Connecting VOXL 2 Mini to Doodle Labs Helix

[Moderator]

My understanding is I can directly connect a VOXL 2 Mini’s J3 USB interface to a Doodle Labs Helix/Wearable/OEM Smart Radios USB port (Using a reduced wire count for USB2).

I do notice however on the VOXL 2 Minis product page it doesn’t mention Doodle labs in its USB3 add on connectivity while the B2B of the VOXL 2 does mention Doodle labs connectivity as an option.

Does VOXL 2 Mini support connecting to the Doodle Labs Helix?

[Vinny]

@Moderator
From a software viewpoint, yes, they should be identical due to the USB Host port connectivity.

However, the reason why Doodle is not listed as one of our connectivity options on VOXL 2 Mini is due to power limitations.
The VBUS of the USB Port J3 can only provide 900mA, which is less than 1/2 of what a Doodle radio asks for (most Doodle radios need 5V @ 2A).
To try to use a Doodle on VOXL 2 Mini will require you to connect an external power supply as per Doodle's requirements and then use our USB connector for GND, D+, and D- only.
Be sure somewhere in the system, specifically at the Doodle connectors, to connect the GNDs of the power supply and our USB GND to create a common DC GND reference, but to not introduce noise from the power supply into the USB signals.
We do not normally do this, so we are not aware of any other caveats, but we can't guarantee 100% success either.
Give it a try!
Let us know if you need further guidance.
Thanks