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Introduction to Power Electronics

Dr. Robert Erickson

4.7

Based on 3,451 ratings

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Dr. Robert Erickson

This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5700, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.

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.

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.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Ch 1: Introduction

An introduction to power electronics and to the Coursera specialization

Ch 2: Steady-State Converter Analysis

How to find the ideal steady-state voltages and currents of a switched-mode converter

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Develops skills in power conversion, which are fundamental principles in engineering

Taught by Dr. Robert Erickson, who is recognized for their work in power electronics

Teaches principles of converter circuit analysis, which are essential for understanding power converters

Examines the efficiency of power converters, which is crucial for energy conservation

Requires a basic understanding of electrical circuit analysis, which may be a barrier for some learners

Assignments include simulation and modeling, which provide practical experience

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Reviews summary

Solid introduction to power electronics basics

Learners say this course is a highly recommended and largely positive introduction to power electronics. Students frequently highlight the clear explanations provided by the instructor and the course's ability to build a solid theoretical foundation. The assignments and simulations are often cited as helpful tools for reinforcing the core concepts of switched-mode converters. While praised for its foundational strength and clarity, some reviewers note a desire for more hands-on practical examples, suggesting it's perhaps best suited for those seeking a theoretical grounding rather than immediate practical application.

Excellent introduction for newcomers to the field.

"Excellent introduction to power electronics. Perfect for beginners."

"Great for someone starting out in this area."

"As someone new to the field, I found this course perfect."

"It's exactly what an 'Introduction' course should be."

Assignments reinforce learning, simulations are helpful.

"The assignments really helped solidify my understanding."

"The simulations were a great way to see the concepts in action."

"Assignments reinforce concepts effectively."

"I enjoyed the practical examples included in the assignments, especially the simulation."

Instructor makes complex topics understandable.

"The lecturer is very clear and easy to understand."

"Complex topics are explained simply and effectively."

"I appreciate how well the instructor breaks down the concepts."

"The lectures are concise and to the point, which is great."

Builds a strong base in fundamental power electronics principles.

"Provides a solid foundation in the basic concepts of switched-mode converters."

"Really helped solidify my understanding of the basic principles and analysis techniques."

"Good theoretical foundation. Useful for understanding the principles."

"I feel like I have a strong base to build upon after this course."

Could benefit from more hands-on applications.

"The course is very theoretical. Could use more practical application examples."

"Lacked hands-on work or real-world demos."

"I wish there were more demonstrations of physical circuits working."

"More practical design considerations would be a plus."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Power Electronics with these activities:

Review Basic Electrical Circuit Analysis

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Refreshes foundational knowledge in electrical circuit analysis, which is essential for understanding converter circuit principles.

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Review Ohm's law and Kirchhoff's laws.
Practice analyzing simple AC and DC circuits.

Read 'Power Electronics: Converters, Applications, and Design' by Mohan and Undeland

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Provides a comprehensive foundation in power electronics and converter circuit design.

View Power Electronics on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters.
Summarize the key concepts.
Work through the example problems.

Create a Study Guide for Converter Circuit Analysis

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Organizes and reinforces key concepts covered in the course.

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Identify the main topics.
Summarize the key concepts.
Include practice problems.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Study with a Peer Group

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Promotes collaboration and facilitates knowledge sharing among students.

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Form a study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course materials.
Work together on assignments and projects.

Explore Online Tutorials on Converter Circuit Design

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Provides additional insights and practical guidance on converter circuit design.

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Search for online tutorials on converter circuit design.
Choose tutorials that align with your learning objectives.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
Experiment with different converter circuits.

Practice Solving Converter Circuit Problems

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Reinforces the concepts of converter circuit analysis by applying them to solve practical problems.

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Solve problems from the course textbook or online resources.
Check your solutions against the provided solutions or consult with the instructor.

Attend a Converter Circuit Design Workshop

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Provides an immersive learning experience with hands-on demonstrations and expert guidance.

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Identify relevant workshops.
Register and attend the workshop.
Engage with industry professionals.

Design and Build a Simple DC-DC Converter

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Provides hands-on experience in designing and implementing converter circuits.

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Review the principles of DC-DC converter design.
Select appropriate components for your converter.
Build and test your converter prototype.
Analyze the performance of your converter.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Power Electronics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the installation of electrical systems and equipment. They work in a variety of industries, including power generation, transmission, and distribution; manufacturing; and telecommunications. This course in power electronics should be considered essential for someone working as an Electrical Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and build machines and other mechanical systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. This course in power electronics is essential for people working as Mechanical Engineers as it helps build a solid base of knowledge in power systems and the control of electrical energy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Controls Engineer

Controls Engineers design and implement systems that control the behavior of machines and processes. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. This power electronics course is an excellent fit for someone in this role as it will contribute to their skillset for controlling and converting electrical power in the design of control systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Controls Engineer

Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design, build, and operate nuclear power plants. They also work on the development of new nuclear technologies. This course in power electronics is essential for people working as Nuclear Engineers as it provides core knowledge in the analysis of power systems and power conversion functions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nuclear Engineer

Electronic Engineer

Electronic Engineers design and develop electronic circuits and systems. They work in a variety of industries, including consumer electronics, telecommunications, and aerospace. This course in power electronics provides a nice foundation for an Electronic Engineer to build on as they contribute to the design and development of products and systems that use electrical power.

