XML Chip – What is it in Vaping?
Definition
The XML Chip is a proprietary micro-processor found inside select vape mods made by Chinese manufacturer Smoant. Often called a “smart board”, it interprets button presses, reads atomiser resistance, manages battery output and runs the colour display. In plain English, the XML Chip is the tiny brain that turns your fire-button click into smooth, safe vapour while giving you features such as variable wattage, temperature control, puff counters and firmware updates. Its main purpose is to deliver consistent power, protect the battery and keep the vaping experience reliable for Australian users without complicated menus.
Technical Details
Built around an ARM Cortex M0 32-bit core, the XML Chip samples atomiser resistance every 250 μs and can regulate power from 1 W to 220 W in 0.1 W increments. Output accuracy is ±5 %, and it supports resistances from 0.05 Ω to 5.0 Ω. The board draws 50 µA in standby and up to 30 A during firing, converting dual 18650 battery voltage through synchronous buck circuitry that peaks at 95 % efficiency. Variations include the XML-C (colour screen, 2020), XML-T (faster TC, 2022) and XML-Plus (200 W, Type-C firmware flashing). All versions include reverse-polarity, short-circuit, over-heat and 12-second cut-off protections.
Compatibility
- Smoant Charon Mini, Ranker, Ladon AIO
- Works with kanthal, nichrome, stainless steel, titanium and nickel coils
- Accepts future firmware via USB-C for new TC curves or UI themes
Usage & Tips
Keep the gold-plated 510 connector clean so resistance readings stay accurate. If the screen shows “Check Atomiser”, unscrew and re-seat your X-Coil or Coil“>Xenon coil until the centre pin springs back. Flash the latest firmware every six months; download the Smoant Update Tool, hold “+” & “fire” while plugging in USB-C. Avoid long, chain-vape puffs above 80 % of the chip’s wattage ceiling—heat can trip the 85 °C board sensor and shut the mod down for five minutes. Finally, remove batteries at 3.2 V; the XML Chip will cut off, but early removal extends cell life.
History & Context
Smoant released the original XML board in 2017 to compete with Joyetech’s “Avatar” and Vaporesso’s “OMNI” chips. Frequent firmware updates and open-source themes quickly gained a cult following among Australian vapers who wanted DNA-style performance without premium price. Today’s XML-Plus generation powers mid-wattage devices that sit between pod systems like the Xros Pod and high-end DNA mods.