XL6019 5A Adjustable Boost Converter Module – High Power Upgrade to XL6009 & LM2577 (3-40V Input, 5A Output)

SKU: FA2102-0-2
Input Voltage Range

DC 5V – 40V (some modules support 3V-35V)

Output Voltage Range

DC 5V – 35V (adjustable; some versions up to 40V-45V)

Maximum Switching Current

5A (internal MOSFET limit)

Switching Frequency

180kHz – 220kHz (typical)

Conversion Efficiency

Up to 94%

Load Regulation

±0.5%

Operating Temperature

-40°C to +85°C

Module Dimensions

43-50 × 21-28 × 13-14 mm (varies by manufacturer)

Description

The XL6019 5A Adjustable Boost Converter Module is a high-power, high-performance DC-DC step-up switching regulator designed for demanding applications requiring significant voltage boosting capability. As the natural upgrade to the popular XL6009 and the legacy LM2577, the XL6019 delivers superior power handling with a 5A switching current capacity, making it ideal for industrial equipment, automotive systems, LED lighting arrays, and high-power portable electronics .

At the heart of this module is the XL6019E1 chip from XLSEMI – a second-generation high-frequency switching regulator that integrates a powerful 5A N-channel MOSFET switch . The XL6019 supports a wide input voltage range from 5V to 40V and can generate adjustable output voltages from 5V up to 35V (or higher, depending on the module version) .

Key Technical Advantages:

Feature XL6019 (This Module) XL6009 LM2577
Switch Current 5A 4A 3A
Input Voltage 5V – 40V 3V – 32V 4V – 40V
Switching Frequency 220kHz (or 180kHz) 400kHz ~52kHz
Efficiency Up to 94% Up to 94% 75-85%
Topologies Boost/Buck-Boost/Inverting Boost only Boost only

Superior Design & Protection Features:

The XL6019 is not just a higher-current version of the XL6009 – it is a fundamentally more versatile chip. Unlike the XL6009 which is limited to boost (step-up) operation, the XL6019 can be configured as a boost, buck-boost, or inverting converter . This flexibility allows it to handle applications where the input voltage may fluctuate above or below the desired output voltage – perfect for automotive and battery-powered systems.

Built-in protection features include :

  • Soft-start function – Reduces inrush current at power-up

  • Over-voltage protection on the switch pin

  • Current limit and thermal shutdown – Protects the chip and load

  • Enable pin (EN) – TTL-compatible shutdown for remote power control

Wide Application Range:

  • Automotive Systems: Stabilizes 12V output from fluctuating vehicle electrical systems (9V-30V input)

  • Industrial Equipment: Boosts 12V to 24V for sensors, actuators, and PLCs

  • LED Lighting: Drives high-power 24V or 36V LED arrays

  • Battery-Powered Devices: Converts single Li-Ion cells (3.7V) to 5V, 9V, or 12V

  • Solar Power Systems: Regulates variable solar panel output to stable voltages

Important Operating Note: While the XL6019 chip is capable of buck-boost operation, many ready-made modules are configured as boost (step-up) converters only. Check your specific module’s documentation to confirm its configuration.

Whether you are an electronics hobbyist working on high-power projects, an IoT developer needing robust voltage conversion, or an industrial engineer designing power systems, the XL6019 5A Boost Converter Module provides the power, efficiency, and reliability you need.


Key Features

  • 5A Peak Switching Current – High-power 5A internal MOSFET handles demanding loads, significantly outperforming XL6009 (4A) and LM2577 (3A)

  • Wide Input Voltage Range – Accepts DC 5V to 40V input (some modules support as low as 3V), compatible with USB (5V), Li-Ion batteries, car systems (12V-14.5V), and industrial supplies

  • Adjustable Output Voltage – Output can be set from 5V up to 35V (some versions up to 40V-45V) via onboard multi-turn potentiometer

  • High Conversion Efficiency – Up to 94% efficiency minimizes power loss and heat generation, even at high power levels

