Practical Notes for Using a Power Bank with Columbus P-70 Ultra, P-9 Race, and P-7 Pro
When using an external USB power source such as a power bank with low-power GNSS receivers like the Columbus P-70 Ultra, P-9 Race, and P-7 Pro, there is one practical point to keep in mind.
Some power banks may auto shut off
These receivers use very little power, which is great for long operating time. However, some USB power banks may automatically enter sleep mode when the connected device draws too little current.
This means:
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some power banks work normally
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some may shut off automatically after a while
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some only support low-current mode for a limited time
The issue is usually not battery capacity, but whether the power bank can stay awake under low current draw.
Example: P-70 Ultra power consumption
The complete P-70 Ultra unit requires about:
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5V / 80mA average
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about 0.4W
Actual current draw may vary roughly between 60mA and 100mA.
So even a small power bank can provide long runtime. The main thing to check is whether the power bank will remain on.
Recommended solution: USB dummy load
If your power bank shuts off automatically, a simple solution is to use a USB dummy load.
Example: https://www.amazon.ca/Interfaces-Stabilizers-Electronics-Continuous-PowerBanks/dp/B0GS39MW4F
A dummy load adds a small extra current draw to keep the total load above the power bank’s sleep threshold.
For example:
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GNSS receiver: 80mA
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Dummy load: 25mA
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Total load: 105mA
If the power bank sleeps below 100mA, this setup can help keep it running continuously.
Practical recommendation
When using a power bank with the P-70 Ultra, P-9 Race, or P-7 Pro:
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first test whether your power bank can power the receiver continuously by itself
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if yes, no extra accessory is needed
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if it shuts off automatically, add a USB dummy load
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set the dummy load only as high as needed
If you have any questions about your setup, feel free to contact us.