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UCC256403: Fluctuations in switching frequency

Part Number: UCC256403


Hello,

I would like to ask you about UCC256403A.
(Question 1)
A PFC circuit is used in the front stage of this device.
Since the PFC output voltage oscillates at a period twice the frequency of the AC power supply input voltage, I am aware that the LLC switching frequency also fluctuates.
At present, the switching frequency fluctuates between 100kHz and 108kHz at normal temperature and rated load.
Since no filter is inserted in the output of the PFC, it is assumed that the LLC input voltage will fluctuate and the switching frequency will also fluctuate.
Do you agree with this recognition?

(Question 2)
I have confirmed that the switching frequency fluctuates significantly in an environment of -20°C.
The switching frequency fluctuates between 96kHz and 110kHz, probably because the low temperature increases the ESR of the PFC's output electrolytic capacitor and increases the ripple in the PFC's output voltage.
Is it reasonable for this change to occur?
Is there a way to reduce the variation in constants around the device?
I checked the PFC switching waveform and LLC phase margin, but there were no particular problems.
I did LLC phase compensation to speed up or slow down the response, but there was no difference in switching frequency variation.
I also changed the value of the voltage divider capacitor on the VCR pin, but it had no effect.

Best regards,

  • HI Kaji,

    (Question 1)
    A PFC circuit is used in the front stage of this device.
    Since the PFC output voltage oscillates at a period twice the frequency of the AC power supply input voltage, I am aware that the LLC switching frequency also fluctuates.
    At present, the switching frequency fluctuates between 100kHz and 108kHz at normal temperature and rated load.
    Since no filter is inserted in the output of the PFC, it is assumed that the LLC input voltage will fluctuate and the switching frequency will also fluctuate.
    Do you agree with this recognition?

    You are correct.

    (Question 2)
    I have confirmed that the switching frequency fluctuates significantly in an environment of -20°C.
    The switching frequency fluctuates between 96kHz and 110kHz, probably because the low temperature increases the ESR of the PFC's output electrolytic capacitor and increases the ripple in the PFC's output voltage.
    Is it reasonable for this change to occur?
    Is there a way to reduce the variation in constants around the device?
    I checked the PFC switching waveform and LLC phase margin, but there were no particular problems.
    I did LLC phase compensation to speed up or slow down the response, but there was no difference in switching frequency variation.
    I also changed the value of the voltage divider capacitor on the VCR pin, but it had no effect.

    Can you share the PFC output voltage waveform at different temperatures. As per LLC gain plot curve, If the LLC input voltage changes a lot, LLC switching frequency needs to be changed to regulate the output voltage. So changing VCR cap and the compensator is not going to effect it.

    Regards

    Manikanta P

  • Thank you for your reply.

    Attached is the PFC output voltage waveform at ambient temperature +25℃ and -20℃.
    -20℃ is the waveform at cold start.
    After a few minutes of operation, the PFC output voltage fluctuates to about 13V and the LLC switching frequency fluctuates.
    Is this behavior normal?
    Or do you have any suggestions for improvement?
    Please let me know your opinion.

    Best regards,

  • Hi Kaji,

    Thanks for sharing the waveforms. 

    The change in the pfc output voltage is causing the LLC switching frequency variation.

    Adding additional PFC bulk cap in parallel should reduce the effective ESR. That should reduce the LLC switching variation.

    Regards

    Manikanta P