on November 8th 75

XL4015 DC Buck Converter: Specifications, Substitute, and Pinout

The XL4015 PWM buck converter is a powerful little device that helps lower DC voltage in all kinds of electronics. It’s highly efficient, meaning it doesn’t waste much power, and it works at a frequency of 180kHz, which keeps interference low, perfect for delicate devices that need steady, reliable voltage. With the ability to handle up to 5 Amps, the XL4015 is a great choice for things like audio equipment and LED lights, where stable power really matters. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the XL4015 so useful, look at how it works, and dive into its many practical uses in modern electronics.

Catalog

What is the XL4015?

The XL4015 5A CC/CV Adjustable Step-Down DC-DC Buck Converter Module is highly regarded for its capability to sustain constant voltage and current. Celebrated for its remarkable efficiency, it excels both as a power supply and charger. The module's low ripple of about 50 mV maintains stability, making it an attractive option for a wide range of electrical uses. Furthermore, it features built-in overcurrent protection, a safeguard that reduces the risk of operational disruptions due to excessive current, akin to household circuit breakers. Thanks to the XL4015's adaptability, it suits numerous applications where the input voltage exceeds the output voltage, such as battery charging systems, transformers, and scalable DC power supplies. Its adjustable voltage and current settings serve as a considerable benefit for charging lithium batteries or supporting applications with variable voltage requirements. This adjustability resonates with the flexible nature of contemporary technological environments, where multifunctionality and efficiency are often demanded.

XL4015 Pin Configuration

Pin Number	Pin Name	Description
1	GND	Ground Pin. Care must be taken in layout. This pin should be placed outside of the Schottky Diode to output capacitor ground path to prevent switching current spikes from inducing voltage noise into XL4015.
2	FB	Feedback Pin (FB). Through an external resistor divider network, FB senses the output voltage and regulates it. The feedback threshold voltage is 1.25V.
3	SW	Power Switch Output Pin (SW). SW is the switch node that supplies power to the output.
4	VC	Internal Voltage Regulator Bypass Capacity. In a typical system application, The VC pin connects a 1uF capacity to VIN.
5	VIN	Supply Voltage Input Pin. XL4015 operates from an 8V to 36V DC voltage. Bypass Vin to GND with a suitably large capacitor to eliminate noise on the input.

XL4015 Symbol and Footprint

XL4015 Voltage Regulator Features

With a maximum duty cycle of 100%, the module is designed to enable extensive energy transfer. The low dropout voltage of 0.3V aids in minimizing energy loss, resulting in an efficiency rate that can reach up to 96%. This is advantageous for battery-powered devices where conserving energy becomes important. Operating at a fixed switching frequency of 180kHz, the XL4015 strikes a balance between optimized performance and electromagnetic compatibility. Beyond basic specifications, the XL4015 includes internal MOSFETs for seamless switching tasks and integrates protective features. Thermal shutdown protects against overheating, current limiting prevents damage from excessive current, and short-circuit protection further ensures reliability, making it suitable for demanding applications. Encased in a TO263-5L package, the XL4015 combines functional efficiency with a compact size, enabling easy integration into various circuit designs. Proper thermal management is great when working with such components, highlighting the necessity of effective heat dissipation techniques to maintain optimal functionality in real-life scenarios.

Applications of XL4015 in Modern Electronics

Power Solutions for LCD Monitors and TVs

The XL4015 excels in powering LCD monitors and TV systems, attributed to its remarkable efficiency, effective heat management, and the ability to maintain consistent output across varying load scenarios. As screen technologies progress into more complex territories like OLED and 4K, there's a growing expectation for power supplies to support extended operational durations while preserving performance quality. These attributes align well with the modern electronics market’s shift toward energy efficiency. Additionally, boosting heat dissipation capabilities is linked to increases in both safety and device longevity, reflecting a broader industry movement towards sustainable practices.

Compact Solutions for Portable Instruments

For portable instruments, the balance of size and efficacy is important. The XL4015 converter fits seamlessly into this niche with its minimal physical footprint and energy-efficient operation, while still providing reliable power output. It's utilized by devices such as portable oscilloscopes and multimeters to guarantee extended battery duration and dependable functioning caliber. The steadfast power conversion bolsters the precision of measurements, thereby enhancing the trustworthiness of field-collected data.

Power Solutions for Telecom and Networking Equipment

Within the realms of telecom and networking gear, the call for steadfast power solutions is considerable. Networking setups require reliable components to endure power load fluctuations effectively. This is a domain where the XL4015’s efficacy is already appreciated. It offers robust power regulation for network devices, including routers and switches. This capability lowers downtime. As networking environments become more intricate, the necessity for precise power solutions like those offered by XL4015 rises, stressing its role in preserving uninterrupted connectivity.

Functional Block Diagram of XL4015

Application Circuit of the XL4015

XL4015 Technical Specifications

Type	Parameter
Package / Case	TO-263-5
Function	Step-Down
Voltage - Input (Max)	36V
Voltage - Input (Min)	8V
Current - Output	5A
Topology	Buck
Synchronous Rectifier	No
RoHS Status	RoHS Compliant
Packaging	Tape & Reel (TR)
Number of Outputs	1
Output Type	Adjustable
Output Configuration	Positive
Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed)	1.25V
Frequency - Switching	180kHz
Voltage - Output (Max)	32V

Efficiently Utilizing the XL4015

The XL4015 DC-DC step-down (buck) converter stands out for its adaptable power regulation capabilities in diverse technical applications. Harnessing its potential begins with a solid grasp of its operations. Core attributes include its efficiency in power use, flexibility with wide input voltage, and adjustable output settings for both voltage and current. To tailor the XL4015 to specific project needs, use a multimeter to accurately adjust the output levels. The trim pots are instrumental in this process, facilitating precise tweaks. Adjustments demand careful attention to maintain measurement accuracy, requiring both patience and skill to perfect without causing damage to connected components. For precise tuning, start with minor adjustments to prevent overshooting desired targets. Steadiness with the multimeter and trim pots is important, and documenting each adjustment particularly proves valuable in intricate projects with numerous configurations.

Disadvantages of the XL4015

The XL4015 is cherished for effectively stepping down voltage, although it falls short in terms of current adjustability. This shortcoming becomes apparent in scenarios needing precise current control, such as charging niche batteries or managing LED operations. Integrating an additional current control module or circuit with the XL4015 can facilitate more refined current adjustments, addressing these challenges. This approach involves minimal changes to the circuitry and is a budget-friendly enhancement of the module's capabilities.

XL4015 Alternatives

• AP1501A-K5G-13

• TL494

XL4015 Dimensions

Width	20mm
Height	10mm
Depth	40mm
Weight	30g

XL4015 Packaging