Ferrite Core Joule Thief circuit
The voltage booster circuit is designed to step up the low voltage from a single AA battery (approximately 1.5V) to a higher voltage suitable for powering a white LED, which typically requires around 3V to 3.5V for optimal brightness. The core components of this circuit include an inductor, a switching element (such as a transistor), a diode, and a capacitor, all working together to convert the low input voltage into a higher output voltage.
The operation begins with the transistor switching on and off rapidly, driven by a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal or a simple oscillator circuit. When the transistor is on, current flows through the inductor, storing energy in its magnetic field. When the transistor turns off, the sudden change in current causes the inductor to release its stored energy, generating a higher voltage across the output. This voltage is then rectified by the diode, which prevents backflow and allows only the positive voltage to pass through to the output capacitor. The capacitor smooths the output voltage, providing a stable power supply to the LED.
The use of a ferrite core in the inductor enhances the efficiency of energy transfer, minimizing losses due to magnetic saturation and heat. The circuit can be optimized by selecting appropriate values for the inductor, capacitor, and the switching frequency, ensuring that the LED receives sufficient current without exceeding its maximum ratings.
This voltage booster circuit not only demonstrates the practical application of basic electronic components but also serves as an excellent project for those looking to repurpose materials from previous projects, such as the ferrite cores from holiday lights. By assembling this circuit, one can create an energy-efficient light source powered by a single AA battery, showcasing the principles of energy conversion and circuit design.Here is an idea for a voltage booster which allows you tolight a white LED from a single AA cell.Thisis a chance to make something useful fromone of those ferrite cores and white LED holiday lights I talk about in earlier blog posts. 🔗 External reference
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