How to Use MP1495 Step Down Voltage Regulator: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MP1495 is a high-efficiency step-down voltage regulator manufactured by HiLetGo. It is designed to convert a higher input voltage to a lower, regulated output voltage. This component integrates a power switch and supports adjustable output voltage, making it ideal for applications requiring compact, efficient, and reliable power conversion.

• Power supply for microcontrollers and embedded systems
• Battery-powered devices
• Consumer electronics
• Industrial automation systems
• LED drivers and lighting systems

The MP1495 is a versatile component with the following key technical specifications:

The MP1495 comes in an SOP-8 package with the following pinout:

1. Input Voltage: Connect the input voltage (4.5V to 40V) to the VIN pin. Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range.
2. Output Voltage Adjustment: Use a resistor divider network connected to the FB pin to set the desired output voltage. The formula for the output voltage is: [ V_{OUT} = 0.8V \times \left(1 + \frac{R1}{R2}\right) ] where R1 and R2 are the resistors in the divider.
3. Inductor and Capacitor Selection: Choose an appropriate inductor and output capacitor based on the desired output voltage and current. Refer to the datasheet for recommended values.
4. Bootstrap Capacitor: Connect a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor between the BST and SW pins.
5. Enable Pin: Drive the EN pin high (logic level) to enable the regulator. Pull it low to disable the output.
6. Ground Connection: Connect the GND pin to the system ground.

• Use low-ESR capacitors for input and output filtering to minimize noise and improve stability.
• Place the input and output capacitors as close as possible to the VIN and GND pins to reduce noise and voltage ripple.
• Ensure proper thermal management by providing adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.
• Avoid exceeding the maximum input voltage (40V) or output current (3A) to prevent damage to the component.

The MP1495 can be used to power an Arduino UNO by stepping down a 12V input to 5V. Below is an example circuit and Arduino code to demonstrate its use:

• Connect a 12V DC power source to the VIN pin of the MP1495.
• Set the output voltage to 5V using a resistor divider on the FB pin.
• Connect the 5V output to the Arduino UNO's 5V pin.
• Connect the GND pin of the MP1495 to the Arduino's GND.

// Example code to blink an LED using Arduino UNO powered by MP1495
// Ensure the MP1495 output is set to 5V before connecting to the Arduino

const int ledPin = 13; // Built-in LED pin on Arduino UNO

void setup() {
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); // Set LED pin as 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. No Output Voltage

   • Ensure the EN pin is driven high to enable the regulator.
   • Verify the input voltage is within the specified range (4.5V to 40V).
   • Check the resistor divider network on the FB pin for proper configuration.

2. Excessive Heat

   • Ensure the output current does not exceed 3A.
   • Verify proper thermal management, such as adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.

3. Output Voltage Instability

   • Check the compensation capacitor on the COMP pin for proper value and placement.
   • Use low-ESR capacitors for input and output filtering.

4. High Output Ripple

   • Verify the inductor and output capacitor values are appropriate for the application.
   • Place the input and output capacitors as close as possible to the VIN and GND pins.

Q: Can the MP1495 be used with a 24V input?
A: Yes, the MP1495 supports input voltages up to 40V, so 24V is within the acceptable range.

Q: How do I calculate the resistor values for a 3.3V output?
A: Use the formula ( V_{OUT} = 0.8V \times (1 + R1/R2) ). For example, if R2 = 10kΩ, set R1 = 31.25kΩ to achieve 3.3V.

Q: What happens if the EN pin is left floating?
A: The EN pin should not be left floating. It must be pulled high to enable the regulator or low to disable it.

Q: Can the MP1495 power a Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the MP1495 can step down a higher voltage (e.g., 12V) to 5V to power a Raspberry Pi, provided the current requirement does not exceed 3A.