SparkFun QwiicBus - EndPoint

The SparkFun QwiicBus EndPoint is the fastest and easiest way to extend the range of your I²C communication bus. The breakout uses NXP’s PCA9615 IC, which converts the two default I²C signals into four differential signals, two for SCL and two for SDA. The differential signals are sent over an Ethernet cable, which attaches to the breakout through the on-board RJ-45 connectors. The differential signaling allows the I²C signals to reach distances of up to 100ft. while still maintaining their signal integrity! To make it even easier to get your readings, all communication is enacted exclusively via I²C, utilizing our handy Qwiic system so no soldering is required to connect it to the rest of your system. However, we still have broken out 0.1"-spaced pins in case you prefer to use a breadboard.

The simplicity of the QwiicBus EndPoint is one of its biggest appeals. Other I²C communication methods require packetizing I²C communication into another protocol, be it RS-485 or 1-Wire. However, the PCA9615 keeps the I²C protocol by utilizing a differential transceiver.

This updated version of the Differential I²C Breakout adds two 0.1" spaced pins connected to the unused pair of wires on the RJ-45 connectors so users can easily take advantage of the unused pair for whatever they would like.

Whether you need to extend the range of an I²C sensor on an autonomous vehicle plagued with noise from motors or want to create a vast sensor network in your home or office, the QwiicBus EndPoint is a great solution to extend distance and reduce noise susceptibility.

The SparkFun Qwiic Connect System is an ecosystem of I²C sensors, actuators, shields and cables that make prototyping faster and less prone to error. All Qwiic-enabled boards use a common 1mm pitch, 4-pin JST connector. This reduces the amount of required PCB space, and polarized connections mean you can’t hook it up wrong.

Features:

• Uses the PCA9615 buffer IC
• I²C Supply voltage range: 2.3-5.5V
• Differential Supply voltage range: 3-5.5V
• Multiple power configurations depending on application needs
• Extends I²C bus up to 100 feet
• 2x Qwiic Connectors

Documents:

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Dimensional Drawing
• Hookup Guide
• Datasheet (PCA9615)
• Qwiic Info Page
• Hardware GitHub Repository

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