this time I've included the 2 x 3A fuses discussed above.

I've run into a slight issue and I'm not quite sure what the underlying problem is...

With my first box (without fuses) I could run a 1.1ohm coil @ 4.2V and the battery would drain down to about 3.2V before the chip started to struggle...

This new box I've made with the fuses struggles to power the same set up with a fresh battery... In fact it struggles to power a 1.4ohm coil @ 4.2V once the battery has drained to around 3.8V.

Any ideas? I thought maybe it was a bad solder joint, so dismantled and resoldered everything.

Could the fuses be to blame?
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 30, 2014, 08:06:36 AM
@wreck:
Same battery?
Jump out the fuses for test purposes.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on March 30, 2014, 08:09:09 AM
Yeah, same battery...

Looks like I'm going to have to take the fuses out to test... unfortunately they're buried really deep in the mod  :wallbash:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 30, 2014, 08:11:25 AM
While you're in there, check the integrity of all you connections
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on April 01, 2014, 11:50:41 AM
You normally get some voltage drop with the fuses, but it shouldn't be enough to cause things to stop working, less than a tenth of a volt.  So yeah, there's something unusual going on.  If you can get it there, measure the voltage across the fuses under power.  If it's much more that a tenth of a volt, resistance is too high.  Also, check voltage at the board connections under power.  With the resistance of the battery, fuses, and wiring, voltage should not sag more than three tenths below open circuit battery voltage.

You want to minimize voltage drop from the battery as much as possible with a booster.  Still, it should not preclude the use of fuses.  Worn or incorrect batteries can sag in voltage too much under load and bad connections can introduce resistance that also causes voltage to drop a lot.  Use good high drain batteries and a liberal gauge on wiring (20 AWG is usually good).
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: micheleCIG on April 02, 2014, 08:35:58 AM
good evening guys! If I got it right I should use a heat shrink to pump the circuit above the 12w declared by TI?
thank you all :)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: tangocharlie on April 02, 2014, 09:59:43 AM
bolol
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 02, 2014, 10:59:14 AM
good evening guys! If I got it right I should use a heat shrink to pump the circuit above the 12w declared by TI?
thank you all :)

NO heat shrink or do you mean Heat SINK. No either way.

You need a good strong quality battery like a 20C Lipo battery or better. You can also use an 18650 30A battery. Preferably Sony or Panasonic. You are not going to get those results with a 14500 battery used in this .44 mini mod topic.
Use short and large gauge wires on the battery and output. 20 gauge or even 18 gauge.
If you are going to use a PTC fuse, it should be the lowest resistance that your can find.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: micheleCIG on April 02, 2014, 01:24:08 PM
I meant heat sink :p
I asked because on italian forum they say that circuit fries if more than 12w are required
Thank you for the explaination btw
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 02, 2014, 03:04:09 PM
I meant heat sink :p
I asked because on italian forum they say that circuit fries if more than 12w are required
Thank you for the explaination btw

When running a converter beyond it's maximum specifications you run the risk of damaging it. The PTN04050c maximum specs seem to be underrated and can be pushed a bit above the max. How much over safely and for how long? I don't know.
I have successfully pushed several 04050's over it's limit with no ill effects for testing but I don't do that often so I don't know if it would be damaged if used like that continuously.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on April 02, 2014, 04:59:22 PM
The parts that get hot and can benefit from additional cooling are the inductor and switches.  For a heat sink to do anything with these parts, they have to be the type with an exposed die on top.  Here's (http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/csd16325q5c.pdf) an example.  The epoxy packages used on these parts has poor thermal conductivity so little heat can be transferred through the packaging material.  Since exposed die parts are not used there, a heat sink will not have a significant effect on cooling.

Since e-cigs are not powered continuously, there's time between loading that allows parts too cool.  Even when overdriven, the intermittent application of power with an e-cig keeps parts from overheating.  Though, if driven hard enough for long enough it's still possible to overheat the parts.


Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on April 03, 2014, 03:13:03 PM
While you're in there, check the integrity of all you connections

Well, I rebuilt the whole thing from the ground up and it is working much better than before... :)

I think some of my connections were a bit weak, and I'd also used longer runs of wire than in my previous build. I reorganised the internals to let me use less wire, and it's improved things greatly
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on April 03, 2014, 03:59:27 PM
Well, I rebuilt the whole thing from the ground up and it is working much better than before... :)

I think some of my connections were a bit weak, and I'd also used longer runs of wire than in my previous build. I reorganised the internals to let me use less wire, and it's improved things greatly

Great to hear that. Well done mate.
Sometimes going over things 1,2,3, even 4 times can find a potential fault.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Mandro on April 03, 2014, 08:09:11 PM
I'm glad you got it fixed wreck  :thumbsup:
I also had problems with my latest 04050 mod. All was working fine until I tried to charge the batteries with the micro USB charger, when I removed the lead, the cradle was still attached.
The enclosure was designed with the idea of not having to remove the batteries too often as it wasn't that easy with them being wired in parallel.
I didn't have another USB charging board so I swapped the 04050 chip for a 08060 and modified the enclosure to make swapping batteries easy.
Tbh, I prefer the 08.... chips so I'm happy with the result.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: wreck on April 04, 2014, 03:28:07 PM
Cheers Mandro :)

Do be honest, I'm prefering the OKR chips... I like being able to pop my atties from my mechanical mods which I usally coil at about 1.0ohm onto it, without worrying about over working the chip.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on April 04, 2014, 04:31:06 PM
The step-downs are easier on the battery since they reduce battery current where the step-ups increase battery current.  The big advantage with the boosters is you only need one cell and you can throw a USB charger on there easily.  The big advantage with the step-downs is better performance, but you need two cells.  So yeah, the OKRs are probably going to work better for you.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: t-minik on June 06, 2014, 10:39:35 AM
Hi

Thanks for your hard work on this mod !

I just get from TI a couple of PTN04050C, can you tell me what happens when battery goes lower than 2.95V (as said in datasheet it's the minimum Vin value) ?

- will the PTN cut off ?
- will it continue to works ?

thanks a lot and best regards.
t-minik

EDIT // I'm planing to use it with 2 N-mosfets (irlr7843), one for firing and one as a battery reverse polarity protection.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on June 06, 2014, 12:08:25 PM
It will cut off at roughly 2.75v-2.95v but way before that,  the vape at approximately 3.2v starts pwm like a rattle snake with a limp. :laughing2: 
Both modules the buck 08100-8060/--- boost 4050, they will do that,  no more vapes at that time hopefully you can hear it,  especially if you do not have a battery monitor or cut-off installed.  When outside or busy area you cannot hear it...

I have ran my 4050 at 24-30 watts daily now for almost ~5 months.   I do however have it wired with 18ga and lipo batt,  previous had it wired with 22ga.  18ga wire makes a huge difference close to shut-off and warmth of battery and chip..  With 22ga the battery would get really warm the board also.. @ 18ga no warm battery or chip.  12w will not fry it if wired with heavier gauge and a good battery.  I noticed with a 14500, it gets warrm/hot either way I wired when above 15w,  with a 650mah 9 amp lipo round, no warmth even @ 24w but beware  of the cutoff with a lipo it definitely is bad below 3v..

Theres a guy on ecf who also uses the 4050 a lot and he has fried a couple of them so ymmv..  Solder good, connections good, caps direct on pin, 510, high c batts etc..

I pit this boost module against a provari any day, eyes closed you would not be able to tell which is in your hand by the vape quality until above 20w then the 4050 runs away from a provari and is awesome..  Voltage accuracy and smooth vaping, its silky smooth..


----
With standard resistance it was fine 2.0-2.8ohm any way I had it wired or type battery.  It was from Breaks finding with his mcu mod that I rewired and used a lipo..
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: t-minik on June 06, 2014, 12:20:37 PM
ok thanks Visus.

rattle snake is perfect to me, i don't care about DMM and other things, just want to get a cool 9/10W little mod for everyday use.
I never go down to 1.8R coil with my Evods so it seems perfect to me.
It would be perfect with some 20A 18650 LG battery i get.

Thanks a lot for your advices on Wire gauge.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on June 06, 2014, 03:51:25 PM
You really don't want to let the regulator buzz like that if you can avoid it.  What's happening is the regulator is cycling from startup at a high frequency which heavily loads the components.  That puts extra wear on them and increases chance of failure.  The repetitive heavy magnetic loading on the inductor is makes it buzz like that.  The inductor core physically oscillates and makes a sound.  Though, you need some kind of low voltage cut-out or low battery indicator to keep that from happening, there's really no way to avoid it otherwise.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: XombyCraft on June 16, 2014, 11:57:23 AM
Two questions here:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on June 16, 2014, 01:36:31 PM
If using a tactile and MOSFET to fire the atomizer, you can simply put a voltage detector inline.  I've talked about that on the forum here a couple times.  Though the part is small and hard to work with.  Not a problem if you're not afraid to make little host PCB for it.  There's other options for power modules that have an enable pin.  The TI booster module does not have one.

