SPIDER Automation Mini USB Host Shield 2.0 ADK: MAX3421E Controller Breakout Board for Arduino Pro Mini
Description
The SPIDER Automation Mini USB Host Shield 2.0 ADK is an ultra-compact communication module engineered to bring full USB Host functionality to space-constrained microcontroller builds. Optimized primarily for 3.3V variants such as the Sparkfun 3.3V Arduino Pro Mini, this board utilizes the robust MAX3421E controller to handle digital logic and analog circuitry required for USB 2.0 compliance.
Thanks to its miniature form factor, the board doubles as a general-purpose MAX3421E breakout module. It empowers compact Arduino systems to act as the master host, allowing them to poll, control, and exchange data with external USB peripherals like human interface devices, mass storage U-disks, and Google Android ADK-compatible mobile phones without bulky standard-sized shield hardware.
Key Technical Features
- MAX3421E Controller Architecture: Provides full-speed USB host and peripheral logic in a streamlined, space-saving breakout layout.
- Pro Mini Tailored Compatibility: Specifically designed to mount and integrate cleanly with 3.3V / 8MHz / ATmega328 Arduino Pro Mini boards and 3.3V FTDI setups.
- Google Android ADK Integration: Supports hardware accessory communication protocols for compatible Android devices (such as G1, Nexus One, Nexus S, and Motorola Droid X running required system versions).
- USB Hub & Device Support: Enables communication with standard USB mice, keyboards, flash drives, and digital cameras alongside USB hub expansion.
- USB Host Library Compatibility: Fully supported by open-source USB Host Shield libraries for rapid software development and sketch implementation.
- Compact Form Factor: Precision-engineered dimensions (45.5 × 18.15 mm) minimize the physical footprint of portable embedded projects.
Benefits
-
- Brings USB Host Power to Mini Builds: Overcomes the native limitations of Arduino Pro Mini boards by adding full USB master communication capabilities.
- Space-Saving Footprint: Ultra-compact physical dimensions allow integration into handheld enclosures, wearable electronics, and tight robotic spaces.
- Versatile Peripheral Integration: Instantly connects standard computer accessories, storage media, and mobile devices to microcontroller projects.
Applications
-
- Android ADK Mobile Hardware Accessories: Building custom hardware docks, controllers, and sensor interfaces controlled via Android smartphones.
- Compact USB Data Logging Rigs: Interfacing USB flash drives to store sensor telemetry data in portable microcontroller setups.
- Custom Human Interface Devices (HID): Connecting USB keyboards, numeric pads, or mice to custom embedded control terminals.
- Portable Digital Camera Control Units: Interfacing digital cameras to trigger automated captures or manage mobile photography hardware.
Package Inclusions
- 1 x SPIDER Automation MINI USB Host Shield 2.0 ADK
- Note: Arduino Pro Mini board is not included and must be acquired separately.
Technical Specifications
| Item Type | Mini USB Host & ADK Expansion Shield / Breakout Board |
| Brand / Series | SPIDER Automation |
| Model Architecture | Mini USB Host Shield 2.0 ADK (MAX3421E IC) |
| Controller Board Compatibility | 3.3V / 8MHz / ATmega328 Arduino Pro Mini (and other compatible 3.3V Arduinos) |
| Supported Interfaces | 3.3V FTDI, USB HID Devices, U-Disk Mass Storage, Android ADK |
| Software Library Support | Fully Compatible with USB Host Shield Library |
| Physical Shield Dimensions | 45.5 × 18.15 × 10 mm |
| Net Board Weight | 4 g |
| Logistics Weight | 0.005 kg |
| Package Dimensions | 9 × 7 × 3 cm |
