The LTC3780 DC-DC Automatic Step-Up/Down Regulator is a high-performance, four-quadrant switching regulator capable of both boosting and bucking input voltage to maintain a stable, adjustable output. Built around the Linear Technology (now Analog Devices) LTC3780 controller, this module delivers up to 10A of output current with an adjustable output voltage from 1V to 30V from an input range of 5V to 32V DC. It is the ideal solution for battery charging, LED driving, and any application where the input voltage may be above, below, or equal to the desired output voltage.
At the heart of the module is the LTC3780, a high-efficiency, current-mode, synchronous switching regulator controller that operates in four modes: buck (step-down), boost (step-up), buck-boost, and automatic transition between them. This means the module can seamlessly switch between stepping up and stepping down as the input voltage changes — perfect for battery-powered systems where the battery voltage varies significantly during discharge.
The module accepts a wide input voltage range of 5V to 32V DC, making it compatible with a broad range of power sources including:
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12V and 24V battery systems
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Solar panels and renewable energy sources
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Car and marine electrical systems
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Bench power supplies
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USB PD power sources
The adjustable output voltage from 1V to 30V is set via onboard multi-turn potentiometers for both voltage and current limiting. This makes the module suitable for:
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Battery charging — Charge lead-acid, lithium, and other batteries with adjustable voltage and current
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LED driving — Constant current/voltage for high-power LED arrays
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Bench power supply — Adjustable output for prototyping and testing
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Voltage regulation — Maintain a stable output despite varying input
The 10A maximum output current provides ample power for demanding applications. The module features constant current (CC) and constant voltage (CV) modes, making it ideal for battery charging and LED driving. The high efficiency (up to 98%) minimizes power loss and heat generation.
The module includes comprehensive protection circuits:
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Overcurrent protection — Adjustable current limit
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Short-circuit protection — Safe shutdown under fault conditions
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Over-temperature protection — Thermal shutdown
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Reverse polarity protection — Protects against input miswiring
The screw terminals provide secure connections for input and output wiring, and the compact PCB design with mounting holes allows easy integration into custom enclosures and power systems.
The module is widely used in battery charging, solar power systems, LED drivers, bench power supplies, automotive electronics, industrial control, and any application requiring a versatile, high-power DC-DC converter.
Important Note: The module requires the input voltage to be within the specified range (5V–32V) and the output voltage to be adjustable within the range (1V–30V). The maximum output current depends on the input/output voltage differential and thermal conditions. Always verify the voltage and current ratings match your application before installation. Ensure adequate ventilation for high-power operation.
Whether you are building a solar battery charger, a variable bench power supply, or an LED driver, the LTC3780 DC-DC Automatic Step-Up/Down Regulator provides a reliable, versatile solution. It is suitable for individual makers, engineers, and businesses purchasing in bulk for product development or industrial applications.
Features
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Automatic step-up/down — Four-quadrant operation maintains stable output regardless of input voltage
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Wide input voltage range — 5V to 32V DC
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Adjustable output voltage — 1V to 30V via onboard potentiometer
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10A maximum output current — High-power capability for demanding loads
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CC/CV modes — Constant current and constant voltage for battery charging and LED driving
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High efficiency — Up to 98% conversion efficiency
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Comprehensive protection — Overcurrent, short-circuit, over-temperature, reverse polarity
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Adjustable current limit — Precise control for battery charging and LED applications
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Screw terminals — Secure input and output connections
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Compact PCB design — With mounting holes for easy integration
Technical Specifications
| # | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Module Type | Automatic step-up/down (buck-boost) converter |
| 2 | Controller IC | Linear Technology LTC3780 |
| 3 | Input Voltage Range | 5V – 32V DC |
| 4 | Output Voltage Range | 1V – 30V (adjustable) |
| 5 | Maximum Output Current | 10A |
| 6 | Conversion Efficiency | Up to 98% |
| 7 | Operating Modes | Buck, Boost, Buck-Boost, Automatic |
| 8 | Protection | Overcurrent, short-circuit, over-temperature, reverse polarity |
