We’re using more LiPo cells in our projects at Solarbotics all the time, and this little, basic LiPo charger from SparkFun is finding use here. Designed to charge a 3.7V LiPo at up to 500mA (the current limit of traditional USB ports), it’s a plug-in-and-go solution.

The board features a status LED, JST connector for your battery (JST-type used in the batteries we carry), and a micro-USB connector, plus a mounting hole for a more permanent installation.

Make sure your battery’s connector wires match the polarity shown on the charger. Red = +, Black = -. If your battery doesn’t match, you can easily pry up the tabs that lock the pin into the connector, and swap their positions so they match the charger’s polarity.

Specifications:

• 500mA charge rate
• Microchip MCP73831T charger IC
• For use with single LiPo/Poly cells
• 29.4 x 10.8mm (1.16 x 0.43″)