KY-051 Voltage Translator / Level Shifter

This level shifter converts digital signals from one voltage down to another or up. A total of four channels are available on which conversions can be made.

Nowadays there are a lot of microcontroller systems that operate in different voltage ranges: For example, the inputs and outputs of older systems such as the Arduino, based on an Atmega controller, operate at 5 V levels. Newer devices, such as the Raspberry-Pi computer based on an ARM controller, operate at a 3.3 V voltage level.

However, if communication between two systems with different voltage levels is desired, the voltage level must be "shifted", i.e. adjusted. If no adjustment is made, the excess voltage must be consumed elsewhere (e.g. in the form of heat). Depending on the system, this can lead to permanent damage to the device.

Pin assignment

The pin assignment is printed on the module board.

The signals at the inputs/outputs A1-A4 and B1-B4 are shifted to the respective voltage level (VCCa -> A1-A4 | VCCb -> B1-B4).

Example:

Arduino output -> Digital [ON] = 5 V @ B1 >>>>>>> 3.3 V @ A1 -> Raspberry Pi input

No additional software or code is required for operation; the module works autonomously.

Please note that VCCb must be greater than/equal to VCCa (example VCCb=5 V - VCCa=3.3 V)

Example connection assignment between Arduino and Raspberry-Pi Pico:

Arduino pin assignment:

Pin assignment Raspberry Pi Pico

Please make sure that both systems are connected via the same ground connection (GND) - OE does not need to be connected for this module.