Customer:
I’m interested in buying the Inkplate 6PLUS after being happy with my Inkplate 6COLOR. However, I’m concerned about the “USB only” specification. I want to use it as a portable eink reader not tied to a computer or power bank. Is there really no way to use a battery with it? Why was this option removed? I can’t find pictures of the back like on older Inkplate 6PLUS pages and wonder if the battery just isn’t included. If battery power isn’t available on the current product, I’m also wondering if the device listed as in-stock elsewhere has the battery option.
Originally submitted via email support on 1 May 2024. Migrated to the forum for community visibility.
Soldered Support:
The current versions of 6PLUS can be powered only by USB due to technical differences in ePaper models that weren’t documented by our suppliers. We had to create a new version powered via USB only because these new panels have unexpected behavior when powered by battery.
You can technically power the USB-only Inkplate 6PLUS via an external power bank connected to the USB port—the device will behave exactly as it would when powered via USB in this case.
The battery in Inkplate and Dasduino devices is usually connected via a JST connector and a battery charging circuit. This connector is not present on the USB-only board.
We’re working on another version of Inkplate 6PLUS which will be battery-powered as well. It’s in the final stages of development and going into production within the next 1-2 months.