This is a 3D-printed plastic case specifically designed for Raspberry Pi Pico W microcontrollers with straight pin headers. It is one of the products in the IoT Case Lab (aka ICL) line of cases.

The design of the case model was conceived and developed to make the controller convenient to use, minimizing the time spent on assembly and connecting the rest of the project components.

If your Raspberry Pi Pico W has side-mounted pin headers, we recommend considering another ICL-made case (ICL_RPIPW_SI_V1), which is designed specifically for this pin configuration.

Who needs it

This case is suitable for use in DIY projects that use the popular Raspberry Pi Pico W microcontroller (the green board with the micro USB connector, from 2022).

Radio amateurs and DIY enthusiasts who need to conveniently connect project components to the RPi Pico W controller will find this case simple and easy to install and use, especially for connecting companion components with cable harnesses (Dupont-style connectors).

We hope to see both beginners and professionals in the ICL case line’s user base, including those involved in designing and building smart devices and home automation. The case should also appeal to those who spend a lot of time in a lab: students and teachers, testers, programmers, and those creating educational materials or running a technical blog.

Why did you make it?

In the DIY field, there is a wide variety of microcontroller boards based on popular hardware platforms like Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi Pico.

All of these controllers are sold as “Dev Boards,” which come with pre-soldered straight pin headers. This format is most often used with Dupont connectors to connect components to the controller.

Pin headers on the main controller board are a very convenient way to quickly connect and disconnect components in a project, especially for users who don’t want to solder.

However, there is a significant drawback: Dupont connectors often don’t stay in place well. This can lead to a poor connection at best, and frequent disconnections between components at worst. This is very frustrating, especially when a project has many connections or is built in a limited space.

When developing this product, ICL aimed to solve several problems at once:

• Allow the use of Dupont connectors while securely fastening them to the pin headers.
• Protect the controller board with a plastic case to prevent accidental short circuits from various metal surfaces.
• Securely hold the controller in place.
• Create a well-designed case for the standard controller module.
• Provide the ability to connect (combine) cases of various sizes, layouts, and purposes for project components.

What makes it special?

• Designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi Pico W controller.
• The panel securely fastens the Dupont connectors in place.
• All pin headers on the controller board are accessible for connections.
• The controller is secured inside the case using the four standard mounting holes on the RPi Pico W board.
• The BOOTSEL button is accessible through a hole in the case.
• The case has its own external mounting tabs.
• Although not originally intended, the internal space of the case also allows for the installation of pin headers for the DEBUG port (SWDIO, GND, SWCLK).
• Features special ICL Square Finger Joints – universal inter-case connectors – that are equipped on all IoT Case Lab products.
• Ventilation holes are located on three sides: two side faces and the top of the case, to provide passive cooling.

What’s in the box, assembly, and installation

Product includes:

Case – 1 pc;

Button cap – 1 pc;

Case panel – 1 pc;

Note. Screws, bolts, and nuts are not included with the product. The Raspberry Pi Pico W controller board is not included.

Case weight (plastic parts): 25.12 g

Material: PLA plastic

Color: The color matches the photo. The shade may vary slightly from batch to batch and is not dependent on the manufacturer.

Required skills, parts, and tools:

• No special skills or experience required.
• Screwdriver.
• Screws for securing the controller board — 4 pcs.
• Screws with nuts for securing the bottom cover and mounting the case to a surface — 4 pcs.

Assembly steps:

1. Flip the case upside down (the side with the ventilation and button hole).
2. Using tweezers, place the button cap in its designated spot from the inside.
3. Insert the controller board, chip-side down (pin headers up), into its place. The micro USB connector should go into its opening first, and then the rest of the board should rest on the internal mounting posts.
4. Secure the controller board with four screws inside the case, ensuring the button cap functions correctly in its hole.
5. Install the necessary cable connectors onto the controller’s pin headers so that they lie along both long sides of the case.
6. Close the bottom opening of the case with the corresponding panel.
7. Flip the entire assembly into a normal position and, if needed, attach the case to a surface using the mounting tabs. Alternatively, use the mounting tabs to secure the bottom panel you’ve just installed.

3D Model Source Files

We have not yet implemented the ability to purchase 3D model files as a virtual product, but we plan to do so in the future.

There is a model of the case’s external contours on GitHub for customers to evaluate the dimensions and the case’s projection on the X, Y, and Z planes.

To manufacture these souvenirs, we deliberately purchase non-functional Geiger tubes on the Ukrainian market that could be sold on the global DIY market as part of commercial products. As participants in the DIY market, we see how the same broken or exhausted tubes are resold several times from hand to hand, because no one wants to lose potential profit. We recently posted a video on our YouTube channel showing how the faulty SBM-20 tube works. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of such tubes on the market. That’s why we started making souvenirs out of them.

Also, rejected boards of the popular GGreg20 module of various versions and from various stages of production are used in our GGreg20 Epoxy Souvenir project.

As a result, we get a transparent block of epoxy resin, which contains a forever preserved GGreg20 module with a Geiger tube inside.

The epoxy resin casting guarantees that this time the Geiger tube will not return to the gray market of DIY radio components.

So, by purchasing a souvenir, you help to clean up the market from unscrupulous commercial offers and participate in the initiative to improve the quality of amateur solutions on a global scale. After all, the tubes from the Soviet reserves, which are discussed in this project, are distributed to Western countries and end up in the devices of thousands of radio amateurs.

What is the second initiative? We decided to donate half of the profits generated under this project to charity and support defense projects in Ukraine. We believe that in the context of the aggressive and unprovoked war that is now being waged against Ukraine, any charitable initiative is important and timely.

So, by ordering this souvenir as a keepsake, you are also donating to Ukraine.

Warning! This product is not a working Geiger counter, but only a souvenir. If you were looking for GGreg20_V3, such a module can be ordered at the link. Also see the dedicated to GGreg20_V3 DIY Geiger counter repository GitHub.

