🔧 What is the MT3608?
The MT3608 is a high-efficiency, step‑up (boost) DC‑DC converter IC, commonly used on small modules for electronics projects. It takes a lower input voltage (like 2–24 V) and boosts it to a higher adjustable output (up to ~28 V).
Key specs:
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Input: 2 V – 24 V
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Output: adjustable up to 28 V
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Max output current: ~2 A (limited by heat and thermal protection)
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Switching frequency: 1.2 MHz (allows small inductors/capacitors)
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Efficiency: up to ~93% (occasionally reaching 97%)
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Protections: undervoltage lockout, over-current, thermal shutdown
Package and module:
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IC comes in a tiny 6-pin SOT-23 package.
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Most modules include the MT3608 chip, an inductor, capacitors, diode, and an adjustable trimmer potentiometer.
⚙️ How it works
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Inductor charging & switching
The internal MOSFET rapidly switches on/off at ~1.2 MHz, storing energy in the inductor and boosting voltage when the inductor discharges through a diode into the output capacitor. -
Feedback regulation
The module uses a feedback pin (FB) set against a 0.6 V reference to adjust output via an onboard resistor divider (including the trimmer). -
Light-load efficiency
It shifts to pulse frequency modulation (PFM) at light loads to maintain efficiency.
📌 Typical usage tips
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Connect a power source between VIN (+2V–24V) and GND.
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Use a multimeter while adjusting the trimmer (often requires 10–20 turns to “wake up”).
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Ensure output voltage > input voltage (it can’t step down).
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Watch power dissipation: outputs near 2 A may heat up—heatsinks or airflow help.
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Add a fuse on the output if driving unpredictable loads like motors.
🔌 Common applications
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Battery-powered electronics (e.g., stepping 3.7 V up to 5 V or 12 V)
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Driving LED strips, sensors, or small motors
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Portable projects, IoT devices, USB boost supply, DIY power banks
🛠 Example scenario
Using a 3.7 V Li‑Ion battery, you could adjust the MT3608 module to output 5 V to power a microcontroller or even 12 V for small LEDs. The boost converter module will boost voltage, but the available current at higher voltages drops accordingly—power in equals power out (minus losses).
The MT3608 module is a tiny yet powerful boost converter, ideal for stepping-up low voltages (2–24 V) to a desired higher level (up to 28 V), providing up to ~2 A output, and featuring built-in protection. Its compact size, adjustable trimmer, and high efficiency make it a favorite in DIY electronics and portable power projects.
If you’d like help with voltage converter and buck converter see the following blog posts:
