Single-stage AC/DC conversion with PFC-tapped transformers

摘要

Improved AC/DC conversion in power supplies having an isolation transformer located between rectified-AC input and DC output leads. The transformer is given a primary winding having one or more taps, and a positive input lead is connected thereto by a corresponding number of intermediate leads, each containing selected components. The improvement not only enables power factor correction (PFC) but also desired adjustment of or control over other operational variables, such as bulk capacitor voltage stress, output regulation, and overall efficiency, often at a reduction in circuit complexity and cost.