BDD LTC3780 10A Auto Buck Boost Converter 1-30V DC Solar Module

The BDD LTC3780 Auto Buck Boost Converter is a versatile, non-isolated DC/DC power supply module designed to provide stable, adjustable output voltage for a wide range of electronic applications. Combining step-up (boost) and step-down (buck) functionality, this converter automatically adjusts its operation to maintain the selected output voltage, even when the input voltage is below, above, or equal to the required output voltage.

With an adjustable input range of 5V to 32V DC and a continuously adjustable output range of 1V to 30V DC, the module offers flexibility for powering electronic circuits, charging compatible batteries, driving high-power LEDs, and developing solar power applications.

The module features constant-voltage and constant-current adjustment, under-voltage protection, short-circuit protection, output over-current protection, and output over-voltage protection. Its industrial-oriented component selection, thickly plated circuit board, and oxidized aluminium heatsink support reliable performance when the module is operated within its specified limits and with suitable thermal management.

Key Features

• Automatic Buck and Boost Conversion: Steps voltage down or up to maintain the selected output voltage.
• Wide Input Voltage Range: Accepts DC input voltages from 5V to 32V, with 10V or higher suggested for typical operation.
• Adjustable Output Voltage: Continuously adjustable from 1V to 30V DC.
• Constant Voltage and Constant Current: Adjustable CV and CC settings for flexible power supply and charging applications.
• 10A Maximum Output Current: Supports output currents up to 10A under suitable operating conditions.
• Long-Term Operating Recommendation: Less than 7A for extended use, subject to input/output voltage, power, and cooling conditions.
• Adjustable Under-Voltage Protection: Helps protect compatible batteries from excessive discharge.
• Protection Functions: Includes short-circuit protection, output over-current protection, and output over-voltage protection.
• Output Status Indicators: Blue and red indicator lights provide operating and fault status information.
• Enhanced Heat Dissipation: Features an oxidized aluminium heatsink for improved thermal management.
• Replaceable Input Fuse: The input fuse can be replaced to help protect the power supply and connected equipment.
• High-Quality Components: Uses an imported original IC, low-resistance components, high-frequency capacitors, and a sendust-core inductor.
• Thickly Plated Circuit Board: Supports the module's electrical and mechanical construction.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for electronics, battery charging, LED driving, solar-related projects, and vehicle power applications.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: BDD
• Product Code: BDD BUCK/BOOST/SOLAR 1-30VDC 10A
• Product Type: Automatic Buck Boost DC/DC Converter Module
• Controller IC: LTC3780
• Module Type: Non-isolated step-up/step-down converter
• Input Voltage: DC 5V-32V
• Suggested Input Voltage: 10V or higher
• Output Voltage: DC 1V-30V, continuously adjustable
• Maximum Output Current: 10A
• Suggested Long-Term Output Current: Less than 7A
• Suggested Output Power: 80W
• Maximum Output Power: 130W
• Output Ripple: Approximately 50mV, measured at 5A with 12V input and 12V output
• Constant Voltage (CV): Yes
• Constant Current (CC): Yes
• Under-Voltage Protection: Yes, adjustable
• Short-Circuit Protection: Yes
• Output Over-Current Protection: Yes
• Output Over-Voltage Protection: Yes
• Reverse Input Protection: Not supported
• Output Reverse-Current / Backflow Protection: Not supported
• Heat Dissipation: Oxidized aluminium heatsink
• Input Fuse: Replaceable
• Device: DC/DC Power Supply Module

How the Buck Boost Converter Works

The BDD LTC3780 module automatically selects the appropriate voltage conversion operation based on the relationship between the input voltage and the desired output voltage.

Step-Down (Buck) Operation

When the input voltage is higher than the selected output voltage, the module operates as a buck converter to reduce the voltage.

Step-Up (Boost) Operation

When the input voltage is lower than the selected output voltage, the module operates as a boost converter to increase the voltage.

Stable Output Voltage

When the input voltage changes within the supported operating range, the module is designed to maintain the adjusted output voltage. For example, if the output is set to 12V, the module can maintain a 12V output when the input varies between 5V and 32V, subject to the module's operating limitations, load requirements, and sufficient input voltage for the intended conversion.

Constant Voltage and Constant Current Adjustment

The module supports two adjustable operating parameters:

Constant Voltage (CV)

The output voltage potentiometer allows the user to set the required output voltage. A multimeter can be used to measure the output while adjusting the potentiometer.

• Clockwise adjustment increases the output voltage.
• Counterclockwise adjustment decreases the output voltage.

The output should be set to the required voltage before connecting sensitive equipment or a battery.

Constant Current (CC)

The constant-current potentiometer allows the user to adjust the maximum output current for suitable applications, including compatible battery charging and constant-current LED driving.

• Clockwise adjustment increases the current setting.
• Counterclockwise adjustment decreases the current setting.

The appropriate current setting depends on the connected load, battery specifications, and charging requirements. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended adjustment procedure and use suitable test equipment.

Under-Voltage Protection

The module includes adjustable under-voltage protection, which can be used to help prevent excessive discharge of a compatible battery.

For example, when used with a 12V lead-acid battery, the under-voltage protection can be configured to switch off the output when the input voltage falls to a selected threshold, such as 10V.

General Adjustment Principle

1. Connect the module to a suitable regulated power supply.
2. Set the input voltage to the desired under-voltage threshold.
3. Adjust the under-voltage protection potentiometer until the fault indicator activates.
4. The module can then use this threshold to switch off the output when the input voltage falls to the configured level.

The under-voltage setting should be selected according to the battery chemistry, manufacturer's specifications, and application requirements. The 10V example is intended for a 12V lead-acid battery and should not be treated as a universal setting for all battery types.

Protection Functions

The BDD LTC3780 converter incorporates several protection features intended to help protect the module and connected equipment.

• Short-Circuit Protection: Helps protect against output short-circuit conditions.
• Output Over-Current Protection: Helps limit excessive output current.
• Output Over-Voltage Protection: Helps protect against excessive output voltage.
• Under-Voltage Protection: Adjustable input-voltage cutoff for compatible applications.
• Replaceable Input Fuse: Provides a replaceable protective element on the input side.

Important Protection Limitations

The module does not include reverse input protection or output reverse-current/backflow protection. When required, a suitable Schottky diode may be added in series with the input or output, following an appropriate circuit design.

For battery charging applications, additional protection and charge-control requirements may apply depending on the battery chemistry. This module should not be assumed to provide complete battery management or balancing functionality.

Power and Thermal Management

The module has a suggested output power rating of 80W and a maximum stated output power of 130W. Operation at higher power levels requires enhanced heat dissipation.

Actual usable output power depends on:

• Input and output voltage.
• Output current.
• Conversion efficiency.
• Ambient temperature.
• Cooling and heatsink performance.
• Duration of operation.

The suggested long-term output current is less than 7A. The 10A figure represents the stated maximum output current and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed continuous output rating under all conditions.

Applications

The BDD LTC3780 Auto Buck Boost Converter is suitable for a range of power conversion and electronics projects, including:

Solar Power Projects

Can be incorporated into compatible solar power systems to regulate voltage for suitable loads or charging circuits. The module's buck-boost operation is useful where the input voltage varies around the required output voltage.

Battery Charging

Supports adjustable constant-voltage and constant-current operation for compatible battery charging applications. Charging voltage, current, cutoff settings, and protection requirements must be configured for the specific battery type.

High-Power LED Driver

Can be used in suitable LED power applications requiring adjustable voltage and current. The connected LED load must be compatible with the converter's operating range and configured current limits.

Electronic Device Power Supply

Provides adjustable DC output for compatible electronic circuits, modules, and equipment requiring regulated voltage.

Automotive and Vehicle Power

Can be used in suitable vehicle-related power projects where the input voltage and output requirements fall within the module's specifications. Appropriate automotive electrical protection and voltage transient considerations are necessary.

Electronics Prototyping

Useful for makers, engineers, and hobbyists who need an adjustable power source for testing and developing electronic circuits.

Important Information

• This is a DC/DC converter module, not a complete mains-powered power supply.
• The input must be DC and within the specified voltage range.
• Reverse input protection is not supported.
• Output reverse-current/backflow protection is not supported.
• Additional thermal management is recommended when operating above 80W.
• Suitable wiring, fusing, and connectors must be selected according to the input and output current.
• Battery charging requires appropriate voltage, current, and protection settings for the specific battery chemistry.
• The module's stated maximum ratings should not be treated as guaranteed continuous operating ratings.

What's in the box
1 x BDD LTC3780 DC/DC Step-Up/Step-Down Converter Module