The PowerBlock is a versatile extension board designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi, ensuring a safe and efficient power management solution for all models. Its standout feature is the integrated power button and LED status indication, providing a secure way to power on and off the Raspberry Pi without the need to unplug any cables. This setup ensures a clean shutdown of the operating system, mitigating the risk of data loss.
The PowerBlock is equipped with a USB-C connector for power supply, offering compatibility with the Raspberry Pi 4 and potentially other models with a Pi 4/USB-C power supply. For those requiring an alternative connector, a 2.54″ pinout is available for a 5V power supply. Additionally, the PowerBlock includes additional 5V output pins, allowing for the powering or control of other accessories in your project.
The PowerBlock supports both toggle and momentary buttons, automatically detecting the type of button connected. This flexibility ensures that you can tailor the power control to your specific needs. Furthermore, by attaching a 5V LED to the LED output pins, you can monitor the power status of the Raspberry Pi, with the LED indicating booting, running, and shutting down states through distinct signal patterns.
For detailed information, including a comprehensive guide and a demo video, visit our dedicated article page. The PowerBlock is fully assembled, requiring only the addition of a power button and, optionally, a status LED, making it a straightforward solution for your projects.
The PowerBlock is designed to be minimalistic, excluding any optional components such as an LED or power switch. This approach offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to choose only the components you need for your project, ensuring no unnecessary costs.
Should you have any inquiries or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
cruise.sam –
Used this for a Retro Pi build, works amazing on a Pi 4.easy to install and just works. Tested a momentary and latching switch and both works interchangeably with no software changes required. Used the 5v output for a small fan. LED works great to.
Overall super satisfied and will definitely buy again if needed! The only downside is the time it takes to ship to the USA from Germany (about 4 weeks for me).
Jaime Navarro –
Took a while to ship from Germany to the US given the current status of the world, but well worth the wait. The tracking number provided was appreciated.
I’ve tested this on a Raspberry Pi Model B (running Raspberry Pi Desktop OS), a Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (running RetroPie with Emulation Station and HyperPie in an arcade cabinet), and a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (running Twister OS, tested in both iRaspbian and Raspbian X Nighthawk desktops). I’m happy to report that it works as advertised with all of them!
I had an issue typing the command to install the driver on the Retropie because the “|” symbol was coming out as “~”, probably because the keyboard layout was set to “gb” instead of “us”.
The fix was to run this command first:
sudo apt-get install console-common
select the full list and choose:
pc/qwerty/US American/Standard/Standard
After that I was able to install the driver per the instructions with no issues.
The PowerBlock was easy to install and I can definitely recommend it to others.
tpbemt33sta –
Good communication between company and customer is always important, and after I had an issue the response was fast and precise, my issue was resolved. The item was as described and we’ll packaged, and just works! I mean, I’m running LibreElec on a Raspberry Pi 4B, and trying to find how to enable the GPIO pins for fan, power button and system LED was an absolute nightmare! It didn’t seem there was any information anywhere! Then I remembered I once owned a Powerblock for my Pi 2B for a retropie build, and was pleasantly surprised it supported Libreelec… Happy Customer, Thank You Petrockblock!
madmodder123 –
Much better than the Mausberry Circuit!
With the Mausberry it wouldnt detect if the Pi was shutdown via the UI (which it claimed to do) which caused problems.
Now I can get back to my project now that I have a power switch with proper functionality!
Otto Romanowski –
Works just fine! I will order some more!!!
William Mclaughlan –
works great, i have no clue with linux, managed it with your 1 line install.
I’d recommend to everyone.
Charles –
Very neat little add on that “does exactly what it says on the tin”
Well made and sits nicely, was very easy to implement and get working.
Would recommend this product and was a smooth and easy transaction.
Chris –
I bought the PowerBlock for part of my project i was building a Super Nintendo Pi. The product arrived swiftly, was easy to setup and works great, just what i needed. Would recommend.