SparkFun Variable Load Kit

The SparkFun Variable Load Kit is a powerful tool for those who need to draw a specific current from a voltage input. This robust kit allows for the testing of power supply stability under various loads, battery lifetimes, safety cut-offs, and other critical design elements. It's capable of testing supplies of up to 30V at currents that range from a few mA up to 4A.

The Variable Load Kit offers two output modes. It can either work with a console on a PC for feedback or be used with a 16x2 character LCD. The kit features capacitive touch buttons on the front of the Variable Load PCB. These buttons allow for easy adjustment of settings, with up and down arrows for set point changes, an enter key for enabling or disabling the load, and a back button for resetting the set point to zero. An LED light provides a clear indication of whether the load is enabled or disabled.

It's important to note that the total load power should be limited to 15W for safety reasons. Even at this wattage, the heatsink can become hot to the touch.

This kit requires assembly, so a basic knowledge of soldering is necessary. The SparkFun Variable Load Kit does not include headers or an LCD to solder them to.

The kit includes a Variable Load Board, an N-Channel MOSFET 60V 30A, a Multiwatt Package Large Heatsink, a Screw Terminal (2-Pin), a Hex Nut (4-40), a Phillips Head Screw (4-40, 9.525mm), four Phillips Head Screws (4-40, 6.35mm), and four Plastic Standoffs (4-40; 9.525mm).

For further guidance on using the Variable Load Kit, numerous documents are available. These include a schematic, Eagle Files, a Hookup Guide, a PSoC-Based Digital Load Box, a guide on Heatsinks and Thermal Dissipation, and a GitHub page.