Decoding a component datasheet

People are always asking me if you can really tell that much from a component datasheet (if you’re not an electrical engineer). Greg Lipscomb shows how to figure out what a chip can do by reasoning through a datasheet’s pin-out diagram and schematics. Here he uses the datasheet for the Maxim Max756 DC/DC step-up converter chip found in Ladyada’s Minty Boost portable USB charger.

DIY DCDC Stepup with Max756 – Link
3.3V/5V Adjustable-Output, Step-Up DC-DC Converters Datasheet (PDF) – Link

Related:

• Minty Boost kit – Link
• DIY LED Flashlight – Link