SupTronics X1201 2-Cell 18650 UPS for Raspberry Pi 5

The SupTronics X1201 is a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) expansion board for Raspberry Pi 5, with support for two 18650 cells (batteries not included), designed to deliver reliable backup power and improved power management.

It provides 5.1V 5A output, keeping your Raspberry Pi running during outages or adapter failure. The onboard power management system detects when the Pi has shut down and automatically cuts power, helping extend battery life by switching to ultra-low standby mode.

The board also supports automatic power switching, detecting adapter faults or AC loss and switching to battery backup instantly. Once power is restored, it can automatically boot the Raspberry Pi without manual intervention. Safe shutdown via software is supported too.

Charging is fast, powered by the USB-C input (use your existing 27W Raspberry Pi Power Supply), with support for up to 3A input. An optional XH2.54 5V input is also provided, along with 3x XH2.54 5V outputs. The X1201 mounts beneath the Raspberry Pi and doesn't block the 40-pin header, making it easy to use alongside HATs, coolers and other accessories.

It’s compatible with top-mounted SupTronics storage add-ons for keeping data safe during unexpected power loss.

Raspberry Pi, 18650 batteries and power supply not included.

Safety Warning

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) and Li-ion batteries are volatile by nature. Failure to follow the safety instructions below may result in fire, personal injury, or property damage.

• Never connect the battery with incorrect polarity when charging or discharging. Always double-check that the battery connector's "+" is connected to "+" and "−" to "−".
• Do not mix old batteries with new ones, or use batteries from different brands together.
• Do not use 18650 batteries with built-in protection circuits
• Lithium batteries have a limited cycle life. Replace them when they reach the end of their service life, or after two years — whichever comes first.
• When charging the battery pack, always place it in a fireproof container. Do not leave the UPS shield unattended on flammable surfaces such as wood or carpet.
• Keep the UPS add-on out of reach of children.

Features

• Compatibility
• Designed for Raspberry Pi 5
• UPS Output
• Supports up to 5.1V 5A output
• Integrated advanced power MOSFET with 7mΩ RDS(ON) for reduced power loss
• Uses pogo pin connection – no cabling or soldering required
• 3x XH2.54 5V outputs
• Battery Charging
• Fast charging supported up to 3A
• Charge control via GPIO
• Overcurrent and overvoltage protection
• Reverse battery connection protection
• Integrated Maxim fuel-gauge IC for voltage and battery level over I²C
• LEDs show charge/discharge levels at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%
• 2-cell 18650 battery holder
• Power Input
• Powered via USB-C (Raspberry Pi 27W PSU recommended)
• XH2.54 connector available for alternative 5V power input
• Enhanced Power Management
• Seamless switching between mains and battery backup
• On-board push button mirrors Raspberry Pi power button
• Automatic power cut-off when Pi is shut down
• Power and Pi status LED indicator
• AC power loss and adapter failure detection via GPIO
• Auto power-on when power is restored
• Programmable low-voltage shutdown for battery protection
• Ultra-low standby current to maximise battery life
• System power-path management minimises unnecessary battery cycling
• Additional Features
• Connects via pogo pins – no extra cables required
• Mounts to the underside of the Raspberry Pi
• XH2.54 header available for connecting a custom power button

Specifications

• Power input: 5V DC 5A via USB Type-C or XH2.54-2P connector
• UPS output: 5.1V ±5%, max 5A
• Battery charging current: Max 2.3–3.2A
• Terminal battery voltage: 4.23V
• Battery recharge threshold: 4.1V
• Ports & connectors:
  • 1x 2-cell 18650 battery holder
  • 1x USB-C input
  • 1x XH2.54 2-pin 5V power input
  • 3x XH2.54 2-pin 5V power output connectors
  • 1x XH2.54 2-pin external power button connector
• PCB size: 106.6mm × 85mm

Resources

• Software setup/tutorials
• Hardware information and assembly

Package Contents

• 1x SupTronics X1201 5.1V 5A UPS for Raspberry Pi
• 1x Screw/standoff pack

Raspberry Pi, 18650 batteries and power supply not included.