Dimensions and weight

• X: 150 mm.
• Y: 50 mm.
• Z: 25 mm.
• W: approximately 145 grams

Resin: transparent, non-toxic, EpoxyTable 5-five byRESIN PRO (Italy) with powerful UV filters in both components

Resin datasheet: RESIN PRO (Italy) link

Component A datasheet: RESIN PRO (Italy) link

Component B datasheet: RESIN PRO (Italy) link

Certificate of non-toxicity: RESIN PRO (Italy) link

Package contents

GGreg20_ES souvenir Geiger counter – 1 pc.

The version of the GGreg20 module, tube type, linear dimensions, and appearance of the module may slightly differ from the data and photos in the description of each ordered souvenir product, as the epoxy resin is filled manually and the main goal of the project is to remove defective Geiger tubes from the market.

What we can guarantee is that you will receive a product with a GGreg20 module and Geiger tube, which are filled with transparent, high-quality and non-toxic resin.

How to order

The product is supplied from Kyiv to all countries of the world, except for countries under international sanctions or accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Half of the profits from the sale of this product are allocated to defense projects and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

You can order the product on our website or on Tindie:

Website: https://go.iot-devices.com.ua/souvenir-geiger-counter

Tindie: https://go.iot-devices.com.ua/ggreg20_es_tindie

Please note that IoT-devices, LLC does not do business with Russian citizens anywhere in the world.

Instructions for use

No cabling – No soldering – No drivers – No coding

In our opinion, there are many possibilities for the use of this souvenir product:

• Place on a table
• Hang on the wall
• Embedded into a surface
• Demonstrate to colleagues, friends, children

Purpose

Emulator of radioactive particle detector is a hardware-software electronic module designed to emulate the counter of ionizing radiation level. For this purpose the emulator includes a pulse counting output to the main controller. Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, STM32 and others can be used as host controllers.

The simulated radiation level and operation mode of the emulator are indicated by light signals on the built-in RGB-LED.

GCemu20_V1 is an inexpensive and useful device for:

• safe and system learning,
• unit testing and development of new devices,
• detection and troubleshooting of running systems, etc.

This module is useful in training, testing, and constructing both indoor and outdoor ionizing radiation power meters in both handheld/pocket and stationary designs.

The only thing you need to start using the emulator module is any microcontroller that can count the number of input pulses per unit time on its GPIO, as well as power via micro USB.

Specifications

1. The module dimensions are 30 x 65 x 10 mm. The ESP12.OLED module without display is taken as the basis.
2. True Random Number Generator is a built-in ESP8266 TRNG.
3. Power of simulated radiation: 5 modes from 0 to 1.5 µSv/h.
4. Powered by AC/DC 5V adapter (not included) via micro USB.
5. There are 2.54 mm solder holes on the module board for connecting the console via UART. The console can be used when operating the emulator or flashing the embedded ESP8266 controller in GCemu20_V1.
6. The current consumption is similar to the ESP12.OLED_V1 module and is up to 80 mA with WiFi enabled (WiFi and ADC required by TRNG).
7. The pulse output GCemu20_V1 is compatible with the 3V3 ACTIVE-LOW logic signal levels.
8. The output pulse duration is about 10 µs, similar to the GGreg20.
9. Software: NodeMCU/Lua firmware. The emulator code starts automatically after power-up in mode 1 (simulating normal ambient radiation level [18-35] CPM).

Why and who needs the Geiger counter emulator

The main idea of any emulator in the field of DIY electronics is to temporarily, at certain stages, use a virtual substitute component instead of a real module in the process of IoT device development or experimenting / learning to reproduce the operation and characteristics of a real device with high accuracy. The emulator should simplify and speed up development, as well as add convenience in the initial stages of a planned project or performing unit tests.

Geiger counter emulator advantages

• No high voltage
• Simplified learning process
• Lower cost
• No real source of radiation is needed
• The life of the Geiger-Muller tube is not exhausted, because it is not present.
• Debugging data in the UART

Emulator users

• Radio amateurs in IoT and DIY microelectronics
• Teachers and students of technological universities
• Research groups and institutes
• Parents and children who are independently learning new technologies at home
• Developers and testers of stationary and/or hand-held dosimeters
• Test laboratories for quality and/or consumer protection

Emulator limitations

Among the known limitations of this method of creating a Geiger counter emulator is the memory size of the ESP826 controller, in which we create in a loop the required number of one-shot timers with random times of firing. Each timer, in fact, is a function that takes a certain amount of RAM.

When the timers are fired, the memory is immediately released. The execution of the code we developed resembles a spring, which in a cycle once a minute is sharply compressed and slowly uncompressed within the available memory of the controller.

Thus, the maximum possible number of events generated by our chosen method of generating random events at the emulator output directly depends on the amount of free RAM and the speed of the controller.

Experimentally we found that ESP8266 with NodeMCU firmware and Lua language can confidently generate about 260 events per minute or near 1.5 μSv per hour. This is more than enough pulses per minute for the emulator project and the radiation levels it supposedly registers.

How the emulator works

Embedded software cycles to create a certain number of one-time timers within a minute. Each timer, when triggered, initiates a logic level “1” (ACTIVE-LOW logic) on the GPIO of the emulator pulse output.

The duration of the logic level “1” is close to 10 microseconds and is similar to the pulses on the true Geiger counter module GGreg20_V3. The only difference is that GGreg20_V3 can also support 5V logic, while GCemu20_V1 only supports 3V3 logic.

The number of pulses at the emulator output and their corresponding random timers during one minute is set randomly and has a preset range corresponding to the current emulator operation mode. The emulator can operate in one of five radiation simulation modes.

