Comparison of low voltage topologies for voltage regulator modules

A push-pull converter equipped with a hybrid gating scheme, which supports synchronous and external driving is proposed and compared to a two-transistor forward converter. General modeling aspects and enhancements are addressed for a thorough investigation of parasitics on the behavior of the circuits using simulation. The fine correlation between simulation and measurement results gained on prototypes proves these modeling extensions and parameterization of equivalent circuits. Low voltage regulator modules were developed for both circuits, operated at 48 V input voltage and deliver 1.6 V at 15 A output current. Graphical figures reflecting the loss breakdown are given calculated by a computer algebra tool. This forms an efficient design base for new applications.