How to Use MINIBOOST 5V @ 1A : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MINIBOOST 5V @ 1A is a compact DC-DC boost converter module designed and manufactured by Adafruit. It utilizes the TPS61023 IC to efficiently step up input voltages to a stable 5V output, capable of delivering up to 1A of current. This module is ideal for powering small electronic devices, microcontrollers, and low-power peripherals from lower voltage sources such as batteries.

• Powering 5V microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP32) from 3.7V LiPo batteries
• Boosting voltage from AA/AAA battery packs
• Portable electronics and wearables
• Low-power IoT devices
• Backup power systems

The following table outlines the key technical details of the MINIBOOST 5V @ 1A module:

The MINIBOOST module has four pins, as described in the table below:

1. Connect the Input Voltage (VIN):

   • Attach a power source (e.g., a 3.7V LiPo battery or a 2xAA battery pack) to the VIN pin.
   • Ensure the input voltage is within the range of 1.8V to 5.5V.

2. Connect the Ground (GND):

   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.

3. Connect the Output Voltage (VOUT):

   • Attach the device or load requiring 5V power to the VOUT pin.
   • Ensure the load does not exceed the maximum output current of 1A.

4. Enable the Module:

   • Pull the EN pin high (connect to VIN) to enable the module.
   • To disable the module, pull the EN pin low (connect to GND).

• Input Voltage Range: Ensure the input voltage remains within the specified range (1.8V to 5.5V). Exceeding this range may damage the module.
• Output Current Limit: Do not exceed the maximum output current of 1A to prevent overheating or damage.
• Heat Dissipation: Although the module is efficient, it may generate heat under high loads. Ensure adequate ventilation or heat dissipation if operating near the maximum current.
• Decoupling Capacitors: For optimal performance, use decoupling capacitors (e.g., 10µF) close to the input and output pins to reduce noise and improve stability.

The following example demonstrates how to power an Arduino UNO using the MINIBOOST module and a 3.7V LiPo battery.

1. Connect the positive terminal of the LiPo battery to the VIN pin of the MINIBOOST.
2. Connect the negative terminal of the LiPo battery to the GND pin of the MINIBOOST.
3. Connect the VOUT pin of the MINIBOOST to the 5V pin of the Arduino UNO.
4. Connect the GND pin of the MINIBOOST to the GND pin of the Arduino UNO.

// Example code to blink an LED on pin 13 of Arduino UNO
// This demonstrates the Arduino running on power supplied by the MINIBOOST module.

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. No Output Voltage:

   • Cause: The EN pin is not pulled high.
   • Solution: Ensure the EN pin is connected to VIN to enable the module.

2. Output Voltage Drops Under Load:

   • Cause: The load exceeds the maximum output current of 1A.
   • Solution: Reduce the load or ensure the connected device does not draw more than 1A.

3. Module Overheating:

   • Cause: Prolonged operation at high current or insufficient ventilation.
   • Solution: Reduce the load or improve heat dissipation by adding airflow or a heatsink.

4. Noise or Instability in Output Voltage:

   • Cause: Insufficient decoupling capacitors.
   • Solution: Add a 10µF capacitor close to the VOUT pin to stabilize the output.

Q: Can I use the MINIBOOST to power a Raspberry Pi?
A: The MINIBOOST is not recommended for powering a Raspberry Pi, as it typically requires more than 1A of current under load.

Q: What happens if the input voltage drops below 1.8V?
A: The module will stop boosting and the output voltage will drop. Ensure the input voltage remains within the specified range.

Q: Can I leave the EN pin floating?
A: No, the EN pin must be explicitly pulled high to enable the module or low to disable it. Leaving it floating may result in unpredictable behavior.