The radiation power modes simulated by the GCemu20_V1 module have been chosen to cover the entire range of tasks in which it may be appropriate to use the emulator:

Mode 0. No pulses (sensor error simulation);

Mode 1. Natural background radiation (by default after Power-On Reset);

Mode 2. Acceptable level;

Mode 3. Increased level;

Mode 4. Dangerous level.

After power-up the emulator defaults to Mode 1.

To change the emulator mode, press the Flash/D3 button (SW1 on the module board).

The modes are selected alternately by pressing the built-in Flash button:

Mode 1-> Mode 2 -> Mode 3 -> Mode 4 -> Mode 0 ->Mode 1 …

Each power mode is assigned a different color on the built-in RGB LED, so that the user not only sees the output pulses from the emulator to the host controller, but can also distinguish the current modes of operation:

The real GGreg20_V3 module is equipped with a Soviet-made SBM-20 Geiger tube. This tube has the following conversion factor [pulses per minute, CPM] to [microsieverts per hour] for Cesium-137 source:

μSv per hour = CPM * 0.0057

Let’s perform the reverse operation to calculate for the radiation ranges the appropriate range of the number of pulses per hour that the emulator would have to generate while operating in a certain mode:

CPM = μSv per hour/ 0.0057

According to statistics collected by IoT-devices LLC, the SBM-20 tube is the most popular among DIY projects, so in the GCemu20_V3 emulator we made a binding of software characteristics to this tube.

The ESP8266 controller’s hardware True Random Number Generator (TRNG) is used to ensure true randomness of the pulses at the emulator output.

To enhance the effect of randomness, each minute cycle of the emulator generates not a constant number of pulses, but randomly selects the number of output pulses from the range of values given for each mode in the table above.

For example, Mode 1 will generate 18 to 35 pulses per minute and this number will vary randomly each time.

Thus, the output of GCemu20_V1 has a random number of pulses randomly distributed in time (within each minute of operation).

The GCemu20_V1 product has built-in, ready-to-use program code. To start working with the emulator, simply supply power via the micro USB port and connect the pulse output to the host controller, which processes the pulses and calculates the level of simulated radiation.

Buying this product, the user does not need to program or flash it himself, IoT-devices LLC has already taken care of this.

But if necessary, the user can flash the module with different firmware and use the module at will for other tasks through the UART interface by tools designed for ESP8266.

It is known that there are many IoT platforms for ESP8266-based modules, such as ESP-IDF, Arduino, NodeMCU, MicroPython, ESPHome, Tasmota and many others.

Module dimensions, I/O port assignment

The hardware platform for the GCemu20_V1 uses the universal ESP12.OLED controller module manufactured by IoT-devices LLC, without display. Therefore, the port assignment on the module board corresponds to the documentation of the ESP12.OLED module and the ESP8266 controller integrated in this product.

The printed circuit board of the ESP12.OLED_V1 module:

Assignment of all I/O ports of the ESP12.OLED_V1 module as the hardware platform on which the product GCemu20_V1 Geiger counter emulator is built:

However, only part of the I/O ports available on the ESP12.OLED_V1 controller are used to operate as a GCemu20_V1 emulator.

In particular, the GCemu20_V1 emulator uses the following controller ports:

• micro USB 5V power port;
• pulse output of the Geiger counter emulator (GPIO4/D5, marked as SDA on the board);
• UART interface (optional) to connect the developer console:
  • UART0 Rx / GPIO3;
  • UART0 Tx / GPIO1;
• jumper X5 to select the power supply mode (must be set when power is supplied via micro USB);
• jumper J2 to select the pulse output mode (user setting to switch random number / fixed number of pulses @ current mode of emulation);
• built-in RGB LED:
  • GPIO14 / D5 – Blue;
  • GPIO12 / D6 – Green;
  • GPIO13 / D7 – Red;
• Reset button (marked on the board as SW2);
• Flash button (GPIO0/D3, marked on the board as SW1);

The following figure shows these ports:

Fig. I/O ports ESP12.OLED_V1 (without display) involved in the emulator GCemu20_V1

The connection diagram of the emulator module (MCU_B) ESP12.OLED to the main controller (MCU_A) NodeMCU can be as follows:

This schematic also shows the optional developer/programmer console connection via a UART to USB converter.

We recommend the following materials as a reference on port numbering:

• The pin planning and application standard developed by alterstrategy.lab:

https://alterstrategy.com/recommended-pin-use-standard/

• NodeMCU flashing documentation:

https://nodemcu.readthedocs.io/en/latest/modules/gpio/

• Documentation for the ESP12.OLED module is on the website:

https://iot-devices.com.ua/en/product/esp12oled-universal-esp8266-mcuboard-oled-en/

on Tindie:

https://www.tindie.com/products/iotdev/esp12oled-universal-esp8266096oled-mcu-board/

Dimensions of the GCemu20_V1 product built on the ESP12.OLED hardware platform:

• X: 65 mm;
• Y: 30 mm;
• Z: 12 mm.

For comparison, the present Geiger counter module GGreg20_V3 with SBM-20 tube has the following dimensions:

X: 126 x Y: 30 x Z: 12 mm.

Comparison of GCemu20_V1 emulator and the original GGreg20_V3

Switching-on and measurements

It is recommended to switch GCemu20_V1 on as follows:

Warning. Always remove jumper J2 before (re)starting the device (GPIO2 <-> GND). GCemu20_V1 will not start unless jumper J2 is removed. This feature of operation is due to the fact that GPIO2, which is connected to jumper J2, takes part in loading the ESP8266 controller and switches it to another mode of operation.

At the same time, the jumper works normally after loading the device – it can be removed or installed without restrictions.

Step 1 . Connect the input power from the power supply.

Step 2 . Turn on the power supply. In no more than 10 seconds you will see light signals on the RGB-LED, simulating a hit of the imaginary particles in the module’s detector. On the pulse GPIO output of the module you will see random pulses of 10 microseconds each on the 3V3 ACTIVE-LOW logic according to the set operating mode.

