Microchip Technology
IC REG SWTCHD CAP INV 20MA 8SOIC
Maybe you have a 3.7V lithium battery but need to power a 5V Arduino. This is where MT3608 comes in handy! It can boost a low input voltage to a higher output voltage.
In this complete guide, we will explain all about the MT3608 module. You can learn what it is, how it works, its specifications, and how to use it in your own projects.
The MT3608 module is a compact and efficient DC-DC step-up (boost) converter . It is usually based on the MT3608 integrated circuit.
Its main function is to increase a lower input voltage to a higher output voltage. It is helpful for powering different devices. These include a single-cell lithium-ion battery (3.7V), microcontrollers (5V), sensors (5V), and small circuits.
The module typically comes pre-assembled on a small PCB. It contains an inductor, diode, capacitors, and a variable resistor (potentiometer) for adjusting the output voltage. It also features clearly marked input and output pins for easy integration into DIY projects or prototypes.
The MT3608 module offers a simple, low-cost, and reliable solution. It is great for portable devices, hobby electronics, and low-power uses.
| Parameter | Specification | Notes / Practical Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage (Min) | 2V DC | Module typically needs >2V to start properly |
| Input Voltage (Max) | 24V DC | Do not exceed to avoid IC damage |
| Output Voltage (Max) | ~28V DC (adjustable) | Set via onboard potentiometer |
| Output Current (Limit) | Up to 2A peak | Recommended continuous: ~1A for safe operation |
| Maximum Output Power | ~15W (theoretical) | Practical stable output: 8–10W depending on cooling |
| Efficiency | Up to 93% | Varies with input, output, and load |
| Switching Frequency | 1.2 MHz | High frequency allows compact design |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C | Module may heat under high loads; heatsinking recommended |
| Module Size | ~36 × 17 × 14 mm | May vary slightly by manufacturer |
| Protection Features |
· No built-in short-circuit or over-current protection
· No thermal shutdown (Recommended: external protection for sensitive projects) |
- |
| Package |
SOT-23 package, Tape & Reel (TR) packaging |
- |
| Pins |
6 pins |
- |
MT3608 IC and its supporting components build a MT3608 boost converter module. The components include an inductor, Schottky diode, capacitors, and a feedback potentiometer.
Together, these parts form a typical boost converter circuit. They step up a lower DC input voltage to a higher DC output.
A typical MT3608 module has two sets of input pins and two sets of output pins. They are always labeled on the PCB silkscreen.
On the board, you will see a small, blue, square component with a white cross on top. This is a potentiometer, or "pot." You can turn it with a small screwdriver.
The module's design follows the typical application circuit. MT3608 chip's datasheet suggest this circuit. The main components are:
The MT3608 serves as a DC-DC boost (step-up) converter. The module uses the principles of inductor energy storage and high-frequency switching. It boosts a lower input voltage to a higher output voltage.
When the switch is on, the MT3608 stores energy in an inductor. When the switch is off, it releases energy at a higher voltage. By repeating this process at high speed, it “steps up” a low DC voltage to a higher voltage.
The most common calculation for the MT3608 is determining the resistor values to set the desired output voltage.
Formula: Vout = 0.6V × (1 + (R1 / R2))
R1 = R2 × ((Vout / 0.6V) - 1)
Then, you would use the closest standard resistor value (e.g., 200 kΩ).
Supply a DC voltage within the 2V – 24V input range.
Use the potentiometer to adjust the output voltage. It’s best to measure the output with a multimeter.
Connect your device or circuit to OUT+ and OUT-. Ensure the load current stays below ~1A .
Power up the module and check the output voltage with a multimeter. Confirm that the load is operating normally without voltage drops or overheating.
| Feature | MT3608 (Boost) | XL6009 (Boost/Buck-Boost) | LM2596 (Buck) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Converter Type | Boost (Step-Up only) | Boost / Buck-Boost | Buck (Step-Down only) |
| Input Voltage Range | 2V – 24V | 3V – 32V | 4.5V – 40V |
| Output Voltage Range | Adjustable up to ~28V | Adjustable up to 35V | Adjustable down to 1.25V (up to 35V) |
| Max Output Current | 2A peak (~1A continuous safe) | Up to 3A (with heatsink) | Up to 3A continuous |
| Efficiency | Up to 93% | Up to 94% | Around 80–90% |
| Switching Frequency | 1.2 MHz | ~400 kHz | ~150 kHz |
| Size | Very compact (~36 × 17 mm) | Medium size module | Medium to large module |
| Best Use Cases | Small, low-power step-up tasks (Arduino, 5V from Li-ion) | Higher current boost, LED drivers, power tools | Voltage step-down for powering 5V/12V devices from higher supplies |
| Cost | Very low (~$1–2) | Low to moderate (~$2–4) | Low to moderate (~$2–3) |
To get the most reliable and efficient results from your MT3608 boost converter module, follow these practical tips:
Keep the output current around 1A or less to avoid overheating.
Pair the module with a stable input source. This minimizes ripple and voltage fluctuations.
For sensitive applications (microcontrollers, RF modules, sensors), add extra capacitors on both input and output to reduce ripple noise.
If the load is high, install the module in a well-ventilated space or add a small heat sink.
The greater the difference between input and output voltage, the lower the efficiency. Keep the output voltage within the necessary range.
Before powering your actual circuit, set and verify the output voltage with a multimeter.
Consider adding a fuse or protection circuit for sensitive projects.
Adjust the potentiometerslowly to avoid exceeding your desired voltage.
The MT3608 boost converter module offers a simple, cost-effective, and reliable solution for stepping up DC voltages projects. It has the characteristics of compact design, efficient performance and ease of use.
Therefore, it is ideal choice for DIY electronics, portable power supplies, and microcontroller-based systems.By understanding its specifications, proper usage, and best practices, you can maximize its performance and avoid common problems.
First, connect the input voltage (2V–24V) to the VIN pin and ground the GND pin. Then set the output voltage (up to 28V) via external resistors on the FB pin. Additionally, control the SW pin for switching with an inductor and diode. The EN pin enables/disables the chip.
The MT3608 is reliable and efficient DC-DC boost converter. Because it has high efficiency (up to 98%), built-in protections (like undervoltage lockout, current limiting, and thermal overload), and stable performance under various conditions.
MT3608 is a smaller, high-frequency (1.2MHz) boost converter. Its output voltage up to 28V and efficiency up to 97%. While XL6009 is a higher-current (4A), lower-frequency (400kHz) boost/buck-boost converter. It has a wider input range (3.5V-32V) and output up to 35V.
Aerosemi.
2A.
1.Connect a DC power supply to the IN+ (VIN) and IN- (GND) terminals. 2. Set the output voltage. 3. Connect an inductor and a Schottky diode to the SW pin. 4. Use a multimeter to measure the output voltage while adjusting the onboard potentiometer.
The LM2596 is a buck (step-down) converter. It typically handles higher input voltages and output currents. While the MT3608 is a boost (step-up) converter. It is suited for lower-power applications that need a voltage increase.
High-voltage converters use transformers or DC-DC converters to control the flow of current. They combine energy storage and release in inductors or transformers to achieve voltage step-ups and step-downs.
A boost converter is a DC-DC power converter. It uses an inductor, switch, diode, and capacitor to achieve voltage boost.
No, a boost converter does not increase power. According to energy conservation, the output power equal to or less than the input power.
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