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

The Charging Module (Type-C) by Generic is a compact and efficient device designed to manage the charging of batteries. It ensures safe and reliable charging by regulating the voltage and current supplied to the battery. This module is commonly used in portable electronics, DIY projects, and battery-powered devices to prevent overcharging and extend battery life.

• Charging lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium-polymer (LiPo) batteries
• Power management in portable devices
• DIY electronics projects
• Battery-powered IoT devices
• Robotics and small-scale energy storage systems

The following table outlines the key technical details of the Charging Module (Type-C):

The Charging Module features the following pins and connectors:

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.
2. Connect the Load (Optional):
   • If you want to power a load while charging the battery, connect the load's positive terminal to OUT+ and the negative terminal to OUT-.
3. Power the Module:
   • Supply 5V input power to the module via the USB Type-C connector.
4. Monitor the LEDs:
   • The CHG LED will light up during charging and turn off when the battery is fully charged.
   • The PWR LED will light up when the module is powered.

• Ensure the battery being charged is a single-cell Li-ion or LiPo battery with a nominal voltage of 3.7V.
• Do not exceed the maximum input voltage of 5V to avoid damaging the module.
• Avoid short-circuiting the BAT+ and BAT- terminals.
• Use appropriate heat dissipation methods if the module operates at high currents for extended periods.
• For safety, always monitor the charging process and avoid leaving the module unattended.

The Charging Module can be used to power an Arduino UNO via its OUT+ and OUT- terminals. Below is an example code snippet to monitor the battery voltage using the Arduino UNO:

// Example code to monitor battery voltage using Arduino UNO
const int batteryPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to BAT+ terminal
float batteryVoltage = 0.0;

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

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(batteryPin); // Read the analog value
  // Convert the analog value to voltage (assuming a 5V reference and 10-bit ADC)
  batteryVoltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0) * 2; 
  // Multiply by 2 due to voltage divider (if used)

  Serial.print("Battery Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(batteryVoltage);
  Serial.println(" V");

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

Note: If the battery voltage exceeds 5V, use a voltage divider to scale it down before connecting to the Arduino's analog pin.

1. The module does not power on:

   • Ensure the USB Type-C cable is properly connected and supplying 5V.
   • Check the PWR LED to confirm power input status.

2. Battery is not charging:

   • Verify the battery connections to BAT+ and BAT-.
   • Ensure the battery is a single-cell Li-ion or LiPo type.
   • Check if the CHG LED is lit. If not, inspect the input voltage and current.

3. Overheating during operation:

   • Reduce the charging current if possible.
   • Ensure proper ventilation around the module.

4. Load not receiving power:

   • Confirm the load is connected to OUT+ and OUT-.
   • Check the battery voltage to ensure it is sufficient to power the load.

Q1: Can I use this module to charge multiple batteries in series?
A1: No, this module is designed for single-cell Li-ion or LiPo batteries only. Charging multiple batteries in series requires a specialized charger.

Q2: What happens if I leave the battery connected after it is fully charged?
A2: The module includes overcharge protection and will stop charging the battery once it is fully charged. However, it is recommended to disconnect the battery to prevent unnecessary power consumption.

Q3: Can I use a power bank as the input source?
A3: Yes, a power bank can be used as long as it provides a stable 5V output.

Q4: Is it safe to use this module for long-term charging?
A4: While the module has built-in safety features, it is best to monitor the charging process and avoid prolonged unattended use.

By following this documentation, you can safely and effectively use the Charging Module (Type-C) in your projects.