  • Multiple Topology Support – XL6019 chip can be configured for Boost, Buck-Boost, or Inverting operation (check your specific module)

  • Enable Pin Control – Built-in EN pin for remote on/off control using logic-level signals (TTL compatible)

  • Comprehensive Protection – Features soft-start, over-voltage protection, current limiting, and thermal shutdown for reliable operation

  • 220kHz Switching Frequency – Fixed frequency operation provides predictable performance and easier filtering

  • Screw Terminal Connections – Easy, solderless wiring for input and output connections

  • Wide Operating Temperature – -40°C to +85°C for reliable operation in automotive, industrial, and outdoor environments

Technical Parameters

Parameter Value
Input Voltage Range DC 5V – 40V (some modules support 3V-35V)
Output Voltage Range DC 5V – 35V (adjustable; some versions up to 40V-45V)
Maximum Switching Current 5A (internal MOSFET limit)
Recommended Output Current Up to 2.5A-3A continuous (with heatsink; derate based on conditions)
Conversion Efficiency Up to 94%
Switching Frequency 180kHz – 220kHz (typical)
Load Regulation ±0.5%
Operating Temperature -40°C to +85°C
Module Dimensions 43-50 × 21-28 × 13-14 mm (varies by manufacturer)

Usage Guide

Pinout Description

The module features screw terminal blocks for easy connections:

Terminal/Label Function Description
IN+ Input Positive Connect to your DC power source positive terminal (5V-40V)
IN- Input Negative Connect to your DC power source negative terminal (ground)
OUT+ Output Positive Connect to your load’s positive terminal (5V-35V adjustable)
OUT- Output Negative Connect to your load’s negative terminal (ground)
EN Enable Pin (on some modules) Remote on/off control – HIGH=ON, LOW=OFF, floating=ON

Note: Input and output grounds are common (connected together on the board).

Wiring Instructions

Step 1 – Connect Input Power

  • Connect the positive (+) wire of your DC power source to the IN+ terminal

  • Connect the negative (-) wire of your power source to the IN- terminal

Step 2 – Connect Load

  • Connect the positive (+) wire of your load to the OUT+ terminal

  • Connect the negative (-) wire of your load to the OUT- terminal

Step 3 – (Optional) Connect Enable Pin for Remote Control

  • For always-on operation, leave EN pin disconnected (floating – default HIGH)

  • For remote control, connect EN to a microcontroller GPIO pin (3.3V or 5V logic compatible)

    • EN HIGH (1.4V – VIN) → Module ON

    • EN LOW (0V – 0.8V) → Module OFF

Step 4 – Power On and Adjust

  • Apply power to the input

  • Use a digital multimeter to measure voltage between OUT+ and OUT-

  • Adjust the blue potentiometer to your desired voltage

Adjusting the Output Voltage

⚠️ CRITICAL: The “Endless Turn” Issue

This is the most common point of confusion. The potentiometer often ships at its maximum resistance position. If you turn the screw and see no voltage change, you need to turn it counter-clockwise for 10-15 full rotations before the voltage begins to increase. Keep turning while watching your multimeter until the voltage starts to rise. The potentiometer is multi-turn, so you won’t damage it.

Proper Adjustment Procedure:

  1. Power the module using your input source (5V-40V DC)

  2. Connect a multimeter to the OUT+ and OUT- terminals

  3. Use a small screwdriver to turn the blue potentiometer:

    • Turn counter-clockwise (left) to INCREASE output voltage

    • Turn clockwise (right) to DECREASE output voltage

  4. Monitor the multimeter while adjusting

  5. Adjust before connecting load – It is recommended to set output voltage with no load connected

Typical Voltage Settings by Application:

Application Typical Output Notes
USB device power 5V From 3.7V Li-Ion battery
9V electronics 9V From 5V USB or 3.7V battery
12V LED strip 12V From 5V USB power bank
24V industrial sensors 24V From 12V battery
36V LED arrays 36V From 12V-24V supply

Understanding the XL6019’s Versatility

Unlike the XL6009 which is limited to boost (step-up) operation, the XL6019 chip can be configured in multiple topologies :

Configuration Function Typical Use
Boost VOUT > VIN Step-up from lower voltage to higher voltage
Buck-Boost VOUT can be higher or lower than VIN Automotive systems (9V-30V input to stable 12V output)
Inverting Negative output voltage Specialized industrial applications

⚠️ Important: Most ready-made modules are configured as boost converters only. Check your specific module’s documentation to confirm its configuration. If you need buck-boost capability, verify before purchasing.

