Using LiPo to power xBee

Wireless & IoT
1

Hi,

I have a project using xBee series 2 radios (not pro). Some are standalone and some will be connected to an Arduino.

Most likely I will use the Fio, which is powered by a LiPo.

I’d like the standalone radios to also use LiPo batteries (I’m looking at the 1000mAh ones).

Can I safely use a XBee Explorer Regulated (https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9132?) connecting the LiPo to the 5v input pin? Or are there things the Fio is doing that the Regulated Explorer is not capable of?

– dave

2

I believe that the Reg Explorer board uses an LDO regulator with 3.3V output to he XBee.

This will work but only until the LiPo output voltage drops to 3.3V + LDOdrop. This means that you will Not get the full capacity out of the LiPo batter which still has power down to about 3.0V.

Using the LiPo (~4.3V at Full change) to the Reg. Explorer bd is safe in that it will not damage the Explorer or the XBee.