Power Electronics

Power electronics is a specialized branch of electrical engineering that focuses on the efficient control and conversion of electrical power using solid-state semiconductor devices. By employing components like diodes, transistors, and thyristors as high-speed switches, this field enables the transformation of electrical energy from one form to another—for instance, converting AC to DC (rectification), DC to AC (inversion), or simply changing voltage or frequency levels. This technology is fundamental to a vast range of modern applications, including computer power supplies, variable-speed motor drives, renewable energy systems like solar inverters, electric vehicle chargers, and industrial automation, making it a cornerstone of modern energy management and conservation.

1. Introduction to Power Electronics
   1. Definition and Scope
      1. Definition of Power Electronics
      2. Scope within Electrical Engineering
      3. Interdisciplinary Nature
   2. Historical Development
      1. Early Power Conversion Methods
      2. Evolution of Semiconductor Devices
      3. Milestones in Power Electronics
   3. Key Applications
      1. Power Supplies
      2. Motor Drives
      3. Renewable Energy Systems
      4. Electric Vehicles
      5. HVDC Transmission
      6. Uninterruptible Power Supplies
      7. Industrial Automation
      8. Consumer Electronics
   4. Classification of Power Converters
      1. AC-DC Converters
      2. DC-DC Converters
      3. DC-AC Converters
      4. AC-AC Converters
   5. Basic Concepts
      1. Power and Energy
      2. Efficiency
      3. Power Factor
      4. Total Harmonic Distortion
      5. Electromagnetic Interference