Step 3: . Select the required emulator mode with the Flash/D3 button (marked as SW1 on the ESP12.OLED_V1 board).

Product delivery kits.

GCemu20_V1 basic

1. ESP12.OLED_V1 module (without display) — 1 pc
2. Ready to use, emulator embedded software — 1 pc.
3. 2.54 mm pins kit for self-installation — 1 pc

Technical description: GCemu20_V13 Datasheet UKR, GCemu20_V1 Datasheet ENG

System digital serial bus I2C due to the simplicity, high enough speed, and reliability of data transmission over relatively long distances – has a high rating of use in industrial components, modules and devices, and DIY projects.

The I2C bus also allows hot connection/disconnection of slave devices and identification of devices by addresses, or unique internal register data. The bus topology and at least 7-bit addressing allow up to a hundred slave devices to be connected to the I2C network simultaneously.

All this allows to build a convenient, reliable, and functional infrastructure of sensors and actuators around the main controller.

The main controller, however, usually has only one I2C interface and/or a limited number of free pins. That is why, in order to fully use the I2C bus in the development and operation, interface splitters are used. And then through the splitter connect to the main controller the required number of sub-components.

The offered device is specially designed for such tasks – I2CHUB_V1 – splitter and converter of interface connector types in one module.

The I2CHUB module will be useful for:

• Creating prototypes of electronic devices with a large number of connected modules via the I2C bus, which, traditionally for Arduino, are connected to the system by cables with pin connectors from Dupont, JST, or others with a pin-to-pin step of 2.54 mm;.
• Construction of DIY devices with a large number of modules connected by the I2C bus;
• Remotely distanced groups of modules or devices, such as weather stations with remote cable groups of sensors.

On the module, as one of the delivery options of the User’s choice, it is possible to install six connectors (4 pins 2.54) with I2C interface and two connectors (2 pins 2.54) for the power supply. The User can also add the required number of appropriate interface cables to the kit when ordering.

Description

The I2CHUB interface splitter module is a passive device and allows you to connect several (up to five) devices (sensors or actuators) to the main controller at the same time. The controller and splitter form a network of connected I2C devices with a bus-type topology and Master-Slave interaction profile.

Also, if you install different connectors (JST and/or Dupont) on the board of the splitter module, I2CHUB will also act as a converter of physical interfaces, which is very convenient for prototyping and development.

Multiple I2CHUB devices can be freely cascaded within the limits allowed by the I2C bus specification, and further, expand the total number of free ports in the network of subordinate smart devices of the master controller.

Connection

The main controller which will work in the “Master mode” is connected to one of the 4-pin ports of the module. Subordinate devices are connected to other 4-pin ports. In this scheme, all devices are powered by the main controller, and the 2-pin power connectors on the I2CHUB module board are not involved.

Power connectors can only be used if each of the devices on the bus is powered from its own source.

For example, the main controller can feed only itself and then only the interface signals are connected to the splitter: SDA, SCL, GND – without power, but with a common “ground” signal for all devices on the bus.

In this case, slave devices connected to the I2CHUB splitter must be powered directly from it:

• power to the I2CHUB is supplied via two-pin connectors;
• power from the I2CHUB to each device is supplied through the appropriate 4-pin interfaces;
• keep in mind that the controller is powered by itself.

WARNING! Be careful when designing – do not allow the current to run on the bus from multiple power sources – the devices on the bus will be damaged under the counter-current impact.

If you want to use an additional I2CHUB splitter, then instead of one of the slave devices you may connect an additional splitter, and then connect to it other devices that do not have enough free ports on the first splitter.

Recipe application as an example

To build a personal weather station, it is necessary to connect a number of sensors to the controller to measure ionizing radiation, ultraviolet light, temperature, atmospheric pressure, relative humidity, and to detect lightning strikes.

The Bill of Materials, in this case, it is possible to make as the following:

• MSU: ESP12.OLED module based on ESP8266 and OLED SSD1306, I2C;
• I2C Splitter: I2CHUB 1-to-5 I2C bus passive hub;
• user interface module: I2CUI4_V1, I2C;
• ionizing radiation sensor: GGreg20_V3, discrete pulse output;
• ultraviolet sensor: VEML6075, I2C;
• CO2 sensor: CCS811, eCO2 & eTVOC, I2C;
• temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity sensor: BME280, I2C;
• Lightning detector: AS3935, I2C.

As we can see in this example, with a fairly wide functionality of the weather station, only one I2CHUB splitter will be enough to connect via I2C bus all the sensors listed to the main controller.

Moreover, if it is necessary to expand the weather station with new sensors (for example, add a light sensor: MAX44009, I2C), it will be easy to do just by using one more splitter. In this scenario, we get 4 more free I2C ports.

Product delivery kits.

1. Basic Kit:

• I2CHUB_V1 module board without connectors.

Note: The user can install his own 2.54 mm connectors on such a board

Technical description: i2chub_v1-product-description-and-datasheet-ukr, i2chub_v1-product-description-and-datasheet-eng.

Dimensions

The module board has the following linear dimensions:

• X: 53 mm;
• Y: 18 mm;
• Z:< 15 mm with connectors.

Dimensions along the axes of the mounting holes:

• X: 48 mm;
• Y: 12 mm.
• Holes: 2 x d3 mm.

References

Manufacturer message

Dear Reader! Thank you for your interest in our products. We hope that you enjoy this device. IoT-devices was born thanks to the support of our customers and thanks to our experience and love for Electronics.

Designed and made by IoT-devices with freedom & wisdom in Ukraine – 2021. All rights reserved.

