Project Introduction

The BenchVolt PD is more than just another power supply – it’s a compact, versatile, and open-source tool built for makers, engineers, and professionals who need flexibility at their bench or on the go.

Sometimes a single power supply simply isn’t enough. With BenchVolt PD, your everyday USB Type-C adapter or even a power bank can be transformed into a flexible, multi-channel power supply. That means you can safely power different voltage levels from a single device, all while keeping full control and protection.

Wouldn’t it make sense to replace multiple bulky supplies with one smart, portable box?

With support for USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) up to 100 W, the Power Box offers five independent output channels: three fixed outputs for common voltages(1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V) and two adjustable channels(0.5V to 5V and 2.5V to 32V) capable of both precise voltage/current control and arbitrary waveform generation. With current protection, you can safely power multiple evaluation boards, test circuits, and development setups simultaneously – without worrying about overloading your supply.

A bright TFT display keeps you informed with live voltage, current, and power readings per channel, while SCPI control support makes integration with test scripts and automated setups effortless. Pair it with a power bank and you suddenly have a portable power supply in your backpack.

Imagine dialing in 0–32 V straight from a USB port, setting current limits for sensitive prototypes, or generating custom waveforms on the fly – all from a single, pocket-sized device. For example, you no longer need a bulky 220 V supply just to power your hard drive at 12 V – if you’ve got USB with you, all the voltages you need are right there.

The BenchVolt PD is a complete development and testing companion for anyone working with electronics.

Features & Specifications

Power & Outputs

• Five independent output channels with adjustable voltage and current
• Fixed outputs: 3.3 V, 2.5 V, 1.8 V (up to 3 A each)
• Adjustable Output 1: 0.5V – 5 V @ 3 A
• Adjustable Output 2: 2.5V – 32 V @ 3A
• Current protection & safe operation
• 2.54 mm (100 mil) pin headers for powering multiple evaluation boards
• Arbitrary waveform generation and predefined waveforms (Square, Sine, Triangle, Ramp) available on adjustable channels

      Note: The fixed outputs and Adjustable Output 1 are LDO-driven, providing very low noise

      performance.

Arbitrary Function  

• Number of Points: 1024
• Resolution: 12-bit
• Point Parameters: Dwell time and Voltage
• Dwell Time Range: 4 ms to 16,384 ms

USB Power Delivery

• USB-C input supporting PD sink mode
• Up to 100 W USB-PD power

Control & Interface

• 1.9" TFT display (170 × 320) for real-time voltage, current, and PD mode
• Rotary encoder for fast menu navigation and 5 mV step adjustments
• SCPI command support for remote programming
• Python GUI for desktop control

Electronics & Firmware

• Microcontroller: STM32F070
• USB-PD controller: STUSB4500 (sink mode)
• Configurable LDOs and boost converters for fine-tuned outputs
• Overcurrent protection on all channels
• Firmware upgradable via USB through the Python interface (no ST-LINK or external dongle required)

Physical

• Dimensions: 160 × 75 × 40 mm (6.3 × 3.0 × 1.6 in)
• Weight: ~500 g (17.6 oz)

Open Source 

•  Python UI
•  Firmware
•  Schematics

Block Diagram

How It Works;

When BenchVolt PD powered on, all regulators and converters start in the disabled state. The STM32 microcontroller first powers up and performs safety checks by monitoring temperature, current, and voltage. It then enables the DC-DC converters, followed by the linear regulators in sequence.

Throughout operation, the MCU continuously monitors system all parameters to maintain safe operating conditions.

An additional safety layer can be used by setting a power...