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 lithium-ion batteries. It ensures safe and reliable charging by incorporating features such as overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and automatic charge termination. This module is particularly suited for single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries.

• Charging rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in portable devices
• Power banks and battery-powered projects
• DIY electronics and prototyping
• Wearable devices and IoT applications
• Solar-powered battery charging systems

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

The TP4056 Module (Type C) has the following pinout:

1. Connect the Power Source:

   • 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 a 4.5V to 5.5V DC power supply to the IN+ and IN- pins.

2. Connect the Battery:

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

3. Optional Load Connection:

   • If you want to power a load while charging the battery, connect the load to the OUT+ and OUT- pins.
   • Note: The load current should not exceed the module's maximum output current.

4. Monitor the Charging Status:

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

• Adjusting the Charging Current:
  The default charging current is 1A. To adjust it, replace the onboard resistor (Rprog) with a different value. Refer to the TP4056 datasheet for resistor values corresponding to specific charging currents.

• Battery Protection:
  Ensure the battery has built-in protection circuitry, or use an additional protection module to prevent over-discharge and overcurrent.

• Heat Dissipation:
  The module may heat up during operation, especially at higher charging currents. Ensure adequate ventilation or heat sinking if necessary.

• Avoid Reverse Polarity:
  Double-check the polarity of the battery and power connections to avoid damaging the module.

The TP4056 module can be used to charge a battery that powers an Arduino UNO. Below is an example of how to monitor the battery voltage using the Arduino:

// Example code to monitor battery voltage using Arduino UNO
const int batteryPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to BAT+ via a voltage divider
const float voltageDividerRatio = 2.0; // Adjust based on your resistor values
const float referenceVoltage = 5.0; // Arduino's reference voltage (5V for UNO)

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
  pinMode(batteryPin, INPUT); // Set the battery pin as input
}

void loop() {
  int rawValue = analogRead(batteryPin); // Read the analog value
  float batteryVoltage = (rawValue / 1023.0) * referenceVoltage * voltageDividerRatio;

  // Print the battery voltage to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Battery Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(batteryVoltage);
  Serial.println(" V");

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before the next reading
}

Note: Use a voltage divider circuit to scale down the battery voltage to a safe range for the Arduino's analog input (0-5V). Choose resistor values accordingly.

1. Module Overheating:

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

2. Battery Not Charging:

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or damaged battery.
   • Solution: Verify the 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. Load Not Powering On:

   • Cause: Load current exceeds module's output capacity.
   • Solution: Reduce the load current or use a higher-capacity charging module.

• Can I use the TP4056 module to charge multiple batteries in series?
  No, the TP4056 is designed for single-cell batteries only. Charging multiple cells in series requires a specialized balance charger.

• What happens if I leave the battery connected after it is fully charged?
  The module automatically stops charging when the battery is full, preventing overcharging.

• Can I use the module with a solar panel?
  Yes, as long as the solar panel's output voltage is within the 4.5V to 5.5V range and provides sufficient current.

• Is it safe to use the module without a protection circuit?
  While the TP4056 has built-in protection features, it is recommended to use batteries with integrated protection circuits for added safety.

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