Powering Up a WiFi Router with a 20000mAh Power Bank: The Limitations and Solutions
Recently, I have been using the SOVO Mega MT Router Power Bank 9V for my MTLink 12V WiFi device. Initially, the shop keeper claimed that the power bank could provide a backup of only 6 hours, but in practice, it provided an impressive 11 hours of backup. This experience highlights the real-world performance and reliability of the power bank. I am based in Karachi, Pakistan.
Understanding the Power Requirements of a WiFi Router
In this article, we will address the question, 'How long does a 20000mAh power bank power up a WiFi router if the router uses a 5V input and 9V output?' To start, we first need to understand the power requirements of a typical router.
A typical router operates on a voltage of 12V with a current range of 1 to 2 amps. If you are using a power bank designed to charge mobile phones, its output would be 5V with 1 to 2 amps. Such a power bank would need a voltage booster or a buck-boost converter to step the voltage up to 12V required by the router. The cable you mentioned has an output of 9V, which is insufficient to power a 12V router. However, it's possible that the router's power adapter is 9V, which may explain why it works for some users.
Evaluating the Power Bank's Capability
The 20000mAh power bank is equivalent to 20Ah in ampere-hours. To calculate the power consumption of the router, first, check the power adapter rating. If the adapter is for 12V and 2 amps, the power consumption is 24 watts per hour. The power bank's capacity is 20Ah, so the theoretical backup time would be 20/24 hours, which is approximately 0.83 hours or roughly an hour.
While this calculation provides a theoretical backup time, it's important to remember that real-world performance can vary. Factors such as Peukert's Law and the energy draw in the adapter must also be considered. Peukert's Law provides an estimation of the actual discharge time:
t Q/Ik, where
t Charge Duration in seconds Q Charge Capacity in Amp-hours (Ah) I Current Drawn in Amps k Peukert’s Constant for Lithium batteries (between 1 and 1.09)Applying this formula, we can estimate the backup time. However, adding the energy draw in the 5V to 9V adapter cable will further reduce the usable capacity of the power bank.
The Practicality of Portable WiFi Routers
Portability is a significant consideration when using a power bank for a router. While it may seem convenient to have a portable router, practical limitations often make it impractical. Most routers require a wired connection to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) for optimal performance, especially for outdoor LAN gaming. Therefore, portability is not as valuable as it might seem for such use cases.
Conclusion and Further Reading
In summary, the 20000mAh power bank can provide limited hours of backup power for a WiFi router, depending on the router's actual power consumption and the efficiency of the power bank. For improved accuracy, consider Peukert's Law and other practical factors. For more detailed information on power backup for internet modems and routers, please refer to the linked guide.
Related Links:
Detailed Guide on Power Backup for Internet Modems and Routers