Compatible with ARDUINO, ESP12.OLED_V1 controllers, NodeMCU board (based on ESP8266-12), modules on the ESP8266EX, ESP32 or other chip, which are powered by a voltage in the range from 1.8 to 5.5 V.

Functionality

The module connects to the main controller via a 4-wire I2C bus interface and provides the following functions:

• Data entry with a five-button keyboard (left, right, down, up, OK)
• Data output to RGB LED;
• Output of sound sequences to the active indicator of the buzzer type;
• I2C bus input and output through ports. Input for connection to MCU and output – for connection of any external devices that support the I2C specification.

Thanks to the use of the I2C bus and the MCP23017 port expander, GPIO savings of the main controller and the ability to input and output information in a user-friendly way are achieved. The rest of 7 GPIOs are connected to separate pin connectors for additional I / O signals connection according to the user’s design.

Int A & Int B output signals are available – can be used for interrupt processing when the state of the module inputs changes.

Application

I2CUI4_V1 will be convenient to use as a control panel and status display in user devices:

• electronic clocks,
• radiation level dosimeters,
• smart outlets,
• thermostats,
• multimedia and audio devices,
• weather stations and others.

Compatibility

Compatible with controllers and platforms:

• ARDUINO,
• ESP12.OLED_V1,
• NodeMCU board (based on ESP8266-12),
• modules on the ESP8266EX chip,
• ESP32,
• or others powered by 1.8 – 5.5 V;
• integration into Home Assistant (with ESP Home plugin), Blynk, OpenHab, Node-RED, Tasmota is possible.

Minor and major versions of the module

Unlike the minor version I2CUI3_V1, the I2CUI4_V1 user interface module uses a widely supported 16-bit MCP23017 port expander. This makes it possible to use this module in devices for integration into Home Assistant, Arduino and many others.

Chips of user interface modules:

• I2CUI3_V1 – 8-bit, I2C, PCA9538, 2^3 GPIOs;
• I2CUI4_V1 – 16-bit, I2C, MCP23017, 2^4 GPIOs.

The major version of I2CUI4_V1 has the following features:

• single digital interface – 2 x I2C (input / output) ports;
• 5 “joystick” buttons; sound indicator; RGB LED indicator;
• selection of one of 8 module addresses on the I2C bus via solred-pads;
• 7 free GPIOs are connected to separate pin connectors.

Driver-level support

Support for the MCP23017 chip at the driver level is stated in particular by the following platforms:

Assignment of module ports

Power supply and consumption

Power supply of the module is possible in the range of voltages of 1,8 – 5,5 volts. The current consumption of the I2CUI4 module at rest is about 1 microampere. In the case of simultaneous data output to R + G + B + buzzer, the maximum current consumption can reach 20 milliamperes.

Addressing on the I2C bus

The address of the module has a fixed and variable part:

The address of the module I2CUI4_V1 is selected in accordance with the documentation on the chip MCP23017, because it is this chip of the module that interacts with the main controller via the I2C bus.

Interrupt handling

The module has two interrupt channels: Int A and Int B. All processing and logic (active-low) corresponds to the documentation for the MCP23017 chip. Interrupt processing is provided for the master controller to monitor changes in GPIO states set to input mode.

According to the design of the interface module I2CUI4_V1, input mode:

• must be set for:
  • GPIO 11 (GPA3) – Key Up on board
  • GPIO 12 (GPA4) – Key Down on board
  • GPIO 13 (GPA5) – Key Left on board
  • GPIO 14 (GPA6) – Key Right on board
  • GPIO 15 (GPA7) – Key OK on board
• can be set for spare GPIO ports if used by the user as inputs: GPIO 1 (GPB1), GPIO 2 (GPB2), GPIO 3 (GPB3), GPIO 4 (GPB4), GPIO 5 (GPB5), GPIO 6 (GPB6) ), GPIO 7 (GPB7).

Ports GPIO 0 (GPB0) Buzzer on board, GPIO 8 (GPA0) LED – Blue on board, GPIO 9 (GPA1) LED – Green on board, GPIO 10 (GPA2) LED – Red on board – work on the module as outputs.

Module dimensions

• Dimensions of the module board 50 x 52 mm,
• Module height (Z): 15 mm.

Product kit sets

The module is delivered in the following sets:

• Basic set:
  • 1 pc – I2CUI4_V1 user interface module;
  • PCB Headers ( Dupont Headers ) 2,54 20p – 1 pc.

• Basic + Connectors set: (Note: The user receives the module with installed connectors )
  • 1 pc – Basic set;
  • Connectors:
    • JST XH 2,54 2p – 1 pc:
    • JST XH 2,54 4p – 4 pcs..

• Basic + Connectors + Cables set: (Note: The user receives a module with installed connectors )
  • 1 pc – Basic + Connectors set;
  • Cables:
    • JST XH 2,54 4p – JST XH 2,54 4p – 1 pc.
    • JST XH 2,54 2p – JST XH 2,54 2p – 1 pc.
    • JST XH 2,54 4p – Dupont 4p – 1 pc.
    • JST XH 2,54 2p – Dupont 2p – 1 pc.

Technical description: i2cui4_v1-product-description-ukr, i2cui4_v1-product-description-eng.

References

The port expander chip used in the module:

Manufacturer message

Dear Reader! Thank you for your interest in our products. We hope that you enjoy this device. IoT-devices was born thanks to the support of our customers and thanks to our experience and love for Electronics.

Designed and made by IoT-devices with freedom & wisdom in Ukraine – 2021. All rights reserved.

Purpose and compatibility

PS4IoT is an uninterruptible power supply module with battery charging and protection, for building smart devices with power paths’ redundancy, with 3.0 to 6 volts and 3V3, 5V or 12V output voltages, with total power up to 5 watts.

The module is designed for use in electronic devices based on any microcontroller platform, such as ESP8266, ESP32, Arduino, STM32, and derivative boards ( ESP12.OLED, NodeMCU, etc.) as an autonomous or software-controlled power supply unit.

