Adaptive DC-DC converter for 4G macro-cell base station

Despite the constant improvement in power efficiency of macro-cell base stations, the continuous capacity expansion increases considerably the global power consumption of the mobile network. This article presents a new concept of managing the DC-to-DC converter supplying power amplifiers in base stations, targeting a factor two reduction in power consumption. Details of the concept and the practical implementation of a 500 kHz and zero to 112W buck converter are discussed. The prototype achieves 94% power efficiency and a good stability over the complete power range.