Power Ratings and Thermal Management

The XL6019 chip has a 5A switching current limit, but practical output current depends on several factors:

Recommended Output Current Guidelines:

Condition Recommended Max Output Current
Natural cooling (no heatsink) 1.5A – 2A
With heatsink, good airflow 2A – 2.5A
Peak (short duration) 3A – 4A

Power Calculation Examples:

Input Output Power Notes
5V 12V @ 1A 12W Safe without heatsink
12V 24V @ 1A 24W Heatsink recommended
12V 24V @ 1.5A 36W Heatsink required, good airflow needed
24V 36V @ 1A 36W Heatsink required

Important Current Relationship: Boost converters draw more input current than output current due to power conservation:

Power In × Efficiency = Power Out or VIN × IIN × Efficiency = VOUT × IOUT

Example: To get 1.5A at 24V output (36W) from a 12V input, the input current must be approximately 3.2A-3.5A (accounting for efficiency losses). Ensure your input power source can supply sufficient current.

Heat Management Tips:

  • Add a heatsink to the XL6019 chip for continuous loads above 1.5A

  • Ensure adequate airflow around the module

  • Consider using a higher input voltage to reduce the voltage conversion ratio and associated heat

  • The module includes thermal shutdown protection, but good thermal design is still recommended

Important Operating Restrictions

Voltage Limitation (Critical):
This module is configured as a step-up (boost) converter only in most ready-made versions. If your module is a standard boost converter, the output voltage must always be set higher than the input voltage. If the input voltage exceeds the set output voltage, the module will not regulate down, and the output will approximately follow the input voltage, potentially damaging your load.

For buck-boost versions: The output voltage can be higher or lower than the input, making them ideal for automotive applications where input voltage fluctuates (e.g., 9V-30V input to stable 12V output) .

Reverse Polarity Warning:
Most modules do NOT have reverse polarity protection. Double-check your IN+ and IN- connections before applying power. Connecting backwards will instantly destroy the module.

Short Circuit Protection:
The XL6019 chip includes over-current limiting, but this is not a full short circuit protection feature. Adding a small fuse on the input line is good safety practice.

Using the Enable Pin (If Available)

Some XL6019 modules expose the EN pin for remote control :

EN Pin State Module State Application Use
HIGH (1.4V – VIN) ON (normal operation) Normal operating mode
LOW (0V – 0.8V) OFF (shutdown) Power saving, remote shutdown
Floating (disconnected) ON (default) Default state – module operates normally

Connecting to a Microcontroller (Arduino Example):

cpp
// XL6019 Enable Pin Control Example
// Connect EN pin to any digital GPIO pin

const int ENABLE_PIN = 7;  // GPIO connected to XL6019 EN pin

void setup() {
  pinMode(ENABLE_PIN, OUTPUT);
  digitalWrite(ENABLE_PIN, HIGH);  // Start with module ON
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(ENABLE_PIN, HIGH);  // Module ON
  delay(10000);
  
  digitalWrite(ENABLE_PIN, LOW);   // Module OFF (shutdown)
  delay(5000);
}

Example Applications

Use Case Input Source Output Notes
Automotive Voltage Stabilizer Car electrical (9V-30V) 12V Use buck-boost version for fluctuating input
High-Power LED Array 12V battery 24V-36V Heatsink required for 1A+ output
Industrial Sensor Power 24V supply 12V or 5V Check if your module supports buck
Portable Power Station 3.7V Li-Ion 5V USB 5A switch current supports multiple USB ports
Solar Panel Regulator Solar panel (6V-24V) 12V Maintains stable output from variable input

