Operational Transconductance Amplifiers In PWM ICs: Grounded And Negative Feedback Compensation Both Have Their Place
by Alain Laprade, Power Electronics Specialist, Saunderstown, R.I., How2Power Today, Aug 15 2025
Focus:
Operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) are commonly used with grounded-feedback
compensation networks in PWM IC designs. However, an alternative configuration—connecting
the compensation network via negative feedback to the output voltage divider—has shown
promising results. Despite its potential, this approach remains underutilized, likely due
to misconceptions about its viability. This article aims to clarify that misunderstanding
and explore the merits of both configurations. Using type-II feedback transfer function
models, which are presented here, the article compares grounded and negative-feedback
implementations in a boost converter design example to highlight their respective
tradeoffs and performance characteristics. All theoretical expressions are validated
through SIMPLIS simulations to ensure practical relevance.
What you’ll learn:
- How to understand the benefits of using negative-feedback compensation for OTAs in power converter designs
- How to understand the tradeoffs of grounded versus negative-feedback compensation for OTAs in power converter designs
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