KEYESTUDIO Microbit Sensor Breakout Board V2 Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The KEYESTUDIO Microbit Sensor Breakout Board V2 is designed to expand the capabilities of the BBC Micro:bit control board. It facilitates easy connection of various sensor modules by breaking out all Programmable Input/Output (PIO) ports into a standard 3-PIN interface (GND, VCC, Signal). Additionally, it extends commonly used serial communication interfaces, such as I2C and SPI, into pin or female headers with a 2.54mm pin pitch, enabling communication with other devices.

Power can be supplied to the Micro:bit board through a black DC jack (DC 7-9V) or a micro USB port (DC 5V) on the shield. The sensor supply voltage can be selected between 3.3V or 5V using jumper caps V1 and V2.

Image 1.1: Overview of the KEYESTUDIO Microbit Sensor Breakout Board V2.

2. Features

• Breaks out all PIO ports of the Micro:bit control board into a 3-PIN interface (GND, VCC, Signal) for easy sensor module connection.
• Extends serial communication interfaces (I2C and SPI) into pin or female headers with 2.54mm pin pitch for device communication.
• Offers two power input methods: a black DC jack (DC 7-9V) or a micro USB port (DC 5V).
• Allows selection of 3.3V or 5V sensor supply voltage via jumper caps V1/V2.
• Includes a power indicator LED.
• Manufactured with clean soldering and aligned components, tested for function, voltage, and current.
• Complies with FCC and CE standards.

3. Technical Specifications

Image 3.1: Detailed view of the breakout board with component labels, including Micro:bit connector, PIO pins, I2C/SPI pins, power input, and voltage selection jumpers.

4. Setup and Installation

1. Insert Micro:bit: Carefully insert your BBC Micro:bit control board into the main board connector slot on the breakout board. Ensure it is seated correctly and securely.
2. Connect Sensors: Connect your desired sensor modules to the appropriate 3-PIN PIO interfaces (GND, VCC, Signal) using jumper wires. For I2C or SPI devices, use the dedicated communication pins.
3. Select Voltage: Set the V1 and V2 jumper caps to select the desired supply voltage for your sensors (3.3V or 5V). Refer to your sensor's specifications for the correct voltage.
4. Apply Power: Power the setup using either the black DC jack (DC 7-9V) or the micro USB port (DC 5V) on the breakout board. The power indicator LED will illuminate when power is supplied.
5. Upload Code: Upload your Micro:bit code to the Micro:bit board. This code will control the connected sensors and modules.

5. Operating Instructions (Example Use)

5.1 Temperature Display with LM35 Sensor and I2C LCD

This example demonstrates how to connect an LM35 temperature sensor and an I2C 1602 LCD to the breakout board to display the current temperature.

1. Ensure your Micro:bit is inserted into the sensor shield.
2. Set the V1 and V2 jumper caps to 5V output.
3. Power the shield via the DC jack (DC 7-9V).
4. Connect the LM35 sensor to an available 3-PIN PIO interface on the sensor shield using jumper wires.
5. Connect the I2C 1602 LCD to the I2C communication pins on the sensor shield.
6. Upload the appropriate code to your Micro:bit to read data from the LM35 and display it on the 1602 LCD.

Image 5.1: Example setup for alcohol detection, demonstrating sensor and LCD connection. The principle is similar for temperature sensing.

5.2 Traffic Light Simulation

This example demonstrates controlling three LEDs to simulate a traffic light.

1. Connect a traffic light module (or individual LEDs) to three separate 3-PIN PIO interfaces on the breakout board.
2. Ensure proper power supply and voltage selection.
3. Upload Micro:bit code designed to cycle through the red, yellow, and green LEDs, simulating a traffic light sequence.

Image 5.2: Traffic light simulation setup, showing the breakout board connected to a traffic light module.

5.3 Photo-Interrupter Test

This example demonstrates using a photo-interrupter module to control an LED.

1. Connect a photo-interrupter module to a 3-PIN PIO interface.
2. Connect an LED module to another 3-PIN PIO interface.
3. Upload Micro:bit code to detect the state of the photo-interrupter. When a black paper (or other object) is placed in the photo-interrupter's notch, the LED should turn ON; otherwise, it should be OFF.

Image 5.3: Photo-interrupter test setup, illustrating the connection of a photo-interrupter module and an LED module.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your KEYESTUDIO Microbit Sensor Breakout Board V2, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Keep Clean: Regularly clean the board with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store the board in a dry, anti-static environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handle with Care: Avoid applying excessive force when inserting or removing the Micro:bit or connecting wires to prevent damage to the connectors or components.
• Inspect Connections: Periodically check all connections for looseness or corrosion.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Power Indicator: If the power indicator LED does not light up, check the power source connection (DC jack or Micro USB) and ensure it provides the correct voltage (7-9V DC for DC jack, 5V DC for Micro USB). Verify that the power cable is not damaged.
• Sensor Not Responding:
  • Check all jumper wire connections between the sensor and the breakout board.
  • Verify that the V1/V2 jumper caps are set to the correct voltage (3.3V or 5V) required by your sensor.
  • Ensure your Micro:bit code is correctly written and uploaded to interact with the specific sensor.
• Communication Issues (I2C/SPI):
  • Confirm that the I2C/SPI device is correctly wired to the corresponding pins on the breakout board.
  • Check the device's address (for I2C) or chip select pin (for SPI) in your Micro:bit code.
• Micro:bit Not Functioning: Ensure the Micro:bit is fully and correctly inserted into its connector on the breakout board. If using the breakout board's Micro USB for power, ensure the Micro:bit itself is also receiving power or data if needed via its own USB port.

8. Package Contents

• KEYESTUDIO Sensor Shield V2 for BBC micro:bit * 1

9. Support

For additional resources, connection diagrams, sample code, and usage methods, please refer to the official KEYESTUDIO wiki page. Technical support is available via email or message.

Official Website: www.keyestudio.com