Page 1 of 1
ESP32-S2 outputs in parallel to increase max current.
Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2022 7:47 am
by Fundeckhermit
40mA is the maximum current sourced by a single pin as specified in the datasheet. I have a relay (FH42L-LCSC) that requires 83.3mA (±10%) for about 15ms.
Can I put 5 output pins in parallel to share the load or would one pin fail/break?
Re: ESP32-S2 outputs in parallel to increase max current.
Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2022 12:43 pm
by ESP_Sprite
Don't. A relay is an inductive load which will wreak havoc on the rest of the system if you connect it directly, even if you could get the current requirements right. Simply use a transistor or mosfet to switch it.
Re: ESP32-S2 outputs in parallel to increase max current.
Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2022 1:47 pm
by Fundeckhermit
And If the load was purely resistive load instead? Would sharing the current break a single pin?
Re: ESP32-S2 outputs in parallel to increase max current.
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2022 12:52 am
by ESP_Sprite
That is very hard to guarantee, as it's not something we test for... but I can take a guess: given the fact that we have tested (but not characterized, so take this with a grain of salt) short circuiting all the I/O pins to ground and making them high and that did not seem to negatively affect the ESP32, I imagine the current limiting of the pad output will be enough to make them share the load nicely.