DSD TECH HC-06 Wireless Bluetooth Serial Transceiver Module Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The DSD TECH HC-06 is a wireless Bluetooth serial transceiver module designed for transparent serial communication. It functions as a slave device, allowing for wireless data exchange with a master Bluetooth device. This module is suitable for various embedded projects, including connections between microcontrollers (MCU) and GPS units, or PCs and embedded systems.

Key features include:

• Industrial serial port Bluetooth functionality.
• Transparent usage, serving as a direct replacement for wired serial connections.
• Operates in slave mode, pairing with Bluetooth dongles and master modules.
• Enables TTL data transmission and reception via Bluetooth technology without a physical serial cable.
• Module operating voltage range: 3.3V to 6V.

2. Setup and Connections

This section details the physical connections and initial setup for the HC-06 Bluetooth module.

2.1 Pinout and Power Supply

The core module utilizes the HC-06 chip. The interface pins include VCC, GND, TXD, and RXD. An LED status output pin is also reserved, allowing a microcontroller to determine the Bluetooth connection status.

• VCC: Power supply input (3.6V to 6V). Do not exceed 7V.
• GND: Ground connection.
• TXD: Transmit Data pin. Connects to the RXD pin of the receiving device.
• RXD: Receive Data pin. Connects to the TXD pin of the transmitting device.
• LED: Indicates Bluetooth connection status. Flashing signifies connectivity, while a solid light indicates a successful Bluetooth connection and open port.

The module incorporates a 3.3V LDO (Low Dropout Regulator) for stable operation. The current consumption is approximately 30mA when unpaired and 10mA when paired.

2.2 Interfacing with Microcontrollers (MCUs)

The interface level of the HC-06 module is 3.3V. It can be directly connected to various microcontrollers such as 51, AVR, PIC, ARM, and MSP430. For 5V MCUs, direct connection is also possible without requiring a MAX232 level converter.

However, if your board operates at 5V TTL, adding a voltage divider for the RXD pin of the HC-06 module (connected to the TXD of the 5V MCU) can improve stability. The TXD pin of the HC-06 (connected to the RXD of the 5V MCU) can typically be connected directly as the 5V MCU will recognize the 3.3V signal as high.

3. Operation

This section describes how to operate the HC-06 module for wireless serial communication.

3.1 Pairing and Connection

The HC-06 module operates exclusively as a slave device. It can pair with Bluetooth-enabled devices such as computers, other master Bluetooth modules, or Android mobile phones/PDAs. Please note that iOS devices (iPhone, iPad) are not supported for direct pairing with the HC-06 module.

• Default Baud Rate: 9600
• Default Pairing Code: 1234

Once paired, the module functions as a full-duplex serial port. No knowledge of the Bluetooth protocol is required for data transmission. It supports a communication format of 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, and no parity. Other communication formats are not supported.

3.2 Configuration using AT Commands

Before establishing a Bluetooth connection, the module's parameters such as baud rate, name, and passkey can be configured using AT commands. These settings are saved automatically after configuration. Once a Bluetooth connection is established, the module automatically switches to pass-through mode, and AT commands will no longer be processed.

DSD TECH provides free configuration software to simplify this process. This software allows users to quickly modify the Bluetooth name, baud rate, and pairing password.

After modifying parameters, it is recommended to re-power the module for the changes to take full effect.

4. Maintenance

The HC-06 module is supplied with transparent heat shrink tubing, which provides protection against dust and static discharge. To ensure longevity and reliable operation:

• Keep the module clean and free from dust.
• Avoid exposing the module to extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Handle with care to prevent physical damage to the pins or components.

5. Troubleshooting

• Module not powering on:

  Verify that the VCC and GND connections are correct and that the input voltage is within the 3.6V to 6V range. Ensure the voltage does not exceed 7V.

• LED not flashing/connecting:

  Ensure the module is powered correctly. If the LED is not flashing, it may not be discoverable. Check for proper wiring and power supply. If the LED is flashing but not connecting, ensure the master device is in pairing mode and within the effective range (approximately 10 meters).

• Cannot pair with iOS devices:

  The HC-06 module is designed to operate as a slave and does not support direct pairing with iOS devices (iPhone, iPad). Consider using an HC-05 module if iOS compatibility is required, as HC-05 can operate in master mode.
• Data transmission issues after pairing:

  Confirm that the communication format is set to 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, and no parity. Other formats are not supported. Also, ensure that the baud rates of both the HC-06 module and the connected device match.

• Unstable connection or data loss:

  For 5V TTL microcontrollers, consider implementing a voltage divider on the HC-06 RXD pin to improve signal stability. Ensure the module is not subjected to excessive electrical noise or interference.

• AT commands not working:

  AT commands can only be used when the Bluetooth connection is not established. If the module is already paired, it will be in pass-through mode. Disconnect any active Bluetooth connections before attempting to send AT commands.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

DSD TECH products are backed by a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

• Warranty: All DSD TECH branded products come with at least a 12-month warranty.
• Technical Support: Lifetime technical support is provided for all DSD TECH products.
• Product Replacement: A 1-year product replacement service is offered.