Power converter employing switched split transformer primary

A pulse-width modulated apparatus to convert an input voltage to an output voltage at advantaged duty-cycles utilizes more than two switches in a converter design. The switches implement current paths that allow a single primary winding to be formed of primary winding segments. Intermediate points in the transformer primary winding are connected to switches and diodes such that during the OFF phase of the duty-cycle, the transformer segments discharge more quickly, thereby allowing the ON Phase of the duty-cycle to be longer than the OFF phase. During the OFF phase, the switches isolate the segments from each other while the diodes provide a magnetizing current discharge path. An output stage connected across the secondary winding regulates the output voltage by implementing a forward converter.