Volume 2, Number 1, Fall 2001 (Book Review)


Power Electronics: Principles & Applications

J. Michael Jacob
Delmar- Thomson Learning, Albany, N.Y.

This textbook applies the electrical circuit theory and fundamental electronics to the design, analysis, and fabrication of power electronics for consumer and industrial applications. Topics covered include composite high-voltage amplifiers, power operational amplifiers, linear audio power integrated circuits, MOSFETs used in class AB amplifiers and power switches, switching power supplies, thyristors, and thyristor control circuits. An outstanding feature of this textbook is the coverage of circuit design simulations and lab exercises that provide practice in the design, analysis, fabrication, and testing of industrial thyristor-based conversion and motor drive circuits. MultiSIM and OrCAD's Pspice simulations are used in examples and problems throughout the book enabling readers to uncover marginal performance and design flaws.

Each of the nine chapters of this textbook begins with performance-based learning objectives that are implemented throughout that chapter. There are over 100 examples provided in the textbook. Every example is followed by a practice problem that requires the reader to apply the techniques just illustrated.

It is important for engineering and technology students that the system being discussed actually works as shown. It is for this reason that all the circuits featured in this book are shown with actual parts/components.

This textbook features a reader-friendly writing style. Some of the equations presented in the book make use of basic calculus techniques. This book is suitable for use in four-year electrical/electronics engineering technology programs.

Sohail Anwar, Ph.D,
The Pennsylvania State University, Altoona College


Last Updated On 8/29/2005