CrossRoads:
Haven't seen what the need is for boost converters unless the goal is to run from a single AAA or AA size battery.
A little out of context, but I just bought a Pololu Zumo robot, and on their Zumo shield they use
4 AA-cells powering a boost converter outputting 7.45V, rated about 1A.
The 4 AA-cells also directly power an h-bridge to control the motors [beautiful little gearmotors],
and the boost regulator provides power to a standard Arduino UNO/etc, board that plugs in on top.
You end up with a neat tracked mini-sumo that's less than 2" tall with everything running off 4 NiMH
AA-cells.