What is a buck converter?
A buck converter is a switching regulator that steps down DC voltage with high efficiency.
Duty cycle
For an ideal buck converter, duty cycle is approximately D = Vout / Vin.
Inductor ripple
Inductor value affects ripple current. A common starting point is 20–40% of load current as inductor ripple.
Capacitor and layout
Input and output capacitors reduce ripple and transient effects. PCB layout is critical.
Practical design notes
Always check the regulator datasheet, recommended layout, saturation current and thermal limits.
Use the calculator
Try the related tool and calculate your own values instantly.
Open Buck Converter Calculator