MB102 Breadboard Power Supply Module - 3.3V / 5V Dual Rail Regulator

Specifications

• Input Interface: USB Type-C (5V).

• Output Voltage Rails:

  • +5V: Standard logic power.

  • -5V: Negative rail for Analog/Op-Amps (Current limited ~50-100mA).

  • +3.3V: For ESP32/STM32/Sensors.

  • +1.8V: For modern low-voltage logic.

• Max Output Current: ~500mA (Total shared).

• Switch: Push-button ON/OFF.

• Compatibility: Fits standard 830-point and 400-point MB102 breadboards.

Compatibility & Platform Support ????

• Analog Circuits: Game Changer. Perfect for LM741, TL072, and NE5532 Op-Amp projects requiring symmetrical power.

• Modern Microcontrollers:Future Proof. The 1.8V rail supports the newest ultra-low-power sensors that fry at 3.3V.

Key Applications & Projects

• Audio Pre-Amplifier: Build a low-noise mic preamp using the +/- 5V rails for maximum headroom.

• Portable Oscilloscope: Power the analog front-end with the negative rail.

• Sensor Calibration: Use the precise 1.8V output as a reference for low-voltage ADC work.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety ⚠️

• The "Negative" Warning: The -5V rail is generated by a charge pump. It is designed for signal circuits (Op-Amps), not heavy loads. Do not try to run a motor from the -5V rail!

• Rail Alignment: Like the standard module, ensure the pins align correctly with your breadboard's "+" and "-" lines before pressing it down.

• Input: Use a standard 5V USB-C charger (phone charger). It does not support USB-PD 20V triggering (it stays safe at 5V).

Accessories

• Included in the Package:

  • 1 x MB102 Pro Power Supply Module (Black)

• Required Accessories (Not Included):

  • Cable: USB Type-C Cable.

  • Base: MB102 Breadboard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does this fit the same breadboards as the white one? Yes, the physical pin spacing is identical to the standard MB102. It fits 400 and 830-point boards.

2. How much current can the -5V rail provide? The negative rail is generated internally and is limited to roughly 50mA - 100mA. It is meant for Op-Amps and biasing, not motors or relays.

3. Does it support USB Power Delivery (PD)? It uses the USB-C connector for convenience (5V), but it does not negotiate high voltages like 9V or 12V from a PD charger. It strictly takes 5V.

4. Can I use all 4 voltages at once? Yes! The header pins on top provide access to +5V, -5V, 3.3V, and 1.8V simultaneously.

5. What is the 1.8V rail used for? Many modern sensors (accelerometers, barometers) and some processors operate at 1.8V logic. Using 3.3V would damage them.

6. Can I power a motor from this? You can power small motors from the +5V rail (if USB source is strong), but do not use the -5V, 3.3V, or 1.8V rails for motors.

7. Is the USB-C cable included? No, just the module.

8. Does it get hot? It runs cooler than the linear regulator versions because it uses more efficient surface-mount components, but avoid short circuits!

9. Can I input 12V? No! Unlike the standard version with a DC jack, this is designed strictly for 5V USB Input. Do not force 12V into the pins.

10. Why is the PCB black? It's just the solder mask color, but it generally signifies the "Pro / Premium" version in the maker market.

11. Is the output regulated? Yes, all rails are regulated.

12. Can I use a USB-C to USB-C cable? Yes, if your charger supports standard 5V fallback (most do).

13. Is there a power LED? Yes, an LED indicator lights up when the rails are active.

14. How do I turn it off? There is a latching push-button on the board.

15. Can I use this for Eurorack synth prototyping? Yes! The +/- 5V is perfect for testing small synth circuits on a breadboard.

16. What happens if I short the -5V to Ground? The internal charge pump chip will overheat and likely fail. Be careful with the negative rail.

17. Are the header pins soldered? Yes, the module comes fully assembled as shown.

18. Can I plug it into a laptop USB port? Yes, but be careful not to short circuit your breadboard, as it could trip your laptop's USB port protection. A wall charger is safer.

19. Does it filter noise? It has decent filtering capacitors, but for ultra-sensitive low-noise audio, you might want to add extra capacitors on your breadboard rails.

20. Is this better than the white MB102? For functionality, yes absolutely (adds -5V, 1.8V, USB-C). For simple 5V LED blinking, the white one is cheaper and sufficient.