The MT3608 Micro USB Boost Converter is a compact, high-efficiency step-up power supply module. It is designed to take a low input voltage and boost it to a higher, regulated output voltage. Featuring both standard solder pads and a native Micro USB input port, this module is exceptionally convenient for powering 9V or 12V projects directly from a standard 5V USB power bank, phone charger, or single-cell Lithium battery.

Specifications

• Driver IC: MT3608 High-Efficiency Step-Up Converter
• Input Voltage: 2V to 24V DC (Micro USB input handles standard 5V)
• Maximum Output Voltage: 5V to 28V DC (Adjustable via onboard potentiometer)
• Maximum Output Current: 2A max (1A or lower is recommended for continuous long-term operation)
• Conversion Efficiency: Up to 93%
• Switching Frequency: 1.2 MHz fixed frequency

Interface and Connection Guide

• Micro USB Port: Power input port. Connect to any standard 5V USB power source (chargers, power banks, PC ports).
• VIN+ / VIN-: Solder pads for alternative direct DC input wiring (2V to 24V).
• VOUT+ / VOUT-: Regulated DC voltage output pads. Connect these to your target device load.
• Trimming Potentiometer: Multi-turn precision screw used to calibrate and lock the desired output voltage.

Crucial First-Use Warning: Because these modules are batch-tested at the factory, the potentiometer is often dialed to the maximum resistance setting. When you connect it for the first time, the output voltage will equal the input voltage, and spinning the screw a few times might show no change. You must turn the brass potentiometer screw counter-clockwise for 15 to 20 full revolutions before the voltage begins to step up.

Key Features

• Dual Input Versatility: The combination of a Micro USB port and raw solder pads allows users to alternate easily between quick USB bench-testing and permanent battery wiring.
• High Frequency Switching: The 1.2 MHz switching rate allows the module to use ultra-small internal capacitors and inductors, resulting in a tiny physical footprint with minimal output voltage ripple.
• Precision Voltage Tuning: The multi-turn top-adjust potentiometer enables fine-tuning of the output rail down to fractions of a volt.
• Built-In Protection: Features internal over-temperature thermal shutdown and under-voltage lockout (UVLO) to protect the regulator chip from severe stress.

Common Applications

• USB 5V to 12V Conversions: Powering standard 12V LED strips, cooling fans, or network routers from a portable 5V power bank.
• Battery Step-Up Systems: Boosting a single-cell 3.7V Lithium-Ion (18650) battery up to 9V or 12V to drive microcontrollers and operational amplifiers.
• Robotics Power Rails: Stepping up logic power lines to satisfy the higher voltage requirements of small DC motors, servos, or relay modules.
• Portable Instrumentation: Generating stable internal voltages for handheld testing equipment, sensor nodes, and DIY field gear.

Usage Tips

• Boost Rule Constraint: This is a pure step-up boost converter. The output voltage must always be set higher than the input voltage. Attempting to feed a 12V input while expecting a 5V output will result in the input current passing directly through the internal diode un-regulated, which can overheat your load.
• Current Limitation vs Voltage: While the chip is rated for a 2A peak switch current, power conservation dictates that Input Power equals Output Power (minus efficiency losses). If you boost 5V up to 24V, you cannot draw 2A at the output, as that would require over 10A from your 5V USB source, which will instantly overload the converter or the charger.
• No Short Circuit Protection: The MT3608 does not feature built-in short-circuit protection on the output side. A direct short between VOUT+ and VOUT- will cause rapid thermal runaway and permanently burn out the internal diode and switching transistor. Always verify your load circuit layout before turning on power.