Headings denoted with an asterisk ( * ) is retrieved from the course syllabus version undefined
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Today electricity plays a central role when providing energy to computers, electronics, industrial processes, and trains. They have in common that the electric energy must be converted and controlled accurately. This course provides a deep understanding of the function of power converters, structure and how they are controlled. The course also covers the basics of modern power semiconductor devices
Intended learning outcomes
After passing the course, the student shall be able to
describe the function of DC-DC converters, line-commutated converters, switch-mode inverters, and switch-mode power supplies by means of basic equations for inductances and capacitances
calculate average values, RMS values, ripple and fundamental components of voltages and currents
calculate instantaneous values, average values, active, reactive, and ripple powers of above-mentioned power converters
describe different operation modes for above-mentioned power converters and decide whether the converter works in continuous or discontinuous operation mode if applicable
schematically describe the control of the power converter
describe the function of power semiconductor devices and how they are controlled and be protected
describe the function of a DC motor
dimension a step-down DC-DC converter both electrically and thermally such that given specifications are fulfilled
apply state-space averaging to control a step-down DC-DC converter
in order to
learn tools to describe and analyse circuits and control methods for power converters
be able to describe and apply power semiconductor devices and their control and protection circuits.
To obtain higher grades, the student shall be able to
analyse the function of DC-DC converters, net commuted converter, switch-mode inverters, and switch-mode power supplies to decide limits for discontinuous operation, evaluate multi-quadrant operation and decide values for circuit element such that given specifications for stationary and transient operation are fulfilled
analyse complex waveforms for convert quantities by means of Fourier analysis such that harmonics and their impact on the operation can be evaluated
analyse transient operation of DC-DC converters, line-commutated converters, switch-mode inverters, switch-mode power supplies, and DC motors by means of linear ordinary differential equations
calculate magnetomotive forces, flux densities, magnetic fluxes, inductances and winding turns of magnetic circuits that are exposed to quantities from power converters
Preparations before course start
Literature
No information inserted
Support for students with disabilities
No information inserted
Examination and completion
Grading scale
A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Examination
PRO1 - Project Work, 1.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
LAB1 - Laboratory Class, 0.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
XUP1 - Web-based Module, 0.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
TEN2 - Written exam, 4.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Ethical approach
All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Additional regulations
This official course syllabus is valid from the autumn semester 2025 in accordance with decision by the director of first and second cycle education: HS-2025-0533.
