DC–DC Boost Converter Using LM2577-ADJ
1. Project Description
A DC–DC boost converter designed to step up voltage from a low-level DC input to a higher regulated output using the LM2577-ADJ IC. The system is capable of delivering an adjustable output range from 1.23 V to 60 V, with tested performance up to 73 V.
2. Objective
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To design and implement an efficient boost converter for electronic applications requiring variable high-voltage DC supply.
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To achieve stable and reliable step-up conversion from a 5 V input source.
3. Components
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IC: LM2577-ADJ
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Capacitors: 0.18 µF (63 V), 0.33 µF (50 V), 1000 µF (80 V)
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Resistors: 1 kΩ (1 W), 2.2 kΩ (0.5 W × 2)
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Diode: 1N5821 Schottky (3 A)
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Inductor: 100 µH Wire Coil
4. Working Principle
The LM2577-ADJ operates as a switching regulator in a boost (step-up) topology. During the switch-on phase, the internal transistor conducts and current flows through the inductor, storing energy in its magnetic field. In this state, the output diode remains reverse-biased, isolating the load from the input.
When the switch turns off, the magnetic field in the inductor collapses, releasing stored energy. This energy combines with the input voltage, forward-biasing the Schottky diode and transferring current to the output capacitor and load. As a result, the output voltage becomes higher than the input voltage.
The adjustable feedback network (resistors R1–R3) continuously senses the output voltage and regulates the duty cycle of the switching process, ensuring a stable and precise output. Capacitors C1–C3 reduce voltage ripple and maintain smooth DC output, while the Schottky diode and inductor enhance efficiency and reliability of the conversion.
Circuit Diagram
Circuit schematic of Adjustable DC-DC Boost Converter using LM2577-ADJ
5. Hardware & Results
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Input: 5 V DC
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Maximum output voltage: 73 V DC
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Stable performance achieved with low ripple and efficient conversion
Practical Hardware Setup and Multimeter Reading of Adjustable DC-DC Boost Converter
Hardware setup and multimeter reading of boost converter output
6. Applications
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Powering circuits requiring higher voltage from standard low-voltage supplies.
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Renewable energy systems (e.g., solar panels).
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Battery-powered electronics where step-up conversion is needed.
7. Conclusion
The DC–DC Boost Converter project successfully demonstrates the design and implementation of a regulated step-up power supply using the LM2577-ADJ IC. The converter effectively increases a lower DC input voltage to a higher, adjustable output voltage, maintaining stability across a wide range of loads. Experimental results verified an output range up to 73 V when supplied from 5 V, confirming both efficiency and reliability of the circuit. This project highlights the practical application of power electronics in renewable energy systems, battery-powered devices, and electronic equipment requiring stable higher-voltage operation.