Grade 9 · From USB to Field System: ESP32 water quality

Set up the LM2596 converter

Follow the student handout to build, test and document this stage of the water-quality system.

Prepared lesson material. Start this task when your teacher introduces it; it is not currently assigned homework.

For this lesson

2 pages · Use the handout for the complete instructions, examples and response spaces.

Read the handout text online

For diagrams, visual examples and the full layout, open the handout above.

Lesson 4: Step-Down Conversion with the LM2596

Setup, measurement, and sign-off record

Grade 9 MYP Design | From USB to Field System

Name: __________________

Class / team: __________________

Date: __________________

Today’s goals • Identify converter input/output terminals. • Adjust and verify 5.00V output before connecting the ESP32.

Warning Raw battery voltage must never be connected to ESP32 5VIN. The ESP32 remains disconnected until the output is measured and signed off.

Terminal	Connected to	Measured voltage relative to ground
IN+
IN−
OUT+
OUT−

Power OFF and connect IN+ and IN− with correct polarity.

Keep the ESP32 disconnected.

Set meter to DC voltage; black probe on OUT− and red probe on OUT+.

Power ON and turn the adjustment screw slowly.

Set output to approximately 5.00V.

Power cycle and measure again.

Request teacher sign-off before connecting the ESP32.

Why is measuring more reliable than trusting the previous adjustment or seller setting?

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What is the difference between OUT− and “no connection”?

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Write the safe power path from battery to ESP32 using arrows.

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