Programmable AC/DC Power Supplies and Sources

DC power supplies: controlled DC voltage for test setups

Adjustable DC power supplies provide assemblies, sensors, actuators, power modules and batteries with stable DC voltage and adjustable current limiting. In CV/CC mode, they operate in either voltage-controlled or current-controlled mode depending on the load point. Remote sense compensates for voltage drops in the cables so that the set value is applied more accurately at the DUT.
Typical applications include electronics development, assembly validation and ATE test systems. Especially in these environments, DUTs often need to be supplied safely under changing load conditions. Protection functions such as OVP, OCP and OPP limit overvoltage, overcurrent and overpower, protecting the DUT, cabling and test setup.
For demanding DC test tasks, the ITECH IT-M3900D DC high-power supply from the LXinstruments portfolio is a suitable choice.

AC power supplies and AC sources: simulating grid conditions in the test setup

AC power supplies and AC sources generate AC voltages with adjustable amplitude, frequency and waveform. This allows real grid conditions to be simulated in the laboratory or test system – from a stable sine wave to voltage dips, interruptions, flicker or defined distortions.
Typical applications include grid simulation, harmonic and THD testing, compliance tests, inverter testing and preliminary drive tests. For automated test sequences, AC power supplies can be controlled remotely via LAN, USB or GPIB, integrated into test software and combined with measurement or logging functions.
For regenerative grid simulation and reproducible AC test conditions, the ITECH IT7900 grid simulator is a suitable solution.

Why programmable power supplies are important

Programmable power supplies make test sequences reproducible. Voltage, current, power, limits and time-based sequences are stored as setpoints, controlled via interfaces and automatically repeated when required. This is important for development, validation, end-of-line testing and technical service.
Ramps, pulse profiles, step sequences and test sequences can be executed via SCPI, API or device software. This makes it possible to test power-up behavior, load changes, undervoltage conditions and limit ranges in a targeted way. Limits, starting conditions and repeated tests remain consistent. Measurement results become easier to compare and trace.

Technical details and selection criteria

When selecting a device, voltage, current, power, interfaces and the required operating mode are the first key criteria. Beyond that, the relevant criteria differ depending on the device type.
For DC power supplies, stable DC voltage, adjustable current limiting and clean regulation behavior are central factors. Important selection criteria include resolution, ripple, CV/CC mode, remote sense, response behavior during load changes and the option to increase power through series or parallel connection in master/slave operation.
For AC sources, amplitude, frequency range, waveform, THD values and phase capability are additionally relevant. Depending on the system, single-phase or multi-phase applications as well as grid simulations, voltage dips, interruptions or defined distortions can be reproduced.

For users, this results in the following key benefits:

• Defined setting of voltage, current, power and limits
• Repeatable test conditions for laboratory, validation and production
• Protection functions such as OVP, OCP and OPP against incorrect parameter settings and overload
• Interfaces, SCPI, data export and trigger functions for automated test sequences
• Scalable power through master/slave operation, power synchronization or phase synchronization
• For DC power supplies: CV/CC mode, remote sense and controlled current limiting
• For AC sources: adjustable frequency, waveform, THD values and phase capability

FAQs

What is the difference between DC and AC power supplies?

DC power supplies provide DC voltage with controlled output current. They are suitable for assemblies, sensors, power modules, batteries and other DUTs that need to be operated with a defined DC voltage.
AC power supplies generate AC voltage with adjustable frequency, amplitude and waveform. They are used when grid conditions need to be simulated or AC-powered devices need to be tested.

Where are laboratory power supplies and adjustable power supplies used?

Laboratory power supplies are used in development, service, assembly validation, production and ATE systems. Depending on the application, requirements range from compact laboratory setups to high-performance test systems.

What distinguishes programmable power supplies from basic power supplies?

Programmable power supplies store setpoints, limits and test sequences. They can be controlled remotely, integrated into test software and automated for recurring tests.

Linear or switching power supply – which is more suitable?

Linear power supplies are useful when low noise and stable output values are crucial. Switching power supplies are better suited for high power, compact design and efficient power supply. In demanding laboratory setups, both concepts are often combined.

Consulting and selection at LXinstruments
LXinstruments develops and supplies test and measurement technology for functional testing, power systems and electrical safety, with a focus on the LXI standard. In the shop, you will find power supplies, sources, electronic loads, measuring instruments and accessories for development, production and ATE integration.

Contact: +49 (0)7032 89592-3 | sales@lxinstruments.com | Everything for more power! We will find the right solution for your requirements.