High-Speed Data and Power Transfer using MFSK-based PWM in DC-DC Converters

This paper investigates the integration of high-speed data transmission with power delivery in DC-DC converters, utilizing modulation techniques to achieve simultaneous communication and power conversion. With the application of Wide Band-Gap (WBG) semiconductors, these converters are designed to handle High Switching Frequencies (HSF) that enable data rates in the Mbit/s range. We demonstrate the capability of achieving a 2 Mbit/s data transmission rate using Multi-Frequency Shift Keying (MFSK) in conjunction with Pulse Wide Modulation (PWM). This approach, utilizing four distinct Switching Frequencies (SFs) to encode the binary pairs 00, 01, 11, and 10, represents a novel application in Power and Signal Dual Modulation (PSDM) converters, diverging from the current state of the art. Implementation results are shared, highlighting the bit encoding process, voltage waveform integrity, and efficiency metrics. The paper also analyzes various operational modes, including Powered Device (PD) and Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE), which allows data transmission via the converter input or output voltages. It explores the SimPLeX (SPLX) communication mode, where two converters synchronize on a single DC bus. Additionally, we introduce the concept of Tunable Switching Frequency (TSF)-PWM and examine the system’s Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) behavior in the context of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standards, thereby providing insights into compliance and performance dynamics.