You can use any pot you want really.  It's not a matter ratings since the currents are small.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 16, 2014, 02:05:03 PM
If using a tactile and MOSFET to fire the atomizer, you can simply put a voltage detector inline.  I've talked about that on the forum here a couple times.  Though the part is small and hard to work with.  Not a problem if you're not afraid to make little host PCB for it.  There's other options for power modules that have an enable pin.  The TI booster module does not have one.

You can use any pot you want really.  It's not a matter ratings since the currents are small.

You mentioned the voltage detector HERE (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,1212.msg13843.html#msg13843)

I have a question for Mr. Craig.
Rather than using a voltage detector, can a Mosfet with a threshold MINIMUM voltage of 3.0V be used so it won't turn on under 3.0V?
Something like THIS (http://ixdev.ixys.com/DataSheet/DS98905E(IXTH-T50P10).pdf)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on June 16, 2014, 05:47:06 PM
The problem with using a MOSFET is that you get into the active region of the transistor.  A transistor's most elemental function is to operate like a valve in controlling current.  A transistor can be used as a switch but it has to be operated in it's "saturation" region. 

To be used as a switch, a transistor has to be fully on or fully off in the same manner you would turn a valve all the way open or all the way closed.  If you apply a voltage (for a FET) or a current (for a bipolar junction transistor) that is in the "active" region, you end up in effect with a resistor, the valve is partially open.

To use a FET, you have to provide a signal that is either on or off.  A voltage detector can provide that signal or an array of discrete components can be used.  It would take a number of transistors and a Zener discretely so it's just a lot easier to use a chip designed for that purpose, albeit in a small and hard to handle package.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 16, 2014, 06:10:45 PM
Thanks Craig.
Now that I think about it, I had the partially open effect using a mosfet with a touch point before finding a proper resistance value for the gate to source resistor.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: CraigHB on June 16, 2014, 06:17:03 PM
Welcome,

In reading that older post I noticed I had said I rather avoid the 0402 (1005 metric) parts.  Well I'm back at it with the 0402 caps and resistors with my latest controller board project.  Just can't seem to stay away from those damn things.  I can't make the board bigger so I have to make the parts smaller to add more of them.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: XombyCraft on June 16, 2014, 07:33:29 PM
Finally got my first 44 put together.

straightforward 2xAA box, point to point soldered all of the components.
My pot wasn't true enough, so I'm getting 4.0 to 6.2V, but that's juuuust fine by me.  tastes like a freshly charged battery on every drag!

Beats the pants off of my 2700mah ego-t board 3xAA box too!

Best part? Got 3 more 4050's to play with!

Now if that bottle of juice would stop stinking like rotting cologne...
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on July 14, 2014, 03:34:45 PM
Finally got my first 44 put together.

straightforward 2xAA box, point to point soldered all of the components.
My pot wasn't true enough, so I'm getting 4.0 to 6.2V, but that's juuuust fine by me.  tastes like a freshly charged battery on every drag!

Beats the pants off of my 2700mah ego-t board 3xAA box too!

Best part? Got 3 more 4050's to play with!

Now if that bottle of juice would stop stinking like rotting cologne...

Congrats on your build.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on July 14, 2014, 08:19:28 PM
Woot another break boost 4050c

pics?


Ya do know xomb
you can run it up to 14v,  I have one that does 9.2ish I ferget and its shelved until I get another lipo or toss it, cause only a 650mah lipo will fit the enclosure.  It is kinda cool being able to run them up or set em at  6ish whatever.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: XombyCraft on July 17, 2014, 01:28:25 PM
Yea I figured by playing with the resistor values I could push the voltages around.  I'm thinking it might be a good idea to get higher V-rated caps if you're going to push to/over 10v though.

My goal was not only to get un-rustified electronics wise, but to see what the performance improvement of higher voltages on my vaping experience.  This thing kicks like a mule on every hit now, and I'm loving it.

I did notice that at both ends of the 100k spectrum on the pot there seem to be "dead zones" where the V doesn't change, and I noticed this both with a trimpot and a modpots 100k pot i had laying around for testing purposes.  Is this normal?

Unfortunately, even at the higher end of its range, it failed to un-sucktificate a couple of lousy bottles of juice I got from MadVapes.

It seems as though the "modern" mixes are trending towards requiring high V or low/sub-ohm specs just to get a decent experience.  As I'm not much for cloudchasing, it's become irksome.  I may just be having a streak of bad juice luck.

