Mini Arduino / M5 / etc. Voltmeter Fixture

thingiverse

The Fixture ============= I came up with a fixture that would allow the "Mini-VM" to be attached directly to various products, rather than soldering several male headers on them and fumbling with ports every time. This fixture was originally designed for M5-Stack Cores to monitor their battery levels. But if you add some extra pins and use straight headers, it works great to keep an eye on anything with an Arduino layout. *See possible pin configs in 'Assembly', below* * A cut-out in the base pad allows for VM calibration while still attached to device. * The slot on the front surface is sized for 4 or 6 header pins. _4 works for many applications, but I created a 6-pin version to allow for other layouts._ * Included models for both pin sizes, as well as the CATIA file if you want to edit from the source Mini DIY Voltmeter ========================== For use with these mini, inexpensive, contained voltmeters from Amazon: [Voltmeter 5pk](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YALV0NG/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_SpjKEbP21H5N3) ### Meter Specs * 0-30V Measure * 3-30V Supply * 3-Wire (Pos, Gnd, VTest) * 0.36" 7-Segs -- Total L/W: 0.9" x 0.59" * Can be calibrated via small screw-pot on back * Other colors if you dig around on Amazon / supplier Assembly - (Pretty Simple) ====================== ### Parts Required per Unit * 1x - Mini Voltmeter from Set * 2x - ***M3 x 4+*** Screws *(Common in PC Screw Kits)* * Length of Right-Angle or Straight ***0.1" Pitch*** Headers (4-6) 1. Attach the Mini-VM to the mount holes with (recommend) **M3 x 4 ~ 5** screws. 2. Fit the length (4 or 6) of headers to the front slot. It should be snug, but add a bead of super glue for some extra security. 3. Solder the wires to the headers in an order that fits your device, and with respect to what pin you want to measure. Ex: + _Arduino_: Pos to 3V3 or 5V -- Measure VIn or VBat if installed + _Arduino_: Link Pos and VTest to 3V3 or 5V -- Measure the regulated voltage + _M5Stack_: Pos to 3V3 or 5V -- Measure VBat (*See pics for ideas*) Opt: Add heat-shrink or insulating glue to connections...mostly to help you sleep.