Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Extract a small 5V solar panel from old garden lights or calculators, ensuring it can provide at least 1 watt.
2. Salvage a lithium-ion battery from an old phone or power bank; test it with a multimeter to confirm it holds charge.
3. Connect the solar panel to the TP4056 charging module input terminals (observe polarity).
4. Wire the TP4056 output terminals to the lithium-ion battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity.
5. Connect the battery output to the input of the boost converter module.
6. Adjust the boost converter to output a stable 5V using a multimeter.
7. Connect the USB charging port to the boost converter output.
8. Secure all components inside a small project box using double-sided tape or hot glue.
9. Use heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to insulate any exposed wires and solder joints.
10. Test the charger by placing the solar panel in sunlight and connecting your phone to the USB port; it should start charging.
11. Optionally, add a switch between the battery and boost converter to control power flow.