Inverting Buck-Boost Converter Calculator
Calculate the output voltage of an inverting buck-boost DC-DC converter
Volts (V)
Percentage (%) - Must be between 0 and 100%
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Input Voltage
Enter the DC input voltage (Vin) in volts. This is the positive voltage supplied to the converter.
Enter Duty Cycle
Enter the duty cycle as a percentage (0-100%). The duty cycle is the ratio of ON time to the total switching period.
Calculate Output Voltage
Click calculate to get the output voltage. The output is inverted (negative) relative to the input.
Formula
Vout = -Vin × D / (1 - D)
Where:
- Vout = Output voltage (V) - negative (inverted)
- Vin = Input voltage (V)
- D = Duty cycle (as a decimal, 0 to 1)
Example 1:
Input voltage = 12 V, Duty cycle = 50%
Vout = -12 × 0.5 / (1 - 0.5) = -6 / 0.5 = -12 V
Example 2:
Input voltage = 24 V, Duty cycle = 33.33%
Vout = -24 × 0.3333 / (1 - 0.3333) = -8 / 0.6667 = -12 V
About Inverting Buck-Boost Converter Calculator
The Inverting Buck-Boost Converter Calculator helps you calculate the output voltage of an inverting buck-boost DC-DC converter. This converter can step up or step down voltage while inverting the polarity. The output voltage is negative relative to the input, making it useful for applications requiring negative voltage rails from a positive input.
When to Use This Calculator
- Negative Voltage Rails: Generate negative voltage from positive input
- Op-Amp Power Supplies: Provide split power supplies (±V) from single input
- Audio Amplifiers: Create negative voltage for audio amplifier circuits
- Biasing Circuits: Generate negative bias voltages
- Educational Purposes: Learn about inverting converters
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Calculations: Uses correct inverting buck-boost formula
- ✅ Easy to Use: Simple interface requiring only input voltage and duty cycle
- ✅ Free Tool: No registration or payment required
- ✅ Educational: Includes formulas and examples
Common Applications
Op-Amp Power Supplies: Operational amplifiers often require split power supplies (±15V, ±12V). An inverting buck-boost converter can generate the negative rail from a positive input, eliminating the need for a separate negative supply.
Audio Systems: Audio amplifiers frequently need negative voltage rails. Inverting converters provide this from a single positive battery or power supply.
Tips for Accurate Results
- Enter duty cycle as a percentage (e.g., 50 for 50%)
- Duty cycle must be between 0% and 100% (but not exactly 100%)
- Output voltage is always negative (inverted)
- Can step up or step down depending on duty cycle
- Consider efficiency losses in real-world applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an inverting buck-boost converter?
An inverting buck-boost converter produces a negative output voltage from a positive input. It can step up or step down voltage while inverting polarity. The output is always negative relative to the input.
How is it different from regular buck-boost?
Regular buck-boost converters maintain the same polarity (positive in, positive out). Inverting buck-boost inverts the polarity (positive in, negative out). The formulas are similar but with a negative sign.
Can it step up and step down?
Yes, depending on duty cycle. At 50% duty cycle, output magnitude equals input. Below 50%, output is less than input. Above 50%, output is greater than input.
Why would I need negative voltage?
Many circuits require negative voltage: op-amps for split supplies, audio amplifiers, bias circuits, and some analog circuits. Inverting converters eliminate the need for separate negative power supplies.