What is it?

A switching, boost-mode power converter that takes a 4 - 15V input and outputs 24V. The output voltage is adjustable by replacing R21 & R22 (up to 38V). Can supply 0.4A (400mA) max. Uses Texas Instruments' TPS61175, with a claimed efficiency of up to 93%, soft-start and the usual protections (over current, temperature etc.). Conveniently has a USB type A connector for direct connection to a laptop, USB charger or power bank.

Honestly, it's just a more compact version of TI's EVM/reference design for the TPS61175 that I made to power another product of mine via a powerbank.

Why did you make it?

I was fed up with the cheap "eBay usb boost converter" modules burning out on me. They're cheap and nice in a pinch, but not something I could give to a customer without expecting it coming back charred.

I had integrated this part in my vlak 2 battery-powered light so it was simple to make a module out of it to power other high-voltage electronics from USB wall warts or a power bank.

What makes it special?

• 4 - 15V input, 24V output. Adjustable by replacing resistors.
• Supplies 0.4A (400mA) maximum. Can draw up to 2.5A at full load, so check your USB supply.
• 5mA standby (no load). The converter can be shutdown, but the "ENABLE" pin is not broken out (can be made accessible with some soldering skills)
• 600mV p-p ripple at full load
• No audible noise, even at full load. Which might sound obvious, but trust me - it's not for switching boost converters.
• Designed for small size (hence the non-standard mounting of the capacitors)
• Optionally comes with a professionally 3D-printed and laser-cut case
• Custom designs/implementations/voltages on request
• Schematic and layout available on request