How to Use VF-RS-PN263: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The VF-RS-PN263 is a versatile voltage regulator manufactured by VIDEX. It is designed for efficient power management in electronic circuits, ensuring stable output voltage and current regulation even under varying load conditions. This component is ideal for applications requiring reliable voltage stabilization, such as microcontroller-based systems, battery-powered devices, and embedded systems.

• Power supply regulation for microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi)
• Battery-powered devices requiring stable voltage output
• Voltage stabilization in audio and communication circuits
• General-purpose DC voltage regulation in embedded systems

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the VF-RS-PN263:

The VF-RS-PN263 features a 3-pin configuration, as detailed below:

1. Connect the Input Voltage: Attach the unregulated DC voltage source to the Input (IN) pin. Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range (4.5V to 30V).
2. Connect the Ground: Link the Ground (GND) pin to the circuit's common ground.
3. Connect the Output Load: Attach the load requiring regulated voltage to the Output (OUT) pin.
4. Add Capacitors: For optimal performance, connect a capacitor (e.g., 10µF) between the Input (IN) pin and ground, and another capacitor (e.g., 22µF) between the Output (OUT) pin and ground. These capacitors help stabilize the voltage and reduce noise.

• Heat Dissipation: The VF-RS-PN263 can generate heat under high current loads. Use a heatsink or proper thermal management to prevent overheating.
• Adjustable Output Voltage: If the output voltage needs to be adjusted, use an external resistor divider circuit as specified in the datasheet.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the maximum output current of 2A to prevent damage to the regulator.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: Add a diode in series with the input to protect the regulator from reverse polarity connections.

Below is an example circuit and code to power an Arduino UNO using the VF-RS-PN263:

1. Connect a 12V DC power source to the Input (IN) pin of the VF-RS-PN263.
2. Connect the Ground (GND) pin to the Arduino's GND pin.
3. Connect the Output (OUT) pin to the Arduino's VIN pin.

// Example code to blink an LED connected to pin 13 of Arduino UNO
// Ensure the VF-RS-PN263 provides a stable 5V output to the Arduino VIN pin.

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

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. Output Voltage is Unstable

   • Cause: Insufficient input or output capacitors.
   • Solution: Add a 10µF capacitor to the input and a 22µF capacitor to the output.

2. Regulator Overheats

   • Cause: Excessive current draw or inadequate heat dissipation.
   • Solution: Use a heatsink or reduce the load current.

3. No Output Voltage

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or input voltage below the minimum requirement.
   • Solution: Verify the wiring and ensure the input voltage is at least 4.5V.

4. Output Voltage is Incorrect

   • Cause: Misconfigured resistor divider for adjustable output.
   • Solution: Check the resistor values and recalculate as needed.

Q1: Can the VF-RS-PN263 be used with a 3.3V system?
A1: Yes, the VF-RS-PN263 can be configured to output 3.3V by adjusting the resistor divider circuit.

Q2: What is the maximum input voltage for this regulator?
A2: The maximum input voltage is 30V. Exceeding this value may damage the component.

Q3: Is reverse polarity protection included?
A3: No, reverse polarity protection is not built-in. Add an external diode for protection.

Q4: Can I use the VF-RS-PN263 without a heatsink?
A4: It depends on the load current. For currents below 500mA, a heatsink may not be necessary. For higher currents, a heatsink is recommended to prevent overheating.