Textbook in PDF format

The high efficiency and scalability of Class-D designs make high power density pro audio amplifiers possible. Now in addition to having already dominated the portable device, automotive, and pro audio markets, Class-D is making undeniable inroads into product areas where audio sound quality has been deemed paramount. In those areas, Class-AB amplifiers have long dominated because of their inherently lower-noise (non-switching) design topologies. However, due to continual advances in Class-D audio amplifier sonic performance, this audio amplifier topology is becoming more accepted in audiophile applications as well. This book will describe the performance characteristics of Class-D amplifiers and the sources of distortion, as well as techniques and technologies used to improve performance, which have led to acceptance of Class-D audio power amplifiers in these market sectors. The purpose of this book is to provide a sufficiently thorough treatment of Class-D audio amplifier design, so that the reader gains a working understanding of the circuit design principles involved. It is the hope of this author that the reader will also come away with a “feel” for Class-D design, knowing what design decisions need to be made, and having the knowledge to make the proper tradeoffs, in order to achieve a specific set of performance and cost goals. One important characteristic of Class-D audio amplifier design is that most design parameters are interrelated. It is critical to be aware of this as early as possible. It is hoped that the reader will come away with an understanding and appreciation of these interactions. Some examples of this interrelationship are the following: Power transistor switching deadtime adjustment affects not only power loss and efficiency, but audio performance parameters such as total harmonic distortion (THD) and clipping threshold. It will also affect electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance. Selecting DC power rail voltages will affect loop gain and bandwidth, clipping levels, and power dissipation, as well as the obvious component breakdown voltage requirements