Skip to content

Release v1.0.1 - Power Efficiency Upgrade

Latest

Choose a tag to compare

@Frapais Frapais released this 17 Dec 19:43
· 17 commits to main since this release
770fbbf

Main change

This patch release delivers a major hardware improvement for the Sprig-C3 board, replacing the linear LDO regulator with a high-efficiency buck-boost switching regulator.

Other changes

  • Reduced the LED indicators' brightness by increasing the corresponding resistors' values
  • Updated the Altium and EasyEDA design files. Changed the EasyEDA to the "Pro" version files.

Technical Details & Migration Notes

  • Full Compatibility: This is a drop-in replacement. The board's footprint, pinout, and all core functionalities remain identical to v1.0.0. Your existing code and expansions will work without modification.
  • What "Buck-Boost" Means: Unlike an LDO that requires input voltage to be higher than its output, a buck-boost regulator can output a stable 3.3V whether the battery is at 4.2V (buck mode) or 3.0V (boost mode). This allows you to use nearly the full capacity of the Li-ion cell.
  • Potential Consideration: Switching regulators can introduce minor high-frequency electrical noise compared to an LDO. For ultra-sensitive analog sensor readings, ensure proper power filtering in your sensor circuit (a decoupling capacitor is always recommended).

Updated Files in This Release

  • PCB/Altium/Sprig-C3 v1.0.1: Manufacturing files for the updated board. Sprig-C3-Altium.zip
  • PCB/Schematic: Revised schematic highlighting the new regulator circuit. Schematic-Sprig-C3 V1.0.1.pdf
  • Certifications: Updated the OSHWA certifications to the latest GR000010 version.
  • Photos: Updated the images of the board with the latest photographs
  • README.md: Updated with new specifications.

Upgrading from v1.0.0

If you have a v1.0.0 board, no firmware or software changes are required. This release is for new hardware purchases and informs the community of the improved design. All software, ESPHome configurations, and tutorials remain valid.