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 voltage and current, protecting batteries from overcharging, and extending their lifespan. This module is particularly useful for lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries, which require precise charging control.

• Charging lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries in portable devices
• Power banks and battery-powered projects
• DIY electronics and robotics
• Solar-powered battery charging systems
• Educational and prototyping purposes

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

The Charging Module has the following pins and connectors:

1. Power Input: Connect a 5V DC power source to the USB Type-C input connector. This can be a USB adapter, power bank, or any 5V DC source.
2. Battery Connection:
   • Connect the positive terminal of the battery to the BAT+ pin.
   • Connect the negative terminal of the battery to the BAT- pin.
3. Load Connection (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-.
4. Adjusting Charging Current:
   • The default charging current is 1A. To adjust it, connect a resistor to the PROG pin. Refer to the module's datasheet for the resistor value corresponding to the desired current.
5. Status Indicators:
   • Connect LEDs to the STAT1 and STAT2 pins to monitor the charging status. Typically, one LED indicates charging, and the other indicates a fully charged battery.

• Ensure the input voltage is stable and within the specified range (5V DC).
• Use appropriate wiring and connectors to handle the charging current without overheating.
• Avoid short-circuiting the BAT+ and BAT- terminals.
• Do not exceed the recommended charging current for your battery to prevent damage.
• Place the module in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating during operation.

The Charging Module can be used to power an Arduino UNO while charging a battery. Below is an example circuit and code:

1. Connect the OUT+ and OUT- pins of the Charging Module to the Arduino UNO's VIN and GND pins, respectively.
2. Connect a 3.7V lithium-ion battery to the BAT+ and BAT- pins of the module.
3. Power the module using a USB Type-C cable connected to a 5V DC source.

// Example code to monitor battery voltage using Arduino UNO
// Connect the battery's positive terminal to an analog pin (e.g., A0)

const int batteryPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to battery positive 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 if a voltage divider is used to measure higher voltages

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

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

1. Module Overheating:

   • Cause: Excessive charging current or poor ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the charging current by adjusting the resistor on the PROG pin. Ensure proper airflow around the module.

2. Battery Not Charging:

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or a faulty battery.
   • Solution: Double-check the connections to BAT+ and BAT-. Test the battery with a multimeter to ensure it is functional.

3. No Output Voltage:

   • Cause: The battery is not connected, or the module is not powered.
   • Solution: Ensure the battery is properly connected and the module is receiving 5V input power.

4. LED Indicators Not Working:

   • Cause: LEDs are not connected correctly or are damaged.
   • Solution: Verify the connections to STAT1 and STAT2. Replace the LEDs if necessary.

1. Can I use this module to charge batteries other than lithium-ion or lithium-polymer?

   • No, this module is specifically designed for lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries. Using it with other battery types may result in damage.

2. What is the maximum battery capacity this module can charge?

   • The module can charge batteries of any capacity, but the charging time will increase with larger capacities.

3. Can I use this module without a battery, as a power supply?

   • Yes, you can use the OUT+ and OUT- pins to power a load directly, but ensure the load does not exceed the module's current rating.

4. How do I adjust the charging current?

   • Connect a resistor to the PROG pin. Refer to the module's datasheet for the resistor value corresponding to the desired current.

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