Quasi Linear DC/DC Converters

Demanding high power applications, such as medical imaging, fast processors, and pulsed loads are requiring new levels of performance from dc/dc converters. Extremely low ripple voltages, blazing speed and response, all with high efficiency and small size are placing conflicting requirements on the dc/dc converter designer. Conventional design approaches are not able to meet the needs easily, and it is generally agreed that power supply technology will be one of the limiting factors for the continued growth of VLSI and related technologies. This paper presents a new approach to realizing the benefits of linear dc power supplies - ultra-low ripple and sub-microsecond settling times even for large load/supply disturbances $without significantly compromising on the efficiency, cost or size of the dc/dc converter. This approach is seen to apply broadly to various types of power conversion functions. This paper discusses the principles of operation, the tradeoffs involved, and the experimental results for typical implementation of various quasi-linear dc/dc converters