Taking a Starlink Mini along: the small power check before you leave

What the Mini needs

Starlink lists an average of 20 to 40 watts for the Mini, and around 15 watts when idle. Actual use varies with temperature, location and how busy the connection is.

The Mini itself has a DC barrel input for 12 to 48 volts, rated at 60 watts. Starlink only guarantees performance with the supplied power supply and cable.

Average use is not the USB profile

This is where it often goes wrong. An average of 30 watts sounds as if a 45 W charger would do. Starlink says otherwise: over USB-C you need a USB Power Delivery source rated at least 100 W (20 V/5 A). With 65 W or less, the Mini will not work.

For that you use the USB-C to barrel jack cable that Starlink offers. A USB-C cable in between also has to handle 5 amps: certified USB-C cables that can are marked 240 W.

A good spot

The Mini needs a clear view of the sky. Trees, a roof edge or a tall van next to you can interrupt the signal. Set it up away from overhanging branches and keep the cable free of doors and hinges.

The power station or power bank can sit in the shade, while only the Mini goes out into the open.

Test it at home

Connect everything at home once with the exact power bank or power station and cable you are taking. Does it start? Does it stay stable for half an hour? Then pack it all together.

Charge everything fully before you leave, and take the original power supply too if you expect a power point on site.

How long a power station lasts with the Mini is shown in the Starlink Mini power station guide.