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I have a project where I'd like to convert a 0.5 V, 800 mA supply (a solar cell) to at least 3 V with as much efficiency as possible. I've seen DC boost converters, but all the ones I've seen are designed for a higher voltage.
Any tips on a good low voltage one?
You're going to struggle with only 0.5 V. Look for a different solar cell or array that can supply at least 1.5 V. There are a few existing solutions aimed at running off a single 1.5 V cell. Have a look at the LTC3400 from Linear Technology.
Note that it's hard to even turn on a transistor with only 0.5 V, so even if you could get the converter running correctly, it would be pretty challenging to bootstrap itself into starting at such a low voltage.
You're not the only one who has this problem, given the recent interest in solar energy.
Check out the TPS61200 from TI. It needs 0.5V for startup, but once started can operate down to 0.3V. I haven't used this part myself but TI's a very reputable player in the power management IC business (among many others).
Clint is correct, though, in that you'll have better efficiency (and more part choices!) if you string several cells in series to get to 1.5V or 2V.
Over at Electronics Exchange, Rex Logan had a great answer - the LVBoost is exactly what I'm looking for.
