Pick Your Circuit

I've come up with two different circuits that do the same thing but differ in cost and complexity. The circuit documented in this guide uses VERTER, a $10 Buck-Boost that does far more than needed in this build but makes wiring everything much easier. The less expensive version uses a diode and extra wiring to create the same functionality.

Circuit Diagram – VERTER

In this circuit all of the components are connected to VERTER. The pins are labeled on the PCB and make it easy to wire up.

This provides a visual reference for wiring of the components. They aren't true to scale, just meant to be used as reference.

• 9V Battery negative (black wire) to  VIN– on VERTER
• 9V Battery positive (red wire) to VIN+ on VERTER
• Switch to EN and G on VERTER
• LED anode (positive) to 5V on VERTER
• LED cathode (negative) to G on VERTER
• Motor blue wire to VOUT– on VERTER
• Motor red wire to Button
• Button to VOUT+ on VERTER

Circuit Diagram – Diode

This circuit shows how to use a diode to drop 9V (which will drop to 8V under load) to about 7V for powering the DC motor and LED. This method is less expensive but might cause more difficulty in wiring. This circuit is nice if you're looking for the most cost effective build and have intermediate experience soldering.