Breadboards have been a go-to platform for electronics enthusiasts and makers during prototyping, providing a simple and reusable way to prototype circuits. However, one challenge that often arises is monitoring the power being delivered to the components. Traditionally, this task requires separate tools like power analysers or multimeters, which can be expensive and cumbersome for beginners. The XIAO PowerBread created by Nicho.D offers a transformative solution, combining a reliable breadboard power supply with real-time monitoring, all in a single, affordable device.
Designed for ease of use, the XIAO PowerBread delivers 3.3V and 5V outputs, powered through a USB-C connection. It also integrates dual-channel voltage and current monitoring via the INA3221 sensor with 13-bit ADC built-in. Its built-in 0.96” IPS display with 80x160 pixel resolution provides clear, real-time data on voltage, current, and power consumption, making it an ideal choice for students, hobbyists, and even professionals looking to streamline their prototyping process. Beginners can now easily gain insights into their circuits without the need for costly equipment, while advanced users will appreciate its precision and versatility.
The Powerbread supports various display modes including real-time monitoring, visual charting, and statistics, which provides a complete overview of power usage while seamlessly integrating into standard breadboard setups. It also supports monitoring each channel individually. Apart from the existing feature, there the plans for bridging additional features, such as USB to UART bridge and PWM generator, through future firmware updates. The XIAO PowerBread is available at Nicho’s tindie store for around $25. the XIAO PowerBread is fully open-source and the firmware and schematics can be found on the GitHub repo linked in the product page, allowing users to customize and expand its capabilities.