Features

• Start from AC/DC adapter when the battery is deeply discharged;
• Start from AC/DC adapter when there is no battery;
• Automatic battery charging and simultaneous use of the device;
• Possibility to replace the battery without interrupting power from the AC/DC adapter;
• When powered by the AC/DC adapter, the battery is not connected to the load, which saves the number of charge-discharge cycles (prolongs battery life).

Capabilities of the module with basic settings

This tiny module may surprise you with many important and interesting functions. PS4IoT_V1 with basic settings provides:

• Automatic online switching “battery-mains” and vice versa, without interruption of output voltage generation (12V, 5V, 3V3) of loads;
• Automatically switches to AC/DC adapter 5V when the battery is disconnected without interrupting power to the loads;
• Automatic battery charge/discharge control; Default charge current is set to 0.5 A. The state of the battery charging process is displayed by two LED indicators.

Module application profiles

The module can provide the following profiles for autonomous and controlled use as part of a smart device:

• a battery-free device powered only by an AC/DC 5V adapter;
• a device powered by Li-Ion battery and AC/DC adapter 5V
• a device with rechargeable Li-Ion battery only;
• a device with fault-tolerant redundancy of 3 power supply paths.

Smart power supply module formula

Online Uninterruptible Power Supply Unit module

• With automatic charger and selectable power source;
• Intelligent and connected;
• With power source redundancy layout;
• Fully autonomous or sufficiently managed;
• With or without a battery;
• For pockets or stationary;
• With simultaneous charging and power supply of load;
• Indoor or outdoor;
• In inexpensive and miniature design;
• Best suited for smart devices and IoT;

As you can see from our “formula”, you can simultaneously power one or more payloads, connect a controller with any functionality to the module according to your design idea – in other words, you can create the most demanding portable and stationary devices using the PS4IoT_V1 module.

This module is a versatile component that will provide reliable power, observability and controllability for your DIY or even commercial product.

PS4IoT acts as an intelligent intermediary between the load and all available power sources.

This power supply automatically protects the device and the battery, providing consumers with the ease and simplicity of using the end device in a way that is only found in high-quality and high-tech smartphones.

Module functions

Battery protection and safety functions

Module block diagram

Software monitoring of Li-Ion battery charging status

PS4IoT_V1 has a number of signal lines that allow the main controller to monitor the charging process status, temperature, and battery voltage programmatically. For example, if a mismatch is detected, such as exceeding the charging time or battery temperature, the controller can programmatically stop or restore the charging process. In addition, these mechanisms in combination with the sleep mode are reasonable to use in the charge/discharge control software algorithm to extend battery life.

Note. What if we make two interfaces at once on the GGreg20 module: pulse output and I2C? This would be very convenient, but the clients’ costs increase unnecessarily in that case. The companion controller occupies a certain area on the module board. The I2C bus occupies twice as many controller ports as the pulse output. All that adds significantly to the unit price. On the other hand, the pulse counting output interface takes up only one controller GPIO with an interrupt handler and is much easier to code. The current version of the GGreg20 module can work without a controller at all: a user can use a watch to monitor the duration of the radiation measurement and count led blinks manually. The PS4IoT_V1 version of the module does not support connecting an NTC battery thermistor directly to the charging controller. Therefore, temperature monitoring can be implemented by connecting an additional temperature sensor to the main controller using I2C bus or other interfaces such as 1-Wire, SPI, NTC-thermistor, etc. Thus, through the Charge Enable signal (see CEset.2) the controller can prohibit or allow charging depending on the battery temperature.

The interfaces are located on one side of the module

It is recommended to design the case of the device where you plan to install PS4IoT_V1 so that the bottom edge of the PS4IoT module board touches one of the outer sides of the case, as shown in the pictures. In that case

• Charge control LED;
• Power supply input 1 (μUSB);
• ON/OFF main switch;
• Aux spare interface – the connector for external devices;

can be used to organize a convenient interface to control the entire device through the user-provided mounting holes in the housing.

Cautions

Caution! Use quality batteries to obtain the declared technical characteristics of the product.

Caution! Use quality AC/DC adapters with appropriate cables capable of withstanding 5 volts with a load of up to 2 amps.

Caution! Maximum permissible load current:

• to the output 12V – 150 mA;
• to the output 5V – 1A;
• to the output 3.3V – 1A.

!! The maximum total load on the charger and outputs is up to 5 Watts.

Delivery sets

Set №1 – only PS4IoT_V1 module (Basic)

1. PS4IoT_V1 module – 1 pc;
2. Jumper on the board – 2 pcs;
3. Pin connector 2.54 2P M, straight, included – 7 pcs;
4. Pin connector 2.54 4P M, straight, included – 3 pcs.

Set №2 – module with connectors and cables (Basic + Connectors (installed) and cables)

1. PS4IoT_V1 module – 1 pc;
2. Jumper on the board – 2 pcs;
3. Pin connector 2.54 2P M, straight, included – 7 pcs;
4. Pin connector 2.54 4P M, straight, included – 3 pcs.
5. Battery cable, flat, 15 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
6. Power output cable, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 2 pcs: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
7. Charging status output cable CP&CC, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
8. Battery level output cable, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc. 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
9. JST XH 2.54 2P M connector, straight, on the board – 7 pcs;
10. JST XH 2.54 4P M connector, angled, on the board – 1 pc;
11. JST XH 2.54 4P M connector, straight, on the board – 1 pc;

Note : In this version, these connectors are soldered to the board and are ready to use with the appropriate cables.

