I think I get it. Would this explain why in a push-pull topology after
the transistors have been replaced a couple of times the power supply
just keeps failing for no apparent reason?

Are you saying that in other topologies it doesnt saturate or that it
doesnt matter if it does?

Ordered Abe's book.

Jimmie

Well I remember repairing Sony TV push pull SMPS I made a living from
replacing many a blown PP pair. Sony then went to PP pair in a single
package. That reduced the business for me but I had much experience
repairing them already. Trick with the Sony push pull was 2% timing
components. The PP had to be within 2% of 50% duty cycle. They used a
self starting multi vibrator design. After replacing the blown parts
I'd power the input up at 20vac and use a 12vdc supply for the start
up circuit, Then check the waveform on a scope to make sure it was
with 2% fo 50% duty cycle. There was no dead time in the Sony's. They
just varied the frequency to regulate the voltage.

73

n8zu