Conducted electromagnetic interference evaluation of forward converter with symmetric topology and passive filter

Abstract

Forward converter is popular for isolated switching power supply. Generally, power switching converters are the sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI) because of their high transient voltage and current. In this study, reduction of conducted EMI in the single-switch forward converter is examined using a symmetric topology. At this end, the forward converter topology is modified to achieve a symmetric topology. EMI model of the conventional forward converter and symmetric forward converter are derived taking into account the main parasitic of components and printed circuit tracks. Accuracy of the predicted EMI is verified by the measured EMI for two converters. In addition to the symmetric approach evaluation from the EMI viewpoint, the effect of this approach on the output voltage noise is examined. Finally, the combination of a passive EMI filtering with the symmetric method is utilised for EMC compliance. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2014.