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X1201 V1.1 Interface Schematic
X1201 pogo pins
X1201 V1.1
X1201 V1.1
X1201 V1.1
X1201 V1.1 with Raspberry Pi 5
X1201 V1.1 with Raspberry Pi 5 & Active Cooler

Contents

Safety Instructions & Warnings

  • It is essential to read and understand these safety instructions and warnings before charging your batteries.
  • Lithium Polymer and Li-ion batteries are volatile. Failure to read and follow the instructions below may result in fire, personal injury, and damage to property if charged or used improperly.
  • Never make a wrong polarity connection when charging or discharging battery packs. Always double-check the polarity of the battery's connector to ensure that "+" is connected to "+" and "-" is connected to "-".
  • Do not mix and use old batteries with new batteries, or batteries with different brand names.
  • Lithium batteries have a limited cycle life. Please replace old batteries with new ones when they reach their service life or when they are two years old, whichever comes first.
  • When charging the Battery Pack, please place the battery in a fireproof container. Do not leave the UPS shield on wood material or carpet unattended.
  • Keep the UPS shield away from children to ensure their safety.
  • Please watch Main Video and Tutorial Video regarding 18650 batteries at: https://www.staysafebattery.com/en/
  • Battery Recommend for Geekworm UPS board, please refer to: File:NCR18650B.pdf

Overview

X1201 is an innovative uninterruptible power supply (UPS) expansion board designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi 5B. With its advanced features and robust power backup capabilities, the X1201 is perfect for even the most demanding Raspberry Pi setups.

Model Compatible with Position Battery Holders How to Charge Note Matching Case
X1200 Raspberry Pi 5 Bottom 2-Cell 5Vdc 5A via USB Type-C of X1200 - X1200-C1
X1201 Raspberry Pi 5 Bottom 2-Cell 5Vdc 5A via USB Type-C of X1201 Ultra-thin X1201-C1
X1202 Raspberry Pi 5 Bottom 4-Cell 5Vdc 5A via USB Type-C of X1202;
or 6-18Vdc, ≥3A via DC 5521 power jack of X1202
- X1202-C1
X1203 Raspberry Pi 5 Bottom without battery holder 5Vdc 5A via USB Type-C of X1203;
or 6-18Vdc, ≥3A via DC 5521 power jack of X1203
- -

Reliable Power Backup: The X1201 provides a stable 5.1V 5000mA power backup, ensuring uninterrupted operation of your Raspberry Pi. Whether you are running resource-intensive applications or powering multiple peripherals, the X1201 delivers reliable and consistent power supply.


Enhanced Power Management: One of the standout features of the X1201 is its enhanced power management system. It intelligently monitors the power status of the Raspberry Pi and automatically cuts off power when the Pi is shut down. This helps optimize battery life by entering an ultra-low standby power consumption mode. It ensures efficient operation and maximizes the lifespan of the UPS battery.


Seamless Power Switching: Equipped with AC power loss and power adapter failure detection, the X1201 seamlessly switches to backup power in the event of a power outage or power adapter failure. This feature guarantees that your Raspberry Pi remains operational and protected from unexpected power disruptions.


Convenient Features: The X1201 offers convenient features such as auto power-on, enabling your Raspberry Pi to automatically boot up when power is restored. It also supports full power-off from software, allowing you to safely shut down your Raspberry Pi without manual intervention.


Fast Charging: With fast charging capabilities of up to 3000mA, the X1201 ensures quick recharging of the UPS, making it ready to provide backup power whenever needed.


Versatile Design: The X1201 is designed to be attached on bottom and don't use the 40-pin header, enabling easy stacking with other Raspberry Pi accessory boards. This versatility allows you to expand the functionality of your Raspberry Pi and create enhanced applications tailored to your specific needs.


Seamless Data Backup: The X1201 is compatible with our range of storage products, providing seamless integration for safe and reliable data backup. Your valuable data remains protected, even in the event of a power failure.


Enhance the reliability and performance of your Raspberry Pi 5B with the X1201 UPS expansion board. Experience peace of mind with its advanced features and robust power backup capabilities. Trust the X1201 to ensure uninterrupted operation and safeguard your valuable data.

