An Experimental Study of Random Noise Characteristics in a Power Converter

This paper focuses on the quantification of existing random noise in a switching DC-DC boost converter. Theoretical background regarding to the probability density of random noise is provided. An experimental study is performed to measure and characterize random noise on system parameters of a boost converter. The converter analyzed is the commonly used current-mode controlled boost converter. Experimental results show that the characteristics of random noise in the converter are Gaussian distributed. The quantified results of uncertainties and the probability density are included in the dynamics of the converter as load and switching time uncertainties. This observation introduces the possibility of sensitivity analysis at a design stage in which more robust design can be achieved.