Synchronous buck converter for 12V/5A output
Oct 2024 PSU Electronics
What is the logical next step after making a linear regulator? I learned some valuable lessons (both regarding general electronics and power supplies) doing that project, so I believe I could now make a much better linear supply. And perhaps I will! But now I decided it was time to aim for a switch-mode power supply (SMPS), a.k.a DC/DC converter.
This article documents my take on a synchronous buck regulator for outputting 12V at currents up to 5A, from an input voltage that is nominally 48V, but in practice can be between 15V and 55V. This circuit is my original design, so I will go into a lot of detail on how it works, and share ample measurement data around its performance and efficiency.
But first, I present you with a photo of the finished prototype (alas, both heat-sinked MOSFETs are hiding behind the toroidal inductor):
