Half-Bridge Converter: Advantages and Disadvantages

This page covers the advantages and disadvantages of the Half-Bridge DC-DC converter, along with its circuit and working operation.

What is a Half-Bridge Converter?

About DC-DC Converters

A DC-DC converter is an electronic circuit whose main function is to modify one potential difference (voltage) level to another. Essentially, it’s a voltage regulator consisting of switches, an inductor, and a capacitor for power conversion.

DC-DC converters have numerous applications and are broadly divided into two types based on isolation between input and output circuits:

• Isolated DC-DC Converter
• Non-isolated DC-DC Converter

Isolated DC-DC converters are further categorized into:

• Flyback
• Forward
• Half-Bridge
• Full-Bridge
• Push-Pull

Half-Bridge Converter Circuit and Operation

Figure: Half-bridge converter circuit

The figure above illustrates a typical half-bridge converter circuit. Similar to flyback and forward converters, it’s a type of DC-DC converter capable of providing an output voltage that is either higher or lower than the input voltage, while also providing electrical isolation via a transformer.

While more complex than flyback or forward types, the half-bridge (HB) chopper design can deliver significant output energy using smaller and more cost-effective components.

The HB control chopper has gained popularity for small output voltage conversion due to its excellent features, boasting efficiencies around 90% at lower output voltages. This converter allows for the analysis of both static and dynamic characteristics. The DC voltage transfer ratio can be achieved in both discontinuous and continuous conduction modes, allowing for the determination of the boundary between these modes and the level of current in the transformer.

Advantages of Half-Bridge Converter

The following are the benefits or advantages of the Half-Bridge converter:

• Magnetic cores are small in size.
• There’s no gap in the magnetic path.
• Generates less stray magnetic field.

Disadvantages of Half-Bridge Converter

The following are the drawbacks or disadvantages of the Half-Bridge converter:

• Operates at half the supply potential, meaning the switching transistors operate at twice the collector current compared to a basic push-pull scheme.
• Not suitable for current mode control.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of the Half-Bridge converter is essential to fully appreciate its advantages and disadvantages.