DC-DC Converter Guide
Step-up, step-down, isolated & series stacking
Complete guide to DC-DC converters — buck, boost, isolated topologies, series stacking isolation requirements, and popular brands like Vicor and Victron Orion-TR.
12V→5V
24V→12V
12V→48V
48V→12V
Buck (Step-Down)
Efficiency: 85-97%
Reduces voltage from higher to lower level. Most common type.
12V → 5V24V → 12V48V → 12V48V → 24V
Common Use Cases
- USB charging from 12V system
- Powering 12V devices from 24V truck
- EV auxiliary systems
Boost (Step-Up)
Efficiency: 80-95%
Increases voltage from lower to higher level.
12V → 48V12V → 24V5V → 12V3.3V → 5V
Common Use Cases
- 12V to 48V for LED drivers
- Solar panel voltage boosting
- Battery backup systems
Buck-Boost
Efficiency: 75-92%
Can both step up and step down voltage. Most versatile.
Variable input → Fixed outputBattery-powered systems
Common Use Cases
- Battery-powered devices
- Solar charge controllers
- Variable input applications
Isolated (Flyback/Forward)
Efficiency: 70-90%
Provides galvanic isolation between input and output. Required for safety in many applications.
Stacking outputs in seriesMedical equipmentIndustrial controls
Common Use Cases
- Stacking DC-DC outputs in series
- Medical devices
- High-voltage safety isolation