Single Supply Logic Level Converter Hookup Guide

Pages
Contributors: bboyho, LightningHawk
Favorited Favorite 0

Introduction

The Single Supply Logic Level Converter combines a boost converter (TPS61200), adjustable voltage regulator (MIC5205), and logic level translator (TXB0104) into one board. It provides 5V to the high side of the TXB0104 and the low side is programmable to 3.3V, 2.5V and 1.8V. The default low side voltage is 3.3V. With this device you can use your 5V microcontroller with 3.3V sensors and vice versa without the need for a second power supply!

SparkFun Logic Level Converter - Single Supply

SparkFun Logic Level Converter - Single Supply

PRT-14765
$17.50

What makes this logic level converter truly special is the fact that you can supply it with 3.3V and it will boost it to 5V - meaning you can use your 3.3V system, and convert directly to another 5V sensor - and even power your sensor or other board! We will use a 3.3V microcontroller and a 5V sensor for the example. However, you can use still this board with a 5V microcontroller and a 3.3V sensor.

Required Materials

To follow along with this project tutorial, you will need the following materials to level shift between a 3.3V microcontroller with a 5V sensor. You may not need everything, depending on what you have. Add it to your cart, read through the guide, and adjust the cart as necessary.

Tools

You will need a soldering iron, solder, and general soldering accessories.

Solder Lead Free - 100-gram Spool

Solder Lead Free - 100-gram Spool

TOL-09325
$9.95
8

Weller WLC100 Soldering Station

TOL-14228
2 Retired

Suggested Reading

If you aren't familiar with the following concepts, we recommend checking out these tutorials before continuing.

How to Solder: Through-Hole Soldering

This tutorial covers everything you need to know about through-hole soldering.

How to Use a Breadboard

Welcome to the wonderful world of breadboards. Here we will learn what a breadboard is and how to use one to build your very first circuit.

Installing Arduino IDE

A step-by-step guide to installing and testing the Arduino software on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Logic Levels

Learn the difference between 3.3V and 5V devices and logic levels.

How to Install FTDI Drivers

How to install drivers for the FTDI Basic on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.

Using the Arduino Pro Mini 3.3V

This tutorial is your guide to all things Arduino Pro Mini. It explains what it is, what it's not, and how to get started using it.