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How to Use USB-C PD trigger board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of USB-C PD trigger board
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Introduction

The USB-C PD Trigger Board (ZY12PDN), manufactured by YZXSTUDIO, is a compact and versatile module designed to negotiate power levels over a USB-C connection. It leverages the USB Power Delivery (PD) protocol to request specific voltage and current levels from a USB-C power source, enabling higher power delivery to compatible devices. This makes it an essential tool for prototyping, testing, and powering devices that require precise voltage and current settings.

Explore Projects Built with USB-C PD trigger board

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Battery-Powered USB-C PD Trigger with MP1584EN Power Regulation
Image of BatteriLading: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
This circuit is a power management system that uses multiple 18650 Li-ion batteries connected in series to provide a stable power output. The batteries are regulated by MP1584EN power regulator boards, which step down the voltage to a suitable level for the connected USB-C PD trigger board and a power jack. The system ensures a consistent power supply for devices connected to the USB-C port and the power jack.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32 CAM Wi-Fi Enabled Camera Module with USB Power
Image of abc: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
This circuit consists of an ESP32 CAM module powered by a Micro USB breakout board. The USB breakout board supplies 5V and ground to the ESP32 CAM, enabling it to function and perform tasks such as image capture and processing.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Pushbutton-Controlled Interface with 40-Pin Connector and UBS Power Supply
Image of connect 4: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
This circuit consists of a 40-pin connector interfacing with four pushbuttons and a UBS power supply. The pushbuttons are used as inputs to the connector, which then relays the signals to other components or systems. The UBS power supply provides the necessary 24V power to the pushbuttons and the common ground for the circuit.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Battery-Powered 18650 Li-ion Charger with USB Output and Adjustable Voltage Regulator
Image of Breadboard: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
This circuit is a battery management and power supply system that uses three 3.7V batteries connected to a 3S 10A Li-ion 18650 Charger Protection Board Module for balanced charging and protection. The system includes a TP4056 Battery Charging Protection Module for additional charging safety, a Step Up Boost Power Converter to regulate and boost the voltage, and a USB regulator to provide a stable 5V output, controlled by a push switch.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with USB-C PD trigger board

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of BatteriLading: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
Battery-Powered USB-C PD Trigger with MP1584EN Power Regulation
This circuit is a power management system that uses multiple 18650 Li-ion batteries connected in series to provide a stable power output. The batteries are regulated by MP1584EN power regulator boards, which step down the voltage to a suitable level for the connected USB-C PD trigger board and a power jack. The system ensures a consistent power supply for devices connected to the USB-C port and the power jack.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of abc: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
ESP32 CAM Wi-Fi Enabled Camera Module with USB Power
This circuit consists of an ESP32 CAM module powered by a Micro USB breakout board. The USB breakout board supplies 5V and ground to the ESP32 CAM, enabling it to function and perform tasks such as image capture and processing.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of connect 4: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
Pushbutton-Controlled Interface with 40-Pin Connector and UBS Power Supply
This circuit consists of a 40-pin connector interfacing with four pushbuttons and a UBS power supply. The pushbuttons are used as inputs to the connector, which then relays the signals to other components or systems. The UBS power supply provides the necessary 24V power to the pushbuttons and the common ground for the circuit.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Breadboard: A project utilizing USB-C PD trigger board in a practical application
Battery-Powered 18650 Li-ion Charger with USB Output and Adjustable Voltage Regulator
This circuit is a battery management and power supply system that uses three 3.7V batteries connected to a 3S 10A Li-ion 18650 Charger Protection Board Module for balanced charging and protection. The system includes a TP4056 Battery Charging Protection Module for additional charging safety, a Step Up Boost Power Converter to regulate and boost the voltage, and a USB regulator to provide a stable 5V output, controlled by a push switch.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Powering development boards (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) with specific voltage requirements.
  • Testing USB-C power adapters for compliance with PD standards.
  • Prototyping circuits that require adjustable power levels.
  • Powering high-current devices such as motors, LEDs, or charging batteries.
  • Educational purposes for understanding USB-C PD negotiation.

