Picor Corporation

Chris R Swartz

John P Clarkin

Buck and boost power converter topologies and methods of converting power are provided. One method provides switching power conversion circuitry including an inductor and switches and clamp circuitry connected across the inductor. Control circuitry operates the switches and the clamp circuitry in a series of converter operating cycles which may include: (a) an energy transfer interval for transferring energy input to output via the inductor; (b) an energy recovery phase, during which the inductor current oscillates transitioning from substantially zero to a negative value, from the negative value to a positive value, and from the positive value toward zero; and (c) a clamp phase, during a portion of which the clamp circuitry is ON, energy is trapped in the inductor, the inductor current is negative, and is not zero at the end of the clamp phase.

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South Kingstown, RI, United States of America

Chris R Swartz