How to Use USB-C Breakout: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The USB-C Breakout by Cermant is a compact and versatile breakout board designed to provide easy access to the pins of a USB-C connector. This component simplifies prototyping and testing of USB-C connections, enabling developers to integrate USB-C functionality into their projects without the need for complex soldering or custom PCBs.

• Prototyping USB-C power delivery (PD) circuits
• Testing USB-C data transfer capabilities
• Developing USB-C-based devices, such as chargers, hubs, or peripherals
• Educational purposes for learning USB-C pinout and functionality

The USB-C Breakout board is designed to expose the USB-C connector's pins in a user-friendly format. Below are the key technical details:

• Connector Type: USB Type-C (24-pin)
• Voltage Rating: Up to 20V (supports USB Power Delivery)
• Current Rating: Up to 5A (depending on the connected USB-C source)
• Data Protocols Supported: USB 2.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2 (depending on implementation)
• Board Dimensions: 25mm x 20mm
• Pin Pitch: 2.54mm (standard breadboard-compatible spacing)

The USB-C Breakout board exposes the following pins from the USB-C connector:

Note: Not all pins may be required for basic USB-C functionality. For example, USB 2.0 communication only requires D+, D-, VBUS, and GND.

1. Connect the Breakout Board:
   • Solder header pins to the breakout board for easy breadboard use.
   • Alternatively, use wires to directly connect the breakout board to your circuit.
2. Power Supply:
   • Connect the VBUS pin to your circuit's power input. Ensure the voltage and current ratings match your device's requirements.
   • Connect the GND pin to the common ground of your circuit.
3. Data Communication:
   • For USB 2.0 communication, connect the D+ and D- pins to the corresponding data lines of your microcontroller or device.
   • For USB 3.x communication, connect the TX and RX pairs as needed.
4. Configuration Channel (CC):
   • Use the CC1 and CC2 pins to detect cable orientation and negotiate power delivery if required.

• Voltage and Current Limits: Ensure that the connected USB-C source does not exceed the voltage and current ratings of your circuit.
• Cable Orientation: USB-C is reversible. Use the CC1 and CC2 pins to detect the orientation and configure your circuit accordingly.
• Data Protocols: Verify that your circuit supports the desired USB protocol (e.g., USB 2.0 or USB 3.x).
• ESD Protection: Consider adding external ESD protection components to safeguard the breakout board and connected devices.

Below is an example of using the USB-C Breakout to power an Arduino UNO and read data from a USB-C device.

• Connect VBUS to the Arduino's VIN pin.
• Connect GND to the Arduino's GND pin.
• Connect D+ and D- to the Arduino's serial communication pins (if applicable).

// Example: Reading data from a USB-C device connected to the breakout board
// Note: This example assumes a USB-to-serial converter is used for data transfer.

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
  Serial.println("USB-C Breakout Test");
}

void loop() {
  if (Serial.available() > 0) {
    // Read incoming data from the USB-C device
    char data = Serial.read();
    Serial.print("Received: ");
    Serial.println(data);
  }
}

Note: The Arduino UNO does not natively support USB-C communication. Use a USB-to-serial converter or a compatible microcontroller for advanced USB-C features.

1. No Power Output:
   • Cause: Incorrect connection to VBUS or GND.
   • Solution: Verify the power source and ensure proper connections.
2. Data Transfer Fails:
   • Cause: Incorrect wiring of D+ and D- or unsupported protocol.
   • Solution: Check the pin connections and ensure the device supports the desired USB protocol.
3. Cable Orientation Not Detected:
   • Cause: CC1 and CC2 pins not connected or configured.
   • Solution: Use pull-down resistors or a USB-C controller IC to handle orientation detection.

• Q: Can this breakout board handle USB Power Delivery (PD)?

  • A: Yes, the board supports USB PD up to 20V and 5A. However, additional circuitry is required to negotiate power delivery.

• Q: Is this breakout board compatible with USB 3.x?

  • A: Yes, the board exposes the necessary pins for USB 3.x communication. Ensure your circuit supports the protocol.

• Q: Can I use this breakout board for video output (e.g., HDMI over USB-C)?

  • A: Yes, but additional components or ICs are required to implement alternate modes like HDMI.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the Cermant USB-C Breakout into your projects for prototyping and testing USB-C functionality.