Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) are vital in almost every electronics project—but cost can add up fast if you’re not careful. Whether you’re building DIY LED drivers, chargers, or microcontroller projects, you can design efficient SMPS circuits without overspending.

❗ The Problem: High Cost for Simple Power Needs

Many hobbyists overengineer their SMPS by using expensive controllers, oversized inductors, or unnecessary snubber networks. This leads to increased BOM cost—not ideal for budget-conscious projects or prototypes.

🛠️ The Solution: Simplify & Optimize Components

To keep costs low:

• Choose integrated controller ICs with built-in MOSFETs.

• Use low-frequency designs (like 50–65kHz) to save on magnetics.

• Replace bulky snubbers with gate resistors or optimized PCB layout.

🧰 Practical Example: 12V to 5V Buck Converter

Instead of using a costly synchronous buck controller, a basic MC34063 IC and a low-cost N-channel MOSFET can provide 500mA of stable 5V at a fraction of the cost.

🔢 Sample Calculation: Power Conversion Efficiency

Input = 12V, Output = 5V @ 0.5A

Output power = 5V × 0.5A = 2.5W

If efficiency is 80%, Input power = 2.5W / 0.8 = 3.125W

Power loss = 3.125W – 2.5W = 0.625W

🛒 Product Suggestions – Made in India

🔧 MOSFET for switching circuits:

🔌 MC34063 Controller IC:

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