Review of Resonant Gate Driver From the Perspective of Driving Energy and Time

Resonant gate driver (RGD) is a premium solution for driving power transistors in high-frequency and high-power-density applications, with the merits of much less power loss and more design freedoms in adjusting driving time. This article aims at providing a thorough review of RGDs and guidelines for constructing the most suitable RGDs under different design specifications. The classification of RGDs based on resonance characteristics is first proposed. It results in more straightforward, precise RGD categories without complex hierarchy, and cross coincidences. The dynamic energy distributions in the switching transients of each type of RGDs are deeply investigated, and energy utilization rates are concluded and compared. The key parameters affecting driving energy and driving time for each type of RGDs are further explored, as the resonant inductor, gate resistor, and initial inductor current. A top-down design approach is also summarized to guide the optimized RGD designs under different converter requirements.