Inkplate 6 Plus battery not charging due to misplaced MCP73831T

TECHNICAL SUPPORT Inkplate
1

Customer:

I purchased an Inkplate 6 Plus and unfortunately the battery does not charge. I checked with an ammeter and confirmed that it draws power when the Li-Ion battery is connected, but does not provide power when USB is plugged in. After checking the board, the issue appears to be caused by the MCP73831T not being soldered correctly - it is soldered on pads below its intended position. I’ve attached a photo showing the problem.

Originally submitted via email support on 21 January 2022. Migrated to the forum for community visibility.

2

Soldered Support:

This looks like a production error. If you have the tools (hot air station), it should be fixable quite easily. When doing the repair, please do not apply too much heat on the PCB, as it might damage the e-paper on the other side of the PCB.

3

Customer:

I have the tools and I’ve managed to fix the issue. After the repair, the battery voltage now increases during USB connection and the charging LED is properly lit.

4

Soldered Support:

Great to hear the repair worked and the board is now soldering correctly.