Summary

Abstract

Power MOSFETs require a gate drive circuit to translate the on/off signals from an analog or digital controller into the power signals necessary to control the MOSFET. This paper provides details of MOSFET switching action in applications with clamped inductive load, when used as a secondary synchronous rectifier, and driving pulse/gate drive transformers. Potential driver solutions, including discrete and integrated driver designs, are discussed. MOSFET driver datasheet current ratings are examined and circuits are presented to assist with evaluating the performance of drivers on the lab bench