Your Pilot main internal power is regulated to 3.3V using the Maxim MAX720 (3.3V Palmtop computer and flash memory power supply regulator).
There is a 100.000 uF (!) capacitor (C2) to save memory data while replacing batteries. It also saves your data when batteries have bad or intermittent contact. Pilot will shutdown if you have a battery problem but data will be safe while the energy inside this capacitor lasts. The measured voltage drop over this capacitor after 1.5 minutes was 10% of initial voltage (3.3V)
There is a diode (code 607, D1) to prevent damage to your Pilot in case of reverse battery installation. I believe you can damage this component if you leave batteries reversed for a long time due to overheating. Batteries will overheat also and can leak or melt plastic pieces.
(with Fluke 87 at 28 degree Celsius and batteries at 3.074 Volts)
OFF = 150 uA;
ON (idle) = 15.7 mA;
ON (Playing Chess Pilot X Pilot, no sound) = 50mA average, 54mA
peak
HotSync'g = 50mA average, 55mA peak
Contrast setting effects:
All the way up (light) = 14.8 mA
Best setting = 15.7 mA
All the way down (black) = 18.3 mA
Other effects: (due to repeated interrupts I think)
Sounds: Peaks of 45mA before and after beeps (does not matter
which beep/sound)
Holding Pen at silk-screen area: 22 mA
Holding Pen at display area: 26 mA
Holding function buttons: 44 mA
Holding Up or Down buttons: 33mA
Power Off to On: 64.4mA peak
My New PalmPilot Professional measured currents
(with Fluke 87 at 24 degree Celsius and batteries at 2.930 Volts)
OFF = 450 uA;
ON (idle) = 16.48 mA average;
ON with display lit = 48 mA;
<============ around 300 % more current drawing !!!
HotSync'g = 50mA average, 55mA peak
You can use external batteries with clips to power your disassembled Pilot !
Future power supply schematic diagram
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