Recommended Gear

XL6019 Boost Converter Module

A high-efficiency boost converter module for stepping up voltage — perfect for running 12V devices from batteries, solar panels, or USB power banks.

Why It’s So Good

The XL6019 is my go-to boost converter module. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Wide Voltage Boost Range — Step up from 3-32V input to 5-35V output. Run 12V devices from a 5V USB power bank or boost 12V to 19V for a laptop.
• High Current Capacity — Up to 4A continuous output (with proper cooling). Enough for most hobby electronics and small motors.
• Adjustable Output — Onboard potentiometer lets you dial in the exact voltage you need. No external components required.
• High Efficiency — 94% typical efficiency. Minimal power loss means longer battery runtime and less heat.
• Overcurrent Protection — Built-in current limiting protects against shorts and overload conditions.
• Compact PCB — Small form factor fits inside project enclosures easily.
• LED Indicator — Power LED confirms operation at a glance.
• Rock-Solid Reliable — XL6019 IC is proven in thousands of projects. Very few failures in the field.
• Budget-Friendly — Around $1-2 USD. Incredible value for the capability.

Technical Specs

Perfect For

Battery-Powered Projects:

• Running 12V devices from 9V batteries
• Boosting USB 5V to 12V for fans, pumps, or LED strips
• Solar panel voltage regulation
• Portable power supply projects

Voltage Conversion:

• 5V to 12V conversion for automotive accessories
• 12V to 19V for laptop power from car battery
• Stepping up LiPo battery voltage (3.7V → 5V or 12V)
• Multi-voltage power distribution systems

Portable Devices:

• USB-powered 12V devices
• Battery-powered LED lighting
• Mobile robot power management
• Field equipment power adapters

Arduino/ESP Projects:

• Powering 12V peripherals (relays, motors, solenoids)
• Step-up for Neopixel/WS2812 LED strips
• Sensor modules requiring higher voltage
• Multi-rail power supplies

How to Use

Basic Setup:

1. Connect input voltage source (3-32V)
2. Measure output voltage with multimeter
3. Adjust potentiometer until desired output voltage is reached
4. Connect load (ensure current draw is within spec)
5. Add heatsink if running >2A continuously

Important:

• Input voltage must be lower than desired output (boost only, not buck)
• Use thick wires for high-current applications (16-18 AWG)
• Add input/output capacitors for noisy loads (100µF-1000µF)
• Don’t run at max current continuously without heatsinking

Common Applications

5V USB to 12V:

• Input: 5V USB power bank (ensure it can supply 2A+)
• Output: Set to 12V
• Use case: Portable 12V fans, LED strips, small pumps

LiPo (3.7V) to 5V:

• Input: Single-cell LiPo battery
• Output: Set to 5V
• Use case: Powering Arduino, ESP8266, sensors from LiPo

12V to 19V:

• Input: 12V car battery or power supply
• Output: Set to 19V
• Use case: Running laptop or monitor from car/RV battery

Pro Tips

• Heatsinking: The XL6019 IC can get hot at high currents. Add a small heatsink or thermal pad for currents above 2A.
• Input filtering: Add a 100µF capacitor across the input for stable operation with noisy power sources.
• Output filtering: Add a 220µF capacitor at the output for loads with spiky current draw (motors, relays, LEDs).
• Voltage adjustment: Use a multimeter, not just the onboard LED, to set precise output voltage.
• Current limit: Calculate input current = (output voltage × output current) / (input voltage × efficiency). Don’t exceed your source capability.

Where to Buy

Available from:

• AliExpress (best prices, bulk packs)
• eBay (various sellers)
• Amazon (faster shipping, slightly higher cost)
• Banggood

Pro tip: Buy a multi-pack (5-10 units). Great to have on hand for quick power supply prototypes.

Part of the FullyAutomatix recommended tools collection — gear that actually gets used in the workshop.