Zero current detection technique for fast transient response in buck DC-DC converters

Abstract

A load dependent zero-current detector is proposed in this paper for speeding up the transient response when load current changes from heavy to tight loads. The fast transient control signal determines how long the reversed inductor current according to sudden load variations. At the beginning of load variation from heavy to tight loads, the sensed voltage compared with higher voltage to discharge the overshoot output voltage for achieving fast transient response. Besides, for an adaptive reversed current period, the fast transient mechanism is turned off since the output voltage is rapidly regulated back to the acceptable level. Simulation results demonstrate that the ZCD circuit permits the reverse current flowing back into n-type power MOSFET at the beginning of load variations. The settling time is decreased to about 35 mu s when load current suddenly changes from 500mA to 10 mA.