Things to Keep in Mind When Developing with CyberBrick Core
Introduction
When developing with the CyberBrick Core and Shield, it’s common to run into issues like insufficient power or module instability, which can affect both system stability and device performance. This guide outlines typical problems and practical solutions to help streamline your development process and avoid common pitfalls.
USB-C Alone Can’t Deliver Enough Power
The CyberBrick Core can be powered via USB-C for programming and basic testing. However, once the Core is connected to the Shield, relying solely on USB-C can cause:
- Servo motors not responding
- LEDs flickering erratically
- Unexpected resets during operation
This happens because the Shield requires a supply voltage between 4.5V and 12.6V DC, while USB-C provides only around 5V — not enough to power high-consumption components like motors.
Recommended fix: Use an external power source (preferably a lithium battery) to ensure stable power for the Shield.
Always Use an External Battery During Testing!
When running code tests with the Core mounted on the Shield, you must also connect a battery pack or lithium battery module. Without it, you might notice:
- Code runs without errors, but the motors don’t respond
- The device powers off suddenly during motion
- PWM signals are sent, but nothing reacts
These symptoms mean the Core is powered, but there’s not enough juice to drive the peripherals.
Battery Voltage & Selection Tips
You can power the CyberBrick setup using a AAA battery holder, but the type and voltage of your batteries have a direct impact on Shield stability and functionality. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Three AAA batteries in series can theoretically provide 4.5V, which meets the Shield’s minimum power requirement. However, voltage tends to drop quickly during use, limiting battery life.
- Low-voltage batteries like NiMH may not supply enough power to start the Shield or run the servo motors.
| Battery Type | Nominal Voltage (per cell) | Max Voltage (3 cells in series) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | 1.5V | 4.5V | Fresh batteries deliver 1.5V |
| Zinc-Carbon | 1.5V | 4.5V | Weaker current delivery |
| NiMH (Rechargeable) | 1.2V | 3.6V (up to ~4.2V fully charged) | Peaks at ~1.4V when full, then stabilizes at 1.2V |
| Lithium Iron (LiFeS2) | 1.5V | 4.5V | High current output, ideal for power-hungry components |
- Tip: For stable long-term power, especially for motors, use 18650 lithium batteries (2S, 7.4V) with a protection module. This offers excellent voltage stability and runtime.