The SparkFun Nano Power Timer - TPL5110 is a specialized electronic component designed to efficiently manage power consumption in battery-powered applications. This breakout board utilizes the TPL5110 chip to enable timed power cycles, allowing users to schedule when their project turns on and off. This functionality is particularly useful in applications where power conservation is critical, such as remote sensing, data logging, and portable electronics.
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This circuit features an Arduino Nano microcontroller connected to a 7-segment display, a relay module, a pushbutton switch, and an LED. The Arduino controls the display to show a countdown timer, which can be incremented by pressing the button. When the countdown is active, the relay is engaged, and it disengages once the countdown reaches zero; the LED indicates the 3.3V power supply status.
This circuit is designed as a configurable timer system controlled by an Arduino Nano, which drives a relay to switch a 240V bulb on and off. The timer duration can be adjusted using pushbuttons, and the remaining time is displayed on an I2C LCD screen. When the timer expires, a buzzer sounds, and the relay turns off the bulb, indicating the end of the timing period.
This circuit features an Arduino Nano connected to an OLED display and a DS3231 real-time clock (RTC) module for displaying the current time. The Arduino Nano is powered through a toggle switch connected to its VIN pin, with power supplied by a TP4056 charging module that charges and manages two 3.7V LiPo batteries connected in parallel. The OLED and RTC module communicate with the Arduino via I2C, with shared SDA and SCL lines connected to the A4 and A5 pins of the Arduino, respectively.
This circuit functions as a configurable timer with visual and audible alerts. An Arduino UNO microcontroller reads input from a 4-position DIP switch to set the timer duration, displays the countdown on a 7-segment serial display, and uses a tactile button to start the countdown. When the timer reaches zero, it activates a red LED and a buzzer to signal the end of the timing period.
The following table outlines the key technical details of the SparkFun Nano Power Timer - TPL5110:
Specification
Value
Operating Voltage
1.8V to 5.5V
Maximum Current
20 mA (drive capability)
Timing Range
100 ms to 7200 s (2 hours)
Timer Accuracy
±1%
Quiescent Current
35 nA (typical)
Interface
Digital (One-shot or continuous)
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 85°C
Pin Configuration and Descriptions
Pin Name
Description
GND
Ground connection
VIN
Input voltage (1.8V to 5.5V)
DRV
Drive output to control external MOSFET
DELAY
Delay setting input (resistor to GND sets the delay interval)
DONE
Signal input to indicate task completion
Usage Instructions
How to Use the Component in a Circuit
Power Connections: Connect the VIN pin to your power source (1.8V to 5.5V) and the GND pin to the ground.
Delay Setting: Connect a resistor between the DELAY pin and GND to set the desired delay interval. The resistance value determines the delay time.
Drive Output: Connect the DRV pin to the gate of an external N-channel MOSFET to control the power to your load.
Signal Completion: Use the DONE pin to signal the TPL5110 that the task is complete, which will then turn off the power until the next cycle.
Important Considerations and Best Practices
Ensure that the power supply voltage is within the specified range.
Select a resistor for the DELAY pin that corresponds to the desired timing interval.
Use a MOSFET with appropriate drive capability for your load.
Avoid placing high inrush current loads directly on the DRV pin.
Example Code for Arduino UNO
// Example code to signal the TPL5110 that the task is complete using an Arduino UNO.
const int donePin = 7; // Connect this to the DONE pin on the TPL5110
void setup() {
pinMode(donePin, OUTPUT);
digitalWrite(donePin, LOW);
}
void loop() {
// Perform your task here
// Signal the TPL5110 that the task is complete
digitalWrite(donePin, HIGH);
delay(100); // Wait for a short period to ensure the signal is registered
digitalWrite(donePin, LOW);
// Enter a low-power state until the TPL5110 turns the power back on
// Note: This requires additional code to reduce power consumption, which is
// specific to the application and beyond the scope of this example.
}
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Common Issues
Device not powering on: Check the power supply and connections to VIN and GND.
Timer not functioning as expected: Verify the resistor value connected to the DELAY pin.
Load not receiving power: Ensure the MOSFET is correctly connected and has sufficient drive capability.
Solutions and Tips for Troubleshooting
Double-check all connections and ensure they are secure.
Measure the voltage at the VIN pin to confirm power is being supplied.
Use a multimeter to confirm the resistance value connected to the DELAY pin.
If using the Arduino code, ensure the DONE pin is correctly defined and connected.
FAQs
Q: Can I use the TPL5110 to power down my entire project?
A: Yes, the TPL5110 can control an external MOSFET to completely disconnect power to your project.
Q: How do I calculate the delay time based on the resistor value?
A: The delay time is set by the resistor value according to the formula provided in the TPL5110 datasheet. SparkFun provides a delay time calculator on their product page.
Q: What is the maximum load current the TPL5110 can handle?
A: The TPL5110 itself does not handle the load current directly. It drives an external MOSFET, and the current capability depends on the MOSFET's specifications.
Q: Is it possible to use the TPL5110 with a microcontroller other than an Arduino UNO?
A: Yes, the TPL5110 can be used with any microcontroller capable of providing a digital signal to the DONE pin.
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