Top 10 Switching Regulator Modules

What is a Switching Regulator?

A switching regulator is a power supply that uses a switching element, such as a transistor or MOSFET, to rapidly switch the input voltage on and off. This process allows the regulator to efficiently convert the input voltage to the desired output voltage while minimizing power losses. Switching regulators can be configured as step-down (buck), step-up (boost), or step-up/step-down (buck-boost) converters, depending on the application requirements.

Top 10 Switching Regulator Modules

1. Texas Instruments LM2596 Step-Down Voltage Regulator

The Texas Instruments LM2596 is a popular step-down switching regulator module capable of delivering up to 3A of output current. It features an adjustable output voltage range of 1.23V to 37V and an input voltage range of 4.5V to 40V. The module offers high efficiency, up to 92%, and includes built-in protection features such as over-current and over-temperature protection.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	4.5V to 40V
Output Voltage	1.23V to 37V
Output Current	Up to 3A
Efficiency	Up to 92%
Protection	Over-current, Over-temperature

2. DROK Buck Converter Module

The DROK Buck Converter Module is a compact and efficient step-down switching regulator with a wide input voltage range of 4.5V to 40V and an adjustable output voltage range of 1.25V to 37V. It can deliver up to 5A of output current and features a built-in LED display for real-time voltage and current monitoring. The module also includes over-current, over-voltage, and short-circuit protection.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	4.5V to 40V
Output Voltage	1.25V to 37V
Output Current	Up to 5A
Protection	Over-current, Over-voltage, Short-circuit
Display	Built-in LED display

3. Murata Power Solutions OKI-78SR Series

The Murata Power Solutions OKI-78SR Series is a family of high-performance, non-isolated switching regulator modules. These modules offer a wide input voltage range of 7V to 36V and fixed output voltages of 3.3V, 5V, or 12V. They can deliver up to 1.5A of output current and feature excellent line and load regulation, as well as built-in over-current and over-temperature protection.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	7V to 36V
Output Voltage	3.3V, 5V, or 12V
Output Current	Up to 1.5A
Regulation	Excellent line and load regulation
Protection	Over-current, Over-temperature

4. Pololu D24V90F5 Step-Down Voltage Regulator

The Pololu D24V90F5 is a powerful step-down switching regulator module with a wide input voltage range of 6.5V to 32V and a fixed output voltage of 5V. It can deliver up to 9A of continuous output current and features built-in reverse voltage protection, over-current protection, and thermal shutdown. The module’s compact design and high efficiency make it ideal for powering high-current devices such as Raspberry Pi boards and other single-board computers.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	6.5V to 32V
Output Voltage	5V (fixed)
Output Current	Up to 9A (continuous)
Protection	Reverse voltage, Over-current, Thermal shutdown

5. XLSEMI XL4015 Step-Down Converter Module

The XLSEMI XL4015 is a high-efficiency step-down switching regulator module with an input voltage range of 8V to 36V and an adjustable output voltage range of 1.25V to 32V. It can deliver up to 5A of output current and features built-in over-current, over-voltage, and short-circuit protection. The module also includes a potentiometer for easy output voltage adjustment.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	8V to 36V
Output Voltage	1.25V to 32V (adjustable)
Output Current	Up to 5A
Protection	Over-current, Over-voltage, Short-circuit
Adjustment	Potentiometer

6. RECOM R-78E Series

The RECOM R-78E Series is a family of high-efficiency, non-isolated switching regulator modules with a wide input voltage range of 8V to 28V and fixed output voltages of 3.3V, 5V, or 12V. These modules can deliver up to 1A of output current and feature excellent line and load regulation, as well as built-in over-current and over-temperature protection. The R-78E Series is known for its reliability and long-term stability.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	8V to 28V
Output Voltage	3.3V, 5V, or 12V
Output Current	Up to 1A
Regulation	Excellent line and load regulation
Protection	Over-current, Over-temperature

