0
\$\begingroup\$

This is a spinoff of the thread found here: https://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/115510/proteus-8-error-timestamp-too-small

I have found that a lot of the problems I have been running into were due to the feedback transformer coils not being grounded. I wanted to ask why in the world a simulation software would require that each of the coils on a transformer be grounded, when in real life that is not always the case? It makes no sense to me.

My question is how might I get around this, if it's possible at all? My circuit places the primary inside a circuit, and neither side can be grounded.

Circuit

The above is the circuit I am using, and the transformer in question is the one labeled "FEEDBACK_XFMR".

\$\endgroup\$
3
  • \$\begingroup\$ I don't know the answer to your specific question, but in the past when I have had issues in some simulators with transformers I have replaced the transformer with coupled inductors (with coupling coefficient sized to give appropriate leakage inductance) and have had better success. You might give that a try. \$\endgroup\$
    – John D
    Jun 17, 2014 at 23:19
  • \$\begingroup\$ Good thought. Unfortunately I don't know how to couple inductors in proteus, but I will look into it. Many thanks \$\endgroup\$
    – DerStrom8
    Jun 17, 2014 at 23:25
  • \$\begingroup\$ Hmm, not finding much documentation on mutually-coupled inductors in Proteus.... \$\endgroup\$
    – DerStrom8
    Jun 17, 2014 at 23:40

1 Answer 1

3
\$\begingroup\$

All SPICE-based simulators are like this- they need a reference voltage (usually node 0, "Ground").

Anyway, the solution is simple- just put some high value resistors (something like 1G ohm) to ground on the parts that are "floating" wrt 0V.

\$\endgroup\$
1
  • \$\begingroup\$ Ah, great idea! I can't believe I never thought of that! Well it solves this issue, but I'm still having trouble with nodes that can't be found when I click on it in the messages window. The issue is more clearly explained in my original post that I linked to earlier. For the time being though, I think this is the answer to the above question, so many thanks! \$\endgroup\$
    – DerStrom8
    Jun 18, 2014 at 14:36

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.