Way way back when Altsmoke was still carrying "high caliber" brand juice, I could vape right out of the box... and got a great experience with the early tanks, cartos, and cartomizers...  But these days half of them you need to "steep" outgas for days/weeks, and its STILL hit or miss on if they're going to taste/smell like my grandfather's aftershave?  I just don't understand the logic, or why we throw away our $$$ on this crap, or why we work so hard to try to "fix" something that shouldn't have been broken in the first place.

My next 44 is going to be in a 3xAA box that fits perfectly in a small cell phone belt clip I got for free with some order from somewhere some time ago.  Currently that case is holding my 3xAA batbox setup (3.3 v regulated ego PCB holds 1,2, or 3x 14500s), but I'm better served by this little booster.  Planning an e-pipe build around this board too... going to have to call it the 12+ booster, lol.

I'll get some pics of my mods put up as soon as I've got a few minutes to spare.
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: thinman on July 25, 2014, 11:24:17 AM
Hi guys, I'm going to build the 18500 version and I'm checking to see if this cap will work.

http://www.jameco.com/1/1/27526-tap107k016ccs-vp-tap-capacitor-tantalum-radial-100uf-16vdc-10.html

Also the watts for the resistors would be very helpful. I hope I put that correctly. I've had the board a couple of years so it's about time I'd say.  :D

And this trimmer.            http://www.jameco.com/1/1/29922-3306p-1-104-3306-resistor-trimmer-cermet-1-turn-0-2w-100000-ohm.html

Thanks!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: XombyCraft on August 04, 2014, 06:29:01 PM
I used 10V rated electrolytic (tested low ESR) caps, so 16V rated tantalums should be more than fine.

I also used all 1/4W resistors, with no issues.

The trimpot goes on a low-signal area, so that one should suffice, HOWEVER with a 25% tolerance, you may find that your trimpot is not exactly 0-100k, but as low as 0-75k.
Mine turned out to be 98k on a 10%, so I lucked out royally.

Basically, it's rated 0-100k +- 25k  That's a broad range.
Will it really matter? Depends on how picky you are, or how much you want it to be SPOT ON.

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: thinman on August 10, 2014, 12:25:37 PM
Thanks for the info, been waiting to hear something before I order. ;cheers;
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: modfo on October 31, 2014, 12:46:16 PM
Could you tell me what watt the 100uf you used on the .44 mini
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on October 31, 2014, 03:38:52 PM
Caps are not rated in watts.
I used a 100uF, 10V, 0.3 ESR
Panasonic Low ESR: EEU-FR1A101B
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: modfo on October 31, 2014, 04:06:32 PM
Ok thank I was down at the 3rd floor mendelson building and they have every type of resisters . Caps fuses mosfets you can think of and was hoping too get it way I was there but got alot of stuff today just still waitmg on the power converters but got some board solder pins that just drop in the for you put your stuff in the board and all you have too do is just hit them up ooooya they had the tactile switches for on and off but not the momentary off/on but they are getting some in soon . I want too ask you about the mosfets but that's on your new build .
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on March 15, 2016, 07:56:48 PM
I finally broke my main passthru 08100 mod which I use 100% either on 12v passthru or in an 7.4v 18650 mod.  It got soaked in e juice from a leak that went un-noticed until it stopped firing.   :wallbash:

Anyway I pulled out my old 4050 passthru it's been a long long long time since used and I'll be a sack of potatoes it's so smooth,  I cannot believe how smooth it is comparing to the 08100 at same wattages.  I am in love with this darn thing again unfortunately it wont hit 70 watts but at 40 watts its an amazing vape...

Just had to reiterate on what i already knew of the different pwm frequency smoothnesss..  This is a great mod pcb if vaping under 40 watts...  Man o man is that 08100 a bruiser, rough as nails lol...

Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 16, 2016, 08:38:52 AM
Hey Visus,
I still use my 4050 and 08100. They both satisfy my vaping needs. I don't vape high wattage.
I mostly use my beta test version of the DNA 200 and rarely go over 10 watts. Seems like a waste using 10W on a 200W device  :laughing2:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Visus on March 16, 2016, 04:25:43 PM
Hey Visus,
I still use my 4050 and 08100. They both satisfy my vaping needs. I don't vape high wattage.
I mostly use my beta test version of the DNA 200 and rarely go over 10 watts. Seems like a waste using 10W on a 200W device  :laughing2:

 :laughing2:

There's a video on youtube of two senior ladies both over 80yrs old  driving a brand new Ferrari.  They drive around go to the shops and even pick up a guy while out.

