LM2596 Switching Regulator DC-DC Step-Down (Buck Converter)

The LM2596 is an adjustable switching regulator that generates a lower, adjustable output voltage from a higher input voltage. Its advantage is the high efficiency at small dimensions.

Recommended alternative with voltage display: LM2596 DC-DC Step-Down Converter Module with Display

Recommended alternative for higher continuous currents: 25W DC-DC Step-Down Converter Module (Down Converter)

Recommended Accessories:

• XL830L Digital Multimeter with Backlight

Features:

• Output voltage adjustable via potentiometer, check with a multimeter before connecting the load
• Input voltage at least 2 V above the output voltage
• Without a heat sink, the continuous current is clearly below the maximum value: one supplier states up to 1 A, a customer measurement around 1.5 A, at 2 A the module gets very hot and the voltage drops

Application Examples:

• 5 V or 3.3 V from a 12 V or 24 V supply
• Powering microcontrollers and sensors from battery packs

Documentation:

• LM2596 datasheet (PDF, Texas Instruments)
• Linear and switching regulators, section on the LM2596 (Wolles Elektronikkiste, German)

Technical Data:

• Chip: LM2596S-ADJ
• Input voltage: 3.2 to 40 V according to the module specification, chip datasheet: 4.5 to 40 V
• Output voltage: 1.25 to 35 V (adjustable via potentiometer)
• Output current: 2 A normal, 3 A max.
• Efficiency: up to 92 %
• Switching frequency: 150 kHz
• Output ripple: 30 mV max.
• Connections: IN+, IN-, OUT+, OUT-
• Dimensions: 41 × 20 × 13.5 mm
• Weight: 11 g

Scope of Delivery:

• 1× LM2596 DC-DC step-down switching regulator