Experimental evaluation of digital control options for high power electronics

This paper presents an evaluation of digital control options for high power electronics. Pulse width modulation and digital pulse modulation controllers for inverters driving motor loads or utility applications are evaluated. Control realisation can range from simple comparators and PROM based look-up tables, to complex DSP implementations. Microprocessor implementations are gaining acceptance because of their flexibility and promised superior performance. The ease with which the control algorithm can be modified in software make them ideal for many applications. The paper discusses implementations based on popular low-cost embedded microcontrollers and digital signal processors. Evaluation of the controllers addresses cost, complexity and relative performance in an inverter application.