Variable Boost Converter

Device

This boost converter is a simple electronics project that I delved into to teach myself about MOSFETs, inductors, and the 555 timer chip. It was also helpful in learning about power in the electronics sense with the conversion of one voltage to another.

A 5mH inductor that stores energy in an electromagnetic field.

A 555 timer chip used to toggle the mosfet at a certain frequency.

Skills Used

Advanced Circuitry

KiCad

Development

This is the second iteration of a project I initially began as I needed a high voltage source to charge capacitors for a separate project, but no power supply could provide that voltage. After some research on methods to do this online, I constructed this circuit inspired by but modified beyond some examples I had seen online. I tested it and found it to fit my needs. By adjusting the resistance via potentiometer across the Discharge and Threshold pins of the 555 chip the output voltage can be multiplied as needed. In the showcase I am using 100kΩ potentiometer and adjusting it to show a variable output voltage.

Electronics & Inspiration

The original schematic that I developed this circuit off of is by Benjamin Marshall, who's circuit I used as reference and made modifications where needed in my design. The schematic of my boost converter is attached here.

Altium Version of Circuit & PCB

I took my design from KiCad and recreated it in Altium Designer along with a PCB layout I made in Altium Designer as a way of testing my Altium skills.

My circuit designed in Altium Designer.

My circuit's PCB designed in Altium Designer.

My circuit's PCB rendered in 3D in Altium Designer.