>The other thing I can't seem to find is any decent information
>on what specs I need to pay attention to when I pick the diode.

My current favourite source of such info is the Linear technology
datasheets. Look for the LT1616 or LT3470, which both have a reasonable
description - and don't forget that the Switchercad software does a pretty
reasonable job of simulating a fair number of their chips, and allows you to
look at current and voltage waveforms at all sorts of points in the circuit.

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