Harmonic reduction based on active solutions

Most electronic systems use one or more switch mode power converter that will tend to draw current from the power line in a non sinusoidal shape. This input current characteristic results in current distortions that can contribute as well to the degradation of the supply voltage as to the negative disturbance effects of any connected equipment on the same line (interference, heating, noises, etc.). These problems have led to the creation of design standards and to develop interface systems which improve the power quality. Due to the high harmonic distortion of the wave of the current, it is necessary to develop solutions for their possible reduction. Consequently, the Power Factor Correction (PFC) stage of the front-end converter has become an important accessory. Operating principles, simulations and features of active solutions are discussed in this paper.