Abstract: An improved distributed-output multi-cell-element power converter utilizes a multiplicity of magnetic core elements, switching elements, capacitor elements and terminal connections in a step and repeat pattern. Stepped secondary-winding elements reduce converter output resistance and improve converter efficiency and scalability to support the high current requirements of very large scale integrated (“VLSI”) circuits. Some embodiments of the multi-cell converter comprise integrated secondary-side switching devices comprising control circuitry that monitors circuit conditions to determine when the switching device is to be ON and OFF, thereby eliminating the need for secondary-side switch control signals and signal buses, primary-to-secondary interface circuitry and centralized drive circuitry.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting a switch from overvoltage transients that might otherwise occur when the switch is turned off. A transient-suppression controller controls a rate-of-change of voltage across a switch by delivering control signals to the switch. Controlling the rate-of-change of voltage enables controlled absorption of stored parasitic energy that might otherwise cause overvoltage transients. In some embodiments the switch is a MOSFET and the control signals are currents delivered to the gate of the MOSFET. In some embodiments, control is open-loop; in other embodiments closed-loop control is used to maintain essentially constant voltage across the switch as it turns off.

Abstract: In some implementations, a method of dynamically maintaining a device's operation within a safe operating area (SOA) may include sensing instantaneous voltage and current of the device; determining, based on the sensed instantaneous voltage and current, a value that represents a power dissipated in the device; using the determined dissipated power and a model of thermal behavior of the device to model a junction temperature of the device; and controlling operation of the device based on the modeled junction temperature. A programmable SOA circuit including sensing, scaling, filtering, and controlling functions may be packaged on a single die or in a package with a power transistor.