Calculate duty cycle and output voltage for isolated forward DC-DC converters.
Converter Specifications
Secondary turns / Primary turns
Operation Parameters
Enter converter params
About this calculator
Quick Reference
DDuty Cycle
Ns/NpTransformer Turns Ratio
Reset WindingNecessary to demagnetize core
Power RangeTypical 100W - 1kW
Overview
A forward converter is a DC-DC converter that uses a transformer to increase or decrease the output voltage and provide electrical isolation. Unlike the flyback, it transfers energy directly from input to output during the ON time.
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Pro Tips
The duty cycle (D) is typically limited to less than 0.5 to allow for transformer reset.
An output inductor is required to smooth the current, making it behave like a buck converter with isolation.
Turns ratio (Ns/Np) is used to scale the voltage significantly.
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Fun Facts
"Forward converters are generally more efficient than flyback converters for power levels above 100-200 Watts."
"The transformer in a forward converter does not store energy; it only scales voltage and provides isolation."
"A third winding (reset winding) is often used to return stored magnetizing energy to the source."