Options № 3 – module with connectors and cables (Basic + Connectors (installed) and cables + AUX )

1. PS4IoT_V1 module – 1 pc;
2. Jumper on the board – 2 pcs;
3. Battery cable, flat, 15 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
4. Power output cable, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 2 pcs: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
5. Charging status output cable CP&CC, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc: 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
6. Battery level output cable, flat, 20 cm, 2 wires, with connectors – 1 pc. 2P JST XH2.54 F – Dupont 2x1P F.
7. JST XH 2.54 2P M connector, straight, on the board – 7 pcs;
8. Pin connector 2.54 2P M, straight, included – 7 pcs;
9. Pin connector 2.54 4P M, straight, included – 3 pcs.
10. JST XH 2.54 4P M connector, angled, on the board – 1 pc;
11. JST XH 2.54 4P M connector, straight, on the board – 1 pc;
12. Internal interface cable, flat, 15 cm, 4 wires, with connectors – 1 pc. 4P JST XH2.54 – Dupont 4x1P.
13. External interface cable, flat, 30 cm, 4 wires, with connectors – 1 pc. 4P JST XH2.54 – Dupont 4x1P.

Note : In this version, these connectors are soldered to the board and are ready to use with the appropriate cables.

Attention. AC/DC adapter(s), battery pack, solar panel and temperature sensor are not included.

Full technical description: PS4IoT_V1 power supply unit description UKR , PS4IoT_V1 power supply unit description ENG

Module presentation: PS4IoT_V1 quick facts

Application

The DCDC_3V3_400V_V1 module is designed as:

• a high voltage source for Geiger-Muller tubes;
• power supply of retro symbol gas-filled indicators;
• devices for protection against mosquitoes, ozonizers, etc;
• other kinds of projects.

What’s improved in the new version?

The new version of the DCDC_3V3_400V_V1 module has improved stability of the output high voltage level depending on the input supply voltage level in the range from 2.4 volts to 5.5 volts.

Important instructions

The module is sold with a preset output voltage level 400 volts and is ready for use.

To enable the module:

• Connect the power supply via the μUSB connector or two VCC & GND inputs.
• Connect the high voltage load to the High voltage and GND outlets.

In case the user needs to change the output voltage level, it is necessary to:

Step 1. Connect load to the output High voltage port (for example, a resistor of 10 MOhm and in parallel to the resistor a capacitor of 300 nF, 600 V).

Step 2. Use a high impedance multimeter (10 MOhm) to control the high voltage level.

Step 3. Connect Power Supply source to input port (2,5 – 5,5 volts recommended).

Step 4. Use the potentiometer on board and set the output voltage level as you need.

WARNING! Keep out other electronic or electrical circuits to the high voltage connectors of the module because this may damage these devices.

DCDC_3V3_400V vs DCDC_3V3_400V_V1

Technical specifications

Dimensions

The DCDC_3V3_400V_V1 module has the following dimensions: X: 45 mm Y: 15.5 mm Z: 5 mm

Product delivery kits.

The module is supplied in the following set:

• DCDC_3V3_400V_V1 High-voltage module – 1 pc.

Technical description: dcdc_3v3_400v_v1_product_description-ukr, dcdc_3v3_400v_v1_product_description-eng.

References

Manufacturer message

Dear Reader! Thank you for your interest in our products. We hope that you enjoy this device. “IoT-devices” has been made possible thanks to the support of our Customers, as well as our experience and love for Electronics.

Dear Reader! Thank you for your interest in our products. We hope you enjoy this device. “IoT-devices” was born thanks to the support of our customers and thanks to our experience and love for Electronics.

Designed and manufactured by IoT-devices with freedom and wisdom in Ukraine in 2021. All rights reserved.

Designed and made by “IoT-devices” with freedom & wisdom in Ukraine – 2021. All rights reserved.

Purpose

The GGreg20_V3 radioactive particle detector is an electronic sensor module for building a personal Geiger counter and determining the level of ionizing radiation. For this purpose, the detector includes an impulse counting output to a host controller. Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, ESP32 and others can be used as a host controller.

The radiation level is indicated by light and sound signals. The user can mute sounds (jumper J1 – buzzer on/off).

GGreg20_V3 is an inexpensive and useful device for checking the “purity” of

• mushrooms,
• berries,
• vegetables,
• firewood, etc.

This module is useful for creating smart measurement devices for determining the power of ionizing radiation indoors or outdoors and is available in both portable/pocket style and stationary mode.

The only thing you need to start measuring ionizing radiation with the GGreg20 is any microcontroller that can count the number of pulses per unit time on GPIO.

Specifications

• Module dimensions – 30 x 126 x 12 mm. Weight 30 g.
• Power supply:

• a rechargeable battery or a battery:
  • 1-cell Li (3.7V) battery;
  • 2-cell Ni (2.4V) battery;
  • 3-cell 4.5V battery connected to the “Bat” port.
• a 5 Volt charger.

• Power supply of the SBM-20 tube is a built-in adjustable high voltage DC-DC converter. The target voltage level of 400 V is regulated by a potentiometer. The module is fine-tuned and ready for use.
• The module also works with the J305 tube, and it is possible to choose a configuration with this tube when ordering.

Warning! From September 1, 2022 the high voltage regulation function has been removed. The hardware fixes the voltage level at 400 volts.
At the same time, if you need a module with increased voltage regulation for your project, pay attention to the DCDC_3V3_4000V_V1 module: високовольтний перетворювач напруги

Update: February 2023 The feedback we receive from customers about the planned implementation of the changes has led us to the decision not to rush to fix the voltage level on the module, as this limits the possibility of using other tubes compatible with the module. Therefore, we have decided not to make any changes at all and are supplying the module in its original configuration.

• Consumption current – 18 mA at 5V or 30 mA at 3.7V via Li-Ion.
• GGreg20_v3 is compatible with the ESP8266/ESP32 logic signal levels (3V3 ACTIVE-LOW: 3 to 3.3V HIGH and about 0.7V LOW), and will work even with the 5V logic input.

