Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/converter-circuits
### Course Review: Converter Circuits on Coursera The **Converter Circuits** course available on Coursera is an advanced-level offering in the realm of electrical engineering that dives deep into the intricacies of switched-mode converter circuits. Presented as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering program (ECEA 5701), this course provides a comprehensive foundation for students and professionals looking to broaden their understanding of power electronics. #### Course Overview Converter circuits are essential in modern electronic systems, affecting everything from smartphone chargers to large-scale renewable energy systems. This course explores advanced concepts surrounding these critical circuits, focusing on the realization and operation of power semiconductors in various applications. Among the key components discussed are power diodes, MOSFETs, and IGBTs, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in power electronics, whether for academic pursuits or professional growth. #### Course Structure and Syllabus The course is structured into several key chapters, each building on the last: 1. **Switch Realization (Ch 4.1)**: This chapter lays the groundwork for understanding how to implement switches using transistors and diodes. It covers crucial applications that involve bidirectional power flow or AC outputs. This knowledge is foundational for anyone wanting to design or analyze converter circuits. 2. **Power Semiconductor Switches (Ch 4.2)**: Here, the intricacies of power semiconductor switches are explored in detail. Students will learn about the origins of switching times and losses associated with these components. The implications of switching losses on equivalent circuit models are also discussed, alongside practical considerations for MOSFETs, IGBTs, and their gate driver circuits. 3. **Discontinuous Conduction Mode (Ch 5)**: This chapter addresses the phenomenon of discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) which is particularly relevant in unidirectional switch realizations. It provides analytical techniques to understand the boundaries and outputs related to this mode, a critical concept for designing efficient power converters. 4. **Converter Circuits (Ch 6)**: The final chapter covers well-known converter circuits and their historical context. Students learn how to incorporate transformer isolation into DC-DC converters, and engage in analysis and equivalent circuit modeling of transformer-isolated configurations – skills essential for complex circuit design. #### Learning Outcomes By the end of this course, participants can expect to: - Gain a robust understanding of advanced switched-mode converter principles. - Analyze and model various power semiconductor switches and their behaviors in different modes of operation. - Implement and troubleshoot circuit configurations that utilize transformer isolation, thus expanding their practical skills in handling real-world applications. #### Recommendation I highly recommend this course for anyone with a background in electrical engineering or a related field who wishes to specialize further in power electronics. The content is both comprehensive and applicable, making it ideal for students, researchers, and industry professionals looking to enhance their skills or embark on new projects in the field of converter circuits. Moreover, considering that this course offers academic credit as part of an esteemed master's program, it represents not just a learning opportunity but also a strategic step toward academic advancement and career development. In summary, whether you are looking to upskill for your current job, pivot into a new area, or pursue an advanced degree, the **Converter Circuits** course on Coursera provides an excellent balance of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. With its expert instructors and thorough curriculum, you will be well-prepared to tackle modern challenges in the field of electrical engineering.
Ch 4.1: Switch Realization
How to implement the switches using transistors and diodes, including applications having bidirectional power flow or ac outputs.
Ch 4.2: Power Semiconductor SwitchesBasics of power semiconductor switches, including the origins of switching times and switching loss. How to incorporate switching loss into equivalent circuit models. MOSFETs, IGBTs, and gate driver considerations.
Ch 5: Discontinuous Conduction ModeThe discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) arising from unidirectional switch realization. Analysis of mode boundaries and output voltage.
Ch 6: Converter CircuitsSome well-known converter circuits and their origins. How to incorporate transformer isolation into a dc-dc converter. Analysis and equivalent circuit modeling of transformer-isolated converters.
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5701, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree. This course introduces more advanced concepts of switched-mode converter circuits. Realization of the power semiconductors in inverters or in converters having bidirectional power flow is explained. Power diodes, power MOSFETs, and IGBTs are explained, along with the origins of their switching times. Equivalent circuit models are refined to include the effects
A real Hard Course designed for professional people. If you are good in Circuits, do come, but if you are weak... You may Get in TROUBLE!!!!
Very helpful course. This course has helped me in getting a good insight into Power Electronics. Thanks alot Dr. Robert Erickson.
Good and straight forward. This is what education should be like. A more rigorous way of teaching does not necessary convey valuable information. Thank you and please keep it up
Very interesting course. All these dynamics involving converters are awesome. Congratulations for the course. Now heading for course 3. Thanks a lot.
It was a bit complicated that part 1 of this course, but now i understand a lot of thing about converters. I'm going to the next one!