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In universal-line ac/dc converters that require power factor correction (PFC), maintaining a high efficiency across the entire line and load ranges poses a major challenge. Typically, a boost PFC front end exhibits 1%-3% lower efficiency at 100-V line compared to that at 230-V line. It is shown in this paper that a buck PFC front end with an output voltage in the 80-V range can maintain a high efficiency across the entire line and load ranges. A thorough analysis of the buck PFC converter operation and performance along with design optimization guidelines are presented. Experimental results obtained on a 90-W notebook adapter are provided. A loss analysis based on SIMPLIS and PSPICE simulations is also included. Major factors that contribute to the improved efficiency of the buck PFC versus the boost PFC are briefly explained.
Huber et al. (2009) studied this question.