Dimensions and Pin assignments

GGreg20_V3 module pin assignments are as follows:

• BAT – Power supply input 2.2 V – 5.5 V;
• ON. / OFF. – Main switch on/off; / OFF. – switching on / off the main switch;
• OUT – Pulse output, active-low;
• BUZ – Buzzer enable jumper.

The dimensions of the GGreg20_V3 module are as follows:

• X: 126 mm;
• Y: 30 mm;
• Z: 12 mm.

Differences and compatibility with previous versions of GGreg20

^{Note 1} GThe GGreg20_V2 module version has not been included in the comparison because it was developed for other design solutions (and did not provide space for the SBM-20 tube on the module board).

^{Note 2} The module board has a default protection diode against erroneous pole reversal when connecting the battery. Such protection will be appropriate despite the fact that it slightly narrows the voltage range of the input power supply which will be 3-5.5 volts. This narrows the voltage range of the input power supply: 3 – 5.5 volts.

^{Note 3} If you want to power the GGreg20_V3 from a 2.4 Volt source, you need to short the Schottky diode shown in the figure below with a wire or replace it with a 0 Ohm resistor. Note, however, that such a correction will disable the module’s reverse polarity protection.

Fig. GGreg20_V3 Reverse Polarity Protection Diode Manual Replacement Example

Switching-on and measurements

This module is ready for use. The GGreg20_V3 modules are adjusted, configured, and tested for compliance with the declared technical data before being shipped. Any adjustments or settings made by the customer may damage the module or introduce technical inconsistencies.

Connect the power input from the selected power source.

Turn on the power supply. After 10-15 seconds, you will hear a sound and see light signals when the active particles enter the tube.

At normal background radiation, the tube registers and generates 20-30 pulses per minute. The number of pulses can vary depending on weather or cosmic radiation.

Consider the average number of signals per minute.

If you receive more than 60 signals per minute, be careful: your detector has “felt” a dangerous level of ionizing radiation from the environment or food, mushrooms, wood, etc Your detector has “felt” the effects of ionizing radiation emissions from the ambient environment or food, mushrooms, or wood, etc.

In short, the formula is simple: you need to accumulate the number of ingoing GPIO pulses per minute and then multiply by a factor. Like this:

microsieverts per hour = (pulses per minute) * 0.0092

where 0.0092 is a coefficient obtained from the tube manufacturer’s documentation.

Tubes can vary (+ -20%), so we recommend using a conversion factor of 0.0054 to 0.0092 and calibrating the calculations with a trusted (certified) device.

Note: The differences between the tubes are: conversion factor for J305 is 0.00812, deadtime: 180 microseconds. Drivers and examples for SBM20 are compatible, but require replacement of the specified coefficients. It is recommended to operate the tube in a casing, as its bulb is transparent and measurements may be affected by photons of sunlight and similar factors.

Product kit sets:

1. GGreg20_V3 basic

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc

2. GGreg20_V3 basic + Connectors (installed) and cables

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• Connector JST XH 2P male straight — 2 pcs installed on the module board;
• Pulse output cable, 15 cm, with connectors — 1 pc:
  1. JST XH 2P female on the one hand Dupont 2x1P female on the other hand
  2. Dupont 2x1P female on the other side
• Power supply input cable, 15 cm, with JST XH 2P female connector on one side — 1 pc

3. GGreg20_V3 basic + SBM-20 tube

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• SBM-20 tube — 1 pc

4. GGreg20_V3 basic + SBM-20 tube + Connectors (installed) and cables

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• SBM-20 tube — 1 pc
• Connector JST XH 2P male straight — 2 pcs installed on the module board;
• Pulse output cable, 15 cm, with connectors — 1 pc:
  1. JST XH 2P female on one side and
  2. Dupont 2x1P female on the other side

• Power supply input cable, 15 cm, with JST XH 2P female connector on one side — 1 pc

5. GGreg20_V3 basic + Tube SBM-20 + Connectors (installed) and cables + Case(3d printing)

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• SBM-20 tube — 1 pc
• Connector JST XH 2P male straight — 2 pcs installed on the module board;
• Pulse output cable, 15 cm, with connectors — 1 pc:
  1. JST XH 2P female on one side and
  2. Dupont 2x1P female on the other side

• Power supply input cable, 15 cm, with JST XH 2P female connector on one side — 1 pc
• Case – 3D printed – 1 pc

6. GGreg20_V3 basic + J305 tube

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• J305 tube — 1 pc

7. GGreg20_V3 basic + J305 tube + Connectors (installed) and cables

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• J305 tube — 1 pc
• Connector JST XH 2P male straight — 2 pcs installed on the module board;
• Pulse output cable, 15 cm, with connectors — 1 pc:
  1. JST XH 2P female on one side and
  2. Dupont 2x1P female on the other side

• Power supply input cable, 15 cm, with JST XH 2P female connector on one side — 1 pc

8. GGreg20_V3 basic + J305 tube + Connectors (installed) and cables + Case(3d printing)

• GGreg20_V3 Module — 1 pc
• J305 tube — 1 pc
• Connector JST XH 2P male straight — 2 pcs installed on the module board;
• Pulse output cable, 15 cm, with connectors — 1 pc:
  1. JST XH 2P female on one side and
  2. Dupont 2x1P female on the other side

• Power supply input cable, 15 cm, with JST XH 2P female connector on one side — 1 pc
• Case – 3D printed – 1 pc

Technical description: GGreg20_V3 Datasheet ENG , GGreg20_V3 Datasheet UKR

References

Manufacturer’s notice

Dear Reader! Thank you for your interest in our products. We hope that you enjoy this device. “IoT-devices” has been made possible thanks to the support of our Customers, as well as our experience and love for Electronics.

Designed and manufactured by IoT-devices with freedom and wisdom in Ukraine in 2021. All rights reserved.