This ideal boost-converter calculator estimates continuous-conduction duty cycle and the inductance needed to stay within a chosen peak-to-peak ripple current.
Physics
Boost Converter Calculator
Estimate ideal boost-converter duty cycle and minimum inductance.
Calculator
About this calculator
Formula notes
duty cycle D = 1 - Vin/Vout; minimum inductance L = Vin × D / (ripple current × switching frequency).
Worked examples
- Example: 5 V to 12 V at 100 kHz with 0.5 A ripple gives D = 58.33% and L about 58.33 uH.
- For 9 V input, 24 V output, 250 kHz switching, and 0.8 A ripple, the ideal duty cycle is 62.5% and minimum inductance is about 28.13 uH.
How to use it
- Enter input and target output voltage.
- Enter switching frequency and maximum ripple current.
- Treat the result as an ideal starting point before component and stability design.
Frequently asked questions
Does this include switch and diode losses?
No. The equations are ideal and omit efficiency, voltage drops, resistance, saturation, thermal limits, and control-loop behavior.
Can this design a complete power supply?
No. A practical converter also needs current ratings, magnetics checks, compensation, protection, layout, and hardware validation.
Limits and interpretation
- The equations assume an ideal continuous-conduction boost stage and omit efficiency, switch and diode drops, equivalent resistance, load range, transient response, and control topology.
- A calculated inductance is not a component selection: saturation current, RMS current, core loss, tolerance, temperature rise, voltage rating, layout, and protection still require engineering review.