Looking for the most efficient VV regulator I can find.

[Algernon]

I'm guessing with the modding community there must be some "end-all beat-all" regulator that's used for 14500 VV box mods. I'm just looking to... well, know what that item is. If there are a variety of different ones that perform differently or have drawbacks, I'd be interested on that info as well. Thanks for your help if you help.

 

[jmanning]

Take a look at the OKR/T series

 

[Algernon]

Take a look at the OKR/T series

I saw that was the one used in a few mods around here. I'll give it a look see.

 

[asdaq]

Yes, Murata's OKR/T or TI's PTR08100. Keep in mind that the efficiency rating listed in the specs is for a voltage around 9v, that we don't use, so expect slightly less.

 

[Algernon]

Yes, Murata's OKR/T or TI's PTR08100. Keep in mind that the efficiency rating listed in the specs is for a voltage around 9v, that we don't use, so expect slightly less.

Is there anything immediately wrong with madvapes' v2 regulator, or is it that it's just preferred to use switching regulators over linear ones due to heat?

The TI's look most similar to the madvapes regulators, of which I've built three kits. Would it be that big of a swap out to remove their regulator and replace TI's?

Sorry, I'm a tad new to this and not "with it" with these parts as far as know-how.

 

[DZ]

Check this thread out for TI information, parts are different or al least I think they are I have not looked at MVv2 so I dont know.

 

[asdaq]

Linear regulators take the unused voltage and covert it to heat and therefore waste it. For example, the input is 8.4v and the output is 5v. 3.4 volts wasted on freshly charged batts. A step down doesn't do that, and only loses efficiency from within it's own circuitry. Add in any wiring and connections you have in a mod to that.

In real world usage, your batteries last noticeably longer with a stepdown compared to a linear and the only handwarmer feature would be related to the coil, not the regulator.

edit: Just looked, MV has only linear regs, still.

 

[Algernon]

Linear regulators take the unused voltage and covert it to heat and therefore waste it. For example, the input is 8.4v and the output is 5v. 3.4 volts wasted on freshly charged batts. A step down doesn't do that, and only loses efficiency from within it's own circuitry. Add in any wiring and connections you have in a mod to that.

In real world usage, your batteries last noticeably longer with a stepdown compared to a linear and the only handwarmer feature would be related to the coil, not the regulator.

I see, well that changes things. I think I'll order another kit or two and use a different regulator based on its layout, that should be a fun project.

 

[Nomoreash]

The TI and OKR regulators mentioned are probably the most efficient and widely used. They are both fairly easy builds with the OKR being a little easier as it doesn't require caps but I use them anyway.

 

[WillyB]

Well here's a couple of charts to peruse.

The top is from the inexpensive China LM2596 assemblies that will list 'up to 92%' efficiency. I've marked with the RED where we would actually be using it, it's a only a little better than most linears.

The bottom is for this ready-to-go assembly.

3A 25W Adjustable step down switching voltage regulator

Looking all the way to the left (8V in), you can see that this should in fact be 90+% efficient for us.

 

[asdaq]

Nice, except for the price. Willy, have you got the charts for the OKR and 8100?

 

[jhonutz]

you want something good? Look for synchronous step down IC..the best ever regulator.Use it with 2xbatt stacked.

 

[CraigHB]

As jhonutz said, the synchronous type are most efficient.

I use a synchronous booster, it's about 10% better than the non-synchronous type. Peak is 98% when output voltage is close to input voltage. It's 95% at 5V and 2A output with input voltage at 3.7V. You'd see similar numbers with a synchronous buck regulator.

 

[Robert T]

What is an example of a synchronous step down reg? I built a device with the SW ADJ 3 instead of buying a $200 Pro Vari and have been told repeatedly that I paid too much so I would be interested in a IC that is 3 or 4% more efficient for less money(maybe?) lol

Robert

 

[jhonutz]

tps54427 from Texas Instrument or MP2307 from Monolithic Power and others.

mp2307 find on kis33 module from ebay

 

[Robert T]

Thanks, I've thought about using the Kis33 module. Is the Tps54427 a complete module except for output caps?

 

[CraigHB]

It's just a controller. You'd have to design a PCB then assemble it with some additional components. Looks like an easy one to work with though. Here's the data sheet.

 

[Robert T]

Thanks Craig, what other components would be needed beside caps and a pot?

 

[CapeCAD]

Thanks Craig, what other components would be needed beside caps and a pot?

Inductor, resistors, more caps

 

[CraigHB]

Pretty much. Reading and understanding the data sheet will allow you to design the circuit and select the correct component values. However, if you've never designed and assembled a PCB before, it would be a little much. Would be a great project to do as a learning tool if electronics is something you'd be interested in as a hobby. Lots of people are into it including myself. There's tons of really interesting and rewarding stuff you can do as an electronics hobbyist aside from e-cig mods.