📋 Overview
The XL6009 Boost Buck is a versatile DC-DC power supply module that can both step up and step down voltage — accepting any input from 5V to 32V and converting it to any adjustable output from 1.5V to 35V. Unlike the boost-only version of the XL6009, this module uses a two-stage conversion design: the first stage boosts the input to an internal voltage above 35V, and the second stage bucks (steps down) that voltage to whatever output level you set with the onboard potentiometer.
This makes it an incredibly flexible single-module solution. Whether your input is higher or lower than your desired output, this one module handles it. It's especially useful for 12V applications — regardless of whether your input is 5V, 9V, 12V, or 32V, the output can be regulated to a steady 12V (or any other voltage within the 1.5V–35V range).
⚠️ Important: Do not exceed 32V input or 35V output. This module does not include short-circuit protection — always install a fuse or protection circuit on the input side. The two-stage conversion design means efficiency is somewhat lower than a dedicated boost-only or buck-only converter.
⭐ Key Features
- Boost and Buck in One Module: Steps voltage both up and down — output can be higher or lower than the input
- Wide Input Range: Accepts 5V to 32V DC input
- Wide Adjustable Output: Output voltage continuously adjustable from 1.5V to 35V via onboard potentiometer
- High Efficiency: MOSFET switching enables efficiency from 80% to 94%, depending on input/output voltage and load current
- High Switching Frequency: 400KHz operation provides low output ripple and fast transient response
- Compact Design: Small PCB footprint (approximately 48 × 25 × 14 mm / 1.89 × 0.98 × 0.55 in) fits easily into tight enclosures
- Industrial Temperature Range: Rated for operation from −40°C to +85°C
📊 Specifications
| Converter Type | Non-isolated Step-Up & Step-Down (Boost & Buck) |
| IC Chip | XL6009 |
| Input Voltage | 5V – 32V DC |
| Output Voltage | 1.5V – 35V DC (continuously adjustable) |
| Output Current | 1.5A max |
| Output Power | 20W (natural cooling) / 25W (with heatsink) |
| Conversion Efficiency | 80% – 94% (varies with Vin, Vout, and load) |
| Switching Frequency | 400KHz |
| Short Circuit Protection | None — install external fuse or protection circuit |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C |
| Board Dimensions | Approx. 48 × 25 × 14 mm (1.89 × 0.98 × 0.55 in) L × W × H |
📌 Pinout
The XL6009 Boost Buck converter module has four clearly labeled solder pads — two for input and two for output:
| IN+ | Positive input — connect to the positive terminal of your DC power source |
| IN− | Negative input (ground) — connect to the negative terminal of your DC power source |
| OUT+ | Positive output — connect to the positive terminal of your load |
| OUT− | Negative output (ground) — connect to the negative/ground terminal of your load |
The module also has an onboard multi-turn potentiometer (small blue or gold trimmer) used to adjust the output voltage. Turning it clockwise increases the output voltage; turning it counter-clockwise decreases it.
📏 Dimensions and Mechanical Drawing
CLICK HERE to view or download this drawing in PDF format.
🔌 Wiring
Basic Wiring
Wiring the XL6009 Boost Buck converter is straightforward — just connect your input power source and your output load:
- Connect your DC power source to the input pads: positive wire to IN+, negative wire to IN−.
- Connect your load (the device you want to power) to the output pads: positive wire to OUT+, negative wire to OUT−.
- Adjust the output voltage using the onboard potentiometer (see the Setup section below).
💡 Tip: It's a good practice to install an inline fuse on the input side (rated for your expected current draw) since this module does not have built-in short-circuit protection.
Wiring Summary
| Module Pad | Connect To |
| IN+ | Power source positive (+) |
| IN− | Power source negative (−) / Ground |
| OUT+ | Load positive (+) |
| OUT− | Load negative (−) / Ground |
🔧 Setup & Output Voltage Adjustment
Before connecting your target device, you should set the output voltage to the desired level. Here's how:
- Connect your input power source to IN+ and IN− (make sure it's within the 5V–32V range).
- Leave the output disconnected from your load for now.
- Connect a multimeter to OUT+ and OUT− and set it to DC voltage mode.
-
Turn the onboard potentiometer slowly with a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver:
- Clockwise = increase output voltage
- Counter-clockwise = decrease output voltage
- Adjust until your multimeter reads the desired output voltage.
- Connect your load to OUT+ and OUT−.
- Verify the output voltage again under load — it may shift slightly, so fine-tune the potentiometer as needed.
💡 Tip: The potentiometer is multi-turn, so don't be surprised if it takes several full rotations to reach your target voltage. This is by design — it gives you finer control over the output.
⚠️ Important: Always set the output voltage before connecting your load device. Connecting a device to an incorrectly set output could damage sensitive electronics.
🔋 How It Works
Unlike a simple boost or buck converter, the XL6009 Boost Buck module uses a two-stage conversion process:
- Stage 1 — Boost: The input voltage (5V–32V) is first stepped up to an internal voltage above 35V by the XL6009 boost converter section.
- Stage 2 — Buck: This high internal voltage is then stepped down to the output voltage you've set with the potentiometer (1.5V–35V).