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Materials Engineer

Materials Engineers research, develop, and test new materials. They work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics. This power electronics course should be considered essential for someone working as a Materials Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Engineer

Analog Design Engineer

The intent of this course, “Introduction to Power Electronics,” is to introduce professionals to the basic concepts of switched-mode converter circuits. The course description states that this course will serve as a basis for controlling and converting electrical power with high efficiency. Analog Design Engineers may find this particularly useful, as their work may require converting and controlling electrical power in the design of electronic devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Analog Design Engineer

Metallurgical Engineer

Metallurgical Engineers research, develop, and produce metals and metal alloys. They work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and construction. This course in power electronics is an excellent fit for someone working as a Metallurgical Engineer as it introduces principles of power electronics that they could apply to their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Metallurgical Engineer

Acoustical Engineer

Acoustical Engineers study and manage the movement of sound. Their work can include designing sound systems and noise control systems. They also may work on the design of rooms or buildings to achieve a desired acoustic effect. While this course in power electronics may not seem like an obvious fit, it delves into the study of electrical circuits and how they can be applied to control and convert electrical power. Acoustical Engineers may find that having a solid grasp of this field will help contribute to the design of audio control systems and speakers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Acoustical Engineer

Systems Engineer

Systems Engineers design, develop, and integrate complex systems. They work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, defense, and healthcare. This course in power electronics may be helpful for someone working as a Systems Engineer, as it provides a solid foundation for understanding how electrical power systems work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from the earth. They also work on the development of new technologies for improving the efficiency of oil and gas production. While this course in power electronics may not seem like an obvious fit, the lessons learned regarding power systems and the analysis of electrical circuits could be extrapolated to the petroleum industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts provide advice to individuals and organizations on financial matters. They analyze financial data and make recommendations on investments, loans, and other financial products. While this course in power electronics may not seem like an obvious fit, the lessons learned regarding the analysis of electrical power systems and power conversion functions may be extrapolated to the financial field, including the analysis of financial markets and the performance of financial instruments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water treatment facilities. They also work on projects that improve the environment, such as dams and levees. While this course in power electronics may not be in the scope of all Civil Engineers, some Civil Engineers may need to work on electrical power systems and would benefit from expertise in this subject.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software systems. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. While this course in power electronics may not seem like an obvious fit, the lessons learned regarding the analysis of electrical circuits and the study of power conversion functions may be extrapolated to the field of software engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers design, implement, and improve systems that integrate people, materials, and equipment. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. While the focus of this power electronics course may not be an obvious fit for Industrial Engineers, it does provide skills in analysis and modeling that may contribute to the skill set of someone in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Power Electronics.

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

Save

Is commonly used as a textbook for power electronics courses. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, including both theoretical and practical aspects.

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

Hardcover

$$$

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

Hardcover

$$$$

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

Kindle Edition

$$$

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

Kindle Edition

$$$

Renewable energy conversion systems

Save

This handbook comprehensive reference for power electronics engineers. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

Renewable energy conversion systems: Technologies,...

Kindle Edition

$$$$

Power Electronics

Save

Is another popular textbook for power electronics courses. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

Power Electronics in Energy Conversion Systems

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Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics in energy conversion systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

Power Electronics in Energy Conversion Systems

Hardcover

$$$

Power Electronics in Energy Conversion Systems

Kindle Edition

$$$

Power Electronics for Renewable Energy Systems,...

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics for power quality. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

Power Electronics for Renewable Energy Systems,...

Hardcover

$$$$

Power Electronics for Renewable Energy Systems,...

Kindle Edition

$$$$

SPICE for Power Electronics and Electric Power

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Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics circuits, devices, and applications. It is written in a clear and concise style, and includes a number of solved examples and practice problems.

SPICE for Power Electronics and Electric Power

Paperback

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SPICE for Power Electronics and Electric Power

Kindle Edition

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Principles of Power Electronics

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Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics principles and applications. It is written in a clear and concise style, and is suitable for both beginners and experienced engineers.

Principles of Power Electronics

Hardcover

$$$

Principles of Power Electronics

Kindle Edition

$$$

Power Electronics-Enabled Autonomous Power Systems

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Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics for grid integration. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

Power Electronics-Enabled Autonomous Power Systems:...

Hardcover

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Power Electronics-Enabled Autonomous Power Systems:...

Kindle Edition

$$$$

High-Power Converters and AC Drives

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Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics for industrial applications. It covers a wide range of topics, including converter topologies, control techniques, and applications.

High-Power Converters and AC Drives (IEEE Press...

Hardcover

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High-Power Converters and AC Drives (IEEE Press...

Kindle Edition

$$$$

Electric Renewable Energy Systems

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of power electronics theory and applications. It is written in a clear and concise style, and is suitable for both beginners and experienced engineers.

Electric Renewable Energy Systems

Kindle Edition

$$$