How to Use TP4056 Charging module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TP4056 is a lithium-ion battery charger IC that provides a constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) charging profile. It is specifically designed for charging single-cell lithium-ion batteries. The module integrates overcharge protection, thermal regulation, and a simple interface for monitoring the charging process. Its compact design and ease of use make it a popular choice for DIY electronics projects and battery-powered devices.

• Charging single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries
• Power banks and portable chargers
• Battery-powered IoT devices
• Wearable electronics
• DIY electronics projects requiring rechargeable batteries

The TP4056 charging module is designed to provide safe and efficient charging for lithium-ion batteries. Below are its key technical specifications:

The TP4056 module typically has six pins. Below is the pinout and description:

1. Connect the Input Voltage:

   • Connect a 5V power source (e.g., USB power) to the IN+ and IN- pins.
   • Ensure the input voltage is within the range of 4.5V to 5.5V to avoid damaging the module.

2. Connect the Battery:

   • Connect the positive terminal of the lithium-ion battery to the BAT+ pin.
   • Connect the negative terminal of the battery to the BAT- pin.

3. Optional Load Connection:

   • If you want to power a load while charging the battery, connect the load to the OUT+ and OUT- pins.

4. Adjust the Charging Current (if needed):

   • The default charging current is set to 1A. To adjust it, replace the onboard resistor (Rprog) with a resistor of the appropriate value. Use the formula: [ I_{CHG} = \frac{1200}{R_{PROG}} ] where ( I_{CHG} ) is the charging current in mA, and ( R_{PROG} ) is the resistor value in kΩ.

5. Monitor the Charging Status:

   • The module has two onboard LEDs:
     • Red LED (CHRG): Indicates the battery is charging.
     • Blue LED (DONE): Indicates the battery is fully charged.

• Battery Compatibility: Only use the TP4056 module with single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries.
• Heat Dissipation: The module may heat up during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or heat sinking if charging at high currents.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: The module does not have reverse polarity protection. Double-check all connections before powering the module.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the maximum input voltage (5.5V) or charging current (1A) to prevent damage.

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 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 to ensure the battery voltage does not exceed the Arduino's analog input range (0-5V). For example, use two resistors of equal value (e.g., 10kΩ each) to divide the voltage by 2.

1. The module is not charging the battery:

   • Check the input voltage. Ensure it is within the range of 4.5V to 5.5V.
   • Verify the battery connections (BAT+ and BAT-) are correct.
   • Ensure the battery is not over-discharged (below 2.5V). If it is, pre-charge the battery using a low current.

2. The module overheats:

   • Reduce the charging current by increasing the value of the Rprog resistor.
   • Ensure proper ventilation or add a heatsink to the module.

3. The LEDs are not lighting up:

   • Check the input power source and connections.
   • Verify that the LEDs are not damaged.

4. The battery does not reach full charge:

   • Ensure the battery is compatible with the TP4056 (single-cell lithium-ion or lithium-polymer).
   • Check for a faulty or degraded battery.

Q: Can I use the TP4056 module to charge multiple batteries in series?
A: No, the TP4056 is designed for single-cell lithium-ion batteries only. Charging multiple batteries in series requires a specialized charger with balancing capabilities.

Q: Can I power a load while charging the battery?
A: Yes, you can connect the load to the OUT+ and OUT- pins. However, ensure the load does not draw more current than the module can supply.

Q: How do I adjust the charging current?
A: Replace the onboard Rprog resistor with a resistor of the appropriate value. Use the formula ( I_{CHG} = \frac{1200}{R_{PROG}} ) to calculate the desired charging current.

Q: Is the TP4056 module safe to use?
A: Yes, the module includes overcharge protection and thermal regulation. However, always follow best practices to ensure safe operation.