Meet PDTricker – an Open Source Fast Charging Deception Device

Muse Lab has designed an open-source PD decoy tool based on Qinheng’s CH224K and CH552T. The PDTricker fast charging deception tool supports PD3.0/2.0 and can output 5V/9V/12V/15V/20V through key configuration.

“PDTricker is a fast charge deception tool that connects to a USB-C PD source, and can produce voltages on an output USB-C port of 5, 9, 12, 15, and 20V. Voltage selections are made via an onboard button, and indicated by a series of LEDs,” a tindle blog post explains. “Impressively, the device is able to deliver 5A at 20V, though this will of course depend on your power supply.”

Of course, there are many fast-charging deception tools in the market and some even use CH224K but it will interest you to know that this particular one is actually open source. “Both the hardware schematic and the software source codes are open source. You can also modify the source code by yourself to achieve personalized customization requirements.”

Here are some features of the PDTricker Tool:

• It can output 5V/9V/12V/15V/20V voltage by pressing the button
• It can also support PD3.0/2.0 protocol fast charge deception
• Depending on the input power capability, the highest output power it can give is 20V 5A
• Hardware schematic and software source codes are both open source
• It has a LED indicator to show the working status. LED flashes whenever the deception fails

Muse Lab also designed both the input and output terminals to use Type-C. “One might understandably be nervous about using a USB-C to USB-C “tricker” inline with expensive electronics, and/or leaving it unattended,” the post further explained.

“Where it would seem to shine, however, would be for test applications, where you don’t want to drag out a full-featured DC power supply, and a 5/9/12/15/20V source would be sufficient. For this purpose, the device can be ordered with a USB-C alligator clip cable, allowing you to power up that motor (or another thing) that you want to test at your desk with an Arduino. It can also have a pair of VOUT/GND through holes, on which you can solder your own leads if you prefer to forgo the USB-C output altogether.” ”

You can visit the GitHub page for the source codes and schematics if you would like to examine how it works. The PDTricker Fast track deception tool sells for $5 but adds an extra $2 if you are getting it with 0.5m Type-C Alligator Clip Cable, making a total of $7. More details can be found either on Tindle’s blog or online store.

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