How to Use SparkFun microB USB Breakout: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun microB USB Breakout is a compact and versatile board designed to integrate USB connectivity into your projects. It features a microB USB connector, which is commonly used in many smartphones and portable devices. This breakout board is particularly useful for providing power to a project or for connecting it to a computer for data transfer.

• Powering microcontroller boards via USB
• Data transfer between a device and a computer
• Prototyping USB devices
• Adding a USB interface to custom electronics
• Charging battery-powered projects

• Voltage Rating: 5V (typical USB supply voltage)
• Current Rating: Up to 500mA for USB 2.0
• Connector Type: microB USB

1. Soldering: Begin by soldering the provided header pins or wires directly to the breakout board's through-holes.
2. Power Connection: Connect the VBUS pin to the 5V power input on your circuit and the GND pin to the common ground.
3. Data Transfer: If data transfer is required, connect the D+ and D- pins to the appropriate data lines on your microcontroller or USB interface chip.

• Voltage Regulation: Ensure that your circuit can handle the 5V supply voltage. If not, use a voltage regulator to step down the voltage to an appropriate level.
• Current Limitation: Do not exceed the 500mA current rating. If your project requires more current, consider using a powered USB hub.
• Data Lines: For data transfer applications, ensure that the D+ and D- lines are connected correctly and that any required resistors or matching impedances are in place.
• USB Standards Compliance: If designing a USB device, ensure compliance with USB standards for signaling and power management.

// This example demonstrates how to power an Arduino UNO using the SparkFun microB USB Breakout.

void setup() {
  // Initialize the Serial interface at 9600 baud rate for debugging.
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Send a message to the Serial Monitor every second.
  Serial.println("Arduino is powered via SparkFun microB USB Breakout!");
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1000 milliseconds (1 second).
}

• Power Not Working: Ensure that the VBUS and GND pins are properly soldered and that there are no short circuits.
• Data Transfer Not Working: Check the D+ and D- connections, and ensure that the microcontroller's USB interface is configured correctly.

• Check Connections: Use a multimeter to verify that all connections are secure and that there is continuity where expected.
• Inspect for Shorts: Look for any solder bridges or debris that might cause a short circuit between the breakout board pins.
• USB Cable: Ensure that the microB USB cable used is functional and not damaged.

Q: Can I use this breakout to charge a battery? A: Yes, but ensure that the charging circuit is designed to handle the 5V input and that it does not draw more than 500mA.

Q: Is it possible to use this breakout for USB OTG (On-The-Go)? A: The ID pin is not connected on this breakout, which is typically used for OTG identification. Therefore, it is not suitable for OTG applications without modification.

Q: Can I use this breakout board for USB 3.0 devices? A: This breakout is designed for USB 2.0 connections and does not support the additional data lines used in USB 3.0.