Product description: ISO1640 - Bidirectional I2C Isolator Without Connectors - 3 - 5.5 V / 2.25 - 5.5 V - Pololu 5390
The Pololu I2C Isolator is a compact module based on the TI ISO1640 system, which enables electrically isolated I2C communication at speeds up to 1.7 MHz . Galvanic isolation prevents current flow between the two sides of the module, protecting connected devices from damage caused by potential differences or improper power supply. The module is available in a version without connectors , with mounting holes compatible with universal contact boards and goldpin connectors with a pitch of 2.54 mm. It is ideally suited for applications requiring reliable I2C bus protection and ensuring stable communication in embedded systems and automation.
Main features of the insulator
- Bidirectional galvanic isolation : ensures safety and electrical independence between devices
- Voltage Compatibility : Side 1 3V to 5.5V, Side 2 2.25V to 5.5V
- Full bidirectionality of SDA and SCL lines : supports clock stretching and standard I2C functions
- Transmission frequency : up to 1.7 MHz according to ISO1640B
- Mounting and connections : 0.1'' (2.54 mm) holes for installation on breadboards or with goldpin connectors
- Device protection : protection against damage caused by incorrect connections and potential differences
- Small dimensions and low weight : 10.2 x 15.2 x 2.8 mm and 0.4 g
Module pins
The module has solder holes spaced every 0.1'' (2.54 mm) allowing for connection using standard goldpin connectors or soldering wires directly. Side 1 of the module ( VCC1, GND1, SDA1, SCL1 ) and side 2 ( VCC2, GND2, SDA2, SCL2 ) are electrically independent and require a separate power supply. The pins allow easy connection to any I2C devices on both sides of the isolator.
Connection and configuration
For the module to operate correctly, each side must be powered independently: side 1 with a voltage of 3 V to 5.5 V, side 2 with a voltage of 2.25 V to 5.5 V. The SDA and SCL lines must be connected to both devices, remembering to maintain the separation of GND1 and GND2 grounds - they must not be connected directly , as the module provides galvanic isolation. The built-in 10 kΩ pull-up resistors on both sides ensure correct operation of the bus, however, for high communication speeds, external pull-up resistors can be used in parallel.
Technical specification of the insulator
- Chip: TI ISO1640B
- Side 1 Supply Voltage Range: 3 V to 5.5 V
- Side 2 Supply Voltage Range: 2.25 V to 5.5 V
- Maximum transmission frequency: 1.7 MHz
- Connectors: solder holes with 0.1'' (2.54 mm) pitch
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 15.2 x 2.8 mm
- Weight: 0.4 g
Kit Contents
- 1x ISO1640 - Bidirectional I2C Isolator Without Connectors - 3 - 5.5 V / 2.25 - 5.5 V - Pololu 5390




