How to Use USB Type C Power Delivery Dummy Breakout - I2C or Fixed: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The USB Type C Power Delivery Dummy Breakout - I2C or Fixed (Manufacturer Part ID: HUSB238) by Adafruit is a versatile breakout board designed to facilitate easy access to USB Type C power delivery features. This component supports both I2C communication and fixed voltage configurations, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

• Power Supply for Development Boards: Provides a reliable power source for microcontrollers and development boards such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and others.
• Portable Electronics: Ideal for powering portable devices that require specific voltage levels.
• Prototyping and Testing: Useful in prototyping environments where different voltage levels are needed for testing various components.
• Battery Charging: Can be used in custom battery charging circuits that require precise voltage control.

1. Power Connection:

   • Connect the VBUS pin to the USB Type C power source.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.

2. I2C Communication:

   • Connect the SCL pin to the I2C clock line of your microcontroller.
   • Connect the SDA pin to the I2C data line of your microcontroller.

3. Output Voltage:

   • The VOUT pin provides the configurable output voltage. Connect this pin to the load that requires the specific voltage.

4. Enable Pin:

   • The EN pin can be used to enable or disable the breakout board. Connect it to a digital I/O pin of your microcontroller to control the power delivery.

• Voltage Selection: Ensure that the output voltage is correctly configured for your application to avoid damaging your components.
• Current Rating: Do not exceed the maximum current rating of 5A to prevent overheating and potential damage.
• I2C Address: The default I2C address for the HUSB238 is 0x28. Ensure that this address does not conflict with other I2C devices on the same bus.
• Heat Dissipation: If operating at high currents, consider adding a heat sink or ensuring adequate ventilation to manage heat dissipation.

Below is an example code to configure the HUSB238 using I2C communication with an Arduino UNO:

#include <Wire.h>

#define HUSB238_I2C_ADDRESS 0x28

void setup() {
  Wire.begin(); // Initialize I2C communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication for debugging

  // Set the output voltage to 9V
  setOutputVoltage(9);
}

void loop() {
  // Main loop does nothing in this example
}

void setOutputVoltage(uint8_t voltage) {
  Wire.beginTransmission(HUSB238_I2C_ADDRESS);
  Wire.write(0x01); // Command to set voltage
  Wire.write(voltage); // Voltage value (5, 9, 12, 15, 20)
  Wire.endTransmission();

  Serial.print("Output voltage set to: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.println("V");
}

1. No Output Voltage:

   • Solution: Ensure that the VBUS and GND pins are properly connected to the power source. Check if the EN pin is set to enable the breakout board.

2. Incorrect Voltage Output:

   • Solution: Verify the I2C communication and ensure that the correct voltage value is being sent to the HUSB238. Check for any conflicts with other I2C devices.

3. Overheating:

   • Solution: Ensure that the current draw does not exceed 5A. Provide adequate cooling or ventilation if operating at high currents.

• Check Connections: Ensure all connections are secure and correctly oriented.
• Monitor I2C Communication: Use a logic analyzer or oscilloscope to monitor I2C signals if communication issues arise.
• Use Serial Debugging: Implement serial debugging to print out status messages and error codes for easier troubleshooting.

By following this documentation, users can effectively utilize the USB Type C Power Delivery Dummy Breakout - I2C or Fixed (HUSB238) in their projects, ensuring reliable and configurable power delivery for various applications.