Variable Output Voltage DC to DC Boost Converter using MC34063

This project implements a switch-mode power supply using the MC34063 IC to step up a lower input DC voltage, such as that from a 9V battery, to a higher adjustable output voltage. The core of a boost converter relies on controlled switching to store and release energy. The MC34063 contains an internal oscillator, comparator, and a switching transistor that drives the 170uH inductor. When the internal switch closes, current flows through the inductor, storing energy in its magnetic field. When the switch opens, the sudden collapse of the magnetic field forces the current to continue flowing, adding its induced voltage to the input voltage and pushing it through the 1N5819 Schottky diode to the output. The Schottky diode is chosen for its fast switching speed and low forward voltage drop, ensuring high efficiency. The 330uF and 100uF capacitors smooth out the resulting voltage ripples to deliver a steadier DC output. A feedback network consisting of the 180 Ohm, 2k2 Ohm resistors and the 50k potentiometer samples the output voltage and feeds it back to the IC's internal comparator, allowing the circuit to dynamically adjust its duty cycle and maintain a stable output. The 0.22 Ohm resistor acts as a current-sense element for protection, while the 1500pF capacitor sets the operating frequency of the internal oscillator. Finally, the perf board, screw terminals, and solder wire provide the physical platform to wire these discrete components together into a functional circuit.