This letter describes a new application of single-ended primary converter (SEPIC) and Cuk converter for dc bipolar network. A dc-dc converter configuration based on a combination of both converters is proposed. In the resulting topology, the switching node is shared by the SEPIC and Cuk converter since they have the same instantaneous duty cycle. The main advantage of this topology is that synchronization of various switches is not required and control terminal is connected to ground which simplifies the design of the gate drive. On the other hand, this configuration allows the connection of renewable energy sources to microgrids (MG)-type bipolar dc link and to cover the current needs of new distributed generation units with efficient, economical, and easy way. To verify its performance, a prototype was designed. Experimental results show as this combination of two converter topologies with appropriated modulation schemes are adequate to use in dc MG.

In order to characterize photovoltaic devices a procedure to measure I–V curves is required. The main methods used to perform this task are reviewed. It is shown that at least six distinct methods have been reported in the literature with many variations in implementation. A detailed comparison taking into account typical parameters for measuring systems is accomplished. This paper could be used as a reference for future work on photovoltaic module characterization.

This article presents a methodology that allows the development of new converter topologies for single-input, multiple-output (SIMO) from different basic configurations of single-input, single-output dc-dc converters. These typologies have in common the use of only one power-switching device, and they are all nonisolated converters. Sixteen different topologies are highlighted, and their main features are explained. The 16 typologies include nine twooutput-type, five three-output-type, one four-output-type, and one six-output-type dc-dc converter configurations. In addition, an experimental prototype of a three-output-type configuration with six different output voltages based on a single-ended primary inductance (SEPIC)-Cuk-boost combination converter was developed, and the proposed design methodology for a basic converter combination was experimentally verified.

This article discusses a new experimental way to measure the I-V characteristic curve of photovoltaic (PV) generators based on DC-DC converters. The obtained results show that the classical buck and boost converters are not capable of reproducing the whole I-V curve of PV generators and that the single-ended primary inductance converter (SEPIC) is optimal for this application. We propose a method based on SEPIC converters in parallel connection, operating in an interleaved mode. This method gives advantages with respect to the use of conventional methods.