ChipScout

Power

LM2596

Classic buck regulator used in large inexpensive adjustable step-down modules.

China-madeTexas InstrumentsActiveModerate

Best For

Projects needing Buck and Common module with a commonly available power part.

Avoid If

You need production-grade certainty without checking the exact module vendor, pinout, and library maintenance status.

Quick Decision Notes

LM2596 is indexed as a power part from Texas Instruments. ChipScout tracks it by practical maker-facing dimensions: interfaces, library readiness, estimated price, field-level sources, and whether the page is strong enough for selection rather than only lookup.

Technical Specifications

FunctionBuck converterSource: Texas Instruments
InputUp to 40V classSource: Texas Instruments
OutputAdjustable variantsSource: Texas Instruments
Current3A classSource: Texas Instruments

Common Use Cases

  • Maker prototypes
  • Low-cost modules
  • Educational hardware

Known Issues

  • Breakout boards may use different pin labels or regulator choices
  • Clone modules can differ from the original datasheet part

Interfaces and Library Support

Interfaces
None
Wireless
None
Voltage
3.3V
Libraries
Arduino pendingMicroPython pending
Data Integrity84% confidence
Sourcehttps://www.ti.com/
Last verified2026-05-20
Core specsVerified
PinoutAvailable
Library supportNeeds verification
Price rangePresent
Found a wrong spec?

Every field is meant to be source-backed. Corrections should include a datasheet URL, vendor page, module photo, or reproducible library test.

Submit correction

Source Resources

Datasheethttps://www.ti.com/Texas Instruments

Pinout Table

VCC3.3VPower the module from a rail that matches the breakout board, not just the bare IC.
GNDCommon groundConnect ground between the controller, sensor/module, and external power supply.
SignalMCU GPIO / ADCUse a digital input, output, PWM, or ADC pin based on the module output type.

Pinout is not yet source-verified. Use the table as an integration checklist, then confirm exact pins against the module vendor page before wiring hardware.

Common Wiring

VCC

Power the module from a rail that matches the breakout board, not just the bare IC.

GND

Connect ground between the controller, sensor/module, and external power supply.

Signal

Use a digital input, output, PWM, or ADC pin based on the module output type.

Arduino Example

Arduino support is not verified for this record yet. Add a library resource in the admin panel once a maintained driver or vendor SDK example is confirmed.

MicroPython Example

MicroPython support is pending. Treat community scripts as prototypes until a maintained driver is linked and tested on a known development board.

Recommended Development Boards

ESP32-C3 development board

Low-cost Wi-Fi/BLE board with enough interfaces for most sensors and modules.

Arduino Uno R4 / compatible

Good baseline for beginner wiring and library validation.

Raspberry Pi Pico W

Practical MicroPython target for I2C, SPI, UART, PWM, and ADC experiments.

Alternative Model Reasons

18650 Battery HolderPowerCompare this option when price or module availability is the deciding constraint.
74HC595PowerChoose this when Arduino library maturity matters more than exact silicon match.
A4988PowerChoose this when Arduino library maturity matters more than exact silicon match.
AMS1117-3.3PowerCompare this option when price or module availability is the deciding constraint.

Common Questions

What is LM2596 best used for?

Projects needing Buck and Common module with a commonly available power part.

Does LM2596 support Arduino or MicroPython?

LM2596 has Arduino support pending verification and MicroPython support pending verification.

What interfaces does LM2596 use?

LM2596 lists no standard digital interface listed; wireless support is no wireless protocol.

Compare LM2596 vs 18650 Battery Holder

Alternatives and Related Parts

18650 Battery Holder

Generic

Battery holder component useful to include because many maker power designs depend on its mechanical format.

China-madePower64% confidence

74HC595

Nexperia

8-bit shift register used to expand outputs for LEDs, relays, and simple digital control.

China-madePower86% confidence

A4988

Allegro MicroSystems

Common stepper motor driver used in older 3D printer and CNC control boards.

China-madePower86% confidence

AMS1117-3.3

Advanced Monolithic Systems

Legacy linear regulator used on many Arduino and ESP breakout boards.

China-madePower76% confidence