General theory of switching power converters

Abstract

A unified general theory of the operation and performace of switching power converters is presented. It differs from prior approaches in that it addresses converters according to func­ tion rather than topology, and in the way conver­ ter analyses are approached. Relationships be­ tween converters are clarified, the inherent un­ desirable aspects of switching converters are seg­ regated from those specific to particular cases and the act of commutation is shown to be an in­ dependent function of internal converter operation with little influence on external terminal per­ formance. The theory has been well tested in the classroom and used to provide the basis for analy­ ses in a practical working development laboratory. It has withstood both tests; students grasp it readily and from it develop a good understanding of Power Electronics, while in the working environ­ ment it has proved beneficial in facilitating studies and comparisons of converters for many applications, and in aiding design efforts.