Performance comparison of pulse width modulated resonant mode DC/DC converters for space applications

Three resonant converter topologies-series, parallel, and series-parallel-are analyzed. Simple analytical expressions are derived to exhibit natural characteristics of the converters. The performance of each topology is presented, and the performances are compared. The series converter has better full-load to no-load efficiency, and a lower total volt-ampere rating than the other two topologies. The pulse-width modulated technique permits the operation of the series converter at no-load. Consequently, the series converter topology is recommended for all applications except low-voltage, high-current outputs. For these latter outputs, the series-parallel converter topology is preferred.<>