Resonant fluorescent lamp converter provides efficient and compact solution

A zero voltage switched (ZVS) resonant power converter for driving cold cathode fluorescent lamps is described. Primarily intended for liquid crystal display (LCD) back lighting, the circuit features minimal component count and size. A specially designed integrated circuit provides all control functions for a current fed push-pull ZVS converter, and also contains an auxiliary pulse width modulated (PWM) controller to develop a programmable supply voltage for the LCD. Analysis and simulation of the converter, and a complete circuit schematic are presented. The analysis and simulation results are validated by experimental circuit waveforms and critical performance parameters.<>