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VanPi is a configurable, Raspberry Pi-based system for monitoring and controlling equipment in a camper van, trailer, or RV. Its central Relay Board can switch certain loads and connect temperature and tank sensors; optional hardware adds battery-voltage measurement, dimming, and remote app access. It is an ecosystem to configure around a vehicle—not a guarantee that every appliance will work out of the box.
What VanPi does
VanPi brings selected vehicle systems and sensors into a shared control setup. The product overview describes it as open source and expandable, with Apple HomeKit integration. What you can control depends on the hardware, software, wiring, and integrations in the particular build.
The overview is an older description, so treat its hardware details as specifications from that source rather than assurances about every current board revision. See the VanPi product overview on Hackster.io, and verify the documentation for the exact hardware you plan to use.
What the Relay Board and extensions provide
The Relay Board is described as the system’s central interface. The overview says it accepts either a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B or a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W. It lists eight relays for equipment such as heaters, lights, and water pumps, with loads under 10 amps, plus connections for up to four temperature sensors and four tank sensors. These are overview specifications; check the exact board revision and wiring requirements before connecting a load.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Component | Role described in the overview | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Relay Board | Relay switching and connections for temperature and tank sensors | Board revision, supported Raspberry Pi model, wiring, and the ratings for the intended load |
| Measurement shunt | Monitoring battery voltage | Supported shunt and software configuration |
| DIMMY board | Dimming lights | Compatibility with the lighting circuit and board revision |
| IoT Bridge | App-based remote access from iOS or Android, as described by the overview | Current app and device support, setup, and required network connectivity |
How to think about app access and integrations
The product overview describes IoT Bridge remote access and Apple HomeKit integration. Remote access should not be assumed to work without the required connectivity, and HomeKit support should be confirmed for the intended current configuration.
A PeKaWay project profile, “Schalldose on Tour,” reports a build combining a Relay Board, tank sender, touchscreen, DIMMY, IoT Bridge, LTE router, heater integration, sensors, relays, Philips Hue, and HomeKit through Homebridge. This illustrates one reported integration, not a compatibility guarantee for other vehicles or setups. See the PeKaWay project profile.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check the hardware and software pairing before building
Official PeKaWay forum posts document continued software work: VAN PI OS v2.0.9 was posted on November 27, 2025, with notes on the LTE Bridge, Wireless Shunt, and apps; a VAN PI Core OS 2.0.10 update dated June 2, 2026, references shunt and app integration changes. Those dated updates show development through June 2026, but do not establish current stock, universal backward compatibility, or support for every older board. See the PeKaWay forum update listings.
Before purchasing or wiring a system, match the exact Relay Board or Core model to its software image and wiring documentation. The older overview names the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B and Pi Zero 2 W as host options, but does not establish which Pi models work with each current VanPi revision. Current shop availability and regional stock are also not established by these product and forum descriptions.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Decide whether VanPi fits your build
Compare control systems by what you need to operate and monitor, how much must work locally versus remotely, and how comfortable you are configuring and maintaining a Raspberry Pi-based system. Check compatibility with your intended board revision, sensors, and vehicle equipment before committing. The cited sources do not provide a fair head-to-head test against alternatives, so they do not establish that VanPi performs better than another approach.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
