In conventional photovoltaic (PV) systems, PV panels are often connected in series to form a string that matches the voltage requirements of an inverter. These systems can be organized into central and string configurations. In a central configuration, multiple strings of panels are connected in parallel to a single inverter. This central inverter is designed to maximize power output from all the connected strings under varying environmental conditions. On the other hand, string configurations use a dedicated inverter for each string, ensuring optimal power generation from each string independently, even though power reduction due to issues like shading on any panel within a string cannot be avoided. To address this challenge, Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking (DMPPT) technology is employed, using devices known as Solar Power Optimizers (SPOs). These are DC-DC converters connected to each panel to optimize the power output individually, despite variations in sunlight exposure among panels. The outputs of these optimizers are then connected in series to supply the necessary voltage to the inverter, and can also be paralleled to meet power requirements. In a recent initiative supported by Iran’s National Elite Foundation, a research team embarked on developing three photovoltaic power optimizers. After thorough evaluation and simulation of various power electronic structures, the team selected the four-switch buck-boost converter topology for its efficiency, flexibility in handling a wide range of voltages, and various operational modes. The chosen converter uses the STM32F407VGT6 microcontroller for digital control. Following the assembly of electronic boards and programming tasks such as ADC and MPPT units within the microcontroller, the converters underwent extensive testing. These tests confirmed that even when one panel in a string is partially shaded, its power output does not affect the remaining panels, which continue to operate at their maximum capacity thanks to the optimization provided by the SPOs. All development and testing activities were conducted at the Photovoltaic Systems Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Tehran, ensuring a rigorous and well-documented development process.