The UC3855A/B provides all the control features necessary for high power, high frequency PFC boost converters. The average current mode control method allows for stable, low distortion AC line current programming without the need for slope compensation. In addition, the UC3855 utilizes an active snubbing or ZVT (Zero Voltage Transition technique) to dramatically reduce diode recovery and MOSFET turn-on losses, resulting in lower EMI emissions and higher efficiency. Boost converter switching frequencies up to 500kHz are now realizable, requiring only an additional small MOSFET, diode, and inductor to resonantly soft switch the boost diode and switch. Average current sensing can be employed using a simple resistive shunt or a current sense transformer. Using the current sense transformer method, the internal current synthesizer circuit buffers the inductor current during the switch on-time, and reconstructs the inductor current during the switch off-time. Improved signal to noise ratio and negligible current sensing losses make this an attractive solution for higher power applications.

The UC3855A/B also features a single quadrant multiplier, squarer, and divider circuit which provides the programming signal for the current loop. The internal multiplier current limit reduces output power during low line conditions. An overvoltage protection circuit disables both controller outputs in the event of a boost output OV condition.

Low startup supply current, UVLO with hysteresis, a 1% 7.5V reference, voltage amplifier with softstart, input supply voltage clamp, enable comparator, and overcurrent comparator complete the list of features. Available packages include: 20 pin N, DW, Q, J, and L.