Analysis of performance limits of continuous-mode boost converters for power-factor-correction applications

The boost converter is commonly used as a power-factor-correction pre-regulator. For medium to high power applications, the continuous mode of operation is preferred. This paper attempts to give a detailed analysis, not reported previously in the literature, of the limitations of the continuous-mode boost converters as power-factor-correction pre-regulators, in terms of the attainable power factor and harmonic distortions. Results are presented to highlight the relationships between various practical parameters and the attainable performance.