Cute AA Voltmeter

by paulware in Circuits > Electronics

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Cute AA Voltmeter

cuteAAMeter.JPG
parts.JPG
usbHole.JPG
stripUSB.JPG
connectWires.JPG
Ever wonder if those AA batteries are any good.  You could get out the voltmeter and check them.  That can be a hassle.  Sometimes it would be nice just to check them quickly.  In this instructable you will create a cute little AA voltmeter. By the way if soldering is not your thing, you can get the finished product from https://tindie.com/Paulware/cute-aa-voltmeter/. 

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Get the parts.  Here are some links and prices you can also order this as a finished product from https://tindie.com/Paulware/cute-aa-voltmeter/
These parts are available from ebay for $7.44

$3.60 Blue voltage readout
http://www.ebay.com/itm/280928770982?var=580118175716&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

$2.85   3XAA battery case with switch
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1pcs-3xAA-3AA-4-5V-DC-Power-Battery-Case-Box-Holder-Switch-Cover-with-Cables-UM9-/290737949440?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43b1550b00

$0.99 usb cable
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-USB-2-0-MALE-AM-M-TO-FEMALE-F-EXTENSION-CABLE-/270987217823?pt=US_USB_Cables_Hubs_Adapters&hash=item3f1818cb9f

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Drill/Dremel  a hole for the usb cable.

stripUSB.JPG
Connect the usb cable to your laptop or usb power supply.  Using a voltmeter determine which cables are 5V and GND on the usb cable.

connectWires.JPG
Connect the usb cable 5V to Red cable on tiny meter
Connect the usb cable GND to Black cable on tiny meter
Connect Blue cable on tiny meter to AA +
Connect AA - switch output to usb cable GND

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Test out circuit.  Then solder and glue liberally. 
If soldering is not your thing, you can also get this product from https://tindie.com/Paulware/cute-aa-voltmeter/ for $12.00 (free shipping in US).