Smart Lab PSU — $10 Open-Source Controller for DC Converters

Smart Lab PSU — $10 Open-Source Controller for DC Converters

Overview

Smart Lab PSU is an open-source controller that turns almost any cheap DC-DC converter (LM2596, XL4015, XL6019, etc.) into a digital lab power supply.No DACs, no expensive chips — just ESP32, PWM, and a touch of analog magic.

The idea is simple:ESP32 controls the converter’s feedback pin via PWM → RC filter → analog level, enabling smooth voltage/current control (CV/CC) with solid precision.

✳️ Features

• PID-based voltage and current regulation
• Smooth CV/CC transition and ramping
• OLED or Web UI for control and monitoring
• Wi-Fi interface with live charts (WebSocket)
• OTA firmware updates
• MOSFET safety cutoff, thermal and current protection
• Modular architecture: from 5 W to 500 W+
• Fully open-source: firmware, schematics, and UI

⚙️ Hardware

Minimum setup:

• ESP32-S2
• DC-DC converter — Mini360, LM2596, XL4015, etc.
• Shunt resistor or INA226 for current sensing
• SSD1306 OLED for local control
• MOSFET for output protection

Schematics & PCB:👉 OSHWLab Project

💻 Software

Arduino-based firmware includes:

• Independent PID loops for voltage and current
• Smooth setpoint ramping
• Web interface with live charts and responsive layout
• OTA firmware updates
• Automatic protection on overcurrent or overheat

Source code and documentation:👉 GitHub Repository

🌐 Live Demo

• Online Web Interface (Demo)
• Video Preview on YouTube

💡 Philosophy

Budget electronics with soul.Because every hacker deserves a PSU that blinks, hums, and sometimes argues with the PID loop.

Smart Lab PSU is more than just a power supply — it’s an open, repairable, hackable tool built by and for makers.Designed to make analog converters smarter, not obsolete.