This two-stage approach is what allows the module to output a voltage that is either higher or lower than the input — something a single-stage boost or buck converter cannot do. The trade-off is slightly lower efficiency compared to a dedicated single-stage converter, since the power is converted twice.
💡 Tip: If you only need to step voltage up (output always higher than input), the boost-only XL6009 module will give you better efficiency and higher output current. Use this boost/buck version when you need the flexibility to go in either direction, or when your input voltage may vary above and below your target output.
🎯 Typical Applications
- Regulating a stable 12V output from variable input sources (5V, 9V, 12V, 24V batteries, etc.)
- Powering 5V or 3.3V devices from higher-voltage battery packs
- Stepping up battery voltage for LED strips or LED drivers
- Providing adjustable bench power supply voltage from a fixed source
- Solar panel voltage regulation where input varies with sunlight conditions
- Automotive projects where accessory voltage differs from the vehicle's supply
- DIY and hobby electronics projects requiring flexible voltage conversion
- Powering sensors, microcontrollers, or displays from non-standard voltage sources
💡 Tips & Best Practices
- Choose the right module for the job: If you only need to step voltage up, the boost-only XL6009 offers higher efficiency (up to 94%) and higher output current (2.5A). Use this boost/buck version when you need the flexibility to go either direction.
- Watch your power budget: Maximum output power is 20W with natural air cooling and up to 25W with a heatsink. Calculate your power needs (Voltage × Current) and stay within these limits.
- Add a heatsink for heavy loads: If you're drawing more than about 1A continuously, consider adding a small heatsink to the inductor and/or the XL6009 IC to prevent thermal shutdown.
- Use short, thick wires: Especially on the input side, use appropriately sized wires to minimize voltage drop and maximize efficiency.
- Install input protection: Since the module lacks short-circuit protection, always use a fuse or a resettable polyfuse on the input. A fuse rated at 1.5× your expected maximum input current is a good starting point.
- Efficiency varies: Because of the two-stage conversion, efficiency ranges from 80% to 94% depending on the input/output voltage combination and load current. The closer the input and output voltages are, the lower the overall efficiency tends to be (since both stages are doing minimal work but still consuming quiescent power).
- Secure the potentiometer: Once you've dialed in your desired output voltage, you can apply a small drop of nail polish or thread-lock compound to the potentiometer to prevent it from shifting due to vibration.
- Derating at high temperatures: If the ambient temperature exceeds 40°C, reduce the load or add forced-air cooling to stay within safe operating limits.
🚫 Limitations
- Lower output current than boost-only: This module is rated for 1.5A max output, compared to 2.5A for the boost-only XL6009. Plan your load accordingly.
- Two-stage efficiency penalty: Because the module converts power twice (boost then buck), overall efficiency is lower than a dedicated single-stage converter — typically 80%–94%.
- No short-circuit protection: A short on the output can damage the module. Always use an external fuse.
- Not suitable for sensitive analog circuits: The 400KHz switching frequency produces output ripple that increases under heavy load. If you're powering sensitive analog or audio circuits, add additional filtering (LC filter or linear post-regulator).
- No reverse polarity protection: Connecting the input with reversed polarity can permanently damage the module.
- Output cannot exceed 35V: Unlike the boost-only version (which goes to 48V), this module's maximum output is 35V.
🛠️ Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause & Solution |
| No output voltage | Check that input polarity is correct (IN+ to positive, IN− to negative). Verify input voltage is within 5V–32V range. Check for blown fuse if one is installed. |
| Output voltage too low or won't reach target | Turn the potentiometer clockwise. Ensure your input voltage is within the 5V–32V range. Check that your load isn't drawing more current than the module's 1.5A max. |
| Output voltage too high | Turn the potentiometer counter-clockwise. If the output is stuck at a high voltage, the buck stage may be damaged — the module may need to be replaced. |
| Output voltage unstable or fluctuating | Check for loose solder connections on the input and output pads. Ensure your power source can deliver sufficient current. Add a capacitor (100–470µF electrolytic) across the input terminals. |
| Module gets very hot | You may be exceeding the module's power rating. Reduce the load current, add a heatsink, or provide forced-air cooling. The two-stage design generates more heat than a single-stage converter. |
| High output ripple or noise | This is normal at higher currents. Add an LC filter or additional capacitance on the output. Consider a linear post-regulator for noise-sensitive loads. |
| Module stopped working after a short circuit | The XL6009 IC or the MOSFET may be damaged — the module has no built-in short-circuit protection. The module will need to be replaced. Always use an input fuse to prevent this. |
📦 What's in the Box
- 1 × XL6009 Adjustable Boost Buck Step-Up Step-Down DC-DC Converter Module
🏪 Where to Buy the XL6009 Boost-Buck Converter
This product is sold directly on the Envistia Mall website:
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📚 Additional Resources
Sold and supported by Envistia Mall. Ships from the USA. The manufacturer and Envistia LLC (dba Envistia Mall) are not responsible for any damages or losses resulting from the use of this product. Always follow proper electrical safety practices when working with electronic components. Specifications are based on manufacturer data and are subject to change without notice.