FLEX-6000 Signature Series – Maestro User Guide
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4.4.12 USB Power Bank Selection
Supplemental batteries used for charging cellular phones and other electronics are plentiful and
relatively inexpensive. The capacity and functionality of these batteries varies across manufacturers
and models. FlexRadio has found that it is not uncommon for the advertised capacities to vary from
actual measured capacities.
Most of these batteries contain an internal Lithium-Ion battery that has a nominal operating voltage
of 3.7V. Typically, the output voltage is produced with a boost regulator that raises the voltage to
5V.
These are the specifications for batteries that are suitable for Maestro:
• Maximum size: 6” x 3” x 0.75”
• USB-A Female connector for battery drain (5V output)
• Minimum output current of 2.1A
• Auto-start preferred (will start on load without depressing a button – see below)
Maestro is designed to place a load on the battery when it loses power from the wall charger and
most batteries will automatically turn on and begin supplying power in this case (auto start). If your
battery does not supply power when the external supply is removed, Maestro will display a message
indicating that you have two minutes to replace or turn on the battery. If your battery has an on
switch and will not auto start, simply press the on switch and Maestro will detect the battery voltage,
remove the message and continue normal operation.
In order for the Maestro to operate properly, it requires the average voltage from the battery to be
above 4.5V. If the battery voltage falls below 4.25V for an extended period, Maestro will display the
following message:
This message generally indicates one of two possibilities if the battery has been fully charged:
1. The battery has drained beyond its normal capacity and needs to be replaced. Typically, the
battery voltage will be around the 4.25V range and falling. In this case, the battery should
be replaced or charged.
2. There is another issue with the battery, such as a failure, a design issue or inability to provide
the necessary power, that requires a replacement of the battery.