DIY Portable Power Bank From an Old MacBook Battery

Parts needed

1x MacBook battery cells, it's also possible to use another type of battery.

1x DC-DC converter USB module (with charging) - from eBay ~5-7$.

Electrical wires for making connections

Material list:

- Solder wire (Tin)

- Flux

Tools needed:

- Soldering Iron

- Pliers

- Wire stripper

- Multi-meter

Step 1: Step 1

Check the Lithium cells. It's preferable to choose only the "live" cells that have at least 3+ volts stored. Avoid using cells that are over discharged or that have 0 volts as they may burst when are being recharged.

Step 2: Step 2: Solder the Cells

Solder all tested cells in parallel. Take care not to overheat the batteries as they are sensible to heat excess.

Step 3: Step 3 - DC-DC Module PCB Install

Connect the battery terminals to the DC-DC converter module, following it's provided indications on activating it. After it starts connect USB power to charge the cells.

Step 4: Step 4: Full Video Guide

All the procedure in a video.

Comments

[davintosh]

Great project idea; thanks! I just acquired an older MacBook with a battery that won't charge, but I'd like to separate the good cells from the bad; any thoughts on how to extract them from the frame without damaging them?

[livanov]

Awesome project, How do I find such a dc-dc module i've looked all over for it

[TechTronic9000]

Just search on eBay for USB power bank module, or power bank PCB module, there will be lots of results, prices vary from 2 to 7 $ on averege, dependig on current output and functions (LCD), flashlight function, etc.

[DIY Hacks and How Tos]

Great way to reuse parts. Just be careful for those batteries. They can have problems if you don't treat them just right.