Introduction to Power Electronics (Coursera)

Introduction to Power Electronics (Coursera)

This course introduces the basic concepts of switched-mode converter circuits for controlling and converting electrical power with high efficiency. Principles of converter circuit analysis are introduced, and are developed for finding the steady state voltages, current, and efficiency of power converters. Assignments include simulation of a dc-dc converter, analysis of an inverting dc-dc converter, and modeling and efficiency analysis of an electric vehicle system and of a USB power regulator.

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After completing this course, you will:

  • Understand what a switched-mode converter is and its basic operating principles
  • Be able to solve for the steady-state voltages and currents of step-down, step-up, inverting, and other power converters
  • Know how to derive an averaged equivalent circuit model and solve for the converter efficiency

A basic understanding of electrical circuit analysis is an assumed prerequisite for this course.
Course 1 of 4 in the Power Electronics Specialization.

Course Syllabus

Week 1
Ch 1: Introduction
An introduction to power electronics and to the Coursera specialization

Week 2
Ch 2: Steady-State Converter Analysis
How to find the ideal steady-state voltages and currents of a switched-mode converter

Week 3
Ch 3: Steady-State Equivalent Circuit Modeling, Losses, and Efficiency
Equivalent circuit modeling of switching converters, to predict their power conversion functions and efficiency under steady-state conditions

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