This USB to 12V DC Boost Cable converts 5V USB power to around 12V for devices with a centre-positive 2.1mm barrel jack, with an integrated boost converter and up to 500mA rated output.
This cable is kinda fascinating - it has an integrated boost converter, so you can plug it into any USB port (from a computer, battery pack, etc) and it will give you a higher DC voltage!
It's a handy way to power 12V powered devices with a centre-positive DC barrel jack from a USB port. We also have a version that provides 9V, and if you just need a passthrough cable, here's one for 5VDC.
The DC barrel plug has a standard 2.1mm opening and springs for the centre terminal so it can be used with 2.1mm jacks.
These are rated at 500mA output, but you can go a little higher, we pulled 700mA and we got a little voltage droop but it worked fine. Probably best not to draw 700mA continuously though!
Here's our measurements for various current draws when we set our bench supply to provide a steady 5V voltage
50mA (12.4V output), 150mA, 83% efficiency
100ma (12.4V), 290mA in, 86% efficiency
200ma (12.3V): 570mA in, 86% efficiency
300ma (12.2V): 870mA in, 84% efficiency
500ma (12.1V): 1500mA in, 81% efficiency
700ma (11.4V): 2140mA in, 75% efficiency
So, overall there's a 85% efficiency at low current draw that drops do about 80% at high current use. There's also a 3 mA quiescent current. Note that often times the USB port voltage can droop too, and in addition you may have power losses with any thin or low quality cables with high resistivity!
Features
Integrated boost converter steps up USB 5V to 12V DC output
Powers 12V barrel jack devices from any USB port (computer, battery pack, etc.)
Standard 2.1mm DC barrel connector with centre-positive polarity
Rated for 500mA output (can handle up to 700mA with minor voltage droop)
85% efficiency at low current draw, approximately 80% at high current use
Delivers 12.1V–12.4V depending on current draw
3mA quiescent current
Also available in 9V and 5V passthrough versions
Compatible with standard 2.1mm centre-positive DC jacks
Specifications
Cable Length: approx 1.15m
Weight: 34.6g
Revision History
As of Sept 16, 2021 the cable design has changed slightly but seems to be equivalent.
Package Contents
1x USB to 5.5mm / 2.1mm or 2.5mm DC Booster Cable - 12V Output
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