Mini Micro SD Card Module (6 Pin TF Card Adapter)
This Mini Micro SD Card Module is an ultra-compact, stripped-down breakout board designed for basic data storage in embedded systems. With just six pins broken out (VCC, GND, CS, MOSI, MISO, SCK), it provides the essential hardware interface needed to read and write data to a MicroSD (TF) card using the standard SPI communication protocol.
Due to its minimalist design, this specific 6-pin variant is often not equipped with built-in 5V to 3.3V logic level shifting or an onboard voltage regulator. It is primarily intended for direct interfacing with 3.3V microcontrollers (such as ESP32, STM32, or 3.3V Arduino Pro Mini variants) that already operate at the voltage level required by all SD cards. This makes it a popular choice where space is at an absolute premium.
Key Features
- Ultra-Compact Footprint: Minimalist design perfect for projects with tight space constraints or wearable applications.
- SPI Interface: Utilizes the reliable four-wire Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for simple integration with most microcontrollers.
- MicroSD (TF) Card Support: Compatible with various capacities of MicroSD cards (FAT16/FAT32 formatted).
- Cost-Effective Solution: A highly economical way to add mass storage capability to your embedded projects.
- Direct 3.3V Interface: Designed for direct connection to 3.3V systems without extra components.
Technical Parameters (Specifications)
| Parameter |
Value/Description |
| Operating Voltage |
3.3V DC ONLY (See FAQ for 5V usage) |
| Logic Voltage |
3.3V Logic ONLY |
| Communication Interface |
Standard SPI (GND, VCC, MISO, MOSI, SCK, CS pins) |
| Card Socket Type |
Micro SD (TF Card) Socket, non-push-push type (manual insertion/removal) |
| Current Consumption |
< 80mA (active operation) |
| Dimensions |
Extremely small (typically ~18.5mm x 17.5mm) |
| Integrated Components |
Basic passive components (resistors/capacitors), no regulator/level shifter |
Usage Instructions
This module is best used with microcontrollers operating natively at 3.3V logic levels.
Wiring (for a 3.3V system like ESP32 or 3.3V Arduino Pro Mini):
| Module Pin |
Microcontroller Pin |
Description |
| VCC |
3.3V |
Power input |
| GND |
GND |
Ground connection |
| MOSI |
SPI MOSI Pin |
Data from Master (MCU) to Slave (SD Card) |
| MISO |
SPI MISO Pin |
Data from Slave (SD Card) to Master (MCU) |
| SCK |
SPI SCK Pin |
Serial Clock pulse |
| CS |
Digital GPIO Pin (e.g., GPIO 10) |
Chip Select (programmable pin) |
Programming:
Use standard SD card libraries available for your platform (e.g., the built-in Arduino SD Library). Ensure the SD card is formatted to FAT16 or FAT32. The programming logic is identical to that of larger SD card modules, focusing on initializing the SPI communication and handling file operations (read/write/delete).
Q: Can I connect this 6-pin module directly to a 5V Arduino Uno/Mega?
NO. This module lacks the onboard voltage regulator and logic level shifters found in the larger 8-pin modules. Connecting 5V power or 5V logic signals will permanently damage the MicroSD card and potentially the module itself. You must use external logic level shifters if interfacing with a 5V MCU.
Q: What is the primary advantage of this mini 6-pin version?
Its extremely small size and weight make it ideal for compact designs, drones, small robotics, or wearables where larger, 8-pin modules won’t fit.
Q: What file systems does it support?
It universally supports FAT16 and FAT32 file systems. Most standard libraries do not support the newer exFAT or NTFS file systems.
Q: Does it come with any storage?
No, the product listing is for the module only. The Micro SD (TF) card must be purchased separately.
Q: I am a business buyer/developer. Is this suitable for a final product?
Yes, this minimal breakout is often preferred for final integration into production PCBs because it takes up minimal space. You will need to ensure your product design includes appropriate 3.3V power regulation and 3.3V logic levels to drive the module safely.
