The AMS1117 by MakerBotics is a compact and efficient DC-DC step-down voltage regulator designed to convert an input voltage range of 4-12VDC to a stable output of 3.3VDC. This component is widely used in electronics projects to power low-voltage devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and communication modules. Its simplicity and reliability make it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
The AMS1117 is designed to provide a stable 3.3V output with minimal external components. Below are its key technical details:
Parameter | Value |
---|---|
Input Voltage Range | 4V to 12V |
Output Voltage | 3.3V ± 1% |
Maximum Output Current | 800mA |
Dropout Voltage | 1.1V (typical at 800mA load) |
Quiescent Current | 5mA (typical) |
Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C |
Package Type | SOT-223 or TO-252 |
The AMS1117 has three pins, as described in the table below:
Pin Number | Pin Name | Description |
---|---|---|
1 | VIN | Input voltage (4-12VDC) |
2 | GND | Ground (0V reference) |
3 | VOUT | Regulated output voltage (3.3VDC) |
Below is a simplified circuit diagram for using the AMS1117:
VIN (4-12V) ----[ AMS1117 ]---- VOUT (3.3V)
| |
GND GND
Note: It is recommended to use input and output capacitors for stability:
Connect the Input Voltage (VIN):
Connect the Ground (GND):
Connect the Output Voltage (VOUT):
Add Capacitors:
The AMS1117 can be used to power an Arduino UNO or other 3.3V devices. Below is an example of connecting the AMS1117 to an Arduino UNO:
If you are powering a 3.3V sensor (e.g., DHT11) using the AMS1117, you can use the following code:
// Example code for reading data from a DHT11 sensor powered by AMS1117
#include <DHT.h>
#define DHTPIN 2 // Pin connected to the DHT11 data pin
#define DHTTYPE DHT11 // Define the type of DHT sensor
DHT dht(DHTPIN, DHTTYPE);
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
dht.begin(); // Initialize the DHT sensor
Serial.println("DHT11 Sensor Test");
}
void loop() {
delay(2000); // Wait 2 seconds between readings
float humidity = dht.readHumidity(); // Read humidity
float temperature = dht.readTemperature(); // Read temperature in Celsius
// Check if readings are valid
if (isnan(humidity) || isnan(temperature)) {
Serial.println("Failed to read from DHT sensor!");
return;
}
// Print the results to the Serial Monitor
Serial.print("Humidity: ");
Serial.print(humidity);
Serial.print(" %\t");
Serial.print("Temperature: ");
Serial.print(temperature);
Serial.println(" °C");
}
Note: Ensure the DHT11 sensor is connected to the 3.3V output of the AMS1117.
No Output Voltage:
Overheating:
Unstable Output Voltage:
Device Not Powering On:
Q: Can I use the AMS1117 to power a 5V device?
A: No, the AMS1117 in this configuration outputs a fixed 3.3V. For 5V output, use a different regulator or version of the AMS1117.
Q: What happens if I exceed the input voltage limit?
A: Exceeding 12V on the input can damage the AMS1117 and potentially cause it to fail permanently.
Q: Can I use the AMS1117 without capacitors?
A: While it may work in some cases, it is highly recommended to use the input and output capacitors to ensure stability and prevent oscillations.
Q: Is the AMS1117 suitable for battery-powered applications?
A: Yes, as long as the battery voltage is within the 4-12V range and the load current does not exceed 800mA.
By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the AMS1117 into your projects for reliable 3.3V power regulation.