Finding common ground is for suckers!

We usually think of ground as a common point in our circuits, and many problems arise from not having a good (or any) ground connection. But there’s also the flip side of unexpected ground connections leading to malfunction or even destruction of our electronics systems. Keeping grounds separated can be an important part of improving functionality and reliability when connecting many parts or boards together, which is why we have continued our push into simplifying electrical isolation with the release of four new I²C isolator boards:

• Pololu I²C Isolator, ISO1640
• Pololu I²C Isolator with Connectors, ISO1640
• Pololu I²C Isolator with Isolated Power, ISO1640, MIE1W0505BGLVH, 5V/3.3V, 200mA
• Pololu I²C Isolator with Isolated Power and Connectors, ISO1640, MIE1W0505BGLVH, 5V/3.3V, 200mA

These modules enable bidirectional I²C communication between devices while maintaining complete galvanic isolation between the two sides. This prevents the unexpected flow of current between the two sides, and it can also prevent destructive voltages on one side from propagating into the other (note that in this scenario one side will still be destroyed, but at least the damage will be contained to the isolated portion). The modules are based on Texas Instruments’ ISO1640B, which supports bidirectional data transfer up to 1.7 MHz. The clock line (SCL) is also bidirectional, which allows for clock stretching.

Two board versions are available, one with isolated power and one without. The version with isolated power can deliver regulated, isolated power at 3.3 V or 5 V to the target thanks to the incorporation of the MPS MIE1W0505BGLVH (which you might recognize from the standalone power module we released a few months ago), while the simpler version without isolated power requires the two sides to be powered separately.

Schematic diagram of the Pololu I²C Isolator with Isolated Power.

Each version is optionally available with JST SH-style 4-pin connectors that are compatible with Qwiic and Stemma QT.

Introductory special discounts! Use coupon code I2CISOINTRO to the versions without isolated power for $3.49 and use coupon code P5392P5393INTRO to the versions with isolated power for $6.49.

Related products

	Pololu I²C Isolator with Isolated Power and Connectors, ISO1640, MIE1W0505BGLVH, 5V/3.3V, 200mA
	Pololu I²C Isolator with Isolated Power, ISO1640, MIE1W0505BGLVH, 5V/3.3V, 200mA
	Pololu I²C Isolator with Connectors, ISO1640
	Pololu I²C Isolator, ISO1640