Electronic – Self-oscillating converter circuit

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I need some help with understanding following DC-DC converter circuit:

(Just for clarification, the three windings are on the same transformer core)

schematic

simulate this circuit – Schematic created using CircuitLab

My questions are:

  1. How would you classify topology of this converter? Can it be called a self-oscillating flyback?
  2. Why is secondary winding (L3) directly connected to the other windings? Is there any advantage over more common separated secondary winding?
  3. Would you recommend to add any snubber network to protect the switching transistor againist voltage spikes?

Best Answer

  1. Sure, it is a self-oscillating flyback.
  2. If you don't need primary to secondary isolation, stacking the windings gives a little higher output voltage.
  3. Yes, if the transformer has any significant leakage inductance (it will) then a snubber is a good idea to protect the transistor.

Having said all that, this circuit's operation will vary a lot with component tolerances, and the efficiency and reliability may be poor depending on the switching frequency.

I would recommend using a modern boost controller and MOSFET for a more efficient reliable design.