Logic Level Shifter - 4 Channel I2C Bi-directional Converter
Logic Level Shifter - 4 Channel I2C Bi-directional Converter has a 5-10 day lead time before dispatch. Order will only be sent once all items are available for delivery.
Logic Level Shifter - 4 Channel I2C Bi-directional Converter
The 4 Channel Logic Level Shifter is a simple and reliable solution for connecting devices that operate at different logic voltages. It safely converts digital signals between low-voltage devices such as 3.3V microcontrollers and higher-voltage 5V systems, helping prevent damage while ensuring reliable communication.
This module is commonly used when interfacing devices such as Raspberry Pi, ESP32, Teensy, STM32, and other 3.3V development boards with 5V Arduino boards, sensors, modules, and peripherals. Featuring four independent bi-directional channels, the converter automatically shifts signals in either direction, making it ideal for I2C, UART, SPI, and other digital communication protocols.
Its compact 15mm x 13mm footprint makes it perfect for breadboard prototyping, embedded projects, and permanent installations where space is limited.
Features
- Bi-directional logic level conversion between low and high voltage devices
- Supports common voltage levels including 1.8V, 2.8V, 3.3V and 5V
- Four independent signal channels
- Ideal for I2C, UART, SPI and general-purpose digital signals
- Protects sensitive 3.3V devices from damaging 5V signals
- Compact breadboard-friendly design
- Simple wiring with clearly labelled high and low voltage connections
- Uses transistor-based level shifting circuitry for reliable operation
Why Use a Logic Level Shifter?
Many modern microcontrollers and development boards operate at 3.3V logic levels, while older devices and sensors may still use 5V logic. Directly connecting a 5V signal to a 3.3V input can permanently damage sensitive electronics.
A logic level shifter safely translates signals between different voltage domains. For example, when connecting an Arduino Uno (5V) to an ESP32 or Raspberry Pi (3.3V), this module ensures both devices can communicate without risking damage or communication errors.
Unlike simple voltage dividers, this module provides true bi-directional conversion, allowing signals to travel safely in both directions on the same channel.
How It Works
The module has two voltage reference sides:
- HV = High voltage side (typically 5V)
- LV = Low voltage side (typically 3.3V)
- GND = Common ground shared between both systems
Once powered, the onboard transistor circuitry automatically shifts logic signals between the two voltage levels. A 3.3V signal entering the low-voltage side is converted to the high-voltage level, while a 5V signal entering the high-voltage side is safely converted down to the low-voltage level.
How to Use
- Connect the HV pin to the higher voltage supply (for example 5V).
- Connect the LV pin to the lower voltage supply (for example 3.3V).
- Connect the grounds of both systems together using the GND pin.
- Connect the signal lines to the matching channel pairs (HV1 ↔ LV1, HV2 ↔ LV2, etc.).
- Power your devices and begin communicating safely between voltage levels.
For I2C applications, simply connect SDA and SCL from the low-voltage device to the LV side and SDA and SCL from the high-voltage device to the HV side. The module will automatically handle the voltage translation in both directions.
Pinout
HV1 HV2 HV GND HV3 HV4 LV1 LV2 LV GND LV3 LV4
- HV = High voltage reference input
- LV = Low voltage reference input
- GND = Common ground
- HV1-HV4 = High voltage signal channels
- LV1-LV4 = Low voltage signal channels
Applications
- Arduino to ESP32 communication
- Arduino to Raspberry Pi interfacing
- I2C sensor integration
- UART serial communication
- SPI device connections
- 3.3V and 5V development board compatibility
- Embedded systems prototyping
- IoT projects and sensor networks
Specifications
- Control Channels: 4
- Conversion Type: Bi-directional logic level shifting
- Conversion Hardware: Transistor-based circuitry
- Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V DC
- Supported Logic Levels: 1.8V, 2.8V, 3.3V and 5V
- Dimensions: Approximately 15mm × 13mm
Package Contents
- 1 × 4 Channel Logic Level Shifting Module
- 2 × 4-Pin Male Headers
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