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Rojony Khatun
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Małgorzata Koperska, MD Steven Wooding
Last updated: September 20, 2025

DC Voltage Regulator Circuit Using IRF840 MOSFET

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Push Button Switch

Push Button Switch

A simple mechanical switch used to make or break a circuit when pressed. It returns to its original position once released. Commonly used in doorbells, calculators, reset buttons, and control panels.

[push-button-switch]
2m Fixed Resistor 1/4W

2M Fixed Resistor 1/4W

A 2 Megaohm fixed resistor with a ¼ Watt power rating, used for limiting current, voltage division, biasing circuits, and signal conditioning in electronic applications.

IRF840 MOSFET

IRF840 MOSFET

An N-channel power MOSFET with 500V drain-to-source voltage and 8A current capacity, commonly used in SMPS, inverters, power supplies, and motor control circuits.

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DC Voltage Regulator

Regulate DC voltage efficiently using the IRF840 MOSFET. Smooth and stable output with adjustable voltage control, ideal for power supply and electronics projects.

adjustable DC power supply MOSFET

IRF840 DC voltage regulator. A DC voltage regulator is made by using IRF840, which can provide a stable DC voltage controlled by the gate voltage of the MOSFET. It is suitable for electronic projects, do-it-yourself power supplies, and battery-driven equipment.

low-cost voltage regulator circuit

The IRF840-based DC Voltage Regulator is an easy and effective method of regulating the DC voltage within electrical circuits. IRF840 is an N-channel power MOSFET that could support high voltage and moderate current loads. The principle of operation of this regulator is that the MOSFET is a variable resistor that is regulated by either a voltage reference or an op-amp circuit. This means that the output voltage can be tuned to be an excellent and stable DC by changing the gate voltage, which allows a smooth and stable power supply or electronics in sensitive applications. The circuit can be used in making DIY power supplies, battery chargers, and motor drivers, as well as laboratory equipment. Adequate heat sinks and safety devices, such as flyback diodes or fuses, are suggested to be used to operate safely. The design is inexpensive, simple to build, and offers a practical method for learning voltage control of MOSFETs.

Work / Installation (Inputs → Outputs)

  • Input → Unregulated DC voltage from a power source.
  • IRF840 MOSFET → Acts as a variable resistor to control output voltage.
  • Control Circuit → Adjusts gate voltage to maintain stable output.
  • Output → Smooth, regulated DC voltage suitable for electronics.
  • Installation → Assemble on PCB or perfboard; attach heat sink to MOSFET; use protective components for high voltage/current safety.

Testing & Final Adjustments

Once assembled, a variable DC input voltage should be connected, and the output of the system should be measured using a multimeter. Adjust the control potentiometer or reference voltage to adjust the required regulated output. Measure the temperature of the MOSFET; add a heat sink. Test consistent voltage under the different conditions of loads to be able to guarantee consistent performance. Start with the small load testing, then progressively increase the rated load testing. Protective diodes or fuses should be used to avoid damage from the voltage spikes. Testing is required to provide safe, efficient, and consistent voltage regulation of power supplies, battery chargers, and electronic circuits.

Frequently Asked Questions - DC Voltage Regulator:

What is IRF840?

It is an N-channel power MOSFET used for voltage regulation.

Can it regulate high voltage DC?

Yes, IRF840 handles high voltage and moderate current.

Is it adjustable?

Yes, output voltage can be adjusted using gate control.

Do I need a heat sink?

Yes, recommended for continuous operation under load.

Can it handle motors?

Yes, suitable for motor drivers within current rating.

Is it beginner-friendly?

Intermediate level; requires knowledge of MOSFETs and voltage regulation.

Do I need protective components?

Yes, use flyback diodes and fuses for safety.

Can it be used in DIY power supplies?

Yes, ideal for small lab or hobby power supplies.

Does it provide smooth voltage?

Yes, proper gate control ensures stable output voltage.

Is it cost-effective?

Yes, uses readily available IRF840 MOSFET and simple components.

Rojony Khatun

Rojony Khatun

CalculatorToolsProject

Rojony Khatun is the creator of a free online tools website designed to simplify everyday and engineering-related calculations for students, professionals, and hobbyists. The platform offers a wide variety of basic and advanced calculators across key categories, including Electrical Calculators, Electronic Calculators, and Time & Date Calculators, helping users solve problems quickly and accurately.