Analysis and experimentation of a forward converter with active clamping and output rectifier using a center tapped transformer

This paper proposes a study of a forward DC/DC power converter topology where the isolating transformer has its core reset by active voltage clamping, using a capacitor and an additional switch. This technique makes feasible the soft commutation of the two switches, allowing an increase of the commutation frequency and a volume reduction of the inductors involved. The operating principle and the small-signal characterization of the converter are presented, making it possible to foresee the clamping circuit effect in the dynamic response. Experimental results of a 550 W prototype are also presented.