Pocket Powerbox Advance Gen2

The Pocket Powerbox Advance (PPBADV) sits between the Pocket Powerbox Micro and the Ultimate Powerbox v2/v3, offering expanded power control and an integrated USB 3 hub in a compact aluminium enclosure.

Key Features

• 4 × 12V DC power outputs (single software-controlled channel)
• 12A total distributed current
• Adjustable output: 3 / 5 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 12V (3A)
• Integrated powered USB hub (2 × USB3, 2 × USB2)
• High-power USB port (up to 3A for Raspberry Pi)
• 2 × PWM dew heater channels (software adjustable)
• Temperature & humidity sensor (included)
• Auto dew heater tuning
• Reverse polarity protection
• Standalone or PC-controlled operation
• Compact anodised aluminium enclosure

Power Distribution

A robust MOSFET power stage delivers power to all four 12V outputs, which can be switched on or off simultaneously via software.

Maximum combined current: 10A shared across all four outputs.

Built-In Voltage & Current Monitoring

A high-precision voltmeter continuously monitors input voltage. If the input exceeds 14.5V, the system automatically cuts power to protect connected equipment.

Multiple amp-meters monitor total current draw, 12V outputs, and both dew heater channels for precise power management.

Total available current: up to 12A — more than sufficient for most astrophotography setups (typically 5–7A).

USB 3 Hub

The integrated powered USB hub provides:

• 2 × USB 3 SuperSpeed ports
• 2 × USB 2 high-speed ports

USB 3 ports operate independently of USB 2 traffic, ensuring full 5Gbps performance.

USB Port Layout

• Port 1: USB 2
• Port 2: USB 2
• Port 3: USB 2 / USB 3
• Port 4: USB 2 / USB 3

High-power USB: Port 1 delivers up to 3A at 5V, suitable for Raspberry Pi 3/4/5 or Intel Compute Sticks.

Expansion Port (EXT)

An RJ12 expansion port allows connection of external accessories such as motor focus controllers or environmental sensors.

Additional Features

• Standalone operation with saved settings
• Two PWM dew heater channels
• Automatic dew control via environmental data
• LED status indicators (software-disable option)
• Hardware watchdog for automatic recovery
• User-upgradeable firmware

Enclosure & Dimensions

The electronics are housed in a rugged blue anodised aluminium enclosure.

• Size: 100 × 71 × 24 mm
• Weight: 250 g

Software Support

ASCOM

Fully ASCOM compatible, supporting environmental reporting, power control, and dew heater management.

INDI

INDI compatible and works seamlessly with StellarMate and other INDI-based systems.

Pegasus Astro Unity Platform

Unified control application supporting all current and future Pegasus Astro devices, with REST API access for third-party developers.

In the Box

• Pocket Powerbox Advance controller
• Temperature & humidity sensor
• 4 × DC power cables (2 × 1m, 2 × 0.5m)
• USB 3 Type-B cable (1.8m)

Technical Specifications