ZLT as step-down?

[PsycoBob[Q2]]

I'm planning on converting a 3-D Mag with a LS/o. Is it even possible to use a ZXSC300 circuit as a step-down amperage regulator?

If not, I might see if I can cram 3 white LS's into it, and let a ZLT drive that load in series.

I'm hoping to regulate the amperage to my LS (or LS's) without having to go buy any parts. (I already have enough parts to build another 4 ZLT circuits)

 

[MrAl]

Hi Bob,

According to theory, it is possible to
convert the ZLT to a down converter.
I havent tried this yet, nor looked over
the dangers yet.
You connect the cathode of the LED to
the positive battery terminal instead of
the negative. In this way, the circuit has to
develop a higher voltage then the power
supply in order to get the LED to conduct.
Of course the efficiency wont be as good
this way, and you will probably have to
use a different inductor too that can
support a higher voltage than in the standard
ZLT configuration. Of course you also have
to observe the correct polarity on the
output cap.
Havent looked at whether or not it is better
to put the cap across the LED or leave it
connected anode to ground.

In theory this works, but you will have to
experiment a little to get the right inductor
and current setting, etc. More turns on
the inductor will probably help.

On the other hand, there are some nice
down converter chips out there that may rival
the ZLT in efficiency when operated at
4 volts or greater (using internal sync
MOSFETS).

Good luck with it,
Al

 

[PsycoBob[Q2]]

Methinks I'll just leave it as a drect-drive for now, and convert to a ZLT when I stuff two more LS's in there.