Abstract: Converters that employ synchronous rectification, such as DC/DC converters, are disclosed. These converters can control their synchronous rectifiers to selectively block or pass a negative current from flowing in their output lines. Also disclosed are converters which can operate as slaves based on timing signals from other daisy-chained converters. Open-loop synchronous rectifier driving circuitry is further disclosed to allow converters to operate independently of any timing information from their output stages.

Abstract: A forward DC/DC converter using semi-synchronous MOSFET rectifiers with a peak detector and a pulse transformer. In another example edge triggered circuits and active clamps are used. The gate driving signal for one MOSFET is derived from the secondary of the input power transformer, but the second MOSFET gate is driven from a combination of the secondary of the input power transformer and the pulse transformer. The second MOSFET remains on during the core reset and dead time periods thereby providing a low voltage current path for the load current.

Abstract: A forward DC/DC converter with an active clamp that is driven directly from the primary or secondary of the transformer. The clamp may be on the input or the output circuit and may be of either N-type ot P-type MOSFETs or of bipolar transistors.