Buck Converter Efficiency Test Kit with Arduino Uno + LED
Build a Real-Time Buck Converter Efficiency Tester with Arduino Uno and OLED Display
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Ever wondered how efficient a buck converter really is? This kit lets you measure it precisely using two INA219 current/voltage sensors, an Arduino Uno, and an OLED display — turning real-time power data into a live efficiency readout. Perfect for students and hobbyists who want to go beyond theory and see power electronics in action.
What You'll Build
A portable efficiency tester that reads input and output voltage and current from an LM2596 buck converter, calculates the efficiency percentage, and displays the result on a bright 0.96-inch OLED. You’ll also learn to vary the load using resistors to see how efficiency changes with output current, gaining hands-on insight into converter losses.
What You'll Learn
- Wiring two INA219 current monitors on the I2C bus and using a TCA9548A multiplexer to resolve address conflicts
- Writing Arduino Sketch to read voltage, current, and compute input/output power and efficiency
- Displaying live efficiency percentages on a 0.96-inch OLED display
- Analyzing how efficiency varies with load resistance and input voltage
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | x1 |
| INA219 | x2 |
| TCA9548A I2C Mux | x1 |
| LM2596 Buck Converter | x1 |
| 0.96in OLED | x1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | x5 |
| 100nF Capacitors | x5 |
| 400-pt Breadboard | x1 |
| M-M Wires | x20 |
| 9V Battery Snap | x1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Ideal for CBSE Class 11-12 students exploring practical physics projects, B.Tech ECE/EEE undergraduates learning power electronics or instrumentation, and ATL Tinkering Lab facilitators seeking a ready-to-build STEM module. Also fits Smart India Hackathon prototypes that need precise efficiency monitoring.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Open the QR code to access the AI companion, which understands every step of this project and offers instant troubleshooting. You can also message us on WhatsApp for engineer support.
Can I test other buck converters besides the LM2596 included?
Yes, the circuit can measure any DC-DC buck converter up to 26V and 3.2A. Just connect the input and output terminals to the respective INA219 modules and ensure your load stays within the sensor’s current range.
Do I need any programming experience to complete this kit?
Not at all. The AI companion provides a fully working Arduino sketch, and step-by-step guidance explains every line so you can understand and modify it even as a first-time coder.
What is the accuracy of the efficiency measurement?
The INA219 offers 0.5% maximum accuracy; the displayed efficiency is calculated directly from sensor readings. This gives you a reliable, real-world understanding of converter performance within typical lab tolerances.
INA219 at input and output of LM2596 measures efficiency at different loads. OLED shows percent efficiency.
What's in this kit
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items