Features

For use with

Raspberry Pi 5 Model B

Key Features

UPS Output

  • Provides continuous operation for up to 6 hours (duration depends on battery type and applications)
  • Supports a maximum current output of 5.1V 5000mA, suitable for most Raspberry Pi applications
  • Integrated Advanced Power MOSFET with an equivalent of 7mΩ RDS(ON) to minimize power loss
  • Convenient pogo pin connection for powering the Pi, eliminating the need for cabling and soldering

Battery Charging

  • Supports fast battery charging with a capacity of 3000mA
  • Battery charging control can be managed via GPIO
  • Provides protection against battery overcurrent and overvoltage
  • Built-in protection against reverse connection of battery cells
  • Integrated Maxim's fuel-gauge systems for reading battery voltage and percentage over i2c
  • On-board LEDs indicate battery charging and discharging levels of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%
  • Features a 2-cell 18650 battery holder

Power Input

  • Powered through the USB-C socket, eliminating the need to change your power adapter
  • XH2.54 connector provided for alternative power sources

Enhanced Power Management

  • Seamless power switching between backup power and power adapter
  • On-board push button performs the same actions as the Pi's power button
  • Automatically cuts off power when the Pi is shut down
  • On-board LED indicates power status and Pi detection
  • AC power loss and power adapter failure detection via GPIO
  • Auto power-on when power is applied or restored
  • Automatic safe shutdown when battery voltage is low (programmable)
  • Ultra-low standby power consumption to maximize battery life
  • Advanced system power-path management to minimize frequent charging and discharging of batteries

Miscellaneous

  • Connects to the Pi via convenient pogo pins, eliminating the need for additional cabling
  • Designed to be attached on the bottom, allowing the use of favorite HATs alongside it
  • XH2.54 connector available for adding your own power button
Spec

Power input: 5Vdc 5A via USB Type-C / XH2.54-2P connector

UPS output: 5.1V ±5% Max 5A

Battery charging current: Max 2.3-3.2A

Terminal Battery Voltage: 4.23V

Battery Recharge Threshold: 4.1V

Ports & Connectors:

  • USB Type-C socket
  • 18650 battery socket x2
  • 5V Power output connector x3 - XH2.54 2-pin
  • 5V Power input connector x1 - XH2.54 2-pin
  • External power button connector x1 - XH2.54-2P

PCB Size: 106.6mm x 85mm

Notes
  • Do not apply power to your Raspberry Pi via the Type-C USB socket.
  • Do not use 18650 battery with built-in protection circuit.

Packing List

  • X1201 UPS shield x 1
  • M2.5x5 F/F Spacers x 2
  • M2.5x5+3mm F/M Spacer x 2
  • CM2.5x4mm Screws x 6

 

User Manual

 

Installation Video https://youtu.be/MtVwGrWJdM8

Matching Case

X1201-C1 case is designed for the raspberry pi 5 & X1201 ups shield only, also with space reserved on the top for mounting the Raspberry Pi 5 PIP boards, such as the X1001, X1004, X1003, X1000 and M901.

  • Case dimension: 111 x 90.8 x 46.8 mm / 4.37 x 3.57 x 1.84 inch

FAQ

Q: Why does the message "This power supply is not capable of supplying 5A" appear??

X120X series UPS shield can provide enough 5A power supply capacity;

Please set as follows:

Open the Teminal window based on Raspberry Pi OS and execute the following command:

sudo rpi-eeprom-config -e

Add PSU_MAX_CURRENT=5000 at the end of the file that reads like this:

 

Press Ctrl-O, then enter, to write the change to the file.

Press Ctrl-X to exit nano (the editor).

Reboot your Raspberry Pi 5 to make the change take effect.

Note: If you are using other OS like Ubuntu, please flash Raspberry Pi OS first, and then re-flash other OS such as Ubuntu etc after completing the above settings.

Q: How to disable auto power on feature on X1200?

A: When you connect an external power supply, the UPS board will automatically power on the Pi 5 motherboard while it starts charging, this feature is called auto power on, considering that some customers need to disable this feature, so we have also disclosed the following solution to disable it: please use a soldering iron to remove the resistor indicated by the arrow in the illustration.

 

PS: We don't think you need to remove the resistor to disable 'AUTO ON' function. Since there is an onboard switch, if you don't want AUTO ON, just press the switch to completely cut off the power.

WARNING: Please consider the following risks before removing this resistor:

  • Do not operate if you are not a professional user
  • The removal operation may damage the MCU, so please be careful with the operation.
  • Once you remove this resistor by yourself, you will lose the warranty of this product. We no longer offer any warranty for this product.
  • Once you remove this resistor, you can only turn on the power output by pressing the on-board switch.

Q: How to disable auto power on feature on X1201?

A: When you connect an external power supply, the UPS board will automatically power on the Pi 5 motherboard while it starts charging, this feature is called auto power on, considering that some customers need to disable this feature, so we have also disclosed the following solution to disable it: please use a soldering iron to remove the resistor indicated by the arrow in the illustration.

 

PS: We don't think you need to remove the resistor to disable 'AUTO ON' function. Since there is an onboard switch, if you don't want AUTO ON, just press the switch to completely cut off the power.

WARNING: Please consider the following risks before removing this resistor:

  • Do not operate if you are not a professional user
  • The removal operation may damage the MCU, so please be careful with the operation.
  • Once you remove this resistor by yourself, you will lose the warranty of this product. We no longer offer any warranty for this product.
  • Once you remove this resistor, you can only turn on the power output by pressing the on-board switch.

Q: How to disable auto power on feature on X1202?

A: When you connect an external power supply, the UPS board will automatically power on the Pi 5 motherboard while it starts charging, this feature is called auto power on, considering that some customers need to disable this feature, so we have also disclosed the following solution to disable it: please use a soldering iron to remove the resistor indicated by the arrow in the illustration.

 

PS: We don't think you need to remove the resistor to disable 'AUTO ON' function. Since there is an onboard switch, if you don't want AUTO ON, just press the switch to completely cut off the power.

WARNING: Please consider the following risks before removing this resistor:

  • Do not operate if you are not a professional user
  • The removal operation may damage the MCU, so please be careful with the operation.
  • Once you remove this resistor by yourself, you will lose the warranty of this product. We no longer offer any warranty for this product.
  • Once you remove this resistor, you can only turn on the power output by pressing the on-board switch or external power switch.

Q: How to disable auto power on feature on X1203?

A: When you connect an external power supply, the UPS board will automatically power on the Pi 5 motherboard while it starts charging, this feature is called auto power on, considering that some customers need to disable this feature, so we have also disclosed the following solution to disable it: please use a soldering iron to remove the resistor indicated by the arrow in the illustration.

 

PS: We don't think you need to remove the resistor to disable 'AUTO ON' function. Since there is an onboard switch, if you don't want AUTO ON, just press the switch to completely cut off the power.

WARNING: Please consider the following risks before removing this resistor:

  • Do not operate if you are not a professional user
  • The removal operation may damage the MCU, so please be careful with the operation.
  • Once you remove this resistor by yourself, you will lose the warranty of this product. We no longer offer any warranty for this product.
  • Once you remove this resistor, you can only turn on the power output by pressing the on-board switch or external power switch.

Q: Why does the UPS shield continue to output power when PI 5 is turned off via press the on-board button?

A: The UPS shield provides enhanced power management features that intelligently monitor the power status of the Raspberry Pi 5 and automatically cut off power when the Pi is powered off. This helps optimize battery life by entering an ultra-low standby power consumption mode. It ensures efficient operation and maximizes the lifespan of the UPS battery.

To get the above features, check that the following settings are complete

 

Q: What battery is recommended for this ups shield

A: Please use high quality batteries from Samsung 35E 18650 lithium battery, Panasonic NCR18650B, Toshiba, etc. Do not use the battery with built-in protection circuit because it will limit the discharge current.

For the X1203 shield:

If using a lithium battery, the required voltage is 3.7V;

if using a battery pack, please make sure it is a parallel battery pack.

There are 2 XH2.54-2P battery connectors on board, it is recommended to use the same type of battery.

 

Q: Run sudo i2cdetect -y 1, can't find I2C address 0x36?

A:

1. Make sure you enable i2c interface, refer to How to enable I2C

2. The UPS connects to the Pi GPIO via pogo pins, If the I2C address (0x36) is not detected, Please clear the leads of pin 3 and pin 5 on the GPIO header from the bottom of the Raspberry Pi PCB and install again, and also check if the pogo pin of ups shield is in close contact with the pad position of PI 5(you can adjust the [pogo pin] position).

 

There won't be any other problems, it's this poor contact that's causing it.

 

Q. How do you disable the X1202 auto-shutdown when you use it standalone (not installed on a RPi5)?

A:  

Q. X1203 UPS voltage drops / low voltage warning appears?

A:

1.Powering the X1203 via Type C connector with / without the batteries,Pls check if you still have the issue.

2.Please clear the test pad on the Pi's PCB bottom which is used for connecting the X1203 for 5V power delivery.

 


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Anonymous user #11

one day 2 hours 34 minutes ago
Score 0  
What is the operating temperature range for the x1201? I am considering using the x1201 for tasks that might involve prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures.
 

Lisa

9 hours ago
Score 0  
It mainly depends on the operating temperature of the battery.
 

Anonymous user #12

22 days ago
Score 0  

non of the scripts in x120x working raspberrypi:~/x120x $ sudo python3 merged.py Traceback (most recent call last): File "/home/user/x120x/merged.py", line 5, in <module> import smbus

ModuleNotFoundError: No module named 'smbus'
 

Lisa

21 days ago
Score 0  
Hello,Please contact us by email (tell us your order number)and sent software installation screenshot;info@geekworm.com
 

Anonymous user #11

one month ago
Score 0  
What is the level of protection against overcharging? I want to use this x1201 UPS with headless control from a distance, but even in low power charge mode controlled via GPIO, the amount of power charged exceeds the amount consumed. As a result, I am concerned that the battery will always be over 100%. I apologize in advance as I am still a beginner.
 

