While secondary-side synchronous rectification in resonant half-bridge topology is not uncommon, its implementation has not been easy. A novel control scheme precisely turns on and off the secondary-side synchronous rectifier MOSFETs to achieve rectification that emulates a Schottky-diode rectifier, minimizing switching losses and optimizing conversion efficiency.
An innovative power factor correction design, frequency clamp critical conduction mode, clamps the frequency with a near-unity power factor while keeping the simple control scheme of a critical conduction mode design.
As power supply switching frequencies increase, higher loop crossover frequencies are necessary to keep pace with the escalating load transient slew rate demands, and to reduce the number and size of filter components. For voltage-mode-controlled supplies, the voltage loop error amplifier must work harder to provide its compensating gain loop contribution.
This article explains the basic functionality of a typical electronic ballast circuit, highlights the similarities between the two applications, and describes a typical resonant-mode power-supply solution using a standard electronic ballast control IC. Experimental results are also shown to verify final performance and functionality.