How to Use DC-DC Step Up Boost Power Converter: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DC-DC Step Up Boost Power Converter (MT3608), manufactured by Dorhea, is a compact and efficient electronic module designed to increase a lower input voltage to a higher output voltage. This boost converter is based on the MT3608 chip and is widely used in applications requiring voltage step-up, such as powering devices from batteries, portable electronics, and DIY projects.

• Powering 5V devices from 3.7V lithium-ion batteries
• LED lighting systems
• Portable power banks
• Arduino and microcontroller projects
• Solar-powered systems
• Wireless communication modules

The following table outlines the key technical details of the MT3608 DC-DC Step Up Boost Power Converter:

The MT3608 module has the following pin layout:

1. Connect the Input Voltage:

   • Connect the positive terminal of your power source (e.g., battery) to the VIN pin.
   • Connect the negative terminal of your power source to the GND pin.

2. Adjust the Output Voltage:

   • Use a small screwdriver to turn the onboard potentiometer clockwise to increase the output voltage or counterclockwise to decrease it.
   • Measure the output voltage across the VOUT and GND pins using a multimeter to ensure it matches your desired value.

3. Connect the Load:

   • Attach the positive terminal of your load to the VOUT pin.
   • Connect the negative terminal of your load to the GND pin.

4. Power On:

   • Turn on the power source and verify the output voltage and current to ensure proper operation.

• Input Voltage Limit: Ensure the input voltage does not exceed 24V to avoid damaging the module.
• Output Current Limit: Do not exceed 1.5A for continuous operation to maintain stability and prevent overheating.
• Heat Dissipation: If operating at high currents, consider adding a heatsink or active cooling to the module.
• Voltage Adjustment: Always adjust the output voltage without a load connected to prevent damage to sensitive devices.
• Polarity Protection: Double-check the polarity of the input and output connections to avoid irreversible damage.

The MT3608 can be used to power an Arduino UNO from a 3.7V lithium-ion battery. Below is an example circuit and Arduino code:

• Connect the battery's positive terminal to VIN and negative terminal to GND.
• Adjust the output voltage to 5V using the potentiometer.
• Connect the VOUT pin to the Arduino's 5V pin and the GND pin to the Arduino's GND pin.

// Example code to blink an LED using an Arduino UNO powered by the MT3608
// Ensure the MT3608 output is set to 5V before connecting to the Arduino

const int ledPin = 13; // Pin connected to the onboard LED

void setup() {
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); // Set the LED pin as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);               // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);               // Wait for 1 second
}

1. No Output Voltage:

   • Cause: Incorrect input polarity or loose connections.
   • Solution: Verify the input polarity and ensure all connections are secure.

2. Output Voltage Not Adjustable:

   • Cause: Faulty potentiometer or incorrect adjustment procedure.
   • Solution: Turn the potentiometer slowly and ensure no load is connected during adjustment.

3. Overheating:

   • Cause: Excessive output current or insufficient cooling.
   • Solution: Reduce the load current or add a heatsink to the module.

4. Load Not Powering On:

   • Cause: Output voltage too low or insufficient current.
   • Solution: Verify the output voltage and ensure it matches the load's requirements.

Q1: Can the MT3608 be used to power a Raspberry Pi?
A1: Yes, but ensure the output voltage is set to 5V and the current demand does not exceed 1.5A.

Q2: Is the MT3608 protected against reverse polarity?
A2: No, the module does not have built-in reverse polarity protection. Always double-check your connections.

Q3: Can I use the MT3608 with a solar panel?
A3: Yes, as long as the solar panel's output voltage is within the 2V to 24V range and provides sufficient current.

Q4: How do I measure the output voltage?
A4: Use a multimeter to measure the voltage across the VOUT and GND pins.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the Dorhea MT3608 DC-DC Step Up Boost Power Converter in your projects.