A deadtime optimization apparatus and method may determine when it is safe to turn a switch ON, eliminating the need to have a switch controller purposely insert a deadtime period in the algorithm (i.e., it can go back to producing ideal PWM). Since the decision of when it is safe to turn ON the switch may be achieved through measurement, it is expected that the length of time may change for each pulse as the operating conditions change. Therefore, the apparatus and methods of the present invention may take on a dynamic characteristic because the safe to turn ON (STTO) time may vary for each pulse.