Technical Specifications

Key Technical Details

  • Manufacturer: YZXSTUDIO
  • Part ID: ZY12PDN
  • Input Voltage: 5V to 20V (via USB-C power source)
  • Output Voltage Options: 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V (selectable via onboard configuration)
  • Maximum Output Current: Up to 5A (depending on the power source and selected voltage)
  • Power Delivery Protocol: USB-C PD 2.0/3.0 compliant
  • Dimensions: Compact form factor (approximately 25mm x 15mm)
  • Operating Temperature: -20°C to 85°C

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The ZY12PDN board has a simple pinout for easy integration into circuits. Below is the pin configuration:

Pin Name Description
VOUT+ Positive output voltage terminal. Connect to the load's positive input.
VOUT- Negative output voltage terminal. Connect to the load's ground.
CC1 USB-C Configuration Channel 1. Used for PD negotiation.
CC2 USB-C Configuration Channel 2. Used for PD negotiation.
GND Ground connection for the board.
SEL Voltage selection pin. Used to configure the desired output voltage.

Usage Instructions

How to Use the Component in a Circuit

  1. Connect the USB-C Power Source:
    Plug a USB-C power adapter into the USB-C port on the ZY12PDN board. Ensure the adapter supports the desired voltage and current levels.

  2. Select the Desired Output Voltage:
    Use the SEL pin to configure the output voltage. This is typically done by connecting the SEL pin to ground or leaving it floating, depending on the desired voltage. Refer to the manufacturer's datasheet for the exact voltage selection configuration.

  3. Connect the Load:
    Attach the load to the VOUT+ and VOUT- terminals. Ensure the load's voltage and current requirements are within the board's capabilities.

  4. Power On:
    Once everything is connected, the board will negotiate with the USB-C power source to deliver the selected voltage to the load.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

  • Check Power Source Compatibility: Ensure the USB-C power adapter supports the desired voltage and current levels.
  • Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the maximum current rating of the board or the power source.
  • Heat Dissipation: If operating at high currents, ensure adequate ventilation or cooling to prevent overheating.
  • Voltage Selection: Double-check the voltage selection configuration to avoid damaging the connected load.
  • Polarity: Always connect the load with the correct polarity to prevent damage.

Example: Using with an Arduino UNO

The ZY12PDN can be used to power an Arduino UNO at 9V. Below is an example setup:

  1. Connect a USB-C power adapter to the ZY12PDN board.
  2. Configure the SEL pin for 9V output (refer to the datasheet for the exact configuration).
  3. Connect the VOUT+ terminal to the Arduino's VIN pin and the VOUT- terminal to the GND pin.
  4. Power on the USB-C adapter, and the Arduino UNO will receive 9V through the VIN pin.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue Possible Cause Solution
No output voltage USB-C power source does not support the requested voltage/current. Use a compatible USB-C power adapter that supports the desired PD profile.
Incorrect output voltage Voltage selection configuration is incorrect. Verify the SEL pin configuration and adjust as needed.
Overheating of the board Excessive current draw or inadequate cooling. Reduce the load current or improve ventilation around the board.
Load not powering on Polarity mismatch or insufficient power. Check the polarity and ensure the power source meets the load's requirements.
Board not negotiating with the power source Faulty USB-C cable or incompatible power adapter. Use a high-quality USB-C cable and a PD-compliant power adapter.

FAQs

  1. Can the ZY12PDN board be used with non-PD USB-C adapters?
    No, the board requires a USB-C power adapter that supports the Power Delivery (PD) protocol.

  2. What is the maximum power output of the ZY12PDN?
    The maximum power output depends on the selected voltage and the power source's current capability. For example, at 20V, the board can deliver up to 100W (20V x 5A) if the power source supports it.

  3. How do I select a specific output voltage?
    The output voltage is configured using the SEL pin. Refer to the manufacturer's datasheet for the exact voltage selection method.

  4. Can I use the ZY12PDN to charge batteries?
    Yes, but ensure the battery charging circuit is compatible with the selected output voltage and current.

  5. Is the ZY12PDN board safe for continuous operation?
    Yes, as long as the board is operated within its specified voltage, current, and temperature limits.


This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the USB-C PD Trigger Board (ZY12PDN) effectively. For additional details, refer to the manufacturer's datasheet or contact YZXSTUDIO support.