7. CUI Inc. VXO7803-500 Step-Down Converter

The CUI Inc. VXO7803-500 is a compact, high-efficiency step-down switching regulator module with an input voltage range of 6.5V to 36V and a fixed output voltage of 3.3V. It can deliver up to 500mA of output current and features built-in short-circuit and over-current protection. The module’s small form factor and low ripple and noise make it suitable for space-constrained applications and noise-sensitive circuits.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	6.5V to 36V
Output Voltage	3.3V (fixed)
Output Current	Up to 500mA
Protection	Short-circuit, Over-current
Form Factor	Compact

8. Traco Power TSR 1-2450 Step-Down Converter

The Traco Power TSR 1-2450 is a reliable step-down switching regulator module with an input voltage range of 6.5V to 36V and a fixed output voltage of 5V. It can deliver up to 1A of output current and features built-in over-current, over-voltage, and short-circuit protection. The module offers excellent efficiency and a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	6.5V to 36V
Output Voltage	5V (fixed)
Output Current	Up to 1A
Protection	Over-current, Over-voltage, Short-circuit
Temperature Range	-40°C to +85°C

9. Mornsun B0505S-1WR2 Isolated DC-DC Converter

The Mornsun B0505S-1WR2 is an isolated DC-DC converter module with an input voltage range of 4.5V to 5.5V and a fixed output voltage of 5V. It can deliver up to 200mA of output current and features galvanic isolation with an isolation voltage of 1500VDC. The module’s compact SIP package and high efficiency make it suitable for applications requiring isolated power supplies.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	4.5V to 5.5V
Output Voltage	5V (fixed)
Output Current	Up to 200mA
Isolation	1500VDC
Package	SIP

10. Aimtec AM1S-0512SZ Isolated DC-DC Converter

The Aimtec AM1S-0512SZ is a compact, isolated DC-DC converter module with an input voltage range of 4.5V to 5.5V and a fixed output voltage of 12V. It can deliver up to 83mA of output current and features galvanic isolation with an isolation voltage of 1000VDC. The module offers excellent load regulation and low ripple and noise, making it suitable for sensitive analog circuits and measurement applications.

Specification	Value
Input Voltage	4.5V to 5.5V
Output Voltage	12V (fixed)
Output Current	Up to 83mA
Isolation	1000VDC
Load Regulation	Excellent

FAQ

1. What is the difference between a switching regulator and a linear regulator?

Switching regulators use a switching element to rapidly turn the input voltage on and off, allowing for efficient voltage conversion. Linear regulators, on the other hand, use a pass element to continuously adjust the output voltage, resulting in lower efficiency and higher heat dissipation.

2. What are the advantages of using a switching regulator?

Switching regulators offer several advantages, including:
– High efficiency, typically above 90%
– Smaller size and lighter weight compared to linear regulators
– Wide input voltage range
– Ability to step-up (boost), step-down (buck), or invert the input voltage

3. What factors should I consider when choosing a switching regulator module?

When selecting a switching regulator module, consider the following factors:
– Input voltage range
– Output voltage and current requirements
– Efficiency
– Protection features (e.g., over-current, over-voltage, short-circuit)
– Size and form factor
– Isolation requirements (for isolated modules)

4. Can switching regulators be used in noise-sensitive applications?

Yes, switching regulators can be used in noise-sensitive applications, but proper design considerations must be taken. Choose a module with low ripple and noise, and use appropriate filtering and layout techniques to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and reduce output ripple.

5. What is the purpose of galvanic isolation in switching regulator modules?

Galvanic isolation provides electrical separation between the input and output of a switching regulator module. This isolation helps protect sensitive circuitry from voltage spikes, ground loops, and other electrical disturbances. Isolated modules are commonly used in applications where safety, noise reduction, or ground loop prevention are critical.

In conclusion, switching regulator modules offer efficient and compact power conversion solutions for a wide range of applications. By understanding the key features and specifications of the top 10 switching regulator modules presented in this article, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best module for your project.