nRF52840 GPIO output voltage higher than 3,3....is it possible?

Question

Hi, 
 Question: 
 In our project we need to drive some external components (High Side Drivers) via GPIO output. 
 In order switch on our “High Side Drivers” we need a voltage level higher or equal to 3,5 V. 
 Is it possible to get a GPIO output voltage on 3.5 V? (Today we get 3.3 V) 
 
 Kind regards 
 Svein

Saleh · Accepted Answer

Hi 
 
 Maybe you can supply the nRF52840 with a 3.5v supplier, but it is not recommended and even exactly 3,5v could be a safe option for you, because the GPIO voltage can be a bit different from the main power supply. 
 I think the best option for you, is to use a level shifter, which converts a voltage level to another level. Also there are some options that isolate the input from the output and if your "High side driver" generates electrical noises, it can keep the processor in a safe island! 
 It is a sample option just for your reference, you can find more options based on your requirements: 
 www.digikey.fi/.../10314270

Bendik Heiskel · Answer

Hi Svein. 
 
 The GPIO output voltage should be the same as the VDD voltage. If the chip is used in low voltage mode, with REG0 bypassed the supplied VDD can be a maximum of 3.6V, If the chip is used in high voltage mode and supplied through the VDDH line the VDD voltage is set with REG0 and can only be a maximum of 3.3V. The electrical specification of the GPIO peripheral is available in the product, specification, https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/topic/ps_nrf52840/gpio.html?cp=4_0_0_5_8_2_0#unique_1230075213 . 
 As well as the VDD input range, https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/topic/ps_nrf52840/power.html?cp=4_0_0_4_2_7_0#unique_1730776566 . 
 Best regards 
 Bendik Heiskel

nRF52840 GPIO output voltage higher than 3,3....is it possible?

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