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I'm having issues receiving data from a 3.3 volt logic level R503 Fingerprint Module that is sent via it's Tx pin using UART. The logic levels are converted to 5 volts using a bi-directional converter. When not plugged into the converter, the logic levels from the module are 2.6 volts in the high state and 0 volts in the low state (See image 1). When the sensor is connected to the converter, the logic levels from the module, measured on the low side of the converter, are 2.6 volts in the high state and 1.2 volts low state (See image 2). This results in the output from the converter to NOT be driven all the way low, therefore preventing the microcontroller from receiving any data. See image 3 for output from the level converter.

I am unable to determine the cause of this issue. I have checked and used different cables, connectors, and power supplies. This issues is also present and can be reproduced on the only 2 sensors I have. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Image 1: 1 volt/div - Tx pin Not connected level converter

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Image 2: 1 volt/div - Tx pin connected to level converter. Measurement is taken at the low side of the converter.

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Image 3: 2 volts/div - Tx pin connected to level converter. Measurement is taken at the high side of the converter.

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EDIT: Added schematic

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    \$\begingroup\$ I think you need to share the schematic and the datasheet for the logic level converter. \$\endgroup\$
    – Transistor
    Commented Oct 25, 2020 at 18:25
  • \$\begingroup\$ Where did you connect it? And how? What modules and boards were used? Links and schematics? \$\endgroup\$
    – Justme
    Commented Oct 25, 2020 at 18:27
  • \$\begingroup\$ Link to the level converter: amazon.com/gp/product/B07LG646VS/… \$\endgroup\$
    – Wallace
    Commented Oct 25, 2020 at 18:41
  • \$\begingroup\$ We don't need a link to the vendor's page for the level converter, we need you to add the schematic of your system to this question. \$\endgroup\$
    – Elliot Alderson
    Commented Oct 25, 2020 at 18:50
  • \$\begingroup\$ Are you sure the sensor TX output is connected (via level shifter) to MCU RX input? \$\endgroup\$
    – Justme
    Commented Oct 25, 2020 at 20:07

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
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That board you linked is an I2C level shifter.

I2C buses all have pullup resistors. Often in the low kiloOhms range. I suspect the pullup resistors are simply overwhelming the sensor trying to pull down to ground.

Good luck.

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Thanks for the help. Do you have a logic level converter that you would recommend? Or should I try something like using an opamp as a buffer? \$\endgroup\$
    – Wallace
    Commented Oct 27, 2020 at 2:01
  • \$\begingroup\$ The sensor to the Arduino line is 3.3V but the levels are enough to trigger the the Arduino, so you don't need to shift it. You only need to level shift the line coming from the Arduino to the sensor. In this application, be simple--feed that line to two resistors configured as a voltage divider. I really suggest searching stackexchange and the arduino forums for voltage translation. There are a LOT of articles written about this. \$\endgroup\$
    – Andrew Lentvorski
    Commented Oct 27, 2020 at 6:47
  • \$\begingroup\$ I've already tried connecting the modules Tx line directly to the Arduino with no luck. I even tried to buffer the Tx line with an opamp and it still has the same issue. I think I must have bought a couple of faulty sensors. \$\endgroup\$
    – Wallace
    Commented Oct 27, 2020 at 13:53

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