Overview
The Adafruit TPS61169 Constant Current Boost Converter for LEDs is an efficient and flexible solution for driving LEDs from low-voltage power sources. Unlike fixed-voltage boost converters, this board regulates current instead of voltage, automatically increasing the output voltage (up to 40V) until the set LED current is reached—exactly what LEDs are designed for.
Powered from a 3V to 5V DC input, the onboard TPS61169 can drive LED strings in series or parallel with selectable output currents from 25mA up to 400mA using built-in DIP switches. This makes it ideal for LED nOOds, LED filaments, backlights, and high-voltage LED chains, such as multiple 3V LEDs connected in series.
The converter features a 1.2A internal switch, automatic over-voltage protection if the output is disconnected, and a PWM dimming input for brightness control. With efficiencies reaching ~90%, it runs quietly and stays cool even under load. Do note that while it supports up to 40V and up to 400mA, both limits cannot be achieved simultaneously—the available output current depends on input voltage and output voltage.
Simply connect 3–5V to the input, wire up your LEDs to the output terminals, and you’re ready to go. If the output is shorted or left open, a quick power cycle will reset the device from its safe-shutdown mode.
Specification
Technical details for Adafruit TPS61169 Constant Current LED Boost Converter Breakout.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver Type | Constant current boost (current-regulated, not fixed-voltage) |
| Driver IC | TPS61169 |
| Input Voltage | 3V to 5V DC |
| Output Voltage | Boost up to 40V (auto-adjusts to meet the set LED current) |
| Output Current | Selectable 25mA to 400mA (via onboard mini DIP switches) |
| Current Step Options | Default 25mA; DIP adds 25mA / 50mA / 100mA / 200mA (max 400mA total) |
| Max Output Capability Note | Up to 40V and up to 400mA, but not simultaneously (power-limited) |
| Internal Switch Current | 1.2A internal switch |
| Efficiency | Up to ~90% (application dependent) |
| Dimming Control | PWM dimming input supported |
| Protection Features | Automatic over-voltage protection safe-shutdown on open/short output (may require power cycle) |
| Recommended Use | Driving LEDs (series/parallel), LED nOOds, LED filaments, LED backlights, high-voltage LED strings |
| Not Recommended For | Fixed, stable voltage output applications (use a fixed-voltage boost converter instead) |
Pinout & Connections
| Pin / Terminal | Label on Board | Description |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Vin / 3–5Vin | Power input. Supply 3V to 5V DC from battery, USB, or regulated source. |
| GND | G / – | Common ground for power input, PWM control, and LED return. |
| PWM | PWM | PWM dimming control input. Apply a logic-level PWM signal to control LED brightness. Leave unconnected for full brightness. |
| LED+ | L+ / CC Out + | Constant-current LED positive output. Connect to the anode of the LED string. |
| LED− | LED− / CC Out − | LED negative return. Connect to the cathode of the LED string. |
DIP Switch (Current Selection)
| DIP Switch | Current Added | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Base (Always On) | 25 mA | Default output current enabled even when all DIP switches are OFF. |
| Switch 1 | +25 mA | Adds 25 mA to the base current when switched ON. |
| Switch 2 | +50 mA | Adds 50 mA to the output current when switched ON. |
| Switch 3 | +100 mA | Adds 100 mA to the output current when switched ON. |
| Switch 4 | +200 mA | Adds 200 mA to the output current when switched ON. |
| Maximum Total | 400 mA | Maximum selectable output current with all switches ON. |
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