An electronic circuit or electromechanical device that accepts a Direct Current (DC) input voltage and converts it into a different, regulated DC output voltage. Unlike AC systems, where voltage levels are easily altered using simple transformers, DC systems require active semiconductor switching or linear regulation to step up, step down, or invert voltage levels.
Buck Converter (Step-Down): Delivers an output voltage lower than the input voltage (Vout < Vin). It is highly efficient and commonly used to step down the input voltage.
Boost Converter (Step-Up): Delivers an output voltage higher than the input voltage (Vout > Vin). It accumulates energy in an inductor and releases it at a higher potential.
Buck-Boost Converter (Inverting/Non-inverting): Capable of delivering an output voltage that is higher, lower, or of opposite polarity than the input voltage.
Non-Isolated Converters
These share a common ground (negative return path) between the input and output circuits.
Isolated Converters
These utilize a high-frequency transformer to physically and electrically separate the input and output circuits (galvanic isolation).