Putting a capacitor across the drain-source

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In summary, the conversation is about whether it is okay to use only a capacitor instead of a resistor/capacitor in a circuit. The person asking for advice provides a link to a schematic and mentions that a 3300pf capacitor helps with ringing. References to snubber circuits are also provided. Another person responds that in some cases, adding capacitance can be beneficial, but in most cases it can result in power loss and decreased efficiency. They suggest making the circuit and transformer tighter instead.
  • #1
imsmooth
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Other than some power loss, is there anything wrong with just putting a capacitor across the drain-source, instead of a resistor/capacitor?
 
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  • #2


imsmooth said:
Other than some power loss, is there anything wrong with just putting a capacitor across the drain-source, instead of a resistor/capacitor?

In what kind of circuit? Can you give more details about the application, and maybe link to an example schematic?
 
  • #3


Here is the page with the schematic

http://inductionheatertutorial.com/inductionheater/induction10.html

It is the schematic near the bottom with the mosfets. I know that a 3300pf capacitor across the g-s leads significantly removes ringing. I just want to know if this is a problem by not using a resistor.
 
  • #5


In some cases, you do put a bit of capacitance in, especially in resonate outputs.
For the most part, though, adding capacitance is not good. It adds 1/2 V^2 C loss, drops the switching efficency, and usually doesn't help with the waste energy. This appears to be a series resonate circuit, so, with enough dead time, they might help.
Generally though, I'd aim to make the circuit and transformer a little tighter (less leakage L)

Mike
 

1. What is a capacitor and how does it work?

A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in the form of an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material, known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied to the capacitor, one plate accumulates a positive charge and the other accumulates a negative charge, creating an electric field between them. This stored energy can then be released when the capacitor is connected to a circuit.

2. What is the purpose of putting a capacitor across the drain-source?

The purpose of putting a capacitor across the drain-source is to act as a filter in a circuit. It helps to smooth out fluctuations in voltage and current, providing a more stable and consistent flow of electricity. This can be particularly useful in electronic devices that require a steady power supply to function properly.

3. How does a capacitor affect the drain-source voltage?

When a capacitor is placed across the drain-source, it creates a parallel branch in the circuit. This branch allows the capacitor to absorb any sudden changes in voltage, thereby reducing the voltage across the drain-source. As a result, the capacitor helps to regulate the drain-source voltage and prevent any spikes or dips that could potentially damage the circuit.

4. Are there any drawbacks to putting a capacitor across the drain-source?

While a capacitor can be beneficial in stabilizing the circuit, it can also introduce some unwanted effects. For example, if the capacitor has a high capacitance, it can cause a delay in the circuit's response time. Additionally, if the capacitor is poorly placed or has a low tolerance, it can interfere with the circuit's overall performance.

5. How do I choose the right capacitor for my circuit?

Choosing the right capacitor for your circuit depends on several factors, including the desired capacitance, voltage rating, tolerance, and frequency. It's important to carefully consider these specifications and select a capacitor that meets the requirements of your circuit. It's also recommended to consult with a knowledgeable engineer or refer to a capacitor selection guide to ensure you choose the most suitable component for your application.

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