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Stable 12V Power for Embedded Builds

The 12V, 4.5A Step-Down Voltage Regulator D42V55F12 is a compact switching regulator for projects that need a lower and more stable DC rail from a higher input source.

It is a strong fit for robots, control boxes, battery-powered builds, and embedded systems that need efficient power conversion with less heat than a linear regulator.

Important: Choose a regulator based on your full input-voltage range, startup current, thermal limits, and required headroom. Real output current depends on input voltage, airflow, and temperature.

Why you'll love it

  • Input voltage: up to 60V (minimum input depends on dropout vs load)
  • Output: 12V with 3% accuracy
  • Typical efficiency: 85%–95% depending on VIN and load
  • Current capability: typical max is 4.5A at 42V in , with a typical continuous range of ~3.5A to 6.5A depending on input voltage and…
  • Synchronous buck design for high efficiency and lower heat than linear regulators
  • Switching frequency around 400kHz under heavy loads

What you can build

Great for powering 5V or 12V rails in robots, controllers, sensor hubs, SBC projects, vehicle electronics, and custom battery systems.

Compare regulator options

Model Topology Output Max current
D24V22F12 Buck 12 V 2.2 A
D36V28F12 Buck 12 V 2.4 A
S13V25F12 Buck-Boost 12 V 2.5 A
D42V55F12 Buck 12 V 4.5 A
D24V150F12 Buck 12 V 15 A
U3V16F12 Boost 12 V
U3V40F12 Boost 12 V

Technical specifications

Product 12V, 4.5A Step-Down Voltage Regulator D42V55F12
Brand Pololu
Model D42V55F12
Category DC-DC Step-Down Regulator
Topology Step-Down (Buck)
Output Voltage 12 V
Max Current 4.5 A
Support Official Pololu product search and support resources linked below

Official resources

Find this product on Pololu | Pololu support and resources

What’s in the box

1 × 12V, 4.5A Step-Down Voltage Regulator D42V55F12

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I power a microcontroller with this?
Yes, if the regulator’s output voltage and current match your controller and all attached loads.
Will it run cool at full load?
It depends on input voltage, airflow, and load current. Check thermal limits in the official Pololu resources.
Is this better than a linear regulator?
For many builds, yes. Switching regulators are usually more efficient and waste less heat.

Build with this board

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Notes from the bench

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Ask the community

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