Eric
I have just found a boost converter in my 'stock '
MT3608
that should do it?
I was planning to use one 18650 rechargeable battery.

Do I put it at the output of my circuit, just before the LED strip?

 

hi,
Looking over the circuit the problem is that the 3.7v battery and 5V solar panel use the transistor to select the current source for the LED/Battery Charge, for night/day operation.

E

 

hi,
Looking over the circuit the problem is that the 3.7v battery and 5V solar panel use the transistor to select the current source for the LED/Battery Charge, for night/day operation.
E

Eric, That is beyond my understanding at this point. That a 'no' then?

 

hi John,
Checking, I don't see a possible way of using that simple circuit to drive a 12V LED strip, even with a MT3608.
I will give it another look over.
Are you prepared to consider a more complicated circuit build.?
E

 

Eric, I have two 5 m white LED strips warm white/white.
Nowhere does it specify the current required. However, I put them on my power supply and it looks like 150 mA.

By the way, it looks like they both maxed out on brightness on about 9 V, even though they are specified as 12 V.

Thanks again for the help, much appreciated.
John

 

hi John,
Assuming a 100% eff conversion, down from 12V at 150mA, to a Collector voltage to 5.5V Solar or 3.7V battery means 320mA > 480mA Collector current for the Boost Conv.
The best you can get thru the existing Blue LED is approx 20mA with that circuit.

A different type of circuit is required.
Check thru the web for 12V LED strip drivers.

E

 

OK Eric. Thanks for all the help, I actually learned something. I will do some more research.