Installation Tips

  • Polarity Check: Always double-check input polarity before applying power

  • Initial Setup: Adjust output voltage with no load connected first

  • Enable Pin: Leave floating for always-on operation; connect to control signal for remote management

  • Keep Wires Short: Long wires add resistance and inductance, reducing efficiency

  • Use a Fuse: Add a fuse (e.g., 5A) on the input line as safety protection

  • Heat Sinking: For loads >1.5A continuous, attach a heatsink to the XL6019 chip

  • Start with Low Load: When first testing, use a low-current load to verify voltage setting before connecting sensitive equipment

Q: What is the difference between XL6019 and XL6009?

The XL6019 is a higher-power and more versatile upgrade to the XL6009:

Feature XL6019 XL6009
Switch Current 5A 4A
Input Voltage 5V – 40V 3V – 32V
Topologies Boost/Buck-Boost/Inverting Boost only

For high-power applications or projects requiring voltage regulation where input may fluctuate above and below output (e.g., automotive), XL6019 is the superior choice

Q: Can this module step down voltage as well as step up?

It depends on the specific module. The XL6019 chip itself supports buck-boost (step-up and step-down) operation . However, many ready-made modules are configured as boost converters only. Check your module’s documentation – if it’s a buck-boost version, it can maintain a stable output even when input voltage varies above and below the set output

Q: What is the maximum output current?

The chip has a 5A switching current limit . Practical output current depends on input/output voltages, cooling, and efficiency:

  • 1.5A – 2A: Safe for continuous operation without heatsink

  • 2A – 2.5A: Possible with heatsink and good airflow

  • 3A+: Peak/short duration only

User reviews confirm that 5A is the switch limit, not the continuous output rating – treat as 2-3A maximum for reliable operation

Q: Why is my output voltage not changing when I turn the potentiometer?

This is the most common issue. The potentiometer typically needs to be turned counter-clockwise for 10-15 full rotations before the voltage begins to change. Keep turning while watching your multimeter until the voltage starts to rise. The potentiometer is multi-turn, so you won’t damage it.

Q: Does this module have short circuit or reverse polarity protection?

The XL6019 chip includes over-current limiting and thermal shutdown, but these are not full short circuit protection features . Reverse polarity protection is NOT included – double-check your connections before applying power. Adding a fuse on the input line is recommended for safety.

Q: Can I use this module in a car (12V-14.5V electrical system)?

Yes, but choose the right version. If your car’s electrical system fluctuates (typically 9V-30V in vehicles), use a buck-boost version of the XL6019 module to maintain a stable output regardless of input variations . A standard boost-only version cannot step down when voltage spikes above your set output.

Q: Why is my module getting very hot?

Heat is normal in boost converters, especially when:

  • Drawing high current (>1.5A continuous)

  • Boosting a low voltage to a much higher voltage

  • Operating without adequate airflow

Solutions: Add a heatsink, reduce load current, use a higher input voltage (to reduce conversion ratio), or improve ventilation. The XL6019 includes thermal shutdown protection, but good thermal design is still essential

Q: Can I use this module for both home and business applications?

Home users: High-power LED lighting, DIY power stations, battery charging systems, 12V to 24V conversion for tools, portable speaker power supplies.

Business users: Industrial equipment power supplies, automotive voltage stabilization, solar/wind power conditioning, LED lighting systems, prototype development, remote sensor networks, PLC power supplies.

Q: What is the efficiency of this module?

The XL6019 achieves up to 94% efficiency under optimal conditions (moderate load, small input-output voltage difference) . Efficiency drops with very large voltage differences or very light/heavy loads. User testing reports approximately 80% efficiency at higher power levels (12V to 24V at 1.5A)

Q: What is included in the package?
  • 1 x XL6019 Adjustable DC-DC Boost Converter Module

(Heatsink not included; some kits may include connecting wires)