Break its still badarsery that you have the 190watts on tap...  ;bow;

Good news very good news.  I played around with my 08100 passthru it was intermittently firing so i thought maybe its the switch-- ohm'd out the switch no,  maybe its a bad ground at the 510 buss nope.  I checked Vin and 12.7v but as soon as i fired an atty it would stop firing..   So I was gonna replace the 08100 but it started firing after wiggling the Vin wires and wouldn't ya know it the Vin 12v supply wires were damaged internally and would make contact as long as no load..   I rewired Vin and all is well again..   I hate stranded wire lol....  I even have it in a grommet but still they brittle and break and give me the flux but man o man was the 08100 soaked with e juice..


This is the second time this has happened in 3 yrs of use but I switched and used extra heavy duty wires  and the exterior of the wires look great,  before switching I knew right away..   
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on March 16, 2016, 04:35:22 PM
Ha, Ha, yes I saw that video a couple of days ago.

Glad you have the 08100 up and running again  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: poorboy on June 23, 2017, 02:32:46 PM
Hi Dave! Its been a while since I've posted and checked your page. I have made some mods using this specs and chip, hidden somewhere in my storage box. LOL! Btw, I was wondering if we can twick the specs a lil bit to fire sub-ohm coils? Or is there another module or chip we can use like this booster baby?
Thanks dave!
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on June 23, 2017, 06:09:00 PM
Hey poorboy, welcome back.
The .44 booster won't handle sub ohms.
Check out: OKL2-T20 20A 110W dc/dc converter (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,1216.0.html)
and the: Naos Raptor - 20A, 120W dc/dc converter (http://breaktru.com/smf/index.php/topic,1015.0.html)
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: faaramin on September 04, 2019, 07:24:50 AM
web design (http://www.rahkarenovin.com/)
DC-DC converters create a lot of ripple and noise.  The capacitor is needed to keep the supply voltage stable for the pot.  Took me a while to figure out what you meant by "loesr", but now I see that's "low ESR". web hosting (http://www.rahkarenovin.net/) The best capacitor to use for that purpose is an MLCC cap.  Use a 1uF.  They are small, inexpensive, and have the lowest ESR of any general purpose capacitor.

The capacitor needs to be connected as close as possible to the pot leads, both power and ground which are pins 8 and 4 on the pot in your drawing.  You may or may not have a problem without one,domain registration (http://www.rahkarenovin.net/domains/) but it's standard practice to add a .1 to 1uF cap at the power and ground pins for any chip that uses digital logic. 

Cell phone batteries are typically 1C.seo (http://www.rahkarenovin.com/page/12/)  They are probably the most hazardous batteries you could use to power an atomizer except maybe those 3.2V CR2 Li-Ions, those are horrible too.  They're not designed for the drain currents you would see with an atomizer.  I've seen lots of people talk about using cell phone batteries and even actually attempt it.hosting (http://www.rahkarenovin.net/web-hosting/)  If you use a flat LiPo cell, it should be at least 10C and must at least have short circuit protection.  Just use an IMR cell.  Those are the safest ones for our purposes.

Digital inputs from tactile switches typically need to be "debounced".  I don't know about that chip, it may have debouncing already built into the switch inputs, but that's normally something that needs to be considered.renoyadak (http://renoyadak.com/)  Switch contacts make a lot of noise when opening and closing that digital inputs mistake for multiple switch activations.  You usually have the option of debouncing in software or hardware with MCUs, but with that one, you can only hardware debounce.

You can try it as wired in the diagram, but if the pot jumps around on you, that's what's causing it.  Hardware debouncing is usually not a big deal, just a matter of two resistors and a capacitor, but since you are trying to minimize part count and it's already known to work without it, should be okay.  Just bringing up the issue of switch debouncing as a matter of practice.




The datasheet for the AD5228 calls for a 1uF to 10uF Electrolytic or Tantalum capacitor. The MLCC cap it a MultiLayer Ceramic Cap. Would that be a problem? ???
Title: Re: .44 mini Booster Box Mod Variable Voltage
Post by: Breaktru on September 04, 2019, 02:35:32 PM

The datasheet for the AD5228 calls for a 1uF to 10uF Electrolytic or Tantalum capacitor. The MLCC cap it a MultiLayer Ceramic Cap. Would that be a problem? ???

I would follow the manufacturers datasheet and go with an Electrolytic or Tantalum.