MT3608 Step Up Boost Module 3-24V to 5-28V 2A Power Regulator

Specifications

• Input Voltage Range: 2V to 24V DC
• Output Voltage Range: 5V to 28V DC (Adjustable via onboard potentiometer)
• Maximum Output Current: 2A (Peak) / 1A (Continuous recommended for thermal stability)
• Conversion Efficiency: > 93% (Highly efficient for battery-powered projects)
• Switching Frequency: 1.2MHz
• Dimensions: 36mm x 17mm x 14mm
• Protection: Built-in under-voltage lockout, current limiting, and thermal overload protection.

Applications

• Portable IoT Devices: Power 5V ESP8266/ESP32 sensor nodes from a single 18650 Li-Ion cell.
• Robotics: Drive 12V DC gear motors using a 5V USB power bank.
• Custom Lighting: Illuminate 12V or 24V LED strips from a lower voltage portable supply.
• DIY Power Banks: Create custom charging solutions for unique hardware.

Unlock New Capabilities

• Past Projects: You’ve likely built basic circuits where the power supply perfectly matched the board (like plugging an Arduino straight into USB).
• Feature Upgrade: This module unlocks True Portability. It breaks the tether to the wall adapter, allowing you to use lightweight, low-voltage batteries to drive high-voltage, heavy-lifting components like solenoids, stepper motors, and radio transmitters.
• Effort Level: Beginner. You only need a basic multimeter to tune the voltage and a small screwdriver.

Virtual Technician & Wiring Guide

• ⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: The output voltage MUST always be tuned to be higher than the input voltage. Before connecting your expensive electronics to the output, power the module and use a multimeter to adjust the potentiometer to your desired voltage.
  
  (Note: The potentiometer may require 15-20 counter-clockwise turns initially to start boosting).

Wiring Pinout:

• VIN+: Connect to your Positive Input Source (e.g., Battery +)
• VIN-: Connect to your Negative Input Source (e.g., Battery -)
• VOUT+: Connect to your Load's Positive Terminal (e.g., Arduino VIN)
• VOUT-: Connect to your Load's Negative Terminal (e.g., Arduino GND)

Package Includes:

• 1x MT3608 Step Up Boost Module 3-24V to 5-28V 2A Power Regulator

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How do I adjust the voltage on the MT3608?
  Use a small flathead screwdriver to turn the brass screw on the blue trim potentiometer. Turn counter-clockwise to increase the voltage.
• Why is my MT3608 outputting the exact same voltage as the input?
  The potentiometer often ships at its lowest setting and requires up to 15-20 full counter-clockwise turns before the voltage begins to step up. Keep turning!
• Can the MT3608 step down the voltage (buck)?
  No, this is strictly a boost (step-up) converter. The output voltage will never be lower than the input voltage.
• What is the maximum current the MT3608 can handle?
  It is rated for 2A peak, but for continuous 24/7 use without a heatsink, it is highly recommended to keep the current draw under 1A.
• Why is my MT3608 module getting hot?
  Heat is generated when drawing high current or when the difference between input and output voltage is extreme. Lower the current draw or add a small heatsink.
• Can I power a 5V Arduino with a 3.7V LiPo using this module?
  Yes, this is one of the most common applications for the MT3608. Set the output to exactly 5V before connecting the Arduino.
• Is the MT3608 suitable for driving motors?
  Yes, it can drive small DC motors, provided the motor's stall current does not exceed the module's 2A limit.
• What is the switching frequency of the MT3608?
  The chip operates at a high frequency of 1.2MHz, which helps minimize electronic noise and allows for smaller onboard components.
• Does the MT3608 have reverse polarity protection?
  No. If you connect the input power backward (VIN+ to ground), the module will be instantly destroyed. Always double-check your wiring.
• How do I measure the output voltage safely?
  Connect a digital multimeter in DC Voltage mode across the VOUT+ and VOUT- pads while adjusting the potentiometer, before connecting your target device.
• Can I use the MT3608 with a solar panel?
  Yes, as long as the solar panel outputs between 2V and 24V, you can boost it, though you must account for the panel's fluctuating current output.
• Why does the voltage drop significantly when I connect a load?
  Your input power source (like a weak battery) might not be able to supply enough current to maintain the boosted wattage, causing the voltage to sag.
• Can I run two MT3608 modules in parallel for more current?
  No, it is not recommended to wire the outputs of switching regulators directly in parallel as they will fight each other, leading to instability or damage.
• What is the minimum input voltage required for the MT3608?
  The module requires an absolute minimum of 2.0V to turn on the switching IC.
• Is there a quiescent current draw on the MT3608?
  Yes, even with no load connected, the module will draw a tiny amount of current (a few milliamps) just to keep the switching circuit active.
• Can I power a 12V LED strip from a standard 5V USB using this?
  Yes, you can boost a 5V USB output to 12V for LEDs, but ensure the total wattage doesn't exceed what your USB port can supply.
• Does the module produce electrical noise?
  All switching regulators produce some high-frequency ripple. It is generally fine for digital electronics but may interfere with highly sensitive analog audio equipment.