A question regarding the XIAO's capabilities

Products & Technology XIAO
#1

Hi all!

I’m wondering if the XIAO is capable of simultaneously running 10 LEDS, 2 small 3V DC coreless motors and an MP3 module (DFPlayer Pro) with a miniature speaker.

Of course I wouldn’t be able to hook each component directly to the pins on the XIAO. It would require another kind of setup, possibly using transistors and a second power source. That’s where things start to go over my head.

The components are being used to create “animated” light, sound and motion effects for a scale model helicopter.

My reason for choosing the XIAO is so I can try to fit all of the components into the model and power it with a battery or two from within. The animation would be turned on and off with a simple switch hidden on the exterior of the model.

I’ll be making adjustments to the model kit so that I can gain access to the internal workings at any time for troubleshooting or replacing/recharging batteries.

What would I need to look into in order to get all of this running safely and efficiently?

Some advice would be appreciated!

#2

Hi there,

The total power XIAO can supply is 1.5A(VCC pin). I’m not sure how much power all your components need, but generally, lt should be enough.

#3

Thanks for the quick response!

1.5A should be more than enough, but there’s still a couple of things I’m unsure about.

The 5V pin on the XIAO is labelled VCC underneath.

I assume I can only use the 5V pin as an output if I supply the board with 5V through the USB Type-C connection?

My project would be powered via battery instead.

So if the board is powered by a 3.7V battery (connected to the VIN & GND plates on the underside of the board) would I have to use the 3V3 pin or could I still use the 5V pin?

If I had to use the 3V3 pin instead of the 5V pin would I still be able to draw 1.5A or would the amount be lower?

Apologies for the basic questions, just trying to wrap my head around it!

Thanks again!

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