Go Solar – Mine for Free

What You’ll Need (4 Basic Parts)

1. Small 5V Solar Panel (5–6V output, 1–3W is plenty)
   This captures sunlight and generates power during the day.
2. TP4056 Lithium Battery Charger Module
   Safely charges the 18650 battery from the solar panel and prevents overcharge.
3. 18650 Battery + Holder/Socket
   Stores energy so your miner runs 24/7 (even at night/cloudy days). One good 18650 (2000–3400mAh) is sufficient.
4. 3.7V to 5V USB Step-Up Converter
   Boosts the battery’s 3.7–4.2V output to stable 5V USB to power the ESP32 reliably.

Step-by-Step Setup Instructions

1. Connect Solar Panel to TP4056
   Wire the solar panel’s + to IN+ and – to IN– on the TP4056 module. Use short wires or solder directly.
2. Attach 18650 Battery
   Insert the battery into the holder/socket. Connect battery + to B+ and – to B– on the TP4056.
3. Connect Step-Up Converter
   Wire TP4056 OUT+ to the step-up module’s IN+ and OUT– to IN–. Set the step-up output to 5V (most have a trim pot – turn until multimeter reads ~5.0–5.2V).
4. Power the ESP32
   Plug a USB cable from the step-up module’s 5V USB output into your preprogrammed Mini Miners ESP32.
5. Place in Sunlight
   Position the solar panel facing south, angled into peak sun at noon. The battery will charge during the day and keep the miner running overnight.
6. Test & Monitor
   Check voltage at the battery (should rise during sun) and ensure the ESP32 stays powered 24/7. Add more batteries in parallel if needed for cloudy days.

Safety note: Use protected 18650 batteries. Never short-circuit. Work carefully with wires/soldering. If unsure, buy a pre-assembled solar kit.