Just brought this module and it's great. Some good reviews on this site. However, not clear about the USB port on the PCB. One post said it runs in parallel with the power cord and that connecting anything 'USB' will result in said component being damaged. Can't connect anything USB to a USB port? huh?
Is anyone able to clarify how the USB port on the YwRobot works? Is it that a USB supply from a PC can be connected to power the breadboard, but if a barrel jack power supply is connected to the YwRobot, then the USB will actually supply power to say an Arduino? And absolutely can't be connected to a PC USB slot if a barrel jack power supply is also connected?
Apply power to it. Get a voltmeter and probe the outside contacts of the USB connector (without shorting the probes to the metal cowl.)
You could google for the pin-out.
The USB port is connected directly on the regulated side of the 5V regulator (which then feeds into the input of the 3.3V regulator) on board the module. You can either use it as an alternate power source instead of the barrel jack or a 5V regulated output when being powered by the barrel jack.
Note that the regulators on this board - as on the Arduino boards - really cannot supply much current at all - maybe a couple of hundred milliamps at most.
{Due to restricted heatsinking.}
evildave_666:
The USB port is connected directly on the regulated side of the 5V regulator (which then feeds into the input of the 3.3V regulator) on board the module. You can either use it as an alternate power source instead of the barrel jack or a 5V regulated output when being powered by the barrel jack.
When used as a power source, should we provide 5V or 6.5-12V via the USB connector?
can i put a small heatsink + some conductive paste over the regulator to reduce heating?