A boost converter in which the conventional boost diode is replaced by a bidirectional normally conducting semiconductor switch. The circuit may be implemented so the bidirectional switch is self-driven by connecting a low voltage Schottky diode between a first gate-source terminal pair. An inrush current protection function may be provided by utilizing a second gate-source terminal pair to turn the switch on and off independent of the self-driven operation in response to predetermined excessive load current conditions. The inrush current protection function is implemented by use of a second Schottky diode connected between the second gate and source terminals, and an RC circuit connecting the second gate terminal to the return rail for the converter power output transistor with an externally controlled switch connected to the RC circuit to control the bias according to the load current.