How to Use DC-DC 12V 5V 3.3V: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The DC-DC 12V 5V 3.3V converter, manufactured by ESP32 (Part ID: 477215632t31), is a versatile and efficient power management component. It is designed to step down or step up input voltage levels to provide stable output voltages of 12V, 5V, and 3.3V. This makes it an essential component for powering a wide range of electronic devices and circuits.

• Powering microcontrollers (e.g., ESP32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi)
• Supplying stable voltage to sensors, actuators, and modules
• Battery-powered systems requiring multiple voltage levels
• Robotics and IoT devices
• Portable electronics and embedded systems

1. Connect the Input Voltage:

   • Attach the input voltage source (6V to 24V) to the VIN pin.
   • Connect the ground of the input source to the GND pin.

2. Select the Desired Output Voltage:

   • Use the VOUT_12V, VOUT_5V, or VOUT_3.3V pins to power your devices.
   • Ensure the connected load does not exceed the maximum current rating for each output.

3. Enable the Converter:

   • To activate the converter, apply a high signal (e.g., 3.3V or 5V) to the EN pin.
   • If the EN pin is left floating or connected to ground, the converter will remain disabled.

4. Connect the Load:

   • Attach your devices or circuits to the appropriate output voltage pin(s).
   • Ensure proper grounding by connecting the load's ground to the GND pin.

• Input Voltage Range: Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range (6V to 24V). Exceeding this range may damage the converter.
• Heat Dissipation: For high current loads, consider adding a heatsink or ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Decoupling Capacitors: Add decoupling capacitors (e.g., 10µF and 0.1µF) near the output pins to reduce noise and improve stability.
• Enable Pin Usage: If the EN pin is not used, connect it to VIN to keep the converter enabled by default.

Below is an example of how to use the DC-DC converter to power an Arduino UNO with 5V output:

• Connect a 12V battery to the VIN and GND pins of the converter.
• Connect the VOUT_5V pin to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• Connect the converter's GND pin to the Arduino's GND pin.

// Example code to blink an LED using Arduino UNO powered by the DC-DC converter

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. Can I use this converter with a 24V input?

   • Yes, the converter supports input voltages up to 24V.

2. What happens if I connect a load that exceeds the current rating?

   • The converter may overheat or shut down to protect itself. Always ensure the load is within the specified limits.

3. Is it safe to use all three output voltages simultaneously?

   • Yes, as long as the total current draw does not exceed the converter's capacity.

4. Can I use this converter with a lithium-ion battery?

   • Yes, it is compatible with lithium-ion batteries, provided the battery voltage is within the input range.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the DC-DC 12V 5V 3.3V converter into your projects and ensure reliable performance.