Last Updated on 2 years by admin
The SonOff Basic is designed to work from 100-240V AC and it can be controlled using the eWelink application /sonoff app. Have you thought of using the same device to work with DC current? Sonoff already has a device that works with DC current but that only supports 5V and it doesn’t have a cover. This sonoff hack makes it work from 6 to 26VDC.
But the hack I am showing you in this post supports the standard sonoff basic which comes in a nice plastic case with extra protection.
Do you know Sonoff Basic actually works from 5V
The sonoff basic that works from 100V – 240V AC actually works from 5V DC power. Check the image below for proof.
All we need to do is provide 5V DC from an external DC power source
Items that you need to Hack SonOff Basic to work with DC Power
- SonOff Basic Unit
- Step-down Module Regulator Converter DC-DC 9/12/24V to 5V Car USB Charger Power https://www.ebay.com/itm/324739653951?hash=item4b9bfde13f:g:PNUAAOSwhVRhClQG
- Around 20cm (thin) wire in two colors
- Solder iron
- Solder wire
- Small Drill to make a hole in the sonoff pcb
- Paper cutter to cut the unwanted path in pcb
How to convert Sonoff Basic to DC
- Open up the sonoff basic and look for the small transformer output wires and disconnect those using the solder iron, and remove the blue wire from one end as shown in the image
2. Now, you need to make some changes in the “Step-down Module Regulator Converter DC-DC 9/12/24V to 5V Car USB Charger Power”. As shown in the image, remove the USB port using the solder iron or a hot air gun.
Note – You only need to remove this part if you need to insert this module inside the sonoff basic box. Otherwise, you can skip this step.
This is how it will look once you remove the USB port and solder the wires.
3. Make a hole and insert the previously removed Blue wire, sometimes you might have a black wire in yours
Cut the Sonoff PCB as shown and solder the blue wire with relay leg
4. Next, you need to wire the Sonoff with the DC-DC 9/12/24V to 5V Car USB Module. I have shared a clear image for better understanding
5. Insulate the DC-DC 9/12/24V to 5V module using a heat sleeving or insulating tape to avoid short circuit
6. It’s all set now, safely pack everything inside the SonOff basic case. If you need more space carefully remove the parts shown in the image below
Note – Remove these components only if you need space to hide the USB module. If not leave it as it is
How does Sonoff basic hacked version work
Usually, the sonoff basic is made to provide AC Power from one end and output AC power from the other end. (With power on off option). After we convert it to DC you can insert 6V – 26V DC power from the Input. Positive and Negative are marked in the image.
Output now works as a switch; you can use any device with AC or DC current through the hacked sonoff. Only thing you need to consider is the load current. You need to control the connected load. Recommended 10A AC current, if it is DC current then check the relay specification provided to be sure how much DC current can be controlled through the newly hacked SonOff Basic.
Hope this was a helpful article for you all as it helps you control the DC powered devices which makes those smart devices. Please share your ideas through comments section.
