A multiple-sampling circuit is proposed for measuring a voltage signal and
a discharge time of a transformer. Sampling signals are used for
generating hold voltages by alternately sampling the reflected voltage
from the transformer. A buffer amplifier generates a buffer voltage from
the higher voltage of hold voltages. A sampling switch periodically
conducts the buffer voltage to produce a voltage-feedback signal. The
voltage-feedback signal is proportional to an output voltage of the
switching circuit. A threshold signal added to the reflected voltage
signal produces a level-shift reflected signal. A discharge-time signal
is generated as the switching signal is disabled. The discharge-time
signal is disabled once the level-shift signal is lower than the
voltage-feedback signal. The pulse width of the discharge-time signal is
therefore correlated to the discharge time of the transformer. The
sampling signals are enabled to generate hold voltages only when the
discharge-time signal is enabled.