How to Use Battery Charging Module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TP4056 Module (Type C), manufactured by Shenzhen Technology Co., is a compact and efficient battery charging module designed for charging single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. It ensures safe and efficient charging by incorporating features such as overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and automatic charge termination. The module is equipped with a Type-C USB input for modern connectivity and ease of use.

• Charging single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries in portable devices
• Power banks and battery-powered IoT devices
• DIY electronics projects requiring rechargeable power sources
• Battery management systems for small robotics or wearables

Below are the key technical details of the TP4056 Module (Type C):

The TP4056 Module has the following pin configuration:

1. Connect the Battery:

   • Connect the positive terminal of the battery to the BAT+ pin.
   • Connect the negative terminal of the battery to the BAT- pin.
     Ensure the battery is a single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer type with a nominal voltage of 3.7V.

2. Provide Power Input:

   • Use a Type-C USB cable to connect the module to a 5V power source (e.g., USB adapter, power bank, or computer).
   • Alternatively, connect an external power source to the IN+ and IN- pins (4.5V to 5.5V).

3. Monitor Charging Status:

   • The module has two indicator LEDs:
     • Red LED: Charging in progress.
     • Blue LED: Charging complete.

4. Adjust Charging Current (Optional):

   • The default charging current is 1A. To adjust it, replace the onboard resistor labeled Rprog with a resistor of the desired value. Refer to the TP4056 datasheet for resistor values corresponding to specific charging currents.

• Battery Compatibility: Only use the module with single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries.
• Heat Management: The module may heat up during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or heat dissipation.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the maximum input voltage (5.5V) or charging current (1A).
• Polarity Check: Double-check the polarity of the battery and power connections to avoid damage.
• Arduino Integration: The module can be used to charge batteries powering Arduino projects. However, ensure the battery voltage is within the Arduino's operating range.

Below is an example of how to use the TP4056 module to charge a battery that powers an Arduino UNO:

1. Connect the battery to the TP4056 module (BAT+ and BAT- pins).
2. Connect the Arduino's VIN pin to the battery's positive terminal and GND to the battery's negative terminal.
3. Use the Type-C USB port to charge the battery while the Arduino is running.

// Example Arduino code to monitor battery voltage
// Ensure the battery voltage does not drop below 3.0V to prevent damage.

const int batteryPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to battery voltage divider
float batteryVoltage = 0.0;

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(batteryPin); // Read analog value
  batteryVoltage = (sensorValue / 1023.0) * 5.0 * 2; 
  // Assuming a 2:1 voltage divider is used to scale down battery voltage
  
  Serial.print("Battery Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(batteryVoltage);
  Serial.println(" V");
  
  if (batteryVoltage < 3.0) {
    Serial.println("Warning: Battery voltage is too low!");
  }
  
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before next reading
}

1. Module Overheating:

   • Cause: High charging current or insufficient ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the charging current by replacing the Rprog resistor or improve ventilation.

2. Battery Not Charging:

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or damaged battery.
   • Solution: Verify all connections and ensure the battery is functional.

3. LEDs Not Lighting Up:

   • Cause: No power input or faulty module.
   • Solution: Check the power source and ensure the input voltage is within the specified range.

4. Charging Stops Prematurely:

   • Cause: Battery protection circuit triggered or module malfunction.
   • Solution: Test the battery with another charger to rule out battery issues.

• Can I use the TP4056 module to charge multiple batteries in series?
  No, the module is designed for single-cell batteries only. Charging multiple batteries in series can damage the module and the batteries.

• What happens if I leave the battery connected after charging is complete?
  The module automatically stops charging when the battery is full, so it is safe to leave the battery connected.

• Can I power a device directly from the TP4056 module while charging the battery?
  Yes, but ensure the device's current draw does not exceed the module's output capacity.

• How do I adjust the charging current?
  Replace the Rprog resistor with a resistor of the desired value. Refer to the TP4056 datasheet for details.

This concludes the documentation for the TP4056 Module (Type C).