The authors present a systematic comparison of the current source topology (pulse width modulation, or PWM rectifier) and the voltage source topology (synchronous link power converter) from the point of view of power converter and switch kilovolt ampere ratings. PWM patterns and input and output filtering requirements, power factor, operating regions, and control aspects. Experimental results obtained on laboratory prototypes are used to validate the theoretical considerations. In general, it is concluded that the synchronous link power converter gives a higher performance but is more complicated to operate. Unity power factor and regenerative operation are achieved with closed-loop control. The PWM rectifier provides good performance with simple control strategies. It requires a larger filter to suppress the input line harmonics, but is simple to operate since open-loop operation is possible.
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