How can I boost 7.2 volts to 12 volts?

Question

How can I boost 7.2 volts to 12 volts?

Answer 1

You did not say if you were looking to convert a DC or AC voltage.

If it is AC you need to boost, then a simple transformer with a 5:3 turns ration will do the job.

If you are looking to boost DC voltage, then you will need a boost converter.  You can buy one on the market, or you can build one from scratch, but it is not always an easy project for the beginner.  If you want to build one, my recommendation would be to use a MAXIM chip as a controller.  They take much of the pain out of DC to DC converter development.  For more information, you can go here:

http://www.maxim-ic.com/quick_view2.cfm/...

Good luck with your project.

Answer 2

7.2V is (or was, higher voltages seem more popular now) a common voltage for some battery powered tools and RC cars, since it is 6 x 1.2V NiCad or NiMh cells,  so I'm assuming you are talking about DC.

Transformers don't work with DC, you would need a DC to DC boost converter, while they are readily available, the ones I have seen were relatively low power, for powering electronics.

If you are powering a high current motor (tool or RC car/aircraft) it might be harder to find a converter, and it might be more practical to use a 12V battery.

Answer 3

use a converter

Answer 4

you need a transformer with ratio of 1:1.6

but the ampage will drop.

Edit: Strike of the thumb down phantom again.

Answer 5

By using a transformer

Answer 6

Increase the wire size, or use a transformer