When purchasing a power supply, especially a programmable DC power supply, it is critical to understand and consider the power supply’s various features and specifications. DC programmable power supplies are standard in many areas, including research and development, manufacturing tests, quality control labs or process-control systems. Overlooking key features can lead to costly errors, project delays, or even the need to replace the power supply completely.
In this blog post, we will delve into the essential features and specifications to look for in DC programmable power supplies. These considerations will ensure you pick the best instrument for your needs and avoid unplanned costs and delays.
The primary consideration when choosing programmable DC power supplies is the power envelope, which ensures the supply has enough voltage and current output. You should select a supply with a 10% to 20% excess capacity over the maximum power required for your device-under-test (DUT) and load circuit. This excess capacity provides a safety margin in case of any unexpected load condition. Examples include dynamic load changes such as startup surges or, sudden demand increase, overheating, or increased wear and tear.
Futureproofing is also essential. You should consider the power requirements of future products to avoid excess capital investments later.
Accuracy in a power supply is multifaceted. It includes output accuracy, load regulation, stability, standards compliance and calibration traceability.
For high accuracy, remote sensing is vital. This ensures the programmed voltage is fully applied to the load, which will compensate for any voltage drop across test leads. A remote-sensing feature is crucial, especially when the load requires a large current, which can cause significant voltage drops. For calibration purposes, knowing the total accuracy specification of the power supply is key. A high-confidence calibration typically requires an uncertainty ratio of at least 1:4, preferably 1:10.
When delivering maximum power to the DUT at varying voltages, the output characteristic of the power supply is crucial. There are two types: rectangular and output characteristics.
Autoranging programmable DC power supplies, like those from EA Elektro-Automatik, can deliver full-rated output power from the maximum rated voltage down to a fraction of that voltage. This provides substantial savings and versatility compared to rectangular output supplies.
The autoranging characteristic of EA power supplies compared to a higher power rectangular output power supply.Some testing procedures require the generation of custom power waveforms or the simulation of power sources. While the common solution involves using a function generator alongside the power supply, some Programmable DC power supplies come with built-in function generators.
Here are some of the benefits of an internal function generator over an external function generator:
A user-friendly interface is essential for efficient monitoring and control. Look for displays with wide viewing angles and intuitively accessed functions. Demonstrations of the user interface help show the product’s ease of programming and troubleshooting.
Consider power supplies that can safely parallel multiple units if your application requires higher current output. This feature allows for greater flexibility and ensures an even load distribution across the supplies.
Here are some of the rules for paralleling to ensure safety and functionality:
These rules are designed to ensure that when devices are paralleled, they operate safely and effectively, providing the necessary power for a wide range of applications.
For automated test systems, the selected power supply should have the necessary interfaces such as Ethernet, USB, CAN, Profibus and Modbus. This flexibility allows for seamless integration with various control systems, whether a PC or a PLC.
Efficiency is a key consideration, especially regarding power factor and energy recovery. Power supplies with regenerative energy recovery, such as the EA-PSB bidirectional DC power supply or the ELR regenerative DC electronic load, can significantly reduce utility costs and cooling requirements.
Also, a bidirectional programmable power supply can operate as both a power supply and an electronic load, potentially reducing the need for additional equipment.
EA Elektro-Automatik bidirectional programmable power supplies operate as both a power supply and an electronic load.When investing in power supplies, consider the longevity of your supplies and your space’s future requirements. In rapidly evolving industries such as renewable energy, selecting supplies that can adapt to changing testing needs is crucial. Modular systems offer the flexibility to upgrade as necessary.
Selecting the right programmable DC power supply requires careful consideration of various specifications and features. You can make a wise investment that meets your testing and operational needs when you understand your future needs in terms of:
EA Elektro-Automatik’s extensive range of power supplies and expertise can guide you in making the best choice for your specific applications. For more information, contact W5 Engineering for free consultation.
