FPGA-based multilevel modulations for H-bridge-based converters

Multilevel modulators based on carrier shifting reach their minimum harmonic content only through asymmetrical sampling and proper phase shifting. As far as their implementation challenges microcontrollers and DSP\´s peripherals, the use of field programmable gale arrays (FPGA) becomes attractive. In fact, they allow the design of "ad-hoc" digital modulators with the desired number of timers using hardware description languages. This paper addresses the problem developing a modulator using a FPGA. After a theoretical discussion of the problem, the development using an Actel ProAsicPlus FPGA starter kit is described and analysed.