What is it?

This is a controlled step-up converter that uses an off-the-shelf DC-DC converter board using the MT3608, along with a MOSFET P-channel switch to control the input to the DC-DC converter.

This can take an input voltage of 2-24V DC and supply an output voltage up to 28V DC. Up to 2A can be supplied. The output is enabled by a control input. So you can power down the output if needed.

Why did you make it?

I needed to power a few weather sensors including an irradiance sensor and a soil moisture sensor. These sensors needed 9 - 28V DC as an input.

My data logging unit had a single-cell lithium-ion battery (around 4.2V DC) and a controlled 3.3V for the microcontroller I was using.

So I needed to power these sensors with 12 or 24V but only had 3.3V or 4.2V available. I needed a DC-DC boost converter. BUT I needed to really reduce your power consumption as this unit was fully solar powered in the UK, so could not have the sensor powered the whole time. I was only checking the sensors every 10 mins, so only needed to power for around 500mS every 10 mins.

I designed a PCB and ordered a few which have been very useful for powering sensors from a datalogger.

You apply 3.3V - 5V to the control input and it will switch on the DC-DC converter.

Your device can wake up, check your sensor, then go back to sleep and save lots of energy.

Maybe this simple logic-controller DC-DC step-up converter might also be useful for you!

What makes it special?

This is a simple low cost unit that can help with powering different sensors from battery based logging systems.

There are lots of DC-DC converters around but most pre-built units do not have an enable input. Either I needed to fully design a DC-DC converter or use a low-cost existing DC-DC converter, but add a MOSFET switch to it.

I could not find anything already designed, which is why I designed this. I ordered a few more than I needed as I thought this might be useful to other people.

I send items from the UK. Typically using Royal Mail 'Tracked 48' service in the UK. Orders for overseas (both EU and worldwide) will be sent with the most appropriate mail service, but usually Royal Mail international tracked.

I aim to send items within 3-5 working days (typically 1-2 days).

For international customers outside the UK: Import duties, taxes and all other fees are the recipient's responsibility.