Harry

one month ago
Score 0  
  1. It is normal for the charging amount to exceed the consumption amount because there is a charging conversion efficiency.
  2. MCU will automatically control the charging and discharging, and will automatically charge when the battery voltage is lower than 4.1V.
  3. You can also control whether to charge through scripts, and you can also use scripts to achieve more precise charging control, such as stopping charging when charging to 80%.
  4. You need to read the script example code and then program it yourself. We DO NOT provide programming services. Of course, the writing of these scripts is relatively simple, and you can use ChatGPT to help you achieve it.
 

Anonymous user #10

one month ago
Score 0  
Would it work with a Raspberry Pi 4? I know there are specific UPS boards for RPi4, but I'm looking into building a cluster case for a mix of RPi5s and RPi4sm and would like to standarize the build/footprint
 

Lisa

one month ago
Score 0  
Hi,X1201 UPS not support Pi4;you may consider using X-UPS1
 

Anonymous user #9

4 months ago
Score 0  
Hi, I've got the x1201 attached to my Pi 5 and using the stock Pi 5 USB-C power supply (27W, 5V 5A). But yet when I first login the message "This power supply is not capable of supplying 5A..." is displayed in the notification area. Please advise. Thank you.
 

Lisa

4 months ago
Score 0  
Hi,Please note that Pi5 can only be powered by X1201. Could you please send some pictures of the installation by email [info@geekworm.com]? and tell us your order number, thank you.
 

Anonymous user #6

6 months ago
Score 0  
X1201 V1.1 current behavior: On applying power starts charging and starts Pi5 via attached USB-C. When fully charged stops charging, quits using UBS-C power and uses power from the battery. When battery are depleted, shuts off everything. Also when you remove USB-C power, it does not transition to battery is shuts off everything. There is no software installed in crons or anything. This is not a seamless UPS. Is there a jumper of GPIO setting that I don't have set?
 

Lisa

6 months ago
Score 0  
Hi,No need to setup a jumper and it automatically switches to being powered by the battery when power is removed. but please to make sure that your battery is not a low battery.
 

Anonymous user #7

6 months ago
Score 0  
Yes, the batteries were hardly used but one was bad; it would take a charge. Thanks
 

Anonymous user #8

6 months ago
Score 0  
would NOT take a charge
 

Anonymous user #5

6 months ago
Score 0  

What is the battery fuel gauge ic partnumber?

Does it support more info than the current voltage?
 

Anonymous user #5

6 months ago
Score 0  
Seems to be MAX17048 and does not support much more info (no shunt)
 

Anonymous user #4

7 months ago
Score 0  
Can the ups be powered by a power bank, while using the raspberry pi 5? Will it have any negative impact on performance as well?
 

Anonymous user #3

8 months ago
Score 0  
@Harry Yes but what if someone ACCIDENTALLY uses the wrong port? What will happen?
 

Harry

8 months ago
Score 0  
Nothing will happen, but it won't charge
 

Anonymous user #3

9 months ago
Score 0  
What happens if power is applied to the USB-C of the Raspi? Documentation says not to do it, but what happens if you do anyway? I'd like to use the USB-C port as a device port, but not if there's a risk I'll burn out the X1201 or the Pi if I plug the wrong thing in...
 

Harry

9 months ago
Score 0  
This is a UPS, so it is normal logic to supply power from the type-c of the UPS.
 

Anonymous user #2

9 months ago
Score 0  

I enabled i2c and rebooted the machine. Battery is charging.

$ sudo i2cdetect -y 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 a b c d e f 00: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 20: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 30: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 40: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 50: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 60: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 70: -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

However I do not see #36 light up. What did I miss ?
 

Anonymous user #2

9 months ago
Score 0  

However I do not see #36 light up. What did I miss ? -> If #36 is missed, check if all jumper pins align. -> Unscrew the screws and re-align the Pi. -> Push down on the Pi so you can feel the pogo pins bounce.

-> While holding down the Pi, tighten the screws.
 

Harry

9 months ago
Score 0  
Judging from the fault description, it must be that I2C is not enable.Check ing your config.txt
 

Anonymous user #1

9 months ago
Score 0  

How do you connect the UPS HAT to the raspberry pi?

Only screws and spaces are included...
 

Anonymous user #1

9 months ago
Score 0  
Got it. No need for spacers, or wires. Connects directly to pogo pins on the pi when screwed on.
 

Walker

9 months ago
Score 0  
Yes, the x1201 is connected to the Raspberry Pi via pogo pins, no additional wires are needed!
 

Nahumb

10 months ago
Score 0  

Hello,

Can you please provide any 3D model file of the X1201?

Thank you,

Nahum Budin.