Product description
Electrokit EKM041 Differential I2C Transceiver is a bidirectional transmitter and receiver module that extends the normal range of an I2C bus from approximately 0.5–1 metre up to 30 metres using a standard network cable. The EKM041 is equipped with a Qwiic connector for easy connection to sensors and microcontrollers. The module operates completely transparently to the I2C signal and requires no configuration.
The module is based on the NXP PCA9615 IC, which converts the I2C signals (SDA and SCL) into differential signals. The signals are transmitted via standard twisted-pair network cable (Cat5e or better). This makes it possible to extend the I2C bus up to approximately 30 meters. Differential signal transmission also reduces sensitivity to electrical interference.
The module connects to I2C via a Qwiic connector or pin header. Two spare connections are available and are connected to the unused wire pair (green/white) in the network cable. This wire pair can be used for any purpose (e.g. additional power supply or signal transmission).
When connected via Qwiic, no additional power supply is normally required. A certain voltage drop always occurs in the network cable. The amount of voltage drop depends on the cable length, conductor thickness, and material (Cu or CCA). If the voltage drop becomes a problem, the EKM041 can be powered separately from either side (either from the microcontroller side or from the module/sensor side). Qwiic modules and sensors normally operate at 3 V or lower supply voltage. A useful tip is to measure the voltage to check whether an additional power supply is required.
The EKM041 is supplied as a 2-pack with pin headers (not pre-soldered).
Features:
- Extends I2C signals via network cable
- Completely transparent to I2C devices
- Robust communication with high noise immunity
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Electrokit
- Model: EKM041
- IC: NXP PCA9615
- Interface: I2C (Qwiic)
- Network cable connector: RJ45
- Network cable type: Cat5e or better, unshielded (UTP) or shielded (FTP)
- Signal transmission: Differential
- Maximum I2C bus length: approx. 30 meters
- Supply voltage: 3.3 V (3.0–5.5 V)
- Pin header connections: 2.54 mm pitch
- Power supply: Multiple configurations are possible (see manual)
- I2C bus frequency: 100 kHz, 400 kHz, 1 MHz
- Dimensions: 36 × 20 × 11.3 mm
NOTE! The EKM041 is not a network product. It must not be connected to a LAN (switch or other network device), as this may damage or destroy the network equipment and/or the module.