High Efficiency GaN Based Resonant Reset Forward Converter with Synchronous Rectification for Space Applications

In order to satisfy more stringent demands from the telecommunication sector, satellite manufacturers are inclined to provide novel and flexible solutions. GaN technology provides an opportunity to drastically improve power processing functions. This study presents a Forward converter with resonant reset used in the Space Inspire platform by Thales Alenia Space. The converter supplies a high power consumption processing module at 5V, +/−18V from a 100V primary, with maximal power of 60W. Additional improvement is achieved by using synchronous rectification on the high current output. The converter achieves 91% peak efficiency, gaining a 10% in comparison with commercial solutions, as validated experimentally