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elektroThing
Test Equipment
Power Management

Spark Analyzer

A versatile, ESP32-powered, Wi-Fi & BLE-enabled USB-C PD analyzer & power supply

$8,952 raised

of $1,500 goal

596% Funded! Order Below

Funding ended on Apr 11, 2024 at 04:59 PM PDT.

Recent Updates

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Spark Analyzer is a versatile ESP32-powered device tailored for enhancing project development and debugging processes. It is fully compatible with USB-C Power Delivery (UCPD) and further enhanced by a Programmable Power Supply (PPS) feature, allowing for precise control and management of power. Its compact design facilitates inline integration with existing setups, providing essential insights and control over power delivery. Equipped with WiFi and BLE, Spark Analyzer offers wireless connectivity, enabling developers to remotely monitor and adjust voltage levels, log data, and analyze power consumption through a user-friendly smartphone interface or their own custom application.

Features

  1. Power Control and Analysis with PPS and PD: Spark Analyzer excels in power management with its Programmable Power Supply (PPS) and Power Delivery (PD) capabilities. Precisely control voltage from 3.3 VDC to 21 VDC at 20 mV resolution and set current limits up to 3 A with 50 mA resolution with PPS, or use PD for adjustable voltage output options (5 VDC, 9 VDC, 15 VDC, 20 VDC). Combined with its current sensor, it allows for accurate current draw measurements, essential for understanding power usage in your projects.

  2. Wireless Control: Untether your development process with Spark Analyzer’s wireless capabilities. With both WiFi and BLE, this tool allows remote, app-based control and data logging. Users can adjust settings and monitor data from a distance, offering a more flexible development experience.

  3. Open Source & Programmable: As an open-source device, Spark Analyzer offers unmatched versatility. It is fully programmable, allowing you to tailor its functionality to your specific applications. This customization extends to software and hardware, opening up endless possibilities for creative and efficient project development.

  4. Compact Design: Designed for convenience, Spark Analyzer’s compact and sleek form factor allows for seamless integration into existing setups. Its compatibility with UCPD power sources and inline integration capability minimizes the need for additional equipment or extensive redesign, making it a versatile and user-friendly addition to any development environment.

  1. Safety: Safety is crucial when working with electricity and is at the heart of Spark Analyzer. An integrated output FET allows for software-programmable current limits that switch off the power in high-current scenarios.

Spark Analyzer Mobile App

Spark Analyzer Mobile App is currently available for Android, and iOS support is available via RemoteXY. These apps simplify monitoring and controlling Spark Analyzer power delivery with these key features:

Testing for Performance

Spark Analyzer has been rigorously tested to ensure optimal performance:

These tests confirm Spark Analyzer’s reliability, safety, and efficiency under real-world conditions.

Flexible Low-Cost Portable Power Supply

Spark Analyzer is designed for mobility, compatible with PD power banks and wall warts. It is suitable for a variety of environments, especially where traditional power sources are not practical.

Power Consumption Analysis

The power consumption analysis feature allows for monitoring and analyzing current usage. This helps in assessing energy efficiency and identifying maintenance needs, contributing to the health and longevity of projects.

Home Assistant Integration using Matter

Spark Analyzer’s ESP32 chipset, equipped with WiFi and BLE, ensures seamless integration using Matter with other smart home devices. In the demo above, you can see Spark Analyzer integrated into Home Assistant, allowing you to use your Home Assistant-integrated devices to control Spark Analyzer and even enables voice commands.

Designed for RF Performance

Spark Analyzer is optimized to leverage ESPNOW, which enables efficient peer-to-peer communication over a large distance, up to 220 meters. The ability to manage multiple Spark Analyzers underscores its potential as a central hub for sophisticated home automation systems, enabling users to create seamless and interconnected smart home environments.

Specifications

Power

I/O Configuration

Microcontroller

Interface

Programming

Output

Comparisons

Spark AnalyzerPD MicroLab Power SupplyTinyPICO V3Joy-IT COM ZY12PDN
MicrocontrollerESP32-C3 ATmega32U4 Not Applicable ESP32-PICO-D4 Not Applicable
Wi-Fi ConnectivityAvailable (802.11b/g/n) Not Available Not Available Available Not Available
Bluetooth ConnectivityAvailable (BLE 4.2) Not Available Not Available Available Not Available
Flash Memory4 MB Not Specified Not Specified 4 MB Not Specified
USB-C Output Power DeliverySupported Supported Not Supported Not Supported Not Supported
Output ControlAdjustable Adjustable Fully Adjustable Not Specified Adjustable
Wireless ControlYes No No Yes No
Smartphone App SupportYes No No No No
Power AnalysisAccurate Basic Highly Accurate Not Specified Basic
DesignCompact Compact Bulky Compact Compact
Open Source StatusYes Yes Varies Yes No
Programming InterfaceUSB + JTAG USB Not Applicable USB Not Applicable
Inline IntegrationYes No No Not Applicable No
Power Delivery Range5-20 VDC Supported 5-20 VDC Supported Up to 32 VDC (typically) Not Supported 5-20 VDC Supported
Voltage & Current Control20 mV & 50 mA 20 mV & 50 mA (typically) 10 mV & 10 mA (typically) Not Supported Not Supported
Price (USD)$49 $28 Over $199 $22 $16

Support & Documentation

Spark Analyzer is accompanied by comprehensive documentation and support to ensure users can maximize its potential. Here’s what’s available:

Manufacturing & Logistics

Our designs have undergone rigorous testing and verification to ensure optimal performance. We’ve already produced a pilot batch of Spark Analyzers, and our manufacturing partners are geared up for full-scale production.

Fulfillment & Logistics

After assembly and testing, we will box up each Spark Analyzer and send them to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, who will handle distribution to all backers. You can learn more about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service under Ordering, Paying, and Shipping in their guide.

Risks & Challenges

The development and production of Spark Analyzer involves several challenges and risks:

  1. Hardware Design Confidence: After a year of development, the hardware design of Spark Analyzer has been refined and is now stable. The focus has been on ensuring reliability and functionality in various use cases.

  2. Software Development: As the mobile app is the first app developed for this project, there might be initial bugs or issues. We are committed to supporting and addressing any bugs promptly. Alternate solutions like RemoteXY are available for iOS and Android users, providing flexibility and ensuring continuous functionality.

  3. Manufacturing and Silicon Shortage: There are always risks with manufacturing. However, we have experience and a network of suppliers, and have made efforts to mitigate these risks. We are prepared to navigate any challenges, and will keep backers informed if any shipping dates need to change.

In the Press


Produced by elektroThing in Cambridge, UK.

Sold and shipped by Crowd Supply.

Spark Analyzer

Spark Analyzer, with USB Type-C connector and ESP32-powered system

$49 $8 US Shipping / $18 Worldwide

Want to buy this item? Check the current project page for the latest information.

About the Team

elektroThing

 ·   · 

We integrate electronics and firmware solutions to create ready-to-use open-sourced products AKA "things" to improve access and literacy of these technologies and design engineering.

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