Cirkit Designer Logo
Cirkit Designer
Your all-in-one circuit design IDE
Home / 
Component Documentation

How to Use 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

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.

Explore Projects Built with 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Battery-Powered DC-DC Converter System for Multi-Voltage Power Distribution
Image of test 1 ih: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
This circuit converts a 38.5V battery output to multiple lower voltage levels using a series of DC-DC converters and a power module. It includes an emergency stop switch for safety and distributes power to various components such as a relay module, USB ports, and a bus servo adaptor.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Battery-Powered UPS with Step-Down Buck Converter and BMS
Image of Mini ups: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
This circuit is a power management system that steps down a 240V AC input to a lower DC voltage using a buck converter, which then powers a 40W UPS. The UPS is controlled by a rocker switch and is backed up by a battery management system (BMS) connected to three 3.7V batteries in series, ensuring continuous power supply.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
USB Power Supply with Overcurrent Protection
Image of USB Charging port: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
This circuit is designed to step down voltage from a 12V battery to a lower voltage suitable for USB devices. It includes a buck converter connected to the battery through a fuse and fuse holder for overcurrent protection. The output of the buck converter is connected to a USB female port, providing a regulated power supply for USB-powered devices.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Battery-Powered DC Generator with XL4015 Buck Converter
Image of conveyor: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
This circuit consists of a 12V battery connected to a rocker switch, which controls the input to an XL4015 DC Buck Step-down converter. The converter steps down the voltage to power a DC generator, with the generator's output connected back to the converter to form a feedback loop.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of test 1 ih: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
Battery-Powered DC-DC Converter System for Multi-Voltage Power Distribution
This circuit converts a 38.5V battery output to multiple lower voltage levels using a series of DC-DC converters and a power module. It includes an emergency stop switch for safety and distributes power to various components such as a relay module, USB ports, and a bus servo adaptor.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Mini ups: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
Battery-Powered UPS with Step-Down Buck Converter and BMS
This circuit is a power management system that steps down a 240V AC input to a lower DC voltage using a buck converter, which then powers a 40W UPS. The UPS is controlled by a rocker switch and is backed up by a battery management system (BMS) connected to three 3.7V batteries in series, ensuring continuous power supply.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of USB Charging port: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
USB Power Supply with Overcurrent Protection
This circuit is designed to step down voltage from a 12V battery to a lower voltage suitable for USB devices. It includes a buck converter connected to the battery through a fuse and fuse holder for overcurrent protection. The output of the buck converter is connected to a USB female port, providing a regulated power supply for USB-powered devices.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of conveyor: A project utilizing 4-12VDC to 3.3VDC DC-DC Step Down in a practical application
Battery-Powered DC Generator with XL4015 Buck Converter
This circuit consists of a 12V battery connected to a rocker switch, which controls the input to an XL4015 DC Buck Step-down converter. The converter steps down the voltage to power a DC generator, with the generator's output connected back to the converter to form a feedback loop.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications

  • Powering microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32, Raspberry Pi peripherals)
  • Supplying stable 3.3V to sensors and modules (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi)
  • Battery-powered devices requiring voltage regulation
  • General-purpose voltage regulation in embedded systems

Technical Specifications

The AMS1117 is designed to provide a stable 3.3V output with minimal external components. Below are its key technical details:

Key Specifications

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

Pin Configuration

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)

Typical Circuit Diagram

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:

  • Input capacitor: 10µF (electrolytic or ceramic)
  • Output capacitor: 10µF (ceramic)

Usage Instructions

How to Use the AMS1117 in a Circuit

  1. Connect the Input Voltage (VIN):

    • Provide a DC voltage between 4V and 12V to the VIN pin.
    • Ensure the input voltage is at least 1.1V higher than the desired output (dropout voltage).
  2. Connect the Ground (GND):

    • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
  3. Connect the Output Voltage (VOUT):

    • The VOUT pin provides a stable 3.3V output. Connect this to the load or device requiring 3.3V.
  4. Add Capacitors:

    • Place a 10µF capacitor between VIN and GND for input stability.
    • Place a 10µF capacitor between VOUT and GND for output stability.

Important Considerations

  • Heat Dissipation: The AMS1117 can heat up under high current loads. Use a heatsink or ensure proper ventilation if the current exceeds 500mA.
  • Input Voltage Range: Do not exceed 12V on the input, as this may damage the regulator.
  • Load Current: Ensure the load does not draw more than 800mA to avoid overheating or instability.
  • Bypass Capacitors: Always use the recommended capacitors to prevent oscillations and ensure stable operation.

Example: Using AMS1117 with Arduino UNO

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:

Circuit Connections

  • Connect a 9V battery to the VIN pin of the AMS1117.
  • Connect the GND pin of the AMS1117 to the Arduino's GND.
  • Connect the VOUT pin of the AMS1117 to the 3.3V pin of the Arduino.

Sample Arduino Code

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.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues

  1. No Output Voltage:

    • Check if the input voltage is within the 4-12V range.
    • Verify all connections, especially VIN and GND.
    • Ensure the load does not exceed 800mA.
  2. Overheating:

    • Verify that the input voltage is not too high.
    • Check if the load current is within the specified limit.
    • Use a heatsink or improve ventilation.
  3. Unstable Output Voltage:

    • Ensure the input and output capacitors are properly connected.
    • Check for loose or poor connections.
  4. Device Not Powering On:

    • Confirm that the output voltage is 3.3V using a multimeter.
    • Verify that the load device is compatible with 3.3V.

FAQs

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.