1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to switching power regulator circuits, and more specifically, to a resonant switching power converter in which pulse durations at the start and end of a burst are reduced.
2. Background of the Invention
In resonant switching power converters, as output current demand falls, the switching frequency is raised to reduce the power output. However, when low or zero-load conditions are encountered, the required switching frequency may become impractical and will typically cause a dramatic drop in efficiency due to increases in switching losses in conjunction with the relative drop in output power vs. the power consumed in ordinary switching operation. For the above reasons, a low-power “burst” mode is typically employed in low or zero output current demand periods, during which the output voltage is maintained by issuing a burst of pulses to restart oscillation of the resonant circuit at a level sufficient to re-charge the output capacitor of the resonant switching power converter. Between the bursts, the output capacitor supplies power to the load.
However, typical burst operation causes stress in the components of the resonant switching power converter, in particular, the switching transistors supply higher transient current levels at the start and end of the bursts. The transformers and/or inductors in the circuit also experience mechanical stresses, which cause audible noise and possible cumulative mechanical damage to the transformers. Finally, power is wasted in the transients generated in typical burst operation, manifesting in the above-described undesirable mechanical vibration, as well as heat.
Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a resonant switching power converter with a low-power operating mode having reduced audible vibration, reduced component stresses and improved efficiency.