LM2596S DC-DC Buck Converter
Overview
The **LM2596S** is a high-efficiency step-down (buck) voltage regulator designed for various electronic applications. It converts higher DC input voltage to a stable lower DC output voltage, making it suitable for powering devices like microcontrollers, sensors, and LEDs.
Specifications
- Input Voltage: 4.5V - 40V DC
- Output Voltage: 1.23V - 37V DC (adjustable)
- Maximum Output Current: 3A
- Efficiency: Up to 92%
- Switching Frequency: 150 kHz
- Thermal Shutdown Protection
- Short-Circuit Protection
Pinout
| Pin | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | VIN | Input Voltage (4.5V - 40V) |
| 2 | VOUT | Output Voltage (1.23V - 37V) |
| 3 | GND | Ground |
Working Principle
The **LM2596S** operates as a switching regulator. It rapidly switches a transistor on and off to regulate the energy delivered to the load. The output voltage is controlled by adjusting the duty cycle of these switches. This mechanism provides high efficiency, as energy is not wasted as heat, unlike linear regulators.
The **feedback pin (FB)** ensures the output voltage remains constant by comparing the output voltage to a reference value. When the feedback indicates the output voltage is too high, the regulator reduces the duty cycle, lowering the voltage. If the output voltage is too low, the duty cycle is increased.
Applications
- Powering microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP32)
- Charging batteries
- LED drivers
- IoT devices
- Portable electronics
