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Raise Low Input Voltage with 5V Step-Up Voltage Regulator U3V16F5
The 5V Step-Up Voltage Regulator U3V16F5 boosts a lower DC input up to a regulated output, making it useful when your source voltage falls below the level your load needs.
It works well in battery builds, portable electronics, and small robots where input voltage can sag over time.
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
- Compact: ~13.1 × 8.1 × 3mm, about 0.4g (without headers)
- Easy wiring: VIN / GND / VOUT on a 0.1″ edge spacing (breadboard/perfboard friendly)
- Typical input current: up to around 1.6A continuous (thermal & VIN dependent)
- Great for low-voltage batteries: can keep producing 5V even when your cells sag (after startup)
- Efficient: typical 85–95% efficiency helps battery life and reduces heat
- Light-load friendly: power-save mode improves efficiency by reducing switching frequency at low loads
What you can build
Useful for battery projects, portable devices, LED systems, and electronics that need a higher rail from a lower source voltage.
Compare regulator options
| Model | Topology | Output | Max current |
|---|---|---|---|
| U3V16F5 | Boost | 5 V | — |
| S13V10F5 | Buck-Boost | 5 V | 1 A |
| D24V10F5 | Buck | 5 V | 1 A |
| S13V20F5 | Buck-Boost | 5 V | 2 A |
| D24V22F5 | Buck | 5 V | 2.5 A |
| D36V28F5 | Buck | 5 V | 3.2 A |
| D30V30F5 | Buck | 5 V | 3.4 A |
Technical specifications
| Product | 5V Step-Up Voltage Regulator U3V16F5 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pololu |
| Model | U3V16F5 |
| Category | DC-DC Step-Up Regulator |
| Topology | Step-Up (Boost) |
| Output Voltage | 5 V |
| 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 × 5V Step-Up Voltage Regulator U3V16F5
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.
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.
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.
For many builds, yes. Switching regulators are usually more efficient and waste less heat.
Manila stock. Order before 16:00 PHT, ships today via J&T or LBC. Provincial: 1–3 working days.
Schools / class POs: we accept Purchase Orders for accredited schools and universities. contact us with your PO details.
Returns: 7-day inspection window for DOA units. Email proof of issue and we ship a replacement.
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