Getting Started
Note
The SparkFun Buck Regulator Breakout - 3.3V (AP3429A) and 1.8V (AP3429A) have similar features to our previous buck regulators (AP63203 & AP63357).
Introduction
These boards feature the AP3429A from Diodes Inc., a 2A step-down DC-DC converter with an input voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V. They are configured to provide a regulated 3.3V or 1.8V output, which is controlled by an EN (enable) pin and indicated by a red power LED. A pre-assembled screw terminal and 0.1" spaced PTH pins are available to connect the input and output power of the boards. Additionally, there is the option to solder on a barrel jack for an external power supply. To dissipate excess heat, a 0.5" x 0.6" copper pad is provided to attach a heat sink to the bottom of the board.
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3.3V Buck Regulator Breakout - AP3429A
SKU: COM-21337
This board provides a regulated 3.3V output with an input voltage range of 3.9V - 5.5V.
Purchase from SparkFun
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1.8V Buck Regulator Breakout - AP3429A
SKU: COM-21338
This board provides a regulated 1.8V output with an input voltage range of 2.7V - 5.5V.
Purchase from SparkFun
Required Materials
To get started, users will need a few items. Now some users may already have a few of these items, feel free to modify your cart accordingly.
- SparkFun Buck Regulator Breakout - 3.3V (AP3429A)
- Heat Sink - Used to help dissipate excess heat
- Thermal Tape - To attach a heat sink to the board
- Power Supply
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Soldering Tools (1)
- Check out the beginner tool kit below; otherwise, click here for a full selection of our available soldering tools.
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Hookup Wire - May be used to connect the external power or power output
- Headers - May be used to connect the external power or power output
- DC Barrel Jack Adapter
- Small Flathead Screw Driver
SparkFun Buck Regulator Breakout - 1.8V (AP3429A)COM-21338 |
SparkFun Buck Regulator Breakout - 3.3V (AP3429A)COM-21337 |
Heatsink - 13.20 x 12.10 mm (Copper)PRT-18704 |
Thermal Tape 4x4" SquarePRT-17054 |
SparkFun Beginner Tool KitTOL-14681 |
Hook-Up Wire - Assortment (Solid Core, 22 AWG)PRT-11367 |
Break Away Headers - StraightPRT-00116 |
DC Barrel Power Jack/ConnectorPRT-00119 |
Pocket Screwdriver SetTOL-12891 |
New to soldering?
Check out our Through-Hole Soldering Tutorial for a quick introduction!
Jumper Modification
New to jumper pads?
Check out our Jumper Pads and PCB Traces Tutorial for a quick introduction!
To modify the jumper, users will need soldering equipment and/or a hobby knife.
Solder Lead Free - 100-gram SpoolTOL-09325 |
Weller WLC100 Soldering StationTOL-14228 |
Chip Quik No-Clean Flux Pen - 10mLTOL-14579 |
Hobby KnifeTOL-09200 |
Battery Options
If users would like to power their board with a battery, we recommend the following options from our catalog.
Panasonic Alkaline Battery - AAPRT-15201 |
Battery Holder 3xAA with Cover and Switch - Bare WirePRT-10891 |
Battery Holder 3xAA with Cover and Switch - JST ConnectorPRT-18769 |
JST Right-Angle Connector - Through-Hole 2-PinPRT-09747 |
JST Jumper 2 Wire AssemblyPRT-09914 |
Lithium Ion Battery - 400mAhPRT-13851 |
Suggested Reading
Below, are a few tutorials that may help users familiarize themselves with various aspects of this product:
