Learn how to build an efficient boost converter to provide high voltage from a lower voltage greater than 5V for several applications, most prominently to charge capacitors. The boost converter described here utilizes the Astable operation of the NE555 a timer Integrated Circuit, an IGBT, a Diode, and an Inductor coil of wire.
http://www.instructables.com/id/DC_to_DC_Boost_Converter_1/
This DC to DC converter is built by the author for his 48V electric bike because he wanted to plug-in some common 12V accessories, that is, his cellphone charger, or a GPS unit.
http://www.instructables.com/id/DC-to-DC-Converter/