Hey guys, looks like you found the note about the connection of VBAT and 3V3 on the Electron. From here: https://docs.particle.io/datasheets/electron-datasheet/#pin-markings-
VBAT Supply to the internal RTC, backup registers and SRAM when 3V3 is not present (1.65 to 3.6VDC). The Pin is internally connected to 3V3 supply via a 0 ohm resistor. If you wish to power is via an external supply, you'll need to remove this resistor. Instructions to remove this resistor can be found here
While some info is in the Electron Datasheet, it's obviously not enough and we intend on adding more of a description for the next revision of the datasheet. See known errata here: Open Datasheet Errata · Issue #19 · particle-iot/docs · GitHub
As for instructions, all you need to do is desolder the resistor located here. If you don't have a soldering iron, you can probably use some diagonal cutters to clip the resistor off of the board (please buy a soldering iron though). Measure continuity between VBAT and 3V3 to ensure the 0 ohms has been removed.
