Abstract: An integrated matrix transformer for point-of-load converters is provided. The matrix transformer has a smaller surface area and a reduced core volume that lowers core losses. The matrix transformer's winding pattern produces a larger magnetizing inductance which aids in attaining better accuracy for gate pulse generation on the synchronous side of a point-of-load converter and mitigates power reversal issues present in traditional point-of-load converters using traditional matrix transformers. A reduction of circulating current in the primary side is also achieved. The matrix transformer comprises: a plurality of elemental transformers, each elemental transformer comprising a core, primary and secondary, linked through upper and lower members. The elemental transformers are magnetically coupled through the upper and lower members such that a flux induced by primary has a return path through one other core. The primaries are wired in series, and the secondaries in parallel.

Abstract: A voltage converter, method for operating a voltage converter, and a controller for a voltage converter is provided. An input stage, comprising a first pair of switches is configured to receive electrical power and generate therefrom an oscillating waveform in a transformer circuit comprising an inductor, the oscillating waveform being associated with an inductor current in the inductor. A synchronous rectifier stage, comprising a second pair of switches, is configured to produce a rectified output voltage from power transferred through the transformer circuit. A controller, producing switch control signals, is configured to operate the first pair of switches in a soft switching mode to produce the oscillating waveform having a switching rate dependent on the rectified output voltage and a switching duty cycle dependent on the inductor current; and synchronously operate the second pair of switches to produce the rectified output voltage.