Rfid – Hardware details
Pinout
I2C Version
Click here for a high resolution image of the pinout.
UART Version
Click here for a high resolution image of the pinout.
Pin Details
| Pin Name | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GND | Ground | Common ground connection. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Connect to 5V power supply. |
| RXD | UART Receive | For UART communication (UART version only). |
| TXD | UART Transmit | For UART communication (UART version only). |
| INT | Interrupt | Signals when a tag is detected. |
| UPDI | Programming | For firmware updates (do not use in normal operation). |
| 3V3 | 3.3V Output | 3.3V output from onboard regulator. |
| SCL | I2C Clock | For I2C communication (Qwiic version only). |
| SDA | I2C Data | For I2C communication (Qwiic version only). |
Qwiic (formerly easyC)
Qwiic (formerly easyC) details and specifications
Learn about hardware specifications, compatibility, and usage of the Qwiic connector.
Address selection for Qwiic version
The board contains hardware address switches; see below for instructions on changing the breakout board's address.
Address Table
| Address | SW3 | SW2 | SW1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0x30 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 0x31 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 0x32 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 0x33 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 0x34 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 0x35 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 0x36 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 0x37 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Dimensions
- Board Dimensions: 38 x 38 mm (1.5 x 1.5 inch)
- Header Pin Holes: 1.5 mm
- Screw Holes: Designed for M3 screws (3.2 mm diameter)
- Soldered boards are LEGO compatible! 🧱
Jumper Details
This board contains hardware jumpers; see below for their locations and functions:
| Jumper | Default State | Function |
|---|---|---|
| JP1 | NC (Normally closed) | Connects SDA/SCL pull-up resistors to 5V for I2C communication. |
| JP2 | NC | Connects SDA/SCL pull-up resistors to 3.3V for I2C communication. |
| JP3 | NC | Used to connect or disconnect the “DATA OUT” (INT) signal line to its LED (D4). |
| JP4 | NC | Used to connect or disconnect the signal line to the LED (D5) via “PWR” (3.3 V). |
| JP5 | NC | When connected, the voltage regulator is powered by 5V, stepping it down to 3.3V for the IC. |
| JP6 | NO (Normally open) | When shorted, it bypasses the voltage regulator, allowing the board to be powered directly from 3.3V via headers. Ensure JP5 is disconnected if JP6 is connected. |
Hardware repository
The hardware repository contains everything you need to understand, modify, or manufacture the board. The different output folders are versioned. You can check which board version you have specifically by finding the version mark on the PCB.
Below is an overview of the available files.
CAD files
We use KiCad, an open-source PCB design tool. You can open and edit the .kicad_pro project file, which includes both the schematic and PCB layout.
The PANEL files are used internally for production.
Schematic
The OUTPUTS folder contains the schematic in .pdf format, exported from KiCad.
BOM (Bill of Materials)
The bill of materials (BOM) is provided in two formats:
- A standard
.csvtable, listing all components, part numbers, and values. - An interactive BOM (
.html) that visually highlights each component on the PCB, making it easy to locate and reference parts.
3D files
A 3D model of the PCB is available in .step format, allowing you to inspect the board design in CAD software.
Gerber files
Gerber files are essential for PCB manufacturing, as they contain precise instructions for each layer of the board. The repository includes standard Gerber outputs in a .zip file, such as:
- Copper layers (
.Cu.gbr) – Defines the traces and pads on the board. - Solder mask layers (
.Mask.gbr) – Specifies the protective solder mask. - Silkscreen layers (
.Silkscreen.gbr) – Contains text and component markings. - Paste layers (
.Paste.gbr) – Used for stencil fabrication in SMD assembly. - Drill files (
.drl) – Provides drilling coordinates for vias and holes. - Board outline (
.Edge_Cuts.gbr) – Defines the shape of the PCB. - Gerber job file (
.gbrjob) – Describes the set of Gerber files used for production.
These files are ready for fabrication and can be used in PCB manufacturing.
Compliance
The Compliance section includes important regulatory and safety documentation for this product. These files ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and legal requirements.
- CE – Certification document confirming compliance with EU safety, health, and environmental requirements.
- UKCA – UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) certification for the UK market.
- Safety Instructions – Safety guidelines and precautions in English and in German.
- Info.txt – Contains product details such as SKU, country of origin, HS tariff code, and barcode.