LM2596 DC-DC Step-Down Buck Converter Module - 3A Adjustable | ATMOSFÆR ENGINEERING

High-efficiency adjustable voltage regulator module for stepping down DC voltage from 3.2V-35V to 1.25V-30V with up to 3A output current. Features onboard potentiometer for precise voltage adjustment, LED power indicator, and thermal/short-circuit protection. Built with premium SANYO solid-state capacitors and thickened PCB for reliable long-term operation. Ideal for DIY power supplies, battery charging, automotive applications, and powering embedded systems.

Technical Specifications:

• IC: LM2596 Buck Regulator (or similar)
• Input Voltage: 3.2V - 35V DC
• Output Voltage: 1.25V - 30V DC (adjustable via potentiometer)
• Voltage Headroom Required: Input must be ≥1.5V higher than output (no boost function)
• Maximum Output Current: 3A (2.5A recommended for continuous use)
• Conversion Efficiency: Up to 92% (depends on input/output voltages)
• Efficiency @ 12V: 90.85%
• Efficiency @ 5V: 84.25%
• Switching Frequency: ~150kHz (typical for LM2596)
• Load Regulation: ±0.5%
• Line Regulation: ±2.5%
• Operating Temperature: -45°C to +85°C
• Protection: Short-circuit and over-temperature protection
• Power Indicator: Red LED
• PCB Quality: Thickened FR4 board (36µm copper)
• Capacitors: SANYO solid-state (high reliability)
• Inductor: High-Q toroidal inductor

Features:

• Wide input/output voltage range
• Precision voltage adjustment via multi-turn potentiometer
• High efficiency buck conversion (up to 92%)
• Premium components (SANYO capacitors, quality inductor)
• Thermal protection prevents overheating
• Short-circuit protection
• LED power indicator
• Compact design
• Factory tested and sealed in anti-static packaging

Adjustment:

• Rotate blue potentiometer clockwise to increase voltage
• Rotate counter-clockwise to decrease voltage
• Factory default: Maximum voltage (requires ~20-30 CCW turns to reduce)
• Use multimeter to monitor output while adjusting

Applications:

• DIY power banks and battery chargers
• Automotive voltage regulation (12V/24V systems)
• Solar panel voltage regulation
• Adjustable bench power supplies
• Powering microcontrollers and sensors
• LED driver power supplies
• RC vehicle battery regulation
• Communications equipment power
• Replacing linear regulators for better efficiency

Typical Use Cases:

• 12V car battery → 5V for USB charging
• 24V solar panel → 12V battery charging
• Variable lab power supply (adjust as needed)
• Stepping down battery voltage for electronics

Important Notes:

• Input must be ≥1.5V higher than output (e.g., 6.5V input minimum for 5V output)
• Not a boost converter - cannot increase voltage
• Do NOT reverse input/output connections
• For continuous loads >2.5A, add heatsink to IC
• Monitor temperature during high-current operation (>2A)
• Use appropriate wire gauge for current (18 AWG minimum for 3A)

Recommended Operating Conditions:

• Continuous current: ≤2.5A (with adequate cooling)
• Peak current: 3A (short duration)
• Add heatsink for extended use at high currents
• Ensure good ventilation

Connection:

• IN+: Positive input voltage
• IN-: Input ground
• OUT+: Positive output voltage
• OUT-: Output ground

Safety Tips:

• Always adjust output voltage before connecting load
• Use multimeter to verify voltage settings
• Do not exceed 3A output current
• Add heatsink for loads >15W continuous

Compatible with any DC power source including batteries, solar panels, automotive systems, and AC-DC adapters. Perfect for projects requiring stable, adjustable DC voltage with high efficiency.