PiSugar 3 Raspberry Pi UPS Module with RTC and Power Management Features

 PiSugar 3 is an upgraded version of the PiSugar S and PiSugar S Pro with built-in power management capabilities, this is a small Raspberry Pi UPS module that makes Raspberry Pi Zero boards portable. The PiSugar S Pro has a 5,000mAh battery for the Raspberry Pi 3/4, while the PiSugar S has a small 1,200mAh battery for the Raspberry Pi Zero. Comparing the PiSugar3 to previous models, there are a number of improvements. Among these are a Real-Time Clock (RTC), a fully working UPS with programmable wake-up choices, and strong power management features like a software watchdog, an anti-mistaken touch switch, and hardware battery protection for longer duration.

PiSugar 3

The module uses pogo pins to supply power without blocking the GPIO pins, and it attaches easily to the Raspberry Pi's bottom. It also has I2C communication capabilities and comes with specialized software for improved functionality and better control. The PiSugar3 is a great option for easily and dependably powering portable Raspberry Pi applications because of these improvements.

PiSugar3 UPS Module Specifications

• Compatibility: Raspberry Pi Zero, Raspberry Pi Zero W/WH, Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W
• UPS Features: Full UPS functionality with multiple wake-up options
• Interface:
• I2C communication with configurable address (0x57/0x68)
• Pogo pin design for unobstructed GPIO access
• USB: USB Type-C port for charging
• Additional Features:
• Onboard RTC with write protection
• Anti-mistaken touch switch to prevent accidental shutdowns
• Software watchdog for automatic system restarts
• Hardware battery protection to enhance cycle life
• Soft shutdown support with hardware notifications
• Power:
• Output Current: Up to 3A
• Battery Capacity: 1,200mAh
• Battery Life: 8–10 hours (depending on usage)
• Dimensions: 65 x 30mm (same as Raspberry Pi Zero, Zero W/WH)

PiSugar 3 power management interface

The PiSugar3 works out of the box with no software requirements. However, to unlock its full potential, users can install the PiSugar Power Manager. The installation process is simple, just run the below command:

wget https://cdn.pisugar.com/release/pisugar-power-manager.sh

bash pisugar-power-manager.sh -c release

After installation, users can access the battery management interface via their browser by visiting http://<IP_address>:8421.

For more software and hardware-related information, you can visit the company's GitHub repository. It is anticipated that the PiSugar3 Plus, an upgraded model, will have a bigger 5,000mAh battery for longer use. Although there isn't much technical information available, this model offers to support projects that need more battery capacity.

PiSugar Kitchen is not the exclusive provider of UPS solutions for Raspberry Pis, thus you may want to look into other options. Depending on your project requirements, other options such as the SB Components UPS HAT, Waveshare UPS HAT (E), SunFounder PiPower 3 kit, and SupTronics Raspberry Pi 5 UPS HAT X1202 V1.1 are worth taking into account. You can purchase the PiSugar3 for $39.99 on Tindie, AliExpress, and Amazon. A 1,200mAh battery, four screws for simple installation, and the UPS module are all included in the package. If you're searching for a dependable power source to enable your Raspberry Pi Zero to be portable, the PiSugar3 provides a great mix of functionality and affordability.