Single Supply Logic Level Converter Breakout Board

4 Channel Bidirectional Logic Level Converter

This single-supply logic level converter provides four channels of automatic, bidirectional voltage translation for connecting digital devices that operate at different logic voltages. Built around the TXB0104 4-bit voltage-level translator, the board shifts signals between an adjustable low-voltage side and a regulated 5V high-voltage side without requiring a direction-control pin.

The board accepts a single 3.0V to 5.5V input and generates the voltage rails required for level translation. Its low-side reference defaults to 3.3V and can be changed to 2.5V or 1.8V by replacing a resistor. This makes it a versatile 3.3V to 5V logic level converter for microcontrollers, sensors, embedded systems, and digital prototyping.

Why This Is Especially Useful with ESP32

ESP32 boards use 3.3V logic, but many sensors, modules, displays and legacy digital devices still use 5V logic. A standard level shifter can translate the signals, but it usually still requires a separate 5V rail. This board solves both problems at once.

With a single 3.3V supply, it can generate a regulated 5V output and translate up to four digital signals between the ESP32's 3.3V logic and 5V logic. That makes it especially useful when your ESP32 project needs to communicate with and power a compatible 5V peripheral without adding a separate boost converter and separate logic level shifter.

For ESP32 projects using SPI, UART, GPIO or other push-pull digital signals, this can simplify the wiring, reduce the number of modules in the project and make mixed-voltage prototyping much cleaner.

Automatic Bidirectional Voltage Level Shifting

Four bidirectional channels connect A1 through A4 on the low-voltage side to B1 through B4 on the 5V side. Automatic direction sensing allows signals to travel in either direction without a dedicated direction pin, simplifying wiring and reducing the number of microcontroller pins needed.

This 4 channel logic level converter is designed for push-pull digital signals and supports data rates up to 100 Mbps, depending on the selected low-side VCCA voltage and operating conditions. It is well suited for SPI level shifting, UART level shifting, GPIO signals, and other high-speed digital interfaces.

Logic Level Converter With 5V Boost Output

An onboard boost converter generates a regulated 5V high-side supply from the single VIN input. The 5V output can provide up to 600 mA under suitable input and operating conditions, allowing the board to power a compatible sensor, peripheral, or second circuit board from a 3.3V system. Available output current depends on factors including input voltage, source capability, load, and conversion efficiency.

This integrated power capability makes the board more than a standard bidirectional voltage level shifter. It can provide both signal translation and a regulated 5V power rail for supported project configurations.

Microcontroller Logic Level Converter Applications

Use this logic level converter breakout board to interface 5V microcontrollers with 3.3V sensors and modules. It is also useful for ESP32, ESP8266, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi projects that require compatible voltage levels between push-pull digital devices.

• Translate four digital channels between 3.3V and 5V
• Configure the low-voltage side for 2.5V or 1.8V logic
• Level shift SPI, UART, GPIO, and other push-pull signals
• Connect 5V microcontrollers to lower-voltage sensors
• Generate regulated 5V power from a 3.0V to 5.5V input
• Power a compatible sensor or secondary board from the 5V output

Important Signal Compatibility

The TXB0104 uses automatic direction-sensing circuitry intended for push-pull digital signals. This board is not intended for Qwiic or I2C open-drain buses. For I2C, Qwiic, or other open-drain interfaces, use a level converter specifically designed for open-drain signaling and external pull-up resistors.

Logic Level Converter Specifications

Compact High-Speed Voltage Level Translator

Measuring only 28.5 x 26 mm (1.12 x 1.02 in), this compact high-speed logic level converter is easy to integrate into prototypes and embedded electronics projects. Headers are not included, allowing the board to be configured with straight headers, right-angle headers, or direct wire connections to suit the application.