Internal Build: Internal Battery Power

Follow these steps to build your own internal DGT3000 BLE Gateway with Internal Battery Power.

Important Information

This build allows you to use the DGT3000's existing batteries to power the ESP32. However, this reduces the battery life to approximately 10 hours.

Therefore, I recommend using rechargeable batteries. Alternatively, you can install rechargeable batteries along with an internal Ni-MH charger (see the bottom of this document).

Firmware Requirement

The gateway requires DGT3000 firmware version 2.02 B150409 or higher.

To check your firmware version, simultaneously press the + and - buttons when the clock is paused.

If your DGT3000 displays "2.00" or "2.01", you will need to first update the clock's firmware (contact the manufacturer).

Assembly Instructions

1. Flash Firmware

Upload the DGT3000-ble-gateway firmware to the ESP32-S3-Zero using the following page:

Firmware Uploader

2. Disassemble the DGT3000

Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the 6 screws under the clock, then pivot the rear part from back to front.

3. Prepare the DGT3000

Drill a hole in the DGT3000's casing to place the switch with integrated LED.
Use a drill bit of the appropriate diameter for your switch to make a clean hole.

4. Wiring

Solder the SDA, SCL, and GND wires from the DGT3000 board to the ESP32.
Solder the switch and status LED according to the schematic. Pay attention to the polarity of the integrated LED.

5. Place the ESP32

Place the ESP32 inside the DGT3000 clock and secure it with strong tape to prevent movement and potential short circuits with the motherboard. You can tape it to the back cover of the clock, ensuring the USB-C port and the button remain accessible.

6. Test

Test that everything works correctly with your favorite chess application.

7. Final Assembly

Once everything is working correctly, reassemble the DGT3000 clock.

Required Materials

- ESP32-S3-Zero (not ESP32-C3-Zero!)
- Self-locking switch with integrated LED (3-6V)
- Soldering Wires
- A soldering kit

Photos

Optional Features

Add an Internal Ni-MH Battery Charger

Assembly Instructions

1. Prepare the DGT3000

Drill a hole in the DGT3000's casing for the USB-C port.
To create the opening, first drill a series of small holes. Then, use an end mill to connect the holes and shape the final rectangular cutout.

Optional: Drill a hole in the DGT3000's casing for the charging status LED.

2. Wiring

Optional: Remove the integrated LED from the Ni-MH battery charger and replace it with an external LED. Pay attention to the LED polarity.

Solder the wires from the output of the Ni-MH battery charger to the main power socket of the DGT3000.
Solder the USB-C port to the Ni-MH battery charger.

3. Place the Ni-MH Battery Charger

Place the Ni-MH battery charger inside the DGT3000 clock and secure it with strong tape to prevent movement and potential short circuits with the motherboard. You can tape it to the back cover of the clock.

Optional: Place the charging status LED inside the drilled hole.

4. Replace Batteries with Ni-MH Batteries

Replace the standard batteries with Ni-MH batteries.

5. Final Assembly

Once everything is working correctly, reassemble the DGT3000 clock.

Required Materials

- Ni-MH battery charger (2S)
- USB-C connector
- Optional: LED holder (3mm) (for status LED)
- Optional: LED (3mm) (for status LED)
- Optional: Fine wire for PCB connections (for status LED)