Performance test and review of 0.9V-5V to 5V 600mA boost converter

[HKJ]

This time I am testing a small boost converter. This test shows how the module performs, I do not try to improve any performance with extra capacitors.

The full result can be seen here: http://lygte-info.dk/review/Power%200.9V%20to%205V%20600mA%20boost%20converter%20UK.html





The module is supposed to work from 0.9 volt, but do not expect any current from it at these low voltages.



At 1.5 volt it is usable, but a single AA cell cannot supply 1.5 volt, at least two is needed.
The output voltage is on the high side for a 5 volt module.



Here I killed the module and had to use another module for testing.



Idle current increases significantly at low input voltages.



Loading with 200mA and varying the input voltage.




Ripple with 300mA, more output capacity would be a good idea.

[SharpEars]

A solid volt of P to P ripple? I call shitte on this one 

[bktemp]

The high ripple is due to the bad pcb layout:
The output of the stepup is next to the IN+ terminal. The trace goes on the bottom side to the USB connector, but the capacitor (C2) is connected at the top side! All the stray inductance of the trace from the USB connector to C2 produces this ripple.
Whoever made this layout did either not care at all, or had absolutely no knowledge on how to make the layout for a switching power supply.