Convert Video Camera Battery into USB Power Source

[JeffMac]

The title kind of says it all. I'd love to transform a Sony NP-style battery into a single port USB power source.

Battery Stats (NP-F970):
Output-6800mAh, 7.4V

I know the battery would have to be stepped down to 5V. I'd like a 1A output.

If there was a way to convert a USB charger than fits this battery into my desired device, that would be awesome. Any advice for this electronics knucklehead would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks-Jeff

 

[CocaCola]

Google 7805 voltage regulator, it's simple to hookup up, just a few caps that are optional in many cases but still a good idea...

Then just hook up a USB port to the output of that regulator attach the appropriate wires to +5 and Ground of the USB port...

A Low Drop Out version of the 7805 might be better suited and gain you a little more run time... Like the STMicro L78s05cv (2 Amp output)

 

[KJ6EAD]

Some regular automotive USB adapters may work. They're usually specified for 12-24V supplies but there's some lattitude. You can sometimes find them at thrift stores in the form of cell phone chargers for $1-2 so it's cheap to experiment. If you find one that works, as a switching regulator, it has better efficiency than a linear regulator like the 7805.

 

[CDRIVE]

Keep in mind that the input dropout voltage for the L78s05cv is 7.0V, so you don't have much headroom.

 

[CocaCola]

Keep in mind that the input dropout voltage for the L78s05cv is 7.0V, so you don't have much headroom.

Yeah, my mistake, to much background chaos from the daughters at the time and missed the fact it wasn't an LDO like I was suggesting, as I quickly glanced at my 'fav parts list'...

The STMicro L4940V5 is a better choice, 1.5A with a drop out of about 5.5 - 5.9V...

 

[JeffMac]

Thanks to everyone for such great advice and fast, too! Much appreciated.

 

[CDRIVE]

Yeah, my mistake, to much background chaos from the daughters at the time and missed the fact it wasn't an LDO like I was suggesting, as I quickly glanced at my 'fav parts list'...

The STMicro L4940V5 is a better choice, 1.5A with a drop out of about 5.5 - 5.9V...

Hey, that's a super low input dropout! I'm not familiar with that chip but it's now going into my fav folder. CC, keep'n any other cool secrets?

RE the kids: Keep em com'n. We desperately need new citizens that will actually work and pay taxes.