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Pricelist: Retail Price (B2C) Pricelist
Pricelist: Retail Price (B2C) Pricelist
2-Channel I2C Bi-Directional Logic Level Converter Module

2-Channel I2C Bi-Directional Logic Level Converter Module

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SpecificationDetails
Channels2 Bi-Directional Channels
High Side Voltage (HV)5V DC (Typical)
Low Side Voltage (LV)3.3V DC (Typical)
CompatibilityI2C, UART, SPI (Slow speed), 1-Wire
Logic Levels1.8V to 5V
Dimensions15.5mm x 16mm
Breadboard FriendlyStandard 2.54mm Pitch
Price
₹ 33.90 ₹ 33.90
(Tax included)

Product Description

The 2-Channel Level Converter utilizes high-speed N-channel MOSFETs and pull-up resistors to achieve safe voltage translation. It features four pins on each side: two for power (High Voltage and Low Voltage) and two for data channels. The module is specifically optimized for the I2C bus (SDA and SCL lines) but can also be used for standard Serial (TX/RX) communication. Its small footprint and simple wiring make it a "set-and-forget" solution for protecting delicate 3.3V chips from 5V overvoltage damage.

Key Features

  • True Bi-Directionality: Automatically detects the direction of data flow; no "direction" pin or manual switching required.

  • Dual Channel Support: Perfectly matches the two-wire requirement of the I2C protocol (Data and Clock).

  • Safe Voltage Translation: Protects expensive 3.3V sensors from being "fried" by 5V logic signals from an Arduino.

  • Multi-Voltage Support: Though typically used for 5V-to-3.3V, it can also translate between 2.8V and 1.8V levels.

  • Integrated Pull-ups: Includes onboard 10kΩ resistors, ensuring the I2C bus lines stay stable during high-speed switching.

Technical Details

  • HV Pin: Connect to the higher voltage source (e.g., 5V).

  • LV Pin: Connect to the lower voltage source (e.g., 3.3V).

  • GND Pins: Both GND pins must be connected to a common ground for the circuit to function.

Prototyping and Engineering Tips from Robogears

  • The Common Ground Rule: For the level shifter to work, the GND of both systems must be connected. If you are using an external 3.3V power supply and an Arduino, ensure their Ground pins are linked together at the module.

  • Speed Limitations: While great for I2C (up to 400kHz), these MOSFET-based shifters can struggle with very high-speed SPI communication (above 2MHz) due to the "rise time" caused by the pull-up resistors. For high-speed SPI, consider a 74LVC245 dedicated buffer chip.

  • Wiring Orientation: Always remember that the HV side must be connected to the higher voltage. If you accidentally swap HV and LV, the internal protection diodes of the MOSFET will conduct, potentially sending the higher voltage directly to your 3.3V sensor.

  • I2C Bus Tip: If you have multiple 3.3V sensors on the same I2C bus, you only need one level converter between the Arduino and the first sensor. All other 3.3V sensors can then be chained together on the "LV" side.

Package Includes

  • 1 x 2-Channel I2C Bi-Directional Logic Level Converter

  • 2 x 4-Pin Male Headers (Unsoldered)

Disclaimer

Always check the datasheet of your sensor to confirm its maximum logic voltage. This module